A review by hardkaapi
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

emotional informative reflective sad fast-paced

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

4.25

This story is about Achilles, the son of the goddess Thetis, prophesied to be the greatest warrior of his generation. Though it is a reimagining, it is still unpredictable mainly because our narrator is Patroclus, Achilles' companion and lover. The simple switch in PoV changes the entire story and focuses on the human elements of love and honour, rather than the actual war. As Achilles joins Greece in the war against Troy to retrieve Helen, the pacing becomes incredible.
I read the entire second half in one shot because it is just that good. It is a raw and emotional version of a story known by all. The book manages to show you an entirely different perspective, one that is conveniently never talked about. The timeless love between Achilles and Patroclus is so full, it will break you. If you, like me, love Greek mythology, then this one is for you, it's worth the hype for sure. 

I loved the way the moral dilemma unfolds in the end because it makes you feel as helpless as Achilles does. There is so much to love in this book, from the fact that Achilles by the end really did believe he was born for battle to the author's decision to exclude the actual heel as a plot point. Patroclus is a strong narrator and pulls you in consistently without being overshadowed by Achilles. Briseis' arc broke my heart and I will always tear up at her words "He deserved ten of you"