If you read books, like mythology, and have a heartbeat, you don’t need me to tell you that this book is great.  It is narrated by Patroclus, Achilles’s best friend, foster brother, true love, and second self. The story starts with Patroclus’s difficult childhood and follows the mythical tradition of his life as it entwines with that of Achilles, the greatest hero of the Trojan War. The ending is tragic by necessity, but so deeply satisfying that it comes almost as a surprise. Overall, the book is amazingly true to both the events of the Troy Tale and the culture of ancient Greece.

There are many things to praise, but I’ll focus on the relationship between the two main characters. In various ancient versions of the myth, the exact relationship between Patroclus and Achilles differs.  Sometimes they are lovers, sometimes they are even closer. According to one reading of the Iliad, Patroclus has all the compassion and emotional maturity that Achilles lacks, so that together they make one complete, well-rounded person. When Patroclus dies, Achilles literally loses his better self. Madeline Miller manages to interweave all the various traditions together. Patroclus is the only human that Achilles manages to form a meaningful connection to, and that relationship prompts all of his most humane actions. They are deeply in love, and that love elevates both to be better, more balanced members of their communities. At the same time, they are also each well-drawn characters with their own distinct personalities. It’s some of the finest character building I’ve ever read, and by far the best version of the two characters since the Iliad.

This novel is beautifully written and deserves its many, many accolades. Readers should be aware that the book includes sex and many violent battle scenes (as one would expect) so responsible adults may want to vet it before giving it to young readers. That said, it’s a fantastic read and an accurate retelling of the myth of the Trojan War that also gives deep insight into its ancient source of inspiration. – Krishni Burns