Review of The Court of the Dead (The Nico di Angelo Adventures #2)
As a devoted fan of Rick Riordan’s universe, the moment I heard about The Court of the Dead, I was both excited and a little apprehensive. Nico di Angelo, with his complex background and darker themes, promises intriguing storytelling that could venture beyond the usual sunny heroics of Camp Half-Blood. But as I dove into the pages, I found myself grappling with a mix of emotions—anticipation and frustration in equal measure.
From the start, it’s clear that this sequel strives to delve deeper into Nico’s psyche. The themes of mental health and personal struggle resonate throughout, mirroring the journey many of us find relatable. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the story felt stretched—400+ pages for a narrative that sometimes felt repetitive. Gone are the punchy tales of Percy, and in their place lies a series of side quests that often felt more like filler than essential adventure.
While The Court of the Dead is certainly a step up from The Sun and the Star—which, I’ll confess, felt like wading through molasses—the book struggles under its own weight. One of my main concerns was how Will Solace, typically vibrant and supportive, was reduced to a somewhat passive role, often appearing more like a therapy dog for Nico than a well-rounded character in his own right. It left me wishing for a deeper exploration of their dynamic, as their friendship has such potential for growth and relatability.
The collaboration between Riordan and author Mark Oshiro does attempt to weave in rich emotional threads, but at points, it feels disjointed. I noticed moments where Oshiro’s style diverged from Riordan’s signature wit and pacing, resulting in sections that came off as preachy and awkward. Characters like Dionysus, whom we’ve come to love (or loathe), felt out of character, losing the quirky charm that initially drew us to them.
However, there were shining moments in the narrative, especially when Nico confronts his own fears and insecurities. It’s in these quieter reflections that Oshiro’s writing shines, offering a layer of authenticity that many readers, including myself, can appreciate. Lines that explore the darkness of depression and the struggle to connect with oneself are poignant and handled with care.
Ultimately, I would recommend The Court of the Dead to fans of Riordan who are eager to explore Nico’s journey, especially those who appreciate themes of mental health woven into a fantasy setting. It may attract readers who enjoy character-driven stories, but for those, like me, who favor the fast-paced adventure of Percy and his friends, it might not hit the mark.
Despite my mixed feelings, this book left me reflecting on how we all navigate our inner demons and seek connection—even in the unlikeliest of places. As I closed the final chapter, I couldn’t help but appreciate the conversations it might spark among readers about identity, friendship, and resilience in the face of adversity. So while The Court of the Dead may not be the top of my list, it definitely has a place on the shelf for those willing to take a chance on Nico’s complex world.
Discover more about The Court of the Dead (The Nico di Angelo Adventures #2… on GoodReads >>