The Song of Achilles
£8.70£9.50 (-8%)
**OVER 3 MILLION COPIES SOLD**
WINNER OF THE ORANGE WOMEN’S PRIZE FOR FICTION
THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION
A SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
‘Captivating’ DONNA TARTT
‘I loved it’ J K ROWLING
‘Ravishingly vivid’ EMMA DONOGHUE
Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles. Despite their differences, Achilles befriends the shamed prince, and as they grow into young men skilled in the arts of war and medicine, their bond blossoms into something deeper – despite the displeasure of Achilles’s mother Thetis, a cruel sea goddess. But when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, Achilles must go to war in distant Troy and fulfill his destiny. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus goes with him, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.
‘A book I could not put down’ ANN PATCHETT
‘An exciting, sexy, violent Superman version of The Iliad’ GUARDIAN
‘Sexy, dangerous, mystical’ BETTANY HUGHES
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Additional information
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Paperbacks, 1st edition (21 Sept. 2017) |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Paperback | 368 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 9781408891384 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1408891384 |
| Dimensions | 13.7 x 2.8 x 19.9 cm |
by SC
Ahhhh! I LOVE this book! I cannot believe it took me this long to start it. It’s been sitting on my kindle shelf for ages just staring at me accusingly. I am so so so glad I finally worked up the nerve to read it because it is AMAZING!!!
“The Song of Achilles” is the kind of book that you start reading, and the next thing you know, it’s 3 a.m., and you can’t put it down. Madeline Miller has a unique talent for bringing ancient myths to life with a modern twist, and she does it beautifully in this novel.
The story of Achilles and Patroclus is told with such depth and tenderness that you’ll feel like you’re right there with them on their journey. Miller’s prose is poetic, and it effortlessly transports you to the ancient world of Greece, where gods and heroes mingle with mortals. Her characters are so vividly drawn that you’ll find yourself emotionally invested in their fates.
But what truly sets this book apart is the portrayal of love – a love that transcends time and societal norms. The relationship between Achilles and Patroclus is portrayed with such sensitivity and authenticity that it’s impossible not to be moved by it. Their bond is the heart of the story, and it’s a testament to the power of love in all its forms.
“The Song of Achilles” is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a literary gem that combines history, mythology, and romance in a way that is both captivating and heart-wrenching. If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel, think, and reflect on the enduring power of love, this is it. Don’t miss out on this modern classic.
by G
Having previously read the Iliad and other Greek myths this book had few surprises for me in terms of plot, and yet there were many moments when I felt it was as good as anything I’ve ever read in any genre. The first act (25%) centres on Patroclus as a child and is really strong. It sets up his character and his relationship with Achilles -first rival, then friend and finally lover – perfectly. However, the second act really drags, and I think it’s basically because no character development is happening. Patroclus’ development flatlines and we are stuck with just stuff happening. The final act is a return to form, and the ending is incredible. It really captures the tragedy of Achilles and gives it a whole new layer. Why only 4 stars? -0.5 for that slow middle where I really didn’t feel like picking up the book, and another -0.5 for what I felt were unnecessary depictions of sex between 14 year olds. The book is clearly a love story, but the sex scenes are really unnecessary to convey that love, and when you are dealing with children I think where possible it’s better to leave them out.
by lightfoot
Different from my usual reads and the better for it. A different take on a familiar tale.
by Caitlin
Arrived in perfect condition. Only one create in the top corner, but I don’t care and it’s hardly even noticeable. The pages bend perfectly and left minimal creasing on the spine of the book! I’ve never been happier with a book purchase and I read this in 2 days. Very good book and I HIGHLY recommend everyone to buy it!
by Bernard
Great fiction
by elliot
Lyrical and poeticuu prose is set against the background of siege of Troy and the events leading up to it.
by Elizabeth Verrinder
This apron is a gift and arrived quickly. The lettering was as we requested. From ordering to receipt the process was very easy.
by janine
I must have missed something with this book, I found it really slow and not the best.
Took me ages to get into and I could read some and happily leave it for a few days before I carried on.
Not for me this one, I bought it after seeing it all over Instagram – proof you shouldn’t believe everything you see on social media….