The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Hello dearest book readers

Next on my reading list was "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller.

Review:

I gave this book a five-star rating because it deeply moved me and evoked a wide range of emotions. I appreciated the writing style and Miller's retelling of Achilles' story. While many are familiar with Achilles from Greek mythology, this book offers a deeper dive into his life and the events of the Trojan War. It even inspired me to revisit the film "Troy" starring Orlando Bloom.

Interestingly, the narrative doesn't focus on Achilles himself but rather on his companion, Patroclus, with whom he shares a profound bond. This perspective added a unique and compelling layer to the story. While I had previously read "Circe" by the same author and found it enjoyable, "The Song of Achilles" resonated with me on a much deeper level. Friends and fellow readers had highly recommended it to me, and it truly lived up to their praise.

It's important to note, however, that this book is not a romance in the conventional sense. Greek mythology is known for its tragic elements, and this story is no exception. The tragedies depicted serve as cautionary tales about the consequences of human actions and the wrath of the gods.

Madeline Miller's writing is captivating and immersive, making it hard to put the book down. I highly recommend it, especially for those who enjoy Greek mythology. The book's fast pace and engaging narrative make it an enjoyable read. Patroclus' viewpoint, along with the portrayal of Achilles' mother, added depth to the story. The heartbreaking ending left a lasting impact on me, comparable to the emotional depth I experienced with "If We Were Villains" by M.L. Rio, another one of my all-time favorite books.

Overall, "The Song of Achilles" has earned a place in my top five favorite books, and I believe it fully deserves the five-star rating I gave it.

Plot:

WINNER OF THE ORANGE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION

THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

A SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

'Captivating' DONNA TARTT

'I loved it' J K ROWLING

'Ravishingly vivid' EMMA DONOGHUE

Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles. Despite their differences, Achilles befriends the shamed prince, and as they grow into young men skilled in the arts of war and medicine, their bond blossoms into something deeper - despite the displeasure of Achilles's mother Thetis, a cruel sea goddess. But when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, Achilles must go to war in distant Troy and fulfill his destiny. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus goes with him, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.

'A book I could not put down' ANN PATCHETT

'An exciting, sexy, violent Superman version of The Iliad' GUARDIAN

'Sexy, dangerous, mystical' BETTANY HUGHES