Okay, I'm very unhappy that the last book is out only in hardcover. I want to read it NOW but I don't really want to buy hardcover books. I know, I know - I'm so picky!  I know I said that The Titan's Curse was good, but lacked that magic I-must-turn-the-page-and-read-on-now of the first two, but The Battle of the Labyrinth totally has it! I started the book Monday before work, snagged reading a chapter while my email at work loaded up, read a bunch during lunch and sat up really late reading on Monday night and finished yesterday right before I had to go to the critique group.  I have a huge respect for Rick Riordan now, his writing is addicting and his stories are really good.  I found myself tearing up at a few places towards the end and cheering out loud in a few others.  He's won me over - the book is great I don't want to give spoilers or anything but I really like the books and I'm probably turning a blind eye to everything that might be wrong with it - BUT THAT'S BECAUSE THERE ISN'T ANYTHING!