The Song of Achilles

The Song of Achilles is captivating. Reading it is immersive and at times distressing. It reminded me of [b:In Other Lands 31944679 In Other Lands Sarah Rees Brennan https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1496783711l/31944679.SY75.jpg 52603350] coming-of-age over several years, mlm relationship between a sensitive boy spurned by his family and a widely revered and agile warrior, showing the impact of war and killing on said warrior and the relationship, etc., with fewer exploding microwaves but higher stakes overall. Couples face obstacles in every romance. But miscommunication pales in comparison to war, especially when every action is tangled up in prophecies and a tormented crusade for fame and honor. Miller's credentials are wholly apparent, and enrich this story greatly. But I will say, sometimes I had trouble keeping track of characters and their relationships to one another. I can't fault Miller for my ignorance—all I really had to draw on was [b:Percy Jackson 28187 The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #1) Rick Riordan https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1400602609l/28187.SY75.jpg 3346751] and, naturally, Brad Pitt in Troy. I'm just putting this out there for the benefit of others who understand nothing: at least skim the Trojan War wiki page.Despite meager prior knowledge, I feel justified in calling The Song of Achilles a compelling and heart-wrenching retelling. The writing is strong, the relationship is moving, and the ending almost killed me. If that doesn't get you to read it, I don't know what will.