What are your opinions on the ToA series? (Please keep this post spoiler free) [toa]

I'm having trouble 'connecting' with the the first book. I started reading PJ around June of this year and I devoured the first two series while smiling like a child on Christmas. I even enjoyed reading the Chalice of the Gods. Don't get me wrong, I love Apollo's funny and sassy thoughts and comments, but if Percy or the rest of the seven are not there it makes it difficult for me to concentrate on the content. Please tell me I'm not the only one that is going through this 😅