Перси Джексон и лабиринт смерти

There were some parts that felt like they dragged a bit—was that intentional to build suspense or just me?

The maze is such a claustrophobic and intense setting — I wonder if the author wanted to mirror the characters' internal struggles or had another reason.

The way the characters joke around even in dangerous situations made the story so fun. Did others feel that humor made the myth elements more accessible?