After the first Percy Jackson book, I have to say I was disappointed. It was my least favorite of the series and it gave me a bit of readers drought while reading. I am happy to say I perservered and thank goodness for that; the ending makes up for the less enjoyable plot. It's another one of those shocking ends that leaves you staring and wanting more. It's definitely much better after you read the rest of the series and has rereadability in that regards. I just don't think I'd ever read this as a stand alone.