This is an EXCELLENT retelling of the Iliad. Briseis breathes life into characters that aren't even mentioned in the Iliad through her narration and the way Pat Barker captures all of the characters is FUCKING FANTASTIC. I love Achilles and Patroclus to death, but they're rightfully portrayed in this book. Not as monsters, in fact Patroclus' kindness is very important, but Briseis never forgets that both of them had a hand in her brothers' murders, Achilles quite literally. The writing is beautiful, and you can actually get lost in the story, unlike the Iliad (Homer loves pointless tangents).

Another thing you know I was on the look out for was the depiction of Achilles and Patroclus' relationship and this book did not disappoint. All the key moments are there, and I was pretty much over the moon.

But, this book isn't about Achilles and Patroclus, though they play a huge role. It's about Briseis, and the other forgotten women of Troy. It's definitely a book we needed, I think. Honestly, this is one of those books that's going to stick with me, and I wish I could give it more than five stars.