The Song of Achilles

OVER 1.5 MILLION COPIES SOLD

A 10th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION, FEATURING A NEW FOREWORD BY THE AUTHOR

WINNER OF THE ORANGE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION
THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

A SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

'Captivating' DONNA TARTT
'I loved it' J K ROWLING
'Ravishingly vivid' EMMA DONOGHUE

Set in ancient Greece, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller reimagines the tale of the legendary hero Achilles from the perspective of his closest companion, Patroclus. Patroclus, a young and exiled prince, finds an unexpected friendship with Achilles, the son of King Peleus, at the court of Phthia. Despite their contrasting personalities, with Patroclus being reserved and awkward, and Achilles being confident and perfect, their bond flourishes as they train in the arts of war and medicine.

As their friendship deepens into an undeniable romantic connection, their lives complicate further due to the disapproval of Achilles’s divine mother, Thetis, a cruel sea goddess with her own designs for Achilles’s future. The tranquility of their bond is shattered when Helen of Sparta is abducted, an act that triggers the Trojan War. Achilles is called to fulfil his destiny as a warrior, and Patroclus, driven by his deep feelings for Achilles, follows him to the war-torn plains of Troy. Here, amid the horrors of battle and the whims of gods, their love and loyalty are put to the ultimate test, raising poignant questions about honour, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a hero.

'A book I could not put down' ANN PATCHETT
‘An exciting, sexy, violent Superman version of The Iliad’ GUARDIAN
‘Sexy, dangerous, mystical’ BETTANY HUGHES

The Song of Achilles is an evocative exploration of myth, love, and destiny, masterfully blending lyrical prose and historical detail. Whether you are familiar with Homer’s Iliad or new to Greek mythology, Miller’s retelling offers a poignant and timeless narrative that has resonated with both critics and readers worldwide.

Experience this beautifully crafted tale that has captivated hearts and minds, and discover why it continues to be an international bestseller.