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Imperial Games #1
Gladiator's Embrace
Ferox, once Rome's most famous gladiator, turned his back on the arena after the brutal death of his closest friend. But life as an ex-gladiator is harder than he expected, and when his former manager presents an extravagant offer, Ferox reluctantly agrees to return for three final fights. He'll use his newfound fortune to build a life far from the bloody memories that haunt him.
At the training school, a new arrival threatens to disrupt all Ferox's plans. Velia, his manager's niece, is a woman with the peculiar aspiration of managing her own gladiator troupe. Having rejected a life of drudgery on her family's farm, the world of gladiators is her path to independence. She needs the perfect trainer, and Ferox, with his impressive fighting record, is just the man for the job. And if she can't stop ogling the span of his shoulders or imagining what he's like in bed…well, that only makes working together more interesting.
Velia is unlike any woman Ferox has ever met, and the more time they spend together, the more he finds himself drawn to her bold ambition and outspoken manner. His return is only temporary, though, and her brazen flirting is a distraction he can't afford. If he wants peace from the ghosts of his past, he must leave this world behind forever. But is a life of peace worth sacrificing the one person who makes it worth living?
At the training school, a new arrival threatens to disrupt all Ferox's plans. Velia, his manager's niece, is a woman with the peculiar aspiration of managing her own gladiator troupe. Having rejected a life of drudgery on her family's farm, the world of gladiators is her path to independence. She needs the perfect trainer, and Ferox, with his impressive fighting record, is just the man for the job. And if she can't stop ogling the span of his shoulders or imagining what he's like in bed…well, that only makes working together more interesting.
Velia is unlike any woman Ferox has ever met, and the more time they spend together, the more he finds himself drawn to her bold ambition and outspoken manner. His return is only temporary, though, and her brazen flirting is a distraction he can't afford. If he wants peace from the ghosts of his past, he must leave this world behind forever. But is a life of peace worth sacrificing the one person who makes it worth living?
- GenresHistorical Romance
ebook
Published February 12, 2026
9 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Bigelow
6 books31 followersJenna Bigelow is a historical romance author based in Wilmington, DE. She has eleven years of Latin classes under her belt, as well as a minor in Classical Culture and Society. When not writing, she enjoys sewing, especially recreating historical fashions of the 18th and 19th centuries. She thinks about the Roman Empire every day.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 23, 2026
Jenna Bigelow really knows how to write a story that immediately sucks me into an immersive world. She did it with her first series and now we’re back in Rome but with Gladiators as our primary protagonists. Ferox is a retired Gladiator with an insane winning streak who’s being brought back to fight by request of the Emperor. But he’s not doing it for free, and hopes these final three fights will see him happily and richly retired. When his manager’s niece, Velia, who is working on building her own career as a manager asks him to train her new gladiator he’s unable to resist the extra coin and her charm. Velia is determined to have the kind of career her uncle does, and hopes Ferox is her golden ticket. It doesn’t hurt that she also likes to watch his big sweaty shoulders at work.
These two have an instant attraction that pays off fairly quickly in this novel. Jenna always brings the heat, but this might be her steamiest book yet. Ferox and Velia are hot, and just plain hot for each other. Despite our pair knocking sandals by the 30% mark, there’s still plenty of conflict and tension with the expiration date set on their romance. There was also some really nice internal conflict with Ferox dealing with the grief of losing one of his best friends prior to the start of the book. He’s haunted by the ghost of his friend and feels such intense guilt for the way things happened.
This one was a quick read with high steam and a touching romance in a really unique setting! Not to mention, she’s done the thing again where I’m invested in these characters and wanting to see Lea and Jason’s HEAs. Hot Greek physician (younger?) for Lea here we come!!!!
4/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
These two have an instant attraction that pays off fairly quickly in this novel. Jenna always brings the heat, but this might be her steamiest book yet. Ferox and Velia are hot, and just plain hot for each other. Despite our pair knocking sandals by the 30% mark, there’s still plenty of conflict and tension with the expiration date set on their romance. There was also some really nice internal conflict with Ferox dealing with the grief of losing one of his best friends prior to the start of the book. He’s haunted by the ghost of his friend and feels such intense guilt for the way things happened.
This one was a quick read with high steam and a touching romance in a really unique setting! Not to mention, she’s done the thing again where I’m invested in these characters and wanting to see Lea and Jason’s HEAs. Hot Greek physician (younger?) for Lea here we come!!!!
4/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thanks to Happily Booked for providing the eARC. This is my honest opinion.
A Dangerous Attraction in a World Without Freedom
Gladiator’s Embrace is told through two points of view, that of Velia, the niece of Ferox’s manager, and Ferox himself, a gladiator marked by loss and survival. The alternating perspectives allow the inner conflicts of both characters to surface, revealing their doubts, fears and unspoken desires.
The setting is harsh and unforgiving. The arena world is built on power and control, where freedom is an illusion and every choice comes at a cost. These unequal power structures create a constant sense of tension, one that seeps into every interaction. Within this brutal environment, the attraction between Velia and Ferox slowly takes shape. Their connection feels dangerous, charged with longing and restraint, and it becomes the emotional backbone of the story.
Jenna Bigelow’s writing style is smooth and accessible, with a strong emphasis on emotion and physical awareness. Inner struggles and desire take center stage, sometimes more so than the broader worldbuilding. Fight scenes and training sequences are clear and easy to follow, described without heavy technical language, which keeps the narrative moving at a steady pace.
Although the storyline follows familiar genre paths, the emotional depth and the intense dynamic between the two main characters make Gladiator’s Embrace an immersive read, driven by passion, survival and the fragile balance between duty and desire.
Forbidden romance | Gladiator romance | Slow burn | Enemies to lovers | Power dynamics | Survival in a brutal world | Dangerous attraction
A Dangerous Attraction in a World Without Freedom
Gladiator’s Embrace is told through two points of view, that of Velia, the niece of Ferox’s manager, and Ferox himself, a gladiator marked by loss and survival. The alternating perspectives allow the inner conflicts of both characters to surface, revealing their doubts, fears and unspoken desires.
The setting is harsh and unforgiving. The arena world is built on power and control, where freedom is an illusion and every choice comes at a cost. These unequal power structures create a constant sense of tension, one that seeps into every interaction. Within this brutal environment, the attraction between Velia and Ferox slowly takes shape. Their connection feels dangerous, charged with longing and restraint, and it becomes the emotional backbone of the story.
Jenna Bigelow’s writing style is smooth and accessible, with a strong emphasis on emotion and physical awareness. Inner struggles and desire take center stage, sometimes more so than the broader worldbuilding. Fight scenes and training sequences are clear and easy to follow, described without heavy technical language, which keeps the narrative moving at a steady pace.
Although the storyline follows familiar genre paths, the emotional depth and the intense dynamic between the two main characters make Gladiator’s Embrace an immersive read, driven by passion, survival and the fragile balance between duty and desire.
Forbidden romance | Gladiator romance | Slow burn | Enemies to lovers | Power dynamics | Survival in a brutal world | Dangerous attraction
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sometimes you just want a super hot historical romance between two also super hot people. Add in a gladiator tournament, gender politics, and a tortured hero, and it’s a really good time. Thanks to Jenna Bigelow for the complimentary early copy of Gladiator’s Embrace.
In 37 CE, the first year of Caligula’s reign, the new emperor announces a months-long gladiator tournament and demands the return of his former favorite, Ferox. Though Ferox retired after his best friend was killed fighting in his place, the offer is too lucrative to refuse; it's enough to leave Rome forever and buy land in his native Hispania. When Ferox returns to the ludus, he discovers everything has changed. In his absence, his manager has brought his ambitious niece, Velia, into the business. Sent to Rome as punishment after a scandal at home, Velia has instead found purpose in the city and dreams of managing her own stable of gladiators.
Determined to prove herself, Velia recruits her first volunteer and turns to Ferox—the most experienced fighter in the ludus—to train him for the tournament. Ferox has no interest in returning to the brutal work, but his growing attraction to Velia makes refusal impossible, even though she should be strictly off-limits.
The plot of this book is pretty simple: we have a gladiator tournament and two people who can’t keep their hands off each other. What makes it interesting is the dynamic between the characters. Ferox is a bear of a man with a fearsome reputation in the arena, someone who looks like he could break you with one hand. But he also has a strong sense of justice, having been sold into slavery as a youth, and he is supremely respectful of women and the vulnerable. He definitely scratched an itch I have for a specific type of romance hero we saw a lot in the early 2000s—the man who will bring his heroine flowers he walked ten miles to pick by hand, but will then murder the man who hurts her with that same hand. I’m not mad about it.
Velia is a very modern heroine. She admits to acting out on her parents’ farm, which led to her exile to Rome. She knows the behavior she engaged in was risky and not necessarily the smartest, even if it wasn’t as bad as her parents believed. Once she’s in Rome, living a life that actually appeals to her and stimulates her mentally, her whole attitude changes. I really appreciated that she is the character who initiates most of the intimate encounters with Ferox. She’s the primary driver behind their physical relationship, and that dynamic really works considering his size and the potential for physical danger due to his occupation.
What was especially interesting about this book, compared to Jenna’s other novels, is how rooted in the physical this relationship is. These two people speak with their bodies, not their words, so whenever they want to say something, they do something instead. I found that to be a compelling choice, especially after reading Jenna’s other series where her couples are much more verbal. And I need to give Jenna kudos because while there are several blowjobs on the page, this man eats like he’s starving, and he goes down more often than she does—an absolute must in romance.
I do want to put a content warning on this book for sexual assault. It’s not completed and it’s not on the page, but there is a very real threat of it, and if that’s not your bag, you might want to bypass this book.
Overall, this was a fun, super spicy read. If you’re looking for a book where you can unplug your brain from the dumpster fire that is our world and get lost in some hot gladiator spice, this book will work for you. 4 stars.
In 37 CE, the first year of Caligula’s reign, the new emperor announces a months-long gladiator tournament and demands the return of his former favorite, Ferox. Though Ferox retired after his best friend was killed fighting in his place, the offer is too lucrative to refuse; it's enough to leave Rome forever and buy land in his native Hispania. When Ferox returns to the ludus, he discovers everything has changed. In his absence, his manager has brought his ambitious niece, Velia, into the business. Sent to Rome as punishment after a scandal at home, Velia has instead found purpose in the city and dreams of managing her own stable of gladiators.
Determined to prove herself, Velia recruits her first volunteer and turns to Ferox—the most experienced fighter in the ludus—to train him for the tournament. Ferox has no interest in returning to the brutal work, but his growing attraction to Velia makes refusal impossible, even though she should be strictly off-limits.
The plot of this book is pretty simple: we have a gladiator tournament and two people who can’t keep their hands off each other. What makes it interesting is the dynamic between the characters. Ferox is a bear of a man with a fearsome reputation in the arena, someone who looks like he could break you with one hand. But he also has a strong sense of justice, having been sold into slavery as a youth, and he is supremely respectful of women and the vulnerable. He definitely scratched an itch I have for a specific type of romance hero we saw a lot in the early 2000s—the man who will bring his heroine flowers he walked ten miles to pick by hand, but will then murder the man who hurts her with that same hand. I’m not mad about it.
Velia is a very modern heroine. She admits to acting out on her parents’ farm, which led to her exile to Rome. She knows the behavior she engaged in was risky and not necessarily the smartest, even if it wasn’t as bad as her parents believed. Once she’s in Rome, living a life that actually appeals to her and stimulates her mentally, her whole attitude changes. I really appreciated that she is the character who initiates most of the intimate encounters with Ferox. She’s the primary driver behind their physical relationship, and that dynamic really works considering his size and the potential for physical danger due to his occupation.
What was especially interesting about this book, compared to Jenna’s other novels, is how rooted in the physical this relationship is. These two people speak with their bodies, not their words, so whenever they want to say something, they do something instead. I found that to be a compelling choice, especially after reading Jenna’s other series where her couples are much more verbal. And I need to give Jenna kudos because while there are several blowjobs on the page, this man eats like he’s starving, and he goes down more often than she does—an absolute must in romance.
I do want to put a content warning on this book for sexual assault. It’s not completed and it’s not on the page, but there is a very real threat of it, and if that’s not your bag, you might want to bypass this book.
Overall, this was a fun, super spicy read. If you’re looking for a book where you can unplug your brain from the dumpster fire that is our world and get lost in some hot gladiator spice, this book will work for you. 4 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jenna Bigelow has really leveled up as an author in this second series. I think the more focused universe of a gladiator training ludus (like a racing stable, but for people) within the still very new setting of ancient Rome is useful. The reader needs a grounding in such an unfamiliar world. At any rate, this is a fantastically entertaining story. Also, Bigelow is so good at defining character with just a few descriptive asides. In the first two pages, we hear about Ferox's "scarred palm" from fighting, how "the numbers tangled themselves up in [his] mind" because he has no formal education, and his relationship with Lucullus "despite the fact that until recently, the manager had owned him."
Ferox is a veteran gladiator, a former slave who bought his freedom after a friend was killed in the arena, and quit the game. But he's back for One Final Job, (or three fights over two months) which will earn him enough money to retire to the homeland he left when he was a child. Velia lives with her uncle, the owner of the ludus (and, it must be said, the gladiators. This is full on Slavery Times in ancient Rome). She wants to start her own roster, so gets a starter (not slave) gladiator and hired Ferox to train him.
These two are super attracted to each other, lucky Velia is no blushing virgin (part of the reason she's with her uncle is her parents wanted her to stop jumping farmhands). One of my favorite microtropes is "I'm too big and brutish for this delicate silk-smooth woman." (Say Yes to the Marquess is a classic) and Ferox is convinced he'll break Velia if he acts on his attraction. "he was sure to accidentally hurt her if they did anything further. Velia was too delicate for the likes of him." He's easily convinced otherwise, and if she's sore later, it's a price she's very wiling to pay.
This book has a great ticking clock of the two months of battles. Ferox is being haunted by the ghost of his friend who died in the arena and can't stand to be around there, Velia feels she's found her purpose. The lesson we can all learn is that if you have two best friends, talk to them about how the ghost of your other best friend is haunting you. Or something. At any rate, this book is full of fights, and conflict, and emperors putting thumbs down or not, and many many many happy bedroom times. I had a great time reading this smart, fun, and fast read.
The author CWs this all, but again, there is an attempted SA on page, and Velia's uncle is an enslaver, many side characters (slotted for the rest of the series??) are enslaved.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
Ferox is a veteran gladiator, a former slave who bought his freedom after a friend was killed in the arena, and quit the game. But he's back for One Final Job, (or three fights over two months) which will earn him enough money to retire to the homeland he left when he was a child. Velia lives with her uncle, the owner of the ludus (and, it must be said, the gladiators. This is full on Slavery Times in ancient Rome). She wants to start her own roster, so gets a starter (not slave) gladiator and hired Ferox to train him.
These two are super attracted to each other, lucky Velia is no blushing virgin (part of the reason she's with her uncle is her parents wanted her to stop jumping farmhands). One of my favorite microtropes is "I'm too big and brutish for this delicate silk-smooth woman." (Say Yes to the Marquess is a classic) and Ferox is convinced he'll break Velia if he acts on his attraction. "he was sure to accidentally hurt her if they did anything further. Velia was too delicate for the likes of him." He's easily convinced otherwise, and if she's sore later, it's a price she's very wiling to pay.
This book has a great ticking clock of the two months of battles. Ferox is being haunted by the ghost of his friend who died in the arena and can't stand to be around there, Velia feels she's found her purpose. The lesson we can all learn is that if you have two best friends, talk to them about how the ghost of your other best friend is haunting you. Or something. At any rate, this book is full of fights, and conflict, and emperors putting thumbs down or not, and many many many happy bedroom times. I had a great time reading this smart, fun, and fast read.
The author CWs this all, but again, there is an attempted SA on page, and Velia's uncle is an enslaver, many side characters (slotted for the rest of the series??) are enslaved.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
Review of advance copy
A gripping blend of historical grit, emotional healing, and slow-burn romance
Gladiator’s Embrace delivers a compelling return-to-Rome story that balances visceral gladiatorial intensity with genuine emotional depth. Jenna Bigelow crafts a hero haunted by loss and violence, and places him in a situation where healing doesn’t come from escape but from connection.
Ferox is a standout protagonist: hardened by the arena, burdened by grief, and quietly yearning for peace. His reluctant return to the world he abandoned feels authentic and emotionally grounded, giving real weight to the stakes of his final three fights. The scars he carries both physical and psychological are handled with care, making his journey resonate beyond the action.
Velia is equally engaging. Her ambition to manage her own gladiator troupe sets her apart as a refreshingly bold and intelligent heroine. She isn’t merely a romantic interest; she’s a catalyst for change, challenging Ferox’s assumptions about freedom, purpose, and what a future might look like after survival. Their chemistry is electric, driven by sharp dialogue, mutual respect, and a delicious tension between desire and restraint.
What truly elevates this novel is how the romance is woven into the broader themes of identity, agency, and choosing life after trauma. The arena scenes are vivid and tense, yet never overshadow the emotional core of the story. Bigelow strikes an effective balance between historical atmosphere and modern emotional sensibility.
Gladiator’s Embrace will appeal to readers who love historical romance with strong characters, meaningful stakes, and a love story that grows from shared vulnerability rather than convenience. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the hardest battle isn’t fought with a blade but with the courage to stay.
Gladiator’s Embrace delivers a compelling return-to-Rome story that balances visceral gladiatorial intensity with genuine emotional depth. Jenna Bigelow crafts a hero haunted by loss and violence, and places him in a situation where healing doesn’t come from escape but from connection.
Ferox is a standout protagonist: hardened by the arena, burdened by grief, and quietly yearning for peace. His reluctant return to the world he abandoned feels authentic and emotionally grounded, giving real weight to the stakes of his final three fights. The scars he carries both physical and psychological are handled with care, making his journey resonate beyond the action.
Velia is equally engaging. Her ambition to manage her own gladiator troupe sets her apart as a refreshingly bold and intelligent heroine. She isn’t merely a romantic interest; she’s a catalyst for change, challenging Ferox’s assumptions about freedom, purpose, and what a future might look like after survival. Their chemistry is electric, driven by sharp dialogue, mutual respect, and a delicious tension between desire and restraint.
What truly elevates this novel is how the romance is woven into the broader themes of identity, agency, and choosing life after trauma. The arena scenes are vivid and tense, yet never overshadow the emotional core of the story. Bigelow strikes an effective balance between historical atmosphere and modern emotional sensibility.
Gladiator’s Embrace will appeal to readers who love historical romance with strong characters, meaningful stakes, and a love story that grows from shared vulnerability rather than convenience. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the hardest battle isn’t fought with a blade but with the courage to stay.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When we get the chance to read a new Jenna Bigelow ... we READ IT. She knows how to write romances we want to read: compact but with plenty of plot, historical tidbits, and steam.
This one kicks off a new series about (you probably guessed it) ... gladiators! Retired gladiator Ferox is tempted back into the arena for 3 final fights. And you know what happens when a character takes one "one last job." 😈 His old manager has a new apprentice: niece Velia, who was kicked out of her parents' home for her wild behavior. So we're starting out with two fun character archetypes in the weathered "one last job" older man (in his 30s!) and the younger-but-not-nieve-or-innocent woman.
Velia knows what she wants and how to go after it. Ferox thinks he knows what he wants, but he's also having to deal with independent life and, as it turns out, maybe isn't so sure about his future as he was when he retired. Velia hires him to train her first gladiator, and after they get to know each other, she decides to take the next step and proposition him. It all boils down to a man who's planning on leaving the gladiator life behind falling for a woman just starting out in the industry ... and of course, that "one last job" that's going to come back to haunt him.
Do note that this book, like Biglow's others, is set during a historically accurate Roman Empire, complete with slavery, brothels, slut shaming, and brutal gladiatorial combat. There is also one scene of sexual assault on the page, so set your expectations accordingly.
It's also Bigelow's steamiest book yet, featuring a giant muscled man who is very receptive to taking orders and who may be TOO aware of his own strength. We both loved this as the start of a new series, and as always, are ready to read another Roman romance as soon as we get the chance!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This one kicks off a new series about (you probably guessed it) ... gladiators! Retired gladiator Ferox is tempted back into the arena for 3 final fights. And you know what happens when a character takes one "one last job." 😈 His old manager has a new apprentice: niece Velia, who was kicked out of her parents' home for her wild behavior. So we're starting out with two fun character archetypes in the weathered "one last job" older man (in his 30s!) and the younger-but-not-nieve-or-innocent woman.
Velia knows what she wants and how to go after it. Ferox thinks he knows what he wants, but he's also having to deal with independent life and, as it turns out, maybe isn't so sure about his future as he was when he retired. Velia hires him to train her first gladiator, and after they get to know each other, she decides to take the next step and proposition him. It all boils down to a man who's planning on leaving the gladiator life behind falling for a woman just starting out in the industry ... and of course, that "one last job" that's going to come back to haunt him.
Do note that this book, like Biglow's others, is set during a historically accurate Roman Empire, complete with slavery, brothels, slut shaming, and brutal gladiatorial combat. There is also one scene of sexual assault on the page, so set your expectations accordingly.
It's also Bigelow's steamiest book yet, featuring a giant muscled man who is very receptive to taking orders and who may be TOO aware of his own strength. We both loved this as the start of a new series, and as always, are ready to read another Roman romance as soon as we get the chance!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
February 10, 2026
This was another great romance set in Ancient Rome from Jenna Bigelow. This time we’re diving into the world of the gladiators, with a retired gladiator MMC tempted back into the arena for one last set of matches and an FMC looking to establish herself as a gladiator manager.
Ferox has a real stern and silent demeanour that’s definitely hiding some squish. He left the gladiator life behind after buying his freedom, but post-gladiator life isn’t working out great and he’s hoping one last big payout will let him return to the country of his birth and set himself up for a peaceful life. He’s also dealing with unresolved grief after losing a gladiator friend previously and you definitely get the sense that he’s lost and doesn’t really know how to deal with that grief and move on.
After working as an assistant to her Uncle, Velia has ambitions of becoming a gladiator manager in her own right. She’s been disowned by her parents after her dissatisfaction with her dull farm life left her seeking out a few amorous distractions, and she’s thriving in this new environment with its new challenges. I loved Velia’s bold approach to her life - she doesn’t let herself be held back by the expectations others press on her and charts her own course. And if that course means admiring Ferox’s muscular body whilst he trains her first gladiator, then so be it.
These two had some steamy chemistry straight away and they didn’t shy away from it. The development of their connection felt really organic to the story and I fully believed in their romance.
I won’t pretend like I know anything about Ancient Rome, but it certainly feels like Jenna Bigelow does! The Ancient Roman setting feels vivid and fleshed out, and it’s just so interesting! I’m already feeling invested with this new series and I can’t wait to find out more about Lea (a female gladiator) in her book next!
*I received a review copy from the author - this is my honest opinion.
Ferox has a real stern and silent demeanour that’s definitely hiding some squish. He left the gladiator life behind after buying his freedom, but post-gladiator life isn’t working out great and he’s hoping one last big payout will let him return to the country of his birth and set himself up for a peaceful life. He’s also dealing with unresolved grief after losing a gladiator friend previously and you definitely get the sense that he’s lost and doesn’t really know how to deal with that grief and move on.
After working as an assistant to her Uncle, Velia has ambitions of becoming a gladiator manager in her own right. She’s been disowned by her parents after her dissatisfaction with her dull farm life left her seeking out a few amorous distractions, and she’s thriving in this new environment with its new challenges. I loved Velia’s bold approach to her life - she doesn’t let herself be held back by the expectations others press on her and charts her own course. And if that course means admiring Ferox’s muscular body whilst he trains her first gladiator, then so be it.
These two had some steamy chemistry straight away and they didn’t shy away from it. The development of their connection felt really organic to the story and I fully believed in their romance.
I won’t pretend like I know anything about Ancient Rome, but it certainly feels like Jenna Bigelow does! The Ancient Roman setting feels vivid and fleshed out, and it’s just so interesting! I’m already feeling invested with this new series and I can’t wait to find out more about Lea (a female gladiator) in her book next!
*I received a review copy from the author - this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ferox served long years as a Gladiator in Rome, becoming a favorite of the Emperor and gaining fame throughout the Empire. He's called back from retirement for an exorbitant amount of prize money. Velia is the niece of Ferox's manager. Sent to Rome by exasperated parents, Velia craves the excitement of the city and longs to manage a gladiatorial ludus herself. She acquires a gladiator named Achilles, raw but left-handed with a promise of some talent, and convinces Ferox to train him. Velia is drawn to Ferox, and takes matters of attraction into her own hands.
Jenna Bigelow has such a unique voice in the historical romance genre, and I am delighted she's shifted to the arena for her newest series The Imperial Games. The original Gladiator movie imprinted on me at an early age, and I love the grit of the arena through Bigelow's eyes. I'm impressed with the tonal shift from Roman Heirs to Imperial Games, as she gives us access to a different part of Rome.
I loved the characters of Ferox and Velia. Velia in particular was a bright light for me: a young woman who knows her own mind and who has fought hard for the level of freedom and independence that she has (even at the expense of her parents' patience.) She pursues a physical relationship with Ferox, and she falls for him almost unwillingly. For his part, Ferox is gruff and reluctant to express feelings because gladiators have no business becoming attached in a world where every match could end in death. This gives us external pressure on the relationship even while they grapple with emotions.
I enjoyed Gladiator's Embrace immensely from start to finish, and I highly recommend picking up one of Jenna Bigelow's books from Ancient Rome to break out of the 19th century ballroom.
Thank you Jenna Bigelow for an eARC. Gladiator's Embrace is out 2/12/2026.
Jenna Bigelow has such a unique voice in the historical romance genre, and I am delighted she's shifted to the arena for her newest series The Imperial Games. The original Gladiator movie imprinted on me at an early age, and I love the grit of the arena through Bigelow's eyes. I'm impressed with the tonal shift from Roman Heirs to Imperial Games, as she gives us access to a different part of Rome.
I loved the characters of Ferox and Velia. Velia in particular was a bright light for me: a young woman who knows her own mind and who has fought hard for the level of freedom and independence that she has (even at the expense of her parents' patience.) She pursues a physical relationship with Ferox, and she falls for him almost unwillingly. For his part, Ferox is gruff and reluctant to express feelings because gladiators have no business becoming attached in a world where every match could end in death. This gives us external pressure on the relationship even while they grapple with emotions.
I enjoyed Gladiator's Embrace immensely from start to finish, and I highly recommend picking up one of Jenna Bigelow's books from Ancient Rome to break out of the 19th century ballroom.
Thank you Jenna Bigelow for an eARC. Gladiator's Embrace is out 2/12/2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gladiator's Embrace was an all-around winner; the story of a famed gladiator haunted by the mistakes of his past returning to the arena one last time and a young woman dreaming of becoming a manager of her own gladiator troupe was amazing, the romance and chemistry hit all the right notes, and the writing was fantastic. The book is fairly short, but it’s perfectly paced and plotted; I admit that, towards the end, I couldn’t see how it could possibly achieve the HEA a romance requires, but all the plotlines expertly woven throughout the book came together, and the ending was very satisfactory.
The protagonists were interesting, flawed, and easy to root for; they had amazing and sizzling chemistry, and a fantastic working relationship. This was also easily the steamiest book by Jenna Bigelow I’ve read so far, and the steam was definitely one of its best aspects. However, the frequent sex didn’t detract from the emotional depth of the romance; there were so many wonderful little moments, like the scenes with the rugs, the hair ties, or the jug, in which we saw Ferox, the quintessential gentle giant, be tender and romantic. And while I liked Ferox very much, I absolutely loved Velia. She was such a compelling and likeable protagonist, despite (or maybe because) her many flaws. I also loved the character of Lea, a tough, no-nonsense female gladiator, and the infrequent, but charming appearances by Nyx the cat.
Overall, this was such a fun and sexy and often gritty read, and a fabulous introduction to a new series.
Huge thanks to Jenna Bigelow for the ARC.
The protagonists were interesting, flawed, and easy to root for; they had amazing and sizzling chemistry, and a fantastic working relationship. This was also easily the steamiest book by Jenna Bigelow I’ve read so far, and the steam was definitely one of its best aspects. However, the frequent sex didn’t detract from the emotional depth of the romance; there were so many wonderful little moments, like the scenes with the rugs, the hair ties, or the jug, in which we saw Ferox, the quintessential gentle giant, be tender and romantic. And while I liked Ferox very much, I absolutely loved Velia. She was such a compelling and likeable protagonist, despite (or maybe because) her many flaws. I also loved the character of Lea, a tough, no-nonsense female gladiator, and the infrequent, but charming appearances by Nyx the cat.
Overall, this was such a fun and sexy and often gritty read, and a fabulous introduction to a new series.
Huge thanks to Jenna Bigelow for the ARC.
February 11, 2026
Thank you Jenna Bigelow for the ARC.
Jenna is a powerhouse! Her Roman Heirs series was a highlight for me last year. She knows how to weave a plot, write amazing characters and discuss social issues while writing a hot, scorching romance. And the spicy scenes actually add to the plot and the progression of the romance between the MCs.
Ferox is a formerly retired gladiator of high esteem who walked away from the arena due to a personal tragedy he is yet to process. He is returning to the arena after being summoned by the new emperor, Caligula (yes, that one). He moves back to the barracks of his former manager to train for the new games, where he meets his manager’s niece, the ambitious, strong and independent Velia, who wants to become a manager of gladiators like her uncle. I’m assuming this was not a common vocation for women in those times. She lives with her uncle in the big city because of an incident that caused a rift between her and her provincial family. She is clearly more sexually liberated and less interested in marriage and domesticity than her peers.
They forge a steadily growing relationship that starts with sexual exploration and slowly develops more emotional depth, especially with his demons and her unique ambitions.
The dialogue flows smoothly. It almost has a contemporary feel to it but I’m ok with that since this is ancient Rome, not Regency England.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
Jenna is a powerhouse! Her Roman Heirs series was a highlight for me last year. She knows how to weave a plot, write amazing characters and discuss social issues while writing a hot, scorching romance. And the spicy scenes actually add to the plot and the progression of the romance between the MCs.
Ferox is a formerly retired gladiator of high esteem who walked away from the arena due to a personal tragedy he is yet to process. He is returning to the arena after being summoned by the new emperor, Caligula (yes, that one). He moves back to the barracks of his former manager to train for the new games, where he meets his manager’s niece, the ambitious, strong and independent Velia, who wants to become a manager of gladiators like her uncle. I’m assuming this was not a common vocation for women in those times. She lives with her uncle in the big city because of an incident that caused a rift between her and her provincial family. She is clearly more sexually liberated and less interested in marriage and domesticity than her peers.
They forge a steadily growing relationship that starts with sexual exploration and slowly develops more emotional depth, especially with his demons and her unique ambitions.
The dialogue flows smoothly. It almost has a contemporary feel to it but I’m ok with that since this is ancient Rome, not Regency England.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
February 8, 2026
Ferox + Velia.
Gladiator's Embrace is a historical romance which centers around Ferox (our MMC) who is a gladiator.. he wants to finish his career and move to somewhere more quiet, more quaint. Velia is roaming around the colosseum and asks Ferox to train her new gladiator, Achilles.
With close proximity Velia and Ferox come to an agreement of sorts.. he trains Achilles and he gets monetary compensation. Ferox also has to fight his last three fights before he is 'free'. We also get to see a softer side to Ferox much later in the book where he talks to Velia about the friend he lost and where he wants to reside after he finishes his fights.
Velia wants him to stay.. she has become attached to him. While their arrangement was supposed to end when he left.. could she convince him to stay.
I really enjoyed the setting, the characters and the arcs for these characters. Ferox's character evolves emotionally and vocally (he was grunting in the beginning). I also enjoyed how Velia was trying to make a name for herself because she wanted to stay in the city.
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Gladiator's Embrace is a historical romance which centers around Ferox (our MMC) who is a gladiator.. he wants to finish his career and move to somewhere more quiet, more quaint. Velia is roaming around the colosseum and asks Ferox to train her new gladiator, Achilles.
With close proximity Velia and Ferox come to an agreement of sorts.. he trains Achilles and he gets monetary compensation. Ferox also has to fight his last three fights before he is 'free'. We also get to see a softer side to Ferox much later in the book where he talks to Velia about the friend he lost and where he wants to reside after he finishes his fights.
Velia wants him to stay.. she has become attached to him. While their arrangement was supposed to end when he left.. could she convince him to stay.
I really enjoyed the setting, the characters and the arcs for these characters. Ferox's character evolves emotionally and vocally (he was grunting in the beginning). I also enjoyed how Velia was trying to make a name for herself because she wanted to stay in the city.
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5
The Gladiator’s Embrace is a gorgeous Ancient Rome romance that leans hard into the grumpy-gladiator/sunshine-heroine dynamic. The characters are vivid and the setting is immersive.
Ferox is a once-legendary fighter trying to outrun grief after the death of his closest friend, but a “three final fights” offer he can't pass up drags him back into the arena for one last shot at getting away from Rome and his past. Enter Velia: his manager’s niece, scandal-adjacent, boldly ambitious, and determined to carve out an independent life by managing her own gladiator troupe.
Their connection is fast, intense and genuinely tender underneath the heat. They are two people who haven’t felt like this before, suddenly protective of each other and not entirely willing to let go. Very spicy, very physical and all-in-all, surprisingly sweet about what it means to choose partnership over escape.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for the advance copy. I can't wait to read more!
The Gladiator’s Embrace is a gorgeous Ancient Rome romance that leans hard into the grumpy-gladiator/sunshine-heroine dynamic. The characters are vivid and the setting is immersive.
Ferox is a once-legendary fighter trying to outrun grief after the death of his closest friend, but a “three final fights” offer he can't pass up drags him back into the arena for one last shot at getting away from Rome and his past. Enter Velia: his manager’s niece, scandal-adjacent, boldly ambitious, and determined to carve out an independent life by managing her own gladiator troupe.
Their connection is fast, intense and genuinely tender underneath the heat. They are two people who haven’t felt like this before, suddenly protective of each other and not entirely willing to let go. Very spicy, very physical and all-in-all, surprisingly sweet about what it means to choose partnership over escape.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for the advance copy. I can't wait to read more!
Review of advance copy
Gladiator's Embrace by Jenna Bigelow is a vivid Ancient Rome romance that masterfully balances a "grumpy/sunshine" dynamic with an immersive historical setting. Ferox, a grief-stricken fighter, and Velia, an ambitious woman determined to manage her own destiny, share a connection that is both intensely spicy and surprisingly tender. While I am new to historical fiction, I found the historical elements were woven seamlessly into an entertaining, high-stakes plot. The emotional depth—specifically the characters' journeys through guilt and shame—made this a truly rewarding read. A huge thank you to Jenna Biglow and Happily Booked for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gladiator's Embrace is book one of the Imperial Games Series.
It was a little slow at the start but once you really get into the story it was amazing. I loved seeing Ferox and Velia work together. Ferox just wants to win his three fights and then be on his way to his own peaceful world. However, he didn't see Velia coming. She enlists his help with training her own gladiators, but the more they work together the closer they get. I loved the chemistry between them. They were both protective of the other in their own way. There were some heart stopping moments through the story, but it all worked out in the end for my liking. Definitely recommend!
It was a little slow at the start but once you really get into the story it was amazing. I loved seeing Ferox and Velia work together. Ferox just wants to win his three fights and then be on his way to his own peaceful world. However, he didn't see Velia coming. She enlists his help with training her own gladiators, but the more they work together the closer they get. I loved the chemistry between them. They were both protective of the other in their own way. There were some heart stopping moments through the story, but it all worked out in the end for my liking. Definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Altro
It is undoubtedly well written, with a fairly fast pace, no repetitions, and the right combination of dialogue and narration.
What worked less well for me were the characters and the plot.
I found the former bland, poorly characterized, and lacking chemistry. I'm not a fan of insta-lust, and here I found no reason why these two should love each other. I didn't find any gestures or words that could make their feelings understandable (a rug and a jug are not enough for me).
As for the plot, I found it interesting but underdeveloped, leaving (too much?) room for the love story.
a special thank you for the author and Happily Booked Pr for the eARC 💚
What worked less well for me were the characters and the plot.
I found the former bland, poorly characterized, and lacking chemistry. I'm not a fan of insta-lust, and here I found no reason why these two should love each other. I didn't find any gestures or words that could make their feelings understandable (a rug and a jug are not enough for me).
As for the plot, I found it interesting but underdeveloped, leaving (too much?) room for the love story.
a special thank you for the author and Happily Booked Pr for the eARC 💚
February 12, 2026
MMC/FMC: Ferox and Velia
Safety:
Depictions of violence, murder, slavery, and attempted SA.
Ferox is a retired gladiator, back for one competition.
Velia, the niece of his manager, hopes to set up her own troupe, and wants Ferox as her trainer.
This brings the steam fairly early, and there’s plenty of tension throughout. Ferox is dealing heavily with guilt, while Velia is trying to prove people wrong. They’ve got different goals, so it was interesting to see them try to find a way forward.
It was a quick read, surprising me with some emotional depth, detailed fight scenes that were easy to follow, and a battle against the power dynamics of the time.
Safety:
Depictions of violence, murder, slavery, and attempted SA.
Ferox is a retired gladiator, back for one competition.
Velia, the niece of his manager, hopes to set up her own troupe, and wants Ferox as her trainer.
This brings the steam fairly early, and there’s plenty of tension throughout. Ferox is dealing heavily with guilt, while Velia is trying to prove people wrong. They’ve got different goals, so it was interesting to see them try to find a way forward.
It was a quick read, surprising me with some emotional depth, detailed fight scenes that were easy to follow, and a battle against the power dynamics of the time.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I loved any stories about Ancient Rome and this is no different. This has a forbidden romance between a gladiator and Roman women in a time where social standing is everything. The heat between the two is amazing and I also like how real they felt. Real romance is not all sweet words and sexy stuff its the talking about what is bugging each other and just being there. I really enjoyed this book and I am hopeful for more maybe for Jason and Lea??
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Jenna Bigelow for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Jenna Bigelow for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 12, 2026
This was OK for me.
This is the story of Ferox, a retired gladiator returning to fight one last competition, and Velia, who aspires to have her own troupe of gladiators.
The premise was interesting - set during the Roman empire, gladiators, an independent woman planning to run her own business. And the historical detail was fascinating.
However, I wasn’t all that invested in the characters and found the story arc fairly predictable.
Thank you Jenna Bigelow for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This is the story of Ferox, a retired gladiator returning to fight one last competition, and Velia, who aspires to have her own troupe of gladiators.
The premise was interesting - set during the Roman empire, gladiators, an independent woman planning to run her own business. And the historical detail was fascinating.
However, I wasn’t all that invested in the characters and found the story arc fairly predictable.
Thank you Jenna Bigelow for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
February 12, 2026
This was awesome story and I just couldn't even put it down. I was on the edge of my seat as the chemistry between them was captivating and steamy hot of passion of romance between these characters it will blow your mind, and you are hooked of the love and forbidden of lust and desire of having her once again as this love affair will be beautiful and the temptation was electrified.
I highly recommend this book, and you won't be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book Happily Booked PR via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones
I highly recommend this book, and you won't be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book Happily Booked PR via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones
February 13, 2026
When I found out that Jenna Bigelow had another series taking place in ancient Rome, I just knew it would be a must read for me. I enjoyed this book tremendously! It has great leading characters (Ferox and Levia) and an engaging plot that kept me in suspense and a wonderful and complex world-building. I loved Levia and Ferox's relationship. The attraction between them was hot and immediate. They are round and complex and readers can relate and empathize with them. Overall, the story was excellent and gripping and I hope other readers will enjoy it as much as I have.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
If you love historical romance with strong but flawed characters, plenty of spice but sweet romantic moments this is the book for you. I loved both main characters but especially Ferox. Thank you so much to Jenna Biglow and Happily Booked for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 11, 2026
This was a short fun read. I love all things Roman empire and was excited to get to read this ARC before it came out. I have not read many historical fiction so going into this I was not sure how the historical aspect and fictional parts would be merged. I was pleasantly surprised how this story was written. The historical elements were smoothly woven into the story and the plot was entertaining, I mean how could you not be entertained with Gladiators fighting.
The struggle of guilt and shame our two MCs dealt with and over came was a nice touch that added depth to the characters , mind you they had these feelings in regards to different events that had taken place individually in their lives. And the spice was indeed saucy. Definitely look forward to reading more in this series and by the author.
The struggle of guilt and shame our two MCs dealt with and over came was a nice touch that added depth to the characters , mind you they had these feelings in regards to different events that had taken place individually in their lives. And the spice was indeed saucy. Definitely look forward to reading more in this series and by the author.
January 25, 2026
I got this book as an ARC and I was OBSESSED. I couldn’t put it down!
Review of advance copy received from Author
not usually a historical romance girlie but this was amazing! perfectly action packed + forbidden romance= chefs kiss 💋
Review of advance copy
It was a spicy and quick read. Thanks for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this. A great era to set the story in. These two are so right for each other. Characters with depth and emotion. Devoured it is one sitting. Brilliant first of a series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gladiator romance with two super hot characters? Sign me up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warning - sexual assault
Gladiator x gladiator manager
I love how soft he is with her, and their communication around sex and pain.
Trigger warning - sexual assault
Gladiator x gladiator manager
I love how soft he is with her, and their communication around sex and pain.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jenna Bigelow quickly became one of my new favorite authors with her Roman Heirs series, but I think this story is where she truly shines. She’s maturing as an author and her writing reflects that growth. As we’ve come to expect, we get a smart, strong, nonvirginal fmc who takes her life by the horns and a strong, stoic, honorable mmc in our Gladiator. The story was interesting, engaging, and hot as hell. We’re introduced to a whole new cast of side characters who will soon be getting books of their own (including a female gladiator!). Overall, I’m always happy to visit Ancient Rome through Jenna’s eyes and this trip was the best yet.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have no relationship with the author and have received no compensation.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have no relationship with the author and have received no compensation.
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