"The Song of Achilles", written by first-time novelist Madeline Miller in 2012, is based on the events preceding the Trojan War and Homer's "The Iliad". Winner of the Orange Prize for Fiction, the novel draws from many sources to present a fresh take on the ancient story.

In a world where Gods, demi-gods and people all live together, "The Song of Achilles" is the love story of Patroclus and Achilles. Both were born the sons of kings, but Patroclus' father exiles him when he is a boy after he accidentally kills a nobleman's son. He is shipped off to be raised by in Phthia, where he meets Achilles, son of the King, Peleus. They are the same age and soon Patroclus becomes the sworn companion of Achilles. They develop an intense bond, despite Achilles' mother's objections. She is a goddess so this is more easily said than done.

When at sixteen years old, they are living in the woods with Chiron, Achilles' teacher, the relationship between them turns physical. Not long later, Achilles is called to war. His mother whisks him away into hiding to protect him but soon he is found. Patroclus joins him in going to Troy. Over the next ten years, they partake in the Trojan War and their fates, and ashes, are sealed in Troy.