The Dark Prophecy: The Trials of Apollo, Book 2

Having the Greek god of music, poetry, healing arts, prophecy, and plague as narrator takes the reader in a number of fascinating directions. Apollo complains that his mortal form makes him forget a lot, but we're still treated to tidbits on musicians and artists he says he's influenced (he claims to have discovered Pink working at a McDonald's and Queen Latifah at a Burger King), periods in history he's experienced (especially the time of the Roman Emperor Commodus), myths he's responsible for (making Hemithea, the daughter of King Staphylus, immortal), and more. The Roman Emperor Commodus is a major character here. Each chapter begins with a haiku (teaching about a form of poetry) and a prophecy delivered in a Shakespearean-style sonnet. There's a brief chemistry lesson where Apollo uses medical supplies to create an acid strong enough to destroy a door. A 13-page glossary entitled "Guide to Apollo-Speak" is included in the back.

Apollo's character improved greatly in the first book already. He's still conceited and proud at first, but he finds his humility and his willingness to help his friends, no matter the cost to him. When forced to face up to past mistakes and broken promises, he eventually takes responsibility for his actions instead of just chalking it up to being an all-powerful god who couldn't be bothered with mortal cares.

Some flirting, and a family with two moms depicted. Apollo remembers past loves, male and female, especially a relationship with the emperor. Apollo can't remember if a child is his. In Greek myth gods sired many children, and they could sprout from parents' heads or even from godly sweat on a handkerchief.

A Magic 8 Ball plays an important role in the story. Mentions of stars (Beyoncé, Bill Nye), modern conveniences like Google, apps like Pokémon Go, Mercedes, and more.