It took author Madeline Miller ten years to write The Song of Achilles. And her hard work paid off. Although it was released in 2011, the novel still pops up on the NYT Bestsellers list and it’s 2021. Ten years of work followed by another ten making its mark!

This epic story about the greatest warrior known to man, Achilles, actually comes from the perspective of his devoted partner and companion, exiled prince Patroclus. This is a story of forbidden love, friendship, expectation, and Achilles’ scary ass mom, Thetis, who just so happens to be a sea goddess.

I loved Patroclus. Despite being rejected, he is always kind, always giving, and forever committed to helping others. And that’s what made the ending of this tragic story all the more satisfying. Unlike others, Patroclus appreciates Achilles not just for his ability to fight, but for his companionship, his bluntness, and most notably his musical talent (hence the title).

Greek mythology is hard to tackle. Miller seems to do it with ease. The first book I read by her was Circe, which I absolutely loved and liked more than this. That said, this is very much worth your time.

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dream Cast: 🎥 🍿

Patroclus: Aubrey Joseph

Achilles: Cody Fern

Thetis: Tilda Swinton

Agamemnon: Mads Mikkelsen