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kautaru 's review for:
The Serpent's Shadow
by Rick Riordan
Honestly, this book was much better than I thought it would be. I tend to like the first few books of a series rather than the later books, but I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that I found this book much more entertaining than the first two. I guess it's because they finally achieved their goal in this book, and it ended so cleanly too. I usually have one or two things to complain about when a series ends, but I had no such urge, which is a great sign. I also worried about the fact that I might compare this series too much to Percy Jackson, which would then stop me from fully enjoying this series. Again, not the case at all. It's clear that Riordan worked hard on making this series different and on offering new things and unique characters. Rant over, here's my actual review.
One thing I loved about this series that seems to be present in all of Riordan's books is the fact that every book is a different story, but there is always one overarching theme or conflict tying it all together. Everything that happens has a purpose. There is nothing unnecessary. This is great because it makes you feel like all the time you spent reading was worthwhile. Another thing I loved about this series is Carter's development. Sure, Sadie had a lot of development too, but there's just something about watching someone go from a scared, nervous wreck to a more leader-like nervous wreck that's soo satisfying. His development was slow and natural, which made it all the more enjoyable to read. Another enjoyable thing about this series is the fact that Carter is American (or more like, acts and talks like one) while Sadie is British. From the way they narrate the story, it's obvious who is who. Especially Sadie, her British vocabulary is so entertaining to read! Or maybe that's just me because I'm Canadian and her vocabulary seems peculiar to me. Also, the romance!!! My heart feels so satisfied with the romance in this book. (My boy Carter is finally getting some love!) Riordan has always had a way of writing romance that makes you giggle like a young schoolgirl, but it doesn't interfere with the plot nor is it too overpowering. It's obvious, yet subtle. And the way he ties in the romance to the main plot is fantastic because it gives the romance purpose too. It's not just fanservice for the readers, the romance is needed and necessary to understand the characters and to move the story forward. In conclusion, this series has it all; an interesting, clear plot, fun and diverse characters, good romance, etc. It starts off a bit slow, but it picks up when you get more into it. I still don't think this series was as good as the Percy Jackson series, but it has its own charm! If you're someone who likes light books and a quick, easy read, this series isn't for you, but otherwise, I would definitely recommend it!
One thing I loved about this series that seems to be present in all of Riordan's books is the fact that every book is a different story, but there is always one overarching theme or conflict tying it all together. Everything that happens has a purpose. There is nothing unnecessary. This is great because it makes you feel like all the time you spent reading was worthwhile. Another thing I loved about this series is Carter's development. Sure, Sadie had a lot of development too, but there's just something about watching someone go from a scared, nervous wreck to a more leader-like nervous wreck that's soo satisfying. His development was slow and natural, which made it all the more enjoyable to read. Another enjoyable thing about this series is the fact that Carter is American (or more like, acts and talks like one) while Sadie is British. From the way they narrate the story, it's obvious who is who. Especially Sadie, her British vocabulary is so entertaining to read! Or maybe that's just me because I'm Canadian and her vocabulary seems peculiar to me. Also, the romance!!! My heart feels so satisfied with the romance in this book. (My boy Carter is finally getting some love!) Riordan has always had a way of writing romance that makes you giggle like a young schoolgirl, but it doesn't interfere with the plot nor is it too overpowering. It's obvious, yet subtle. And the way he ties in the romance to the main plot is fantastic because it gives the romance purpose too. It's not just fanservice for the readers, the romance is needed and necessary to understand the characters and to move the story forward. In conclusion, this series has it all; an interesting, clear plot, fun and diverse characters, good romance, etc. It starts off a bit slow, but it picks up when you get more into it. I still don't think this series was as good as the Percy Jackson series, but it has its own charm! If you're someone who likes light books and a quick, easy read, this series isn't for you, but otherwise, I would definitely recommend it!