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A review by janae
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
adventurous
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I wanted to give this book a four, but the ending wouldn’t let me.
First, the pros. The story is enhanced the slight but impactful changes to the legend we know, forcing us to focus on the relationships and true meaning behind the choices made instead of dismissing them as givens.
The main draw is that the emotion of this romance is incredibly well done. It blooms on every page and pulls you in even as it’s tested.
The writing style and character voice are immersive, especially as the story goes on. My heart rate picked up more than once because I felt like I was IN it.
I’m not going to lie, the middle does drag a bit and the author makes some choices it’s hard to understand, but later on they make more sense. I still believe there was a way to show more of Patroclus’ personality and character through the middle. In the beginning and end his character is clear but in the middle his only real trait is his love for Achilles, which can come off as flat and one-note. BUT I HAVE TO SAY THE THIRD ACT MAKES UP FOR IT ALL. The culmination of what the author has been building to is well worth it. The ending is so gorgeous I wept.
I can’t explain it, but I highly recommend you experience it.
First, the pros. The story is enhanced the slight but impactful changes to the legend we know, forcing us to focus on the relationships and true meaning behind the choices made instead of dismissing them as givens.
The main draw is that the emotion of this romance is incredibly well done. It blooms on every page and pulls you in even as it’s tested.
The writing style and character voice are immersive, especially as the story goes on. My heart rate picked up more than once because I felt like I was IN it.
I’m not going to lie, the middle does drag a bit and the author makes some choices it’s hard to understand, but later on they make more sense. I still believe there was a way to show more of Patroclus’ personality and character through the middle. In the beginning and end his character is clear but in the middle his only real trait is his love for Achilles, which can come off as flat and one-note. BUT I HAVE TO SAY THE THIRD ACT MAKES UP FOR IT ALL. The culmination of what the author has been building to is well worth it. The ending is so gorgeous I wept.
I can’t explain it, but I highly recommend you experience it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Murder, and Violence
Minor: Rape and Sexual violence