A review by sandysmith
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

adventurous emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

A difficult review to write. The book is based on the classical Greek mythology, in which I only have a very basic knowledge of and gasp, I've never read the Illiad, Achillies heel is barely mentioned which is my knowledge! Yet I enjoyed this retelling. Told from Patroculus point of view and his love of Achillies. It doesn't shy away from the love of two men. In parts, it's misogynistic, but the story fills your heart. Achillies mother, the godess Thetis, disapproves of their relationship, and this displeasure is beautifully written .  Achillies as a half god is a prat, and his pride eventually leads to his downfall. Beautiful prose and an interesting retelling. Greek mythology is not my thing, but the skill of the author makes me feel it might be more of my thing than I realised. I will read Circe not previously on my radar. Yep, I really enjoyed this read.
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