the song of achilles by Madeline Miller

64th book of 2021

Reading period: Aug 01st 2021 – Aug 02nd 2021

Summary

The legend begins…

Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the kingdom of Phthia to be raised in the shadow of King Peleus and his golden son, Achilles. “The best of all the Greeks”—strong, beautiful, and the child of a goddess—Achilles is everything the shamed Patroclus is not. Yet despite their differences, the boys become steadfast companions. Their bond deepens as they grow into young men and become skilled in the arts of war and medicine—much to the displeasure and the fury of Achilles’ mother, Thetis, a cruel sea goddess with a hatred of mortals.

When word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, the men of Greece, bound by blood and oath, must lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny, Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice.

Rating

Review

This book intimidates me as many people loved it. I was afraid not to love it as much as everyone as I had so many expectations. But let me tell you it’s one of my favourite books of the year.

I was surprised to see only one pov, but I was satisfied by it. I think I connect a lot more to the story thanks to Patroclus, as he is human. Here we follow him from his childhood to adulthood. I liked it as you see all the events, thoughts and feelings that shape who he is, especially toward Achilles. I found their chemistry so complex that you can’t really define it. Their relationship is so layered.

My main problem, but it was like that in this era, was how women are treated, and the fact that you’re a goddess doesn’t change anything.
I have difficulties collecting my thoughts on Thetis. I’m at the same time angry against her, and I understand why she acts like that sometimes. I found this character so complex that it makes her so interesting.

I was surprised by how fast the book is; I don’t know if it’s because I was hooked by it or it’s actually fast pace. However, I know that I wanted to re-read it right away when I finished it, even if the ending was sad.

Liz.