Book Description
Achilles, “the best of all the Greeks,” son of the cruel sea goddess Thetis and the legendary king Peleus, is strong, swift, and beautiful, irresistible to all who meet him. Patroclus is an awkward young prince, exiled from his homeland after an act of shocking violence. Brought together by chance, they forge an inseparable bond, despite risking the gods’ wrath.
They are trained by the centaur Chiron in the arts of war and medicine, but when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, all the heroes of Greece are called upon to lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny, Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the cruel Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice.
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An Editor’s Book Review
Character Development
Surprisingly, Patroclus was the main point of view in this book. It’s an interesting choice, given that the book still focuses primarily on Achilles. The Greek hero, Achilles, is shown through Patroclus’s rose-colored glasses.
As someone very familiar with the Illiad, I didn’t think there was much need for character development. Odysseus and Menelaus, for example, are well-established literary figures, as is Achilles. But I really enjoyed the character development of Patroclus. I wasn’t aware of his background prior to the Trojan War. While Patroclus is very much a foil for Achilles’ more glamorous character, readers do connect with and appreciate him.
Pacing
This book has both fast-paced bits and lulls. It’s not a race to the Trojan War, but it’s also not as relaxed as it could be. The coming war and Achilles’ expected role in it (including the prophecy) do drive the plot forward. But the two main characters also have comfortable lulls on Chiron’s mountain and in other places.
Writing Style
What I appreciated most about the writing style was the deep knowledge of both Greek myths and Greek culture. The random Greek words and allusions to other events at the time made the book feel far more immersive.
Book Recommendations
If you liked the immersive Greek culture in this book, A Memory Called Empire (Science Fiction) and A Master of Djinn (Fantasy) also have extensive world building focused on specific cultures.