Apollo, an awesome god turned awkward mortal, journeys across North America with some demigod friends on his quest to regain Zeus's favor in Book Two of Rick Riordan's uproarious Trials of Apollo series. "A clash of mythic intrigues and centuries of pop culture to thrill die-hard and new fans alike."-- Kirkus Reviews #1 New York Times best-selling series Rick Riordan is considered the "storyteller of the gods" because of his five #1 New York Times bestselling series based on mythology A continuation of the Percy Jackson saga, but it also stands alone A new take on Greek and Roman mythology from the point of view of a fallen god Brings back beloved demigod characters from the Percy Jackson and Heroes of Olympus series Introduces new demigods Villains are based on Roman emperors Features a diverse cast with people from all kinds of backgrounds and lifestyles Perfect for middle schoolers but can be enjoyed by older readers, too Zeus has punished his son Apollo--god of the sun, music, archery, poetry, and more--by casting him down to earth in the form of a gawky, acne-covered sixteen-year-old mortal named Lester. The only way Apollo can reclaim his rightful place on Mount Olympus is by restoring several Oracles that have gone dark. What is affecting the Oracles, and how can Apollo/Lester do anything about them without his powers? After experiencing a series of dangerous--and frankly, humiliating--trials at Camp Half-Blood, Lester must now leave the relative safety of the demigod training ground and embark on a hair-raising journey across North America. Somewhere in the American Midwest, he and his companions must find the most dangerous Oracle from ancient times: a haunted cave that may hold answers for Apollo in his quest to become a god again--if it doesn't kill him or drive him insane first. Standing in Apollo's way is the second member of the evil Triumvirate, a Roman emperor whose love of bloodshed and spectacle makes even Nero look tame. To survive the encounter, Apollo will need the help of son of Hephaestus Leo Valdez, the now-mortal sorceress Calypso, the bronze dragon Festus, and other unexpected allies--some familiar, some new--from the world of demigods. Come along for what promises to be a harrowing, hilarious, and haiku-filled ride. . . .