Rose's writing is enveloping and entertaining, from graphic fight sequences between the gladiators to the arcing character development of the unflinching Cassius, who exudes heroic traits—he is a capable fighter, a loyal friend, and shrouded with the humble beginnings of hidden talents. Through triumphant performances, Cassius earns his freedom, but as his time in the ludus (gladiator home base) comes to an end, his prophetic dreams alert him to duplicity—and his mistrust of his master, Dominus, starts to grow. With the aid of new friends harboring special gifts of their own, Cassius begins to understand his talents, find his purpose, and trust his instincts. His story unfolds through a journey of self-discovery and stark realizations about the world, and the people, he has known all his life, immersing readers in an ancient saga of empires, politics, and social orders.
Rose’s narrative brims with suspense and action-packed violence, juxtaposed with the poignant emotional depth and exploration of Cassius as a warrior, a slave, and a man, lending a sense of humanity and complexity to the grueling brutality of his station in life. This stark story of slavery, oppression, the cost of freedom, and the suffering that often accompanies power exchanges will resonate with fans of Roman history and classic hero tales.
Takeaway: Gladiator gifted with prophetic sight fights a cause much larger than himself.
Comparable Titles: Natalie Haynes's The Children of Jocasta, Madeline Miller's The Song of Achilles.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
