The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller is probably the most well-known modern adaptation of Greek mythology (after the Percy Jackson series), and for good reason. The story is told not by Achilles himself, but Patroclus, an exiled prince who becomes Achilles’ dearest companion and lover. Once Achilles is called to war, Patrcolus vows to follow him, despite knowing their tragic destinies and fearing the person Achilles may come once tainted by glory and bloodshed. Miller injects so much new life into Achilles and Patroclus’ relationship that even readers who have read The Iliad will find new meaning in their story while reading this book.
Opening Line: “My father was a king and the son of kings.”
Favorite Line: “In the darkness, two shadows, reaching through the hopeless, heavy dusk. Their hands meet, and light spills in a flood like a hundred golden urns pouring out of the sun.”
Why I Like It: Achilles and Patroculus’ relationship is what kept me reading. It’s made clear that their love is romantic when Miller could have easily left it ambiguous, which I’m grateful for.
Read If You Like: Greek Mythology, LGBT+ romance, fanfiction (it sometimes feels like a well-written fanfic, to be honest)