The Song of Achilles
What do readers say about The Song of Achilles?
Synopsis:
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.
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
'A book I could not put down' ANN PATCHETT
'An exciting, sexy, violent Superman version of The Iliad' GUARDIAN
'Sexy, dangerous, mystical' BETTANY HUGHES
Excerpt:
MY FATHER WAS A KING AND THE SON OF KINGS. HE was a short man, as most of us were, and built like a bull, all shoulders. He married my mother when she was fourteen and sworn by the priestess to be fru...
About the Author:
Madeline Miller grew up in Philadelphia, has bachelor's and master's degrees in Latin and Ancient Greek from Brown University, and has been teaching both languages for the past nine years. She has also studied at the Yale School of Drama, specializing in adapting classical tales for a modern audience. She lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Song of Achilles is her first novel.
Ratings (59):
Incredible (25) | |
Loved It (21) | |
Liked It (12) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (89):
Read It (49) | |
Currently Reading (2) | |
Want To Read (37) | |
Did Not Finish (1) |
Reviews:
Reni Stankova From the moment I caught the title of this book, I knew I would love it, and I did. I've always been a huge fan of Greek mythology and legends, especially for their casual homoerotic bits. And, frankly, I've wondered how come a book centering on the relationship between Achilles and Patrocles hasn't been written sooner. The writing style is beautiful, and the chemistry between the two leads is delicious. This book made me cry, and I loved every second.
rdebud This is awesome. I loved all of the characters, but Patroclus stood out as the best.
Simply put, it was devastating!
Must-read!
A wonderfully written version of a well-known story, told from Patroclus's perspective. You probably already know how this story ends (if you're familiar with Greek mythology), but the trip and the romance make it worthwhile to read nevertheless.
Stunningly gorgeous, well written, and wonderful. As the narrative progressed, my heart soared, broke, and then soared again.
This is an excellent new take on the legend of Patroclus and Achilles. The story's strange fantastical components do a great job of re-creating old culture, particularly its mythological parts.
It's a work of art. Satisfyingly rapid and elegant writing. Fans of Greek mythology, adventure, deep relationships, and quality prose will like this book.
I've wanted to read this book for a long time, and I wasn't let down. Now I can't wait to dive into Circe! Definitely recommended.
