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The Song of Achilles – 2012 Winner

Madeline Miller

Winner of Women’s Prize for Fiction 2012 formerly known as the Orange Prize for Fiction

A riveting tale of love, ambition and immortal fame, this award-winning debut from the author of Circe retells the story of the Trojan War and its greatest hero from the point of view of his closest friend Patroclus.

Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles. Despite their differences, the boys develop a tender friendship, a bond which blossoms into something deeper as they grow into young men.

But when Helen of Sparta is kidnapped, Achilles is dispatched to distant Troy to fulfil his destiny. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.

"Patroclus’ story was always there in the background calling to me. I wrote on weekends, on holidays, every scrap moment I could find."

2012 Shortlist

2012 Longlist

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