Molly’s Book Reviews

Song of Achilles 

The song of Achilles, written by Madeline Miller, is a fantastic fantasy novel written in the heroic Greek age. The story is not told from the perspective of Achilles, the strongest warrior, and hero of the Greek army. It is told from the perspective of Patroclus, Achilles’ highest and most respected companion. The book begins with Patroclus, an awkward and shy Greek prince who is a shame to his father, Menoetius. When Patroclus has finally disappointed his father enough, he is sent to be an orphan in Phthia, where he lives under the court of King Peleus. During his time as an orphan, he finds himself a close companion of the King’s son, Achilles. When Achilles is called to war, Patroculous hopelessly follows him, and the two enter the Trojan war together. The novel is driven by the dynamic of the two’s relationship in passion and love, and a war that drives Achilles and Patroclus to their fate. Not a Greek mythology fan? Don’t worry, there is something for everyone in Miller’s novel, The Song of Achilles. 

The Nightingale 

The Nightingale, by Kristen Hannah, is a heartbreaking historical fiction novel that tells the story of occupied France during WWII. Told from the perspective of two sisters with extremely contradicting personalities, goals, and desires, they each chose a path for survival during the war. Through this journey, the author illustrates the struggles that the two sisters face in love and loss throughout the war, teaching the audience about the importance of sacrificing for the ones you love. No matter the differences the sisters face, they discover that their desire to protect the people that they love, no matter what the circumstance, is what brings them together in the end. The Nightingale is a perfect read for anyone looking for a bit of action, romance, and history all in one book. 

It Ends With Us

It Ends With Us, By Colleen Hoover is about a young adult, Lily, who has never had it easy in her life. After her father passes away, Lily meets a possible love interest who begins to reflect on her past and her father, a little too much to her liking. As Lily has arising questions about this new relationship, she is also overwhelmed by rediscovering her first love from High school. Despite her setbacks and challenges, Lily strives to make the most of her life and open her flower shop in Boston, which had been a dream of hers. This story shows the true meaning of what it looks like to break cycles and start over, as Lily makes hard choices to do so. This is a great easy read, but get the tissues out, it is quite the tear-jerker! WARNING, this story does discuss heavy topics such as abuse and sexual assault.