Book review and book summary: The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

“The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller is a beautiful story set in ancient Greece. It’s about the friendship and love between two boys, Patroclus and Achilles, during the famous Trojan War. Get a free audiobook of it on amazon.

Patroclus, a young boy living in ancient Greece. He is exiled from his royal family after accidentally killing a boy. He finds refuge in the court of King Peleus, where he meets Achilles, the son of the king and a goddess. Achilles was destined to become the greatest hero of Greece. As they grow up together, their bond deepens, their friendship turns into something deeper, a love that is both powerful and tender. Patroclus is in awe of Achilles' strength and bravery, while Achilles appreciates Patroclus' kindness and loyalty. Despite their differences, they become inseparable companions, facing both joys and challenges together. Problems start arising as they grew older. Societal norms and expectations threatened to keep them apart, adding a layer of tension to their relationship. Patroclus and Achilles join the Greek army, fulfilling their destiny as warriors in Trojan war. As they prepare for battle, they confront the harsh realities of war and witness its brutality. As the Trojan war rages on, Achilles emerges as a formidable warrior, earning fame and glory on the battlefield. Achilles’s destiny becomes clear — he is fated to become the greatest warrior Greece has ever known. He becomes consumed by his thirst for victory and revenge. But it is Patroclus who sees beyond the legend, recognizing the vulnerabilities and insecurities that lie beneath Achilles’s godlike exterior. As tensions rise between the Greeks and the Trojans, Patroclus and Achilles find themselves caught in the midst of the conflict, their loyalty tested and their love challenged by the chaos of battle. Achilles is conflicted. He is torn between his loyalty to the Greeks and his love for Patroclus. Despite his strength in battle, Achilles is hesitant to fully commit to the war effort, knowing that it will ultimately lead to his own demise. Meanwhile, Patroclus stands by Achilles' side, offering him unwavering support and companionship. He understands the weight of Achilles' burden and empathizes with him. Together, they confront the harsh realities of war, witnessing its brutality and devastation firsthand. Ultimately, it is his love for Patroclus that guides his decision, as he realizes that their bond transcends the battlefield. They navigate the complexities of love, duty, and sacrifice together forging a bond that transcends time and space.

In the final chapter, the epic tale of Achilles and Patroclus reaches its tragic conclusion. Read or listen the full book to know what it is.

The book takes us on a journey through their lives, from their childhood to the battlefields of Troy. Along the way, we meet gods and goddesses, heroes and villains, and experience the joys and sorrows of their adventures. At its heart, “The Song of Achilles” is a love story, but it’s also about courage, sacrifice, and the cost of war. It reminds us that even in the midst of epic battles and legendary feats, it’s the love between two people that can change the world.

In conclusion, “The Song of Achilles” is a captivating tale that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading. It’s a book for anyone who loves stories of adventure, romance, and the enduring power of love.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. We might get a commission at no additional cost to you. You will receive the free audiobook as a result of our partnership with Audible.