A review by ginalucia
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 
The Song of Achilles was just as impactful the second time around. Miller's retelling is a masterpiece, beautifully crafted and deeply moving.

Miller’s writing is simply stunning. She has this incredible ability to capture the raw complexity of her characters with such authenticity, even considering the divine nature of some of them.

I found myself reaching for my notes more times than I can count. Seriously, this book is like the ultimate annotating material. It was a joy to take it slow and absorb every delicious description.

The romance is sweet and tender despite the realities of their situation. I especially appreciated how it focuses on these relationships, as well as others, rather than the ins and outs of war. Instead of a dull and plodding account, it becomes something a lot more deep.

On my second read-through, I noticed so much foreshadowing woven throughout. It added a whole new layer of depth and emotion, making the experience even more moving, knowing what was to come.

I gave this 4 stars in my first readthrough, but after my second, I’m bumping it up to 5.

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