Riordan’s second Trials of Apollo book, The Dark Prophecy, sparks the search for the next oracle, and a confrontation with another of the Triumvirate. Apollo, Meg, Leo and Calypso find themselves in Indianapolis looking for the Cave of Trophonius. Unfortunately for them, this is the seat of power for the emperor calling himself the New Hercules, and the city is filled with blemmyae- impeccably polite monsters whose faces are in their chests. It’s going to take the help of some new friends to reach the oracle, and not everyone is going to survive. 

I loved this continuation of the series! I tried guessing this emperor, but didn’t get it before they announced it. Ironic since about a week before reading this I watched a movie featuring said emperor. Now I’m 99% sure I know who the last one is! 

The story behind Trophonius being the oracle, and why he doesn’t like Apollo, was so sad! I kinda don’t blame him at all. Apollo is continuing to grow and evolve, against his wishes for sure. I can only imagine how hard things might be going forward. He’s got a lot of poor godly choices to reckon with it seems. 

****This book was purchased and read for my own enjoyment