Rating: 2.5
In a learned style that Riordan has honed since Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, he comes back with a fresh new title that promises his usual mix of adventure, humor, romance, with a dash of Greek and Roman Mythology.
The Mark of Athena is Rick Riordan’s third book in the Heroes of Olympus series, eighth book in the Percy Jackson-universe, and the eleventh book he has written in the past six years that centers on mythology. This most recent title takes readers on an adventure as the seven chosen ones begin to actualize the next “Great Prophecy” and embark on saving the world before the evil goddess Gaea awakens and destroys all civilization as they, and we, know it.
The phrase ‘practice makes perfect’ comes to mind in reading a Riordan title as you cannot help but notice his distinct style and writing prowess – a swordsman taking his blade to his whetstone. The narrative is well woven and his story-arcs, unshakable. Even though Riordan’s style could become a bit dragging every so often, his humor and imagination definitely make up for it. Although a page or chapter or two could have been shortened, the book remains terse, exciting, and easy to read.
Some of the main characters show incredible dimension and development within the story and in the series itself. Coming from the perspectives of Annabeth, Percy, Leo, and Piper – the characters showed themselves growing up throughout their adventures not just as heroes but as regular people, as all children must one day do. They learn how to truly love, to become the heroes they need to be, and to gain the strength it takes to let go and yield when you need to; and in turn – so do we.
You would need to read the past titles to fully understand the humor and depth within The Mark of Athena, but if you have – the inside jokes, character growth, and the typical heart-stopping Riordan-style cliff-hanger – the title will leave you positively gasping.
