A review by maranda_maria
The Sun and the Star by Mark Oshiro, Rick Riordan

adventurous emotional funny hopeful fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This was probably my most anticipated book for this year. I’ve been a Percy Jackson fam since 5th grade (I am now 24), and Nico has always been one of my favorite characters. I had high hopes for this book because I feel like there is so much potential in both Will and Nico as individual characters and as a couple. There are parts of this book I absolutely adored, and parts that disappointed me. First, I loved the flash backs to Will and Nico’s early relationship milestones. I think the addition of Gorgyra was amazing, heartwarming, and also a bit heartbreaking at the same time. Moreover, I love how Will and Nico’s relationship is challenged, and that their insecurities are laid bare. It is clear that these insecurities could be the downfall of their relationship if not worked through, and that they both have trauma to unpack before they’ll be able to fully commit to each other. My main critique is that the plot feels rushed. There was so much build around Nico’s forgotten time in Tartarus, but Nyx as a character does not feel like a fully fleshed out villain or threat especially compared to the villains these characters have faced in previous books. Moreover, I was expecting the same terrifying depictions of Tartarus from House of Hades, but the deepest pit of the Underworld felt underwhelming in this book. Overall, this book was okay. It is not the best book within the Percy Jackson universe, but it’s not the worst (imo). My disappointment largely lies in the fact that I feel like so much more could have been done with these characters, especially Will Solace. I really wanted to get a deeper look into his past, especially get into the grief and trauma of losing his siblings in the Second Titan War. Maybe my expectations for this book were too high. All I know is I feel like there is still more story to tell with these two. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings