Patroclus is an awkward young prince who never quite fit in. Achilles is the son of a legendary king and a cruel sea nymph, and known by all as "the best of all Greeks." The two boys could not be more different, but when an incident with another boy turns violent and Patroclus is exiled from his homeland, the pair are thrown together which sets off a chain of events that will change their lives forever. The pair are sent off to learn and train under the famous centaur, Chiron, where they are taught everything from warfare to medicine. It is also here where the pair start to fall in love. During this time, word comes to them that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped and all heroes are called upon to join forces and invade Troy in her name. Patroclus is hesitant, but Achilles is seduced by the fame he's been promised and together they head off to war. They believe it will be a quick win, but the Fates have different plans, and the lovers will be tested like never before, and the price they must pay soon proves too much.

I'm a huge fan of Greek mythology and adored Miller's other book, Circe, so I was really looking forward to this one, and I'm happy to report that this absolutely killed me in the best possible way. Right from the very start, I was hooked and rooting for Patroclus. He's so sweet and good-natured, and you can't help but feel the need to protect him. Then you have Achilles who has grown up his entire life hearing how he is destined for great things and how he's the best of the Greeks. He starts out so arrogant and pretentious, but as his and Patroclus's relationship grows and develops into something more, he becomes more grounded, though not so level-headed. And their relationship! Ugh, it was beautiful and I was so invested. I don't usually get emotional over books, but I definitely teared up a bit at this one. Miller's take on these characters and this story was just lovely and I can't recommend it enough.