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Imperial Games #3
Gladiator's Touch
She freed him with a single touch. His touch might be her undoing.
Jason’s life should have ended in the arena—until one of Rome's most exalted priestesses declared him blessed by the goddess Vesta, freeing him with a single touch. Forced to abandon the home and friends he's cherished among the gladiators, he starts over as a sculptor’s assistant…feeling anything but blessed.
Aemilia, the elite priestess divinely moved to save him, has finally completed her thirty years of holy service. Marriage is her next duty, yet after a lifetime of sacred chastity, the thought of intimacy turns her stomach. Before facing that future, she embarks upon one final act of building a shrine to Vesta.
When Aemilia walks into Jason’s workshop seeking a sculptor, their reunion is far from divine. She expects gratitude, but he offers only resentment. Still, he needs the money…and can't deny his attraction to the icy, untouchable former priestess.
In Aemilia, the rugged ex-gladiator sparks a potent, unfamiliar longing, tempting her to abandon her carefully-guarded chastity. She still intends to marry, but refuses to enter the marriage bed blind. So she turns to Jason to teach her, and soon a patrician marriage becomes less and less appealing.
But Aemilia harbors a secret about the day she freed Jason which could shatter everything they’re building. With their future at stake, even a goddess’s blessing may not be enough to save them.
Gladiator's Touch is Book 3 in the Imperial Games series but can be read as a standalone. It features an older woman/younger man pairing, class difference, virgin heroine, reluctant girl dad hero, plenty of spice, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after.
Jason’s life should have ended in the arena—until one of Rome's most exalted priestesses declared him blessed by the goddess Vesta, freeing him with a single touch. Forced to abandon the home and friends he's cherished among the gladiators, he starts over as a sculptor’s assistant…feeling anything but blessed.
Aemilia, the elite priestess divinely moved to save him, has finally completed her thirty years of holy service. Marriage is her next duty, yet after a lifetime of sacred chastity, the thought of intimacy turns her stomach. Before facing that future, she embarks upon one final act of building a shrine to Vesta.
When Aemilia walks into Jason’s workshop seeking a sculptor, their reunion is far from divine. She expects gratitude, but he offers only resentment. Still, he needs the money…and can't deny his attraction to the icy, untouchable former priestess.
In Aemilia, the rugged ex-gladiator sparks a potent, unfamiliar longing, tempting her to abandon her carefully-guarded chastity. She still intends to marry, but refuses to enter the marriage bed blind. So she turns to Jason to teach her, and soon a patrician marriage becomes less and less appealing.
But Aemilia harbors a secret about the day she freed Jason which could shatter everything they’re building. With their future at stake, even a goddess’s blessing may not be enough to save them.
Gladiator's Touch is Book 3 in the Imperial Games series but can be read as a standalone. It features an older woman/younger man pairing, class difference, virgin heroine, reluctant girl dad hero, plenty of spice, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after.
- GenresHistorical Romance
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2026
About the author
Jenna Bigelow
10 books37 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 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 19, 2026
call me crazy girl but i think your sacred goddess would WANT for you to get railed in the pottery studio
titus (&me): murder your honor? what murder?
when the found family is just: ex gladiator, an orphaned child, and an ex priestess??
this series is really about the families we make and the love we found along the way and wow did it move me from start to finish. jenna i need 15 more of these and i am not above begging
“for what was love, if not two people beholden to each other, agreeing to put themselves in the other person’s power?”
Bookstagram | Blog
titus (&me): murder your honor? what murder?
when the found family is just: ex gladiator, an orphaned child, and an ex priestess??
this series is really about the families we make and the love we found along the way and wow did it move me from start to finish. jenna i need 15 more of these and i am not above begging
“for what was love, if not two people beholden to each other, agreeing to put themselves in the other person’s power?”
Bookstagram | Blog
June 4, 2026
Jenna delivers another amazing story in the Gladiator series! She knows how to execute a steamy delight of a time that hooks me from the start. Her characters feel genuine, and her plots are so well done.
Jason’s life was upended a year ago, when a vestal freed him from his service as a gladiator. We witness this at the end of the last novel, and it was nice to jump a year in the future shortly after the intro chapter, where Jason is now the owner of a sculpting shop after his apprenticeship. When his best friend Lea comes seeking his aid to free and care for the daughter of their deceased friend Hector, he can’t refuse. And while he thinks this arrangement is temporary, he falls so quickly into the bestest girl dad role. Aemilia, the Vestal who freed Jason, does this, not because of the urging of the goddess, but because of her own attraction and liking to the man. So she leaves the vestals at the end of her 30 year service, ready to start a new life. Little does she know she’ll run into the man again when seeking someone to help her with an altar to the goddess Vesta. This re-meet-cute was such a great set up and this is something the author really excels at. She sets up the story so well, you’re hook like and sinker before even realizing.
Jason and Aemilia are such a unique pair, and I loved that she was the older one in the relationship while he had (obviously) the most experience. The power dynamics never felt off as they were constantly shifting and adjusting to their roles in the moment. The way Jason is so sensitive and in-tune with Aemilia touch aversion is so swoony! And it’s so carefully done in a way that feels appropriate for his character. These two both understand not having control over their own bodies, and this understanding brings them closer together intimately.
I had a hard time putting this one down, and almost devoured it in one sitting it was so excellent! I always knew I was going to love Jason the most, and his pairing with a somewhat reserved ice princess was perfection. Aemilia is such a complex character and it was interesting getting in the head of someone who’s spent their life with such profound duty. It was so satisfying and freeing when both Jason and Aemilia were able to really own their HEA. The drama felt just the right touch of high-stakes, without feeling outrageous to the otherwise somewhat cozy setting. Jenna does such a great job portraying fatherhood, and this parental connection felt so important with Jason and Flora’s arc. I also loved the subtle callbacks to the Roman Heirs series in this one, which is another exploration of fatherhood across generations. A great finale to this series and I can’t wait to see what Jenna’s going to cook up for us next! I’ve truly loved the way she’s brought the Roman Empire into my historical romance reading.
5/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
Jason’s life was upended a year ago, when a vestal freed him from his service as a gladiator. We witness this at the end of the last novel, and it was nice to jump a year in the future shortly after the intro chapter, where Jason is now the owner of a sculpting shop after his apprenticeship. When his best friend Lea comes seeking his aid to free and care for the daughter of their deceased friend Hector, he can’t refuse. And while he thinks this arrangement is temporary, he falls so quickly into the bestest girl dad role. Aemilia, the Vestal who freed Jason, does this, not because of the urging of the goddess, but because of her own attraction and liking to the man. So she leaves the vestals at the end of her 30 year service, ready to start a new life. Little does she know she’ll run into the man again when seeking someone to help her with an altar to the goddess Vesta. This re-meet-cute was such a great set up and this is something the author really excels at. She sets up the story so well, you’re hook like and sinker before even realizing.
Jason and Aemilia are such a unique pair, and I loved that she was the older one in the relationship while he had (obviously) the most experience. The power dynamics never felt off as they were constantly shifting and adjusting to their roles in the moment. The way Jason is so sensitive and in-tune with Aemilia touch aversion is so swoony! And it’s so carefully done in a way that feels appropriate for his character. These two both understand not having control over their own bodies, and this understanding brings them closer together intimately.
I had a hard time putting this one down, and almost devoured it in one sitting it was so excellent! I always knew I was going to love Jason the most, and his pairing with a somewhat reserved ice princess was perfection. Aemilia is such a complex character and it was interesting getting in the head of someone who’s spent their life with such profound duty. It was so satisfying and freeing when both Jason and Aemilia were able to really own their HEA. The drama felt just the right touch of high-stakes, without feeling outrageous to the otherwise somewhat cozy setting. Jenna does such a great job portraying fatherhood, and this parental connection felt so important with Jason and Flora’s arc. I also loved the subtle callbacks to the Roman Heirs series in this one, which is another exploration of fatherhood across generations. A great finale to this series and I can’t wait to see what Jenna’s going to cook up for us next! I’ve truly loved the way she’s brought the Roman Empire into my historical romance reading.
5/5
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.
June 8, 2026
Thank you, Jenna, for sending me an ARC copy of your wonderful book! This book had all the good ingredients of a hug-your-kindle-to-your-chest-and-swoon romance. It was H-O-T 🔥with “teach me to be intimate with another” energy and tender with both the romance and the hero’s unexpected adopted father journey.
There was forbidden romance with an older woman and a younger man from different social classes, the interesting second chance at life journeys of a former Vestal Virgin with a secret and a former gladiator turned sculptor and even baby kittens! 🐈⬛ I loved this book so much! A solid 4.5! ⭐️
I adored how they paralleled their very different lives by finding the commonalities between them of having had a huge part of their lives dedicated to something because their families had put them into it at a young age and even if the characters later found meaning and goodness in those lives, there was still a lot more life of their choosing to live and time to discover what would make them truly happy.
I love how the also planted the seed of Jason having an eye for design in the first book and now in his book he gets to be a sculptor! I love that level of attention to detail in a series. Also, I remember in the first book Jason’s perspective of his life never really thinking much past the current day or week because of his dangerous job and how his friend Ferox had said that one day he would need to give some thought to a future because he couldn’t do this forever and then in his book he has to now redefine his life and idea of the future.
One of my favorite moments of all time in the book is when she is having one of her “teach me” sessions with Jason how she described how exploring these physical things should feel wrong but how it didn’t feel like a defilement but rather a worship and I had to put my kindle down and swoon for a second. Best moment in the book for me and really captured the heroine’s journey to exploring and accepting physical intimacy. 💝 This book will leave you smiling and happy and having learned a thing or two about Ancient Rome quite incidentally. It is also impeccably edited and everyone needs to give this a read now! 💝
There was forbidden romance with an older woman and a younger man from different social classes, the interesting second chance at life journeys of a former Vestal Virgin with a secret and a former gladiator turned sculptor and even baby kittens! 🐈⬛ I loved this book so much! A solid 4.5! ⭐️
I adored how they paralleled their very different lives by finding the commonalities between them of having had a huge part of their lives dedicated to something because their families had put them into it at a young age and even if the characters later found meaning and goodness in those lives, there was still a lot more life of their choosing to live and time to discover what would make them truly happy.
I love how the also planted the seed of Jason having an eye for design in the first book and now in his book he gets to be a sculptor! I love that level of attention to detail in a series. Also, I remember in the first book Jason’s perspective of his life never really thinking much past the current day or week because of his dangerous job and how his friend Ferox had said that one day he would need to give some thought to a future because he couldn’t do this forever and then in his book he has to now redefine his life and idea of the future.
One of my favorite moments of all time in the book is when she is having one of her “teach me” sessions with Jason how she described how exploring these physical things should feel wrong but how it didn’t feel like a defilement but rather a worship and I had to put my kindle down and swoon for a second. Best moment in the book for me and really captured the heroine’s journey to exploring and accepting physical intimacy. 💝 This book will leave you smiling and happy and having learned a thing or two about Ancient Rome quite incidentally. It is also impeccably edited and everyone needs to give this a read now! 💝
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jenna Bigelow deserves a 10 plus star for each of her books..
I'm sad to see this incredible series come to an end but that just means more stories from Jenna Bigelow!!
An ex gladiator, a retired Vestal Virgin and an orphan girl.. makes for the best story..
Jason thinks he has been spared by the gods because a Vesta Virgin angel saved his life during a match that could have cost him his life however what he doesn't know that Vesta Virgin saved him because she has a crush for him and it goes against everything that the Vesta Virgins stand for..
Aemilia decides that she has to retire after she saved his life because after all she did betray her vows to Vesta, and she can't help but feel guilty for not only saving that gladiator's life for her own selfish reasons but for breaking her oath as a Vesta Priestess..
These two stumble upon each other when she is looking to build something important to her, and it's at a point when they are both at a crossroads in their lives, she isn't sure what she's going to do now that she's not a Vesta Priestess and he still isn't sure why he was spared that day..
When they meet things are hostile at first until a little girl is thrown into the mix and then emotions run high, she wants everything from him and he wants everything from her..
But can he ever forgive her when he finds out about the reason he was spared?
With the help of a beautiful little girl and Vesta they find their way.
This story is filled with laughter, sadness, steam and a very beautiful happy ending.
I enjoyed seeing the previous characters in this story..
I definitely can't wait to read the next book from Jenna Bigelow!
I'm sad to see this incredible series come to an end but that just means more stories from Jenna Bigelow!!
An ex gladiator, a retired Vestal Virgin and an orphan girl.. makes for the best story..
Jason thinks he has been spared by the gods because a Vesta Virgin angel saved his life during a match that could have cost him his life however what he doesn't know that Vesta Virgin saved him because she has a crush for him and it goes against everything that the Vesta Virgins stand for..
Aemilia decides that she has to retire after she saved his life because after all she did betray her vows to Vesta, and she can't help but feel guilty for not only saving that gladiator's life for her own selfish reasons but for breaking her oath as a Vesta Priestess..
These two stumble upon each other when she is looking to build something important to her, and it's at a point when they are both at a crossroads in their lives, she isn't sure what she's going to do now that she's not a Vesta Priestess and he still isn't sure why he was spared that day..
When they meet things are hostile at first until a little girl is thrown into the mix and then emotions run high, she wants everything from him and he wants everything from her..
But can he ever forgive her when he finds out about the reason he was spared?
With the help of a beautiful little girl and Vesta they find their way.
This story is filled with laughter, sadness, steam and a very beautiful happy ending.
I enjoyed seeing the previous characters in this story..
I definitely can't wait to read the next book from Jenna Bigelow!
June 18, 2026
Aemilia is a sacred Vestal Virgin approaching the end of her 30 years of service when she uses her position of power to save a gladiator’s life and free him. Okay, so she wasn’t exactly moved by the goddess, Vesta, to save him so much as moved by her own intense attraction to Jason. Consumed by guilt for what she sees as an abuse of her position, she starts a new life as an ordinary (though still very privileged) citizen. Meanwhile, Jason has to grapple with his newfound freedom and move on from the only life he’s known for years as a gladiator. He’s not exactly grateful for his change in fortunes and things only get more complicated when, a year later, he becomes the unexpected guardian of an orphaned 7 year old girl just as Aemilia comes back into his life.
Aemilia was just such a unique character. She’s had to guard her chastity so completely for so many years that she shies away from the most casual of touches. She’s finding her feet and learning how to be a part of normal society again. And, of course, once her path crosses with Jason’s again she has to grapple with the lust he awakens in her.
Aemilia gives off a strong ice princess vibe but I liked that even when she’s unsure of herself and what to do, she keeps a cool head.
Jason at first resents Aemilia’s role in his change in circumstances, but I loved that after his initial gut reaction, he’s able to step back and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and apologise. I loved the juxtaposition of his easygoing charm and his deadly gladiator instincts.
Jenna Bigelow has such a gift for bringing Ancient Rome to life. She pulls out so many interesting aspects I wouldn’t have known about and weaves it all into such a compelling story - we get to learn about Vestal Virgins, laws on marriage between freedmen and patrician women and even a little courtroom drama! This was such a great way to finish the series and I’m excited to see what she has up her sleeves next!
*I received a review copy from the author - this is my honest opinion!
Aemilia was just such a unique character. She’s had to guard her chastity so completely for so many years that she shies away from the most casual of touches. She’s finding her feet and learning how to be a part of normal society again. And, of course, once her path crosses with Jason’s again she has to grapple with the lust he awakens in her.
Aemilia gives off a strong ice princess vibe but I liked that even when she’s unsure of herself and what to do, she keeps a cool head.
Jason at first resents Aemilia’s role in his change in circumstances, but I loved that after his initial gut reaction, he’s able to step back and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and apologise. I loved the juxtaposition of his easygoing charm and his deadly gladiator instincts.
Jenna Bigelow has such a gift for bringing Ancient Rome to life. She pulls out so many interesting aspects I wouldn’t have known about and weaves it all into such a compelling story - we get to learn about Vestal Virgins, laws on marriage between freedmen and patrician women and even a little courtroom drama! This was such a great way to finish the series and I’m excited to see what she has up her sleeves next!
*I received a review copy from the author - this is my honest opinion!
June 24, 2026
As per usual; Jenna delivers charming, sexy green flag characters one can’t help but to love and root for.
What I liked:
- an age gap romance that did not give me the ick.
- class difference (especially that we saw in the previous series that a Patrician citizen of Rome could marry Freed man/woman, but at the times of Caligula; it was illegal).
It was also implied that Aelius and Crispina from The Tribune Temptation are Aemilia’s ancestors; I LOVE that.
- “Virgin heroine” trope done right.
- reluctant girl dad.
- The characters from previous 2 books in the series making impactful cameos.
- Seamless incorporation of real historical facts and characters.
- Bad men getting what they deserve.
- Well written, smooth, well paced story that can be easily binged. If I’m being honest the whole series can be read in a weekend if you ignore all your adult responsibilities.
I have been a fan of Jenna since day 1 and I can’t wait to see what she brings next.
What I liked:
- an age gap romance that did not give me the ick.
- class difference (especially that we saw in the previous series that a Patrician citizen of Rome could marry Freed man/woman, but at the times of Caligula; it was illegal).
It was also implied that Aelius and Crispina from The Tribune Temptation are Aemilia’s ancestors; I LOVE that.
- “Virgin heroine” trope done right.
- reluctant girl dad.
- The characters from previous 2 books in the series making impactful cameos.
- Seamless incorporation of real historical facts and characters.
- Bad men getting what they deserve.
- Well written, smooth, well paced story that can be easily binged. If I’m being honest the whole series can be read in a weekend if you ignore all your adult responsibilities.
I have been a fan of Jenna since day 1 and I can’t wait to see what she brings next.
June 6, 2026
thank you so much for jenna for sending me an early arc of this to read!
this series is becoming my favourite historical romance of all time and i’m so sad it’s come to an end!
but what an absolutely amazing way to wrap it all up with amilia same jason’s story. and the found family with flora had my heart soaring. honestly that final scene when they all reunite had me almost on tears on my flight! the tension and chemistry between amilia and jason was fantastic, and i loved seeing old familiar faces as well!
overall, i loved this story so much! jenna please keep writing in this setting cause it’s a maserclass
this series is becoming my favourite historical romance of all time and i’m so sad it’s come to an end!
but what an absolutely amazing way to wrap it all up with amilia same jason’s story. and the found family with flora had my heart soaring. honestly that final scene when they all reunite had me almost on tears on my flight! the tension and chemistry between amilia and jason was fantastic, and i loved seeing old familiar faces as well!
overall, i loved this story so much! jenna please keep writing in this setting cause it’s a maserclass
June 19, 2026
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A vestal virgin frees a gladiator with a single touch. But what happens after?
I loved seeing how these two both dealt with the upheaval in their lives. The themes of desire, and what it means to be a parent we’re really well dealt with. I also loved the callback to the Roman Heirs series.
A vestal virgin frees a gladiator with a single touch. But what happens after?
I loved seeing how these two both dealt with the upheaval in their lives. The themes of desire, and what it means to be a parent we’re really well dealt with. I also loved the callback to the Roman Heirs series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another outstanding book in what has been an excellent series. We hear about the inciting incident in the end of book two, Gladiator's Beloved and see it here, when Vestal Virgin Aemilia saves Jason's life. You see, Aemilia DOES have a favorite gladiator, and it's handsome, smily Jason. This relationship can only ever be parasocial on her part, since she is in year 29 of a 30 year renewable term devoting her life to Vesta, which means she cannot be touched by others, but also she has the power to free a slave or save a life with her touch. So Jason loses his match, and the Emperor was about to give him the Thumbs Down of Death. Without really thinking through the repercussions, Aemilia, who has *just* finished telling herself that "the goddess did not wish to be bothered with the fate of a random gladiator" when she was praying for his victory, hustled down to the arena floor to give him the first contact she's had with a normie since she was seven. Boom. Cut to one year later.
Aemilia's actions have really kicked off a crisis of faith for both of them. Jason liked the gladiator life. He and his sister had been sold into slavery by his father (horrifying until you read the author's note and realize parents could literally legally do whatever they liked to their children). Unlike Ferox and Lea he didn't have a compelling drive to buy his freedom, he just lived each day, "took pleasure in the little things - a new pair of sandals, a fresh loaf of bread, a particularly tasty cup of wine. He never had to plan" knowing any match could be his last. All of a sudden he can't work as a gladiator because he was "blessed by the goddess" and had to find a job as a potter and figure out a future as a freedman. It's a big shift. "Was it the goddess's will to take me away from everything I knew? Force me to start over?"
Meanwhile, Aemilia had fully intended to sign up for another 30 year term serving Vesta, but feels she can't because she impulsively faked divine intervention to save Jason. "She'd left because she'd dishonored her vows - because of him." Who is Aemilia if not devoted to Vesta? She's living with her brother's family and trying to figure out next steps. Her entire conscious life she's been one step down from a deity, answerable only to the Emperor, literally untouchable. Now her brother is making noises like she should marry maybe, no one can understand why she would stop her service, and she can't tell anyone the truth. Looking to make amends to Vesta she plans a shrine, and guess who she taps to make the statue?
When these two meet again at his shop it's basically "You! [heart eyes emoji]" "You! [frowny face emoji]." Nevertheless, he's going to work on her statue which will bring them together repeatedly to monitor progress. Of course they can't stop thinking about each other, now that they've seen each other again. And we have that Big Secret that the goddess didn't actually single out Jason for anything, just waiting to go off.
Jason, the man who never had to envision a future gets one delivered to him in the form of Flora, the orphaned daughter of their friend Gladiator Hector whose death has shaped the series. One might think that either of the two other married best friends who knew Hector would have taken the child, and Bigelow offers great reasons why it has to be Jason, the single guy (and lol Ferox and Velia making grimace face at the idea of parenting and quickly talking up how dangerous their ludus is for a child). Aemilia gets involved in the process using her influence and funds to purchase Flora from slavery, and a found family is made. The situation with Flora resonates so much with both of them. Jason was sold into slavery himself when he was young, as was his sister who did not survive long. Aemilia was the same age a Flora when she was given over to Vesta. This is a second chance for all of them.
In the parallel plot, Aemilia is acting on their mutual attraction by saying she needs him to help her overcome her touch aversion so she can one day marry. I truly appreciated that quickly on they both admit they just needed a reason to be together because they want to be together. In fact, Bigelow is fantastic in everything to do with this relationship, they are careful working her up from touch starved to intimacy, they apologize and take responsibility when things get rough, and they freely show and share affection. In fact I really liked the way Bigelow approached their differences in station, the repercussions of their class differences are treated realistically, and Aemilia works the system to use her wealth and influence to serve the family that they are building together with Flora. "You've had a hard life, my love. You deserve some ease."
Bigelow writes these Roman books in a way that keeps the romance front and center, with a sure and emotional touch and intimate scenes that do a lot of character work. At the same time she packs the setting and context with details and richness that reflect her vast research into the period. Her author's notes are not to be missed. This Imperial Games series has been fantastic all the way down, and this story might be my favorite of them all.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
Aemilia's actions have really kicked off a crisis of faith for both of them. Jason liked the gladiator life. He and his sister had been sold into slavery by his father (horrifying until you read the author's note and realize parents could literally legally do whatever they liked to their children). Unlike Ferox and Lea he didn't have a compelling drive to buy his freedom, he just lived each day, "took pleasure in the little things - a new pair of sandals, a fresh loaf of bread, a particularly tasty cup of wine. He never had to plan" knowing any match could be his last. All of a sudden he can't work as a gladiator because he was "blessed by the goddess" and had to find a job as a potter and figure out a future as a freedman. It's a big shift. "Was it the goddess's will to take me away from everything I knew? Force me to start over?"
Meanwhile, Aemilia had fully intended to sign up for another 30 year term serving Vesta, but feels she can't because she impulsively faked divine intervention to save Jason. "She'd left because she'd dishonored her vows - because of him." Who is Aemilia if not devoted to Vesta? She's living with her brother's family and trying to figure out next steps. Her entire conscious life she's been one step down from a deity, answerable only to the Emperor, literally untouchable. Now her brother is making noises like she should marry maybe, no one can understand why she would stop her service, and she can't tell anyone the truth. Looking to make amends to Vesta she plans a shrine, and guess who she taps to make the statue?
When these two meet again at his shop it's basically "You! [heart eyes emoji]" "You! [frowny face emoji]." Nevertheless, he's going to work on her statue which will bring them together repeatedly to monitor progress. Of course they can't stop thinking about each other, now that they've seen each other again. And we have that Big Secret that the goddess didn't actually single out Jason for anything, just waiting to go off.
Jason, the man who never had to envision a future gets one delivered to him in the form of Flora, the orphaned daughter of their friend Gladiator Hector whose death has shaped the series. One might think that either of the two other married best friends who knew Hector would have taken the child, and Bigelow offers great reasons why it has to be Jason, the single guy (and lol Ferox and Velia making grimace face at the idea of parenting and quickly talking up how dangerous their ludus is for a child). Aemilia gets involved in the process using her influence and funds to purchase Flora from slavery, and a found family is made. The situation with Flora resonates so much with both of them. Jason was sold into slavery himself when he was young, as was his sister who did not survive long. Aemilia was the same age a Flora when she was given over to Vesta. This is a second chance for all of them.
In the parallel plot, Aemilia is acting on their mutual attraction by saying she needs him to help her overcome her touch aversion so she can one day marry. I truly appreciated that quickly on they both admit they just needed a reason to be together because they want to be together. In fact, Bigelow is fantastic in everything to do with this relationship, they are careful working her up from touch starved to intimacy, they apologize and take responsibility when things get rough, and they freely show and share affection. In fact I really liked the way Bigelow approached their differences in station, the repercussions of their class differences are treated realistically, and Aemilia works the system to use her wealth and influence to serve the family that they are building together with Flora. "You've had a hard life, my love. You deserve some ease."
Bigelow writes these Roman books in a way that keeps the romance front and center, with a sure and emotional touch and intimate scenes that do a lot of character work. At the same time she packs the setting and context with details and richness that reflect her vast research into the period. Her author's notes are not to be missed. This Imperial Games series has been fantastic all the way down, and this story might be my favorite of them all.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OW/YM between a retired Vestal Virgin and an ex-gladiator (ft. intimacy lessons)? Yes.
Jason is saved through the power of Vesta on the sands of the arena on the final day of the Imperial Games. What he doesn't know is that Aemilia, the Vestal Virgin who saves him, didn't get a calling from Vesta: she just thought Jason was hot and didn't want him to die. Since then, Aemilia's been feeling SUPER guilty about misusing her position - so guilty that she resigns when her 30-year term comes to an end instead of living out her life of privilege.
Jason wasn't happy about having to learn a whole new profession, but now, a year later, he's established himself as a successful potter and sculptor. Aemilia encounters him while she's researching sculptors to commission and is both shocked that he's still around and immediately (still) attracted. He's not exactly thrilled to see her again, but he's also not silly enough to turn down a nice payday ... especially when his found family discovers that one of their (deceased) members left behind a young daughter whose mother died, leaving the child enslaved.
So Jason now has a foster daughter to care for and an ex-Vestal Virgin just hanging around his place of business ALL THE TIME... because Aemilia has logicked herself into asking him to help desensitize her to touch so she can prepare for a marriage. Obviously it will be a marriage with someone other than Jason, since freedmen can't marry patrician women ... or can they?
Jenna Bigelow manages to pack in so much great stuff in her relatively short novels: interesting historical tidbits (there's a courtroom drama in this one!), well-thought-out psychological issues for her characters, and specifically sexy scenes for each particular set of circumstances. I loved reading about how an ex-gladiator might feel to be freed, but without a skill set other than fighting, or how a retired Vestal Virgin might have to overcome her lifelong prohibition against touching someone else. Allowing the characters to be historically pious while still appealing to a modern reader is a real writerly feat.
TL;DR: I love it and am sad to be leaving Ancient Rome for now!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Jason is saved through the power of Vesta on the sands of the arena on the final day of the Imperial Games. What he doesn't know is that Aemilia, the Vestal Virgin who saves him, didn't get a calling from Vesta: she just thought Jason was hot and didn't want him to die. Since then, Aemilia's been feeling SUPER guilty about misusing her position - so guilty that she resigns when her 30-year term comes to an end instead of living out her life of privilege.
Jason wasn't happy about having to learn a whole new profession, but now, a year later, he's established himself as a successful potter and sculptor. Aemilia encounters him while she's researching sculptors to commission and is both shocked that he's still around and immediately (still) attracted. He's not exactly thrilled to see her again, but he's also not silly enough to turn down a nice payday ... especially when his found family discovers that one of their (deceased) members left behind a young daughter whose mother died, leaving the child enslaved.
So Jason now has a foster daughter to care for and an ex-Vestal Virgin just hanging around his place of business ALL THE TIME... because Aemilia has logicked herself into asking him to help desensitize her to touch so she can prepare for a marriage. Obviously it will be a marriage with someone other than Jason, since freedmen can't marry patrician women ... or can they?
Jenna Bigelow manages to pack in so much great stuff in her relatively short novels: interesting historical tidbits (there's a courtroom drama in this one!), well-thought-out psychological issues for her characters, and specifically sexy scenes for each particular set of circumstances. I loved reading about how an ex-gladiator might feel to be freed, but without a skill set other than fighting, or how a retired Vestal Virgin might have to overcome her lifelong prohibition against touching someone else. Allowing the characters to be historically pious while still appealing to a modern reader is a real writerly feat.
TL;DR: I love it and am sad to be leaving Ancient Rome for now!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If this hadn’t been the conclusion to this amazing series, I probably would’ve settled on 4 stars, but the ending just tied everything together so well (without going into saccharine fan service), that I decided to bump it up a star.
Although it’s very common in historical romance, I’m not really a fan of the "aristocratic woman seeks lessons before marrying" trope. In my experience, the women (girls, really) in these books tend to be too casual and too cool about the repercussions this behaviour would have on their marriage prospects, especially when they have been trained their whole life to value their chastity above everything else as perhaps the most valuable asset on the marriage market. Jenna Bigelow dials this trope way up by featuring an actual former Vestal Virgin, a priestess who spent 30 years in the service of the goddess Vesta and whose virginity and purity are thought to affect the literal survival of Rome. That’s bound to do a number on you, like it did on Aemilia. I really enjoyed how Ms Bigelow approached her character and how she showed her icy, regal demeanour slowly thaw and Aemilia slowly embrace the sensual side of herself. In this she is helped by Jason, a former gladiator turned sculptor, a man 10 years her junior and several classes her inferior. I really enjoyed Jason’s character, his cool confidence and self-assurance, and the way he wasn’t threatened by Aemilia’s status, money, or age. However, while I usually like that Ms Bigelow’s books are fast-paced and devoid of unnecessary filler, in this case, I would’ve liked the book to have been just a little longer, because Jason had to build believable relationships with both Aemilia and Flora, a young girl he reluctantly takes in and ends up being an adoptive father to. I loved Flora and their scenes together, but I did think that, due to the shortness of the book, they did take away from the development of Jason and Aemilia’s relationship, which was just a touch too quick for me. Nevertheless, I hugely enjoyed the writing, the romance, the found-family element and the exploration of another aspect of womanhood in ancient Rome. This series was really perfect, and I’m sad to leave these characters.
Huge thanks to Jenna Bigelow for the ARC.
Although it’s very common in historical romance, I’m not really a fan of the "aristocratic woman seeks lessons before marrying" trope. In my experience, the women (girls, really) in these books tend to be too casual and too cool about the repercussions this behaviour would have on their marriage prospects, especially when they have been trained their whole life to value their chastity above everything else as perhaps the most valuable asset on the marriage market. Jenna Bigelow dials this trope way up by featuring an actual former Vestal Virgin, a priestess who spent 30 years in the service of the goddess Vesta and whose virginity and purity are thought to affect the literal survival of Rome. That’s bound to do a number on you, like it did on Aemilia. I really enjoyed how Ms Bigelow approached her character and how she showed her icy, regal demeanour slowly thaw and Aemilia slowly embrace the sensual side of herself. In this she is helped by Jason, a former gladiator turned sculptor, a man 10 years her junior and several classes her inferior. I really enjoyed Jason’s character, his cool confidence and self-assurance, and the way he wasn’t threatened by Aemilia’s status, money, or age. However, while I usually like that Ms Bigelow’s books are fast-paced and devoid of unnecessary filler, in this case, I would’ve liked the book to have been just a little longer, because Jason had to build believable relationships with both Aemilia and Flora, a young girl he reluctantly takes in and ends up being an adoptive father to. I loved Flora and their scenes together, but I did think that, due to the shortness of the book, they did take away from the development of Jason and Aemilia’s relationship, which was just a touch too quick for me. Nevertheless, I hugely enjoyed the writing, the romance, the found-family element and the exploration of another aspect of womanhood in ancient Rome. This series was really perfect, and I’m sad to leave these characters.
Huge thanks to Jenna Bigelow for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aemilia, Vestal virgin and protector of Rome, has a favorite gladiator. She knows she shouldn't, but Jason is fascinating to watch. When his life is in danger and it doesn't look like the Emperor will pardon him, Aemilia uses her position and pardons him herself, making it appear as if he is chosen by the goddess Vesta. That drastically changes the course of Jason's life, forcing him to leave the ludus where he has been enslaved for most of his life. Aemilia, too, decides at the end of her thirty years of service she cannot continue serving her goddess in the same capacity. When she decides to commission a statue dedicated to Vesta, she discovers that Jason has taken over for a local sculptor, but their reunion is anything but congenial. Jason resents Aemilia for reshaping his life so drastically while Aemilia grapples with the guilt of touching a man.
I really enjoy Jenna Bigelow's writing, and every book in her Imperial Games trilogy has been fantastic. Sports romances anyone? Gladiator's Touch features an older woman/younger man couple with Aemilia in her late 30s and Jason in his mid-20s. Jason finds himself suddenly responsible for a young girl as well - Hector, a late close friend from the ludus, left a daughter behind, and his friend Lea wants Jason to care for the girl while she and Kallias get settled. Jason is doing the best he can with the changes. The more the animosity towards Aemilia wears off, the more they realize how much they love spending time together, despite their class and cultural differences.
Bigelow's setting is fun, of course, and I love being in Imperial Rome, but what stands out to me is her characters. Jason and Aemilia are well-crafted and thoughtful, built around their circumstances as Vestal Virgin and Gladiator. This is like a regency romance on steroids, with the strict rules around touching: Aemilia had literally never touched a grown man until she put her hand on Jason for his pardon. Defiling a Vestal Virgin could lead to the fall of Rome and disfavor of the goddess, and thirty years of service is hard to erase. As her brother pushes her to consider marriage to someone of her class, Aemilia needs to determine whether or not she's averse to the touch of everyone, or just anyone who isn't Jason. (Hint, it's the latter.)
We get a lot of great romance tropes in this book, from class difference to single parent, and they all hit just a little differently because we're in Imperial Rome. You can read this as a standalone, but I highly recommend the whole series.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for an eARC. Gladiator's Touch is out 6/18/2026!
I really enjoy Jenna Bigelow's writing, and every book in her Imperial Games trilogy has been fantastic. Sports romances anyone? Gladiator's Touch features an older woman/younger man couple with Aemilia in her late 30s and Jason in his mid-20s. Jason finds himself suddenly responsible for a young girl as well - Hector, a late close friend from the ludus, left a daughter behind, and his friend Lea wants Jason to care for the girl while she and Kallias get settled. Jason is doing the best he can with the changes. The more the animosity towards Aemilia wears off, the more they realize how much they love spending time together, despite their class and cultural differences.
Bigelow's setting is fun, of course, and I love being in Imperial Rome, but what stands out to me is her characters. Jason and Aemilia are well-crafted and thoughtful, built around their circumstances as Vestal Virgin and Gladiator. This is like a regency romance on steroids, with the strict rules around touching: Aemilia had literally never touched a grown man until she put her hand on Jason for his pardon. Defiling a Vestal Virgin could lead to the fall of Rome and disfavor of the goddess, and thirty years of service is hard to erase. As her brother pushes her to consider marriage to someone of her class, Aemilia needs to determine whether or not she's averse to the touch of everyone, or just anyone who isn't Jason. (Hint, it's the latter.)
We get a lot of great romance tropes in this book, from class difference to single parent, and they all hit just a little differently because we're in Imperial Rome. You can read this as a standalone, but I highly recommend the whole series.
Thank you to Jenna Bigelow for an eARC. Gladiator's Touch is out 6/18/2026!
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of the hardest things to do in our lives is redefine how we show up in the world. Fiction is good at handing us that experience secondhand, dropping us into lives we'd never live, ancient Rome included, and somehow still landing on something we recognize. Jason and Aemilia are forced to redefine themselves, one by choice and the other by circumstance.
Jason was a gladiator who liked his life just fine, thank you. In the last moment of a battle, Aemelia, then a Vestal Virgin, freed him and spared his life. That meant he was out of the ring with no one willing to fight a gladiator touched by the goddess Vesta; Aemilia felt compelled to leave her station at the end of her 30-year term, knowing it was less Vesta and more her own desire that drove her action.
That leaves Jason adjusting to life in a sculptor’s studio. After a life of barely planning beyond the next fight, he’s having to plan for the success of a business. Aemilia is adjusting to life in the real world for the first time since she was seven.
As if that’s not complicated enough, they are from very different classes – a freedman and a patrician – and she’s about a decade older than him. And those differences don’t just dissolve.
Jason is also learning to be a girl dad, caring for Flora, the seven-year-old previously unknown daughter of his friend Hector. Hector, and his death in the ring, has been a driving force for the three gladiators in this book, each of whom was his close friend and is dealing with grief. Romance heroes get protective over love interests constantly, but this is something closer to fatherly, and Jason figuring this out is a delight.
Jason is kind, honest and patient. He’s a steady presence for both Aemilia and Flora. And Aemilia shows up when it matters, both for herself and for Jason.
Bigelow's writing carries it all. A lot happens in a relatively short span, but the pacing never feels off, and her deep research and knowledge of ancient Rome holds up throughout.
A strong close to a great series.
Jason was a gladiator who liked his life just fine, thank you. In the last moment of a battle, Aemelia, then a Vestal Virgin, freed him and spared his life. That meant he was out of the ring with no one willing to fight a gladiator touched by the goddess Vesta; Aemilia felt compelled to leave her station at the end of her 30-year term, knowing it was less Vesta and more her own desire that drove her action.
That leaves Jason adjusting to life in a sculptor’s studio. After a life of barely planning beyond the next fight, he’s having to plan for the success of a business. Aemilia is adjusting to life in the real world for the first time since she was seven.
As if that’s not complicated enough, they are from very different classes – a freedman and a patrician – and she’s about a decade older than him. And those differences don’t just dissolve.
Jason is also learning to be a girl dad, caring for Flora, the seven-year-old previously unknown daughter of his friend Hector. Hector, and his death in the ring, has been a driving force for the three gladiators in this book, each of whom was his close friend and is dealing with grief. Romance heroes get protective over love interests constantly, but this is something closer to fatherly, and Jason figuring this out is a delight.
Jason is kind, honest and patient. He’s a steady presence for both Aemilia and Flora. And Aemilia shows up when it matters, both for herself and for Jason.
Bigelow's writing carries it all. A lot happens in a relatively short span, but the pacing never feels off, and her deep research and knowledge of ancient Rome holds up throughout.
A strong close to a great series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jenna Bigelow’s Imperial Games series saves the best for last with Gladiator’s Touch. Jason finally gets his story, and what a turn his life has taken.
After a defeat in his final fight, it looks like he’s about to be sacrificed by the emperor. However, one of the Vestal Virgins intervenes and saves his life, freeing him from slavery with just a touch.
Jason is astonished that the Goddess showed him favor; and, truthfully, none too pleased to have his life upended. He can no longer fight, or live in the ludus. So what’s a retired Gladiator to do? Take up pottery and sculpting, of course. Aemilia lives each day with the shame of abusing her authority as a priestess of Vesta to save the one man who has ever caught her eye, and leaves the Order a year later. Fate intervenes this time and brings Jason and Aemila back together, but can they get past their shared past?
I loved Jason and Aemilia together. She is such a strong, yet fragile character. Having been hidden away from the real world almost all of her life, truly believing that the fate of Rome rests on her shoulders Aemilia still carries the weight of her position. She’s never been hugged, or had her hand held. She doesn’t understand how to behave in most social situations because she’s been revered as almost god like her entire life. Jason is so patient with her, never patronizing. And his “lessons” leave both Aemilia and the reader needing a cold shower.
Watching these two fill the cracks in the other’s life and create something new together was beautiful. Jenna once again gives us a fantastic story, characters you can’t help but cheer for, and a satisfying found family that makes your heart soar.
Many thanks to Jenna Bigelow for an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
After a defeat in his final fight, it looks like he’s about to be sacrificed by the emperor. However, one of the Vestal Virgins intervenes and saves his life, freeing him from slavery with just a touch.
Jason is astonished that the Goddess showed him favor; and, truthfully, none too pleased to have his life upended. He can no longer fight, or live in the ludus. So what’s a retired Gladiator to do? Take up pottery and sculpting, of course. Aemilia lives each day with the shame of abusing her authority as a priestess of Vesta to save the one man who has ever caught her eye, and leaves the Order a year later. Fate intervenes this time and brings Jason and Aemila back together, but can they get past their shared past?
I loved Jason and Aemilia together. She is such a strong, yet fragile character. Having been hidden away from the real world almost all of her life, truly believing that the fate of Rome rests on her shoulders Aemilia still carries the weight of her position. She’s never been hugged, or had her hand held. She doesn’t understand how to behave in most social situations because she’s been revered as almost god like her entire life. Jason is so patient with her, never patronizing. And his “lessons” leave both Aemilia and the reader needing a cold shower.
Watching these two fill the cracks in the other’s life and create something new together was beautiful. Jenna once again gives us a fantastic story, characters you can’t help but cheer for, and a satisfying found family that makes your heart soar.
Many thanks to Jenna Bigelow for an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There isn’t one aspect of Gladiator’s Touch I’d change. It’s perfect from head to toe, from top to bottom a rapturous read. Bigelow has slammed it out of the ballpark with this book.
She’s created incredibly likeable characters here, and they’re all related by the massive changes that have happened to their lives. Jason and Aemilia have had their lives turned upside-down from an action Aemilia took to save Jason in the arena. He’s now a potter and sculptor (I did wonder how he picked up his craft so fast), while she has left the Vestals at the end of her term in large part because of the decision she made concerning Jason. Both thought they knew who they were and what the rest of the lives will bring, until that utterly changes. Add to it the unknown daughter of a friend of Jason’s, brought into their lives when she is orphaned, and you have yet another person whose life has been completely upended.
I particularly loved Aemilia’s tenaciousness. She’s the mover and instigator of almost all the action in Gladiator’s Touch, in part because of her position in society and her resources. But Jason is a fantastic (if initially reluctant) partner, and the way he continually sought Aemilia’s consent for things was a joy to see. The child Flora was age appropriate and endearing, serving as a conduit for further connection between Aemilia and Jason. The secondary characters are all wonderful, with a special shout-out to Aemilia’s brother Titus.
Gosh, this book is so darned good. I was riveted from start to finish. This is easily going to be one of my favorite books of the year. I bet it could be one of yours, too!
She’s created incredibly likeable characters here, and they’re all related by the massive changes that have happened to their lives. Jason and Aemilia have had their lives turned upside-down from an action Aemilia took to save Jason in the arena. He’s now a potter and sculptor (I did wonder how he picked up his craft so fast), while she has left the Vestals at the end of her term in large part because of the decision she made concerning Jason. Both thought they knew who they were and what the rest of the lives will bring, until that utterly changes. Add to it the unknown daughter of a friend of Jason’s, brought into their lives when she is orphaned, and you have yet another person whose life has been completely upended.
I particularly loved Aemilia’s tenaciousness. She’s the mover and instigator of almost all the action in Gladiator’s Touch, in part because of her position in society and her resources. But Jason is a fantastic (if initially reluctant) partner, and the way he continually sought Aemilia’s consent for things was a joy to see. The child Flora was age appropriate and endearing, serving as a conduit for further connection between Aemilia and Jason. The secondary characters are all wonderful, with a special shout-out to Aemilia’s brother Titus.
Gosh, this book is so darned good. I was riveted from start to finish. This is easily going to be one of my favorite books of the year. I bet it could be one of yours, too!
June 23, 2026
Jenna Bigelow concludes her "Imperial Games" series with Gladiator's Touch: An Ancient Roman Historical Romance. Vestal virgin Aemilia saves gladiator Jason's life, drawing their fates together even closer in the aftermath. Now both wrenched away from the lives they've always known, Aemilia and Jason discover a way to be together, despite their disparities in class, social and economical standing, and expectations. It's a blossoming for Aemilia, after giving three decades of her life in chaste service to the goddess of Rome, and an expansion for Jason, who has started a craft, and, without planning it, .
It was a sweet and hopeful read. It's also refreshing to read historical romances that are taken out of the ballroom or the usual Regency setting. Ancient Rome comes alive and the setting adds a dimension and color to this particular journey of happy-ever-after.
I received an ARC from the author. This review is made voluntarily, honestly, and for free.
It was a sweet and hopeful read. It's also refreshing to read historical romances that are taken out of the ballroom or the usual Regency setting. Ancient Rome comes alive and the setting adds a dimension and color to this particular journey of happy-ever-after.
I received an ARC from the author. This review is made voluntarily, honestly, and for free.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The concept for this book is top notch. I was completely and totally excited to read about a retired Vestal virgin bumping together with the sunny Jason we knew from earlier in this series. It was an extra fun surprise to realize that retired gladiator Jason is not only a sculptor but a potter as well.
Reading along as the heroine finds her footing and builds comfort in her body after being grounded for decades in the belief that breached chastity would destroy the empire.
In several ways I believe this book suffers from how much I absolutely adored the second book in this series, as I was yearning for Lea and Kallias. This is completely unfair to Aemilia and Jason, and I know that.
Unlike the other two books in this series, Gladiator's Touch takes place mostly outside of the ludus with most of the action occurring either at Jason's shop or apartment building.
I particularly appreciated the supportive family, both by blood and chosen, in this book. Bigelow continues her consistent theme of creating families in ways that look just a little different than the standard expectations.
Reading along as the heroine finds her footing and builds comfort in her body after being grounded for decades in the belief that breached chastity would destroy the empire.
In several ways I believe this book suffers from how much I absolutely adored the second book in this series, as I was yearning for Lea and Kallias. This is completely unfair to Aemilia and Jason, and I know that.
Unlike the other two books in this series, Gladiator's Touch takes place mostly outside of the ludus with most of the action occurring either at Jason's shop or apartment building.
I particularly appreciated the supportive family, both by blood and chosen, in this book. Bigelow continues her consistent theme of creating families in ways that look just a little different than the standard expectations.
June 19, 2026
I loved this last installment of the Imperial Games series! As always, I found the research about life in ancient Rome very well done and I really appreciated that the historical details were perfectly included in the story and didn't result in a boring history lesson. I also found the character of Aemilia perfectly fleshed out, because I can well imagine how a former Vestal Virgin could have had great difficulties in reentering society and leading a normal life. I didn't particularly like the violence and Jason's "solution" to his neighbour's problem (no spoilers!) but I can well admit that it was in line with the period. The love story was well crafted and interesting as well.
Great book.
Great book.
June 18, 2026
Jason + Aemilia
Gladiator's Touch follows the story of Jason + Aemilia. When we meet Aemilia she saves Jason.. and when they meet up again they have a conversation about it... He wasn't happy it happened and she was in shock to see him. Both of their lives were vastly different. She no longer behest to the idols and he no longer was a Gladiator.
Slowly but surely these two see each other weekly. He makes a statue for her and he helps her with other things. By the end of it all they are very much together. I loved how they created their own family. It was nice to see that the hierarchy didn't win in this situation.
I received this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
Gladiator's Touch follows the story of Jason + Aemilia. When we meet Aemilia she saves Jason.. and when they meet up again they have a conversation about it... He wasn't happy it happened and she was in shock to see him. Both of their lives were vastly different. She no longer behest to the idols and he no longer was a Gladiator.
Slowly but surely these two see each other weekly. He makes a statue for her and he helps her with other things. By the end of it all they are very much together. I loved how they created their own family. It was nice to see that the hierarchy didn't win in this situation.
I received this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
June 18, 2026
This book has everything you could want: a Vestal Virgin, a freed gladiator, and an orphaned child. Add in a jealous, violent husband, and the stakes become even higher.
There was passion, patience, and a beautifully blossoming love story that kept me turning the pages. I genuinely didn't want to put the book down, nor did I want the story to end.
In my opinion, this is the strongest book of the trilogy, and I'm a little sad that the series has come to an end.
I will definitely be looking for more books by this author in the future.
There was passion, patience, and a beautifully blossoming love story that kept me turning the pages. I genuinely didn't want to put the book down, nor did I want the story to end.
In my opinion, this is the strongest book of the trilogy, and I'm a little sad that the series has come to an end.
I will definitely be looking for more books by this author in the future.
June 19, 2026
Maybe the sexiest gladiator
I love everything Jenna Bigelow writes but this might be my favorite. The scenes with Aemelia learning to be touched are incredibly hot! It’s low angst but not total fluff. Jenna approaches the characters learning to love life the way it is with gentleness and authenticity. As usual, her world building and research are fascinating and it has a thorough author’s note at the end. Start at the beginning of the series and read them all, you won’t regret it!
I love everything Jenna Bigelow writes but this might be my favorite. The scenes with Aemelia learning to be touched are incredibly hot! It’s low angst but not total fluff. Jenna approaches the characters learning to love life the way it is with gentleness and authenticity. As usual, her world building and research are fascinating and it has a thorough author’s note at the end. Start at the beginning of the series and read them all, you won’t regret it!
June 24, 2026
Wow what a way to complete this Imperial Games series. I really loved this one by Jenna Bigelow.
Jason was a loveable girl dad cinnamon roll and loved from afar for so long by Aemilia.
This book had everything- steam, romance, drama and two people who truly deserved each other.
If you love a Roman, retired gladiator setting, older heroine, class difference, forbidden romance then you have to pick this up!
I received an arc via the author and this opinion is my own and review is submitted voluntarily.
Jason was a loveable girl dad cinnamon roll and loved from afar for so long by Aemilia.
This book had everything- steam, romance, drama and two people who truly deserved each other.
If you love a Roman, retired gladiator setting, older heroine, class difference, forbidden romance then you have to pick this up!
I received an arc via the author and this opinion is my own and review is submitted voluntarily.
June 26, 2026
This book lived up to the standards of the previous ones in the series, and honestly surpassed them in many ways. Jason and Aemilia were such a beautiful couple. The first meeting and then the reconnecting were heated and full of a chemistry you could feel deeply. Seeing things between them build and change was so endearing. The dynamic felt so genuine and natural. It was a connection based in a shared understanding and respect for each other. And watching the ending they got come to fruition was so satisfying and left me feeling content.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jenna Bigelow wraps up her Imperial Games series with a phenomenal tale. It comes with the usual delicious spice, superb historical accuracy, and charming HEA. This perhaps melted my heart the most out of the entire series which is, knowing Jenna Bigelow works, really saying something. Very curious to know what direction her next series may go in!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series just keeps getting better. This is my favourite so far. Love a reverse age gap. The relationships are well written and my heart melts with the little girl. Love throw backs to Jenna first series.
June 13, 2026
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via the author's ARC team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I had previously read a title from this author before and I wanted to give her another chance. I definitely feel a kinship because we share the same name. I haven't read too many Roman gladiatorial romances and it's always exciting to explore new genres. Unfortunately, I feel the same as I did with my first attempt. These books are notorious slow burns and the plot tends to outweigh the romance. Gladiator's Touch had unique features like older woman, former temple priestess, and the coliseum setting. I just personally wished it had a faster pace and the heroine wasn't kicking and screaming towards her happy ending. I understand she dedicated her life to her faith, but it's hard to read these types of books when a character doesn't seem like she wants a relationship. I'm undecided whether I'll pursue this collection, but I'm grateful for this opportunity. Gotta support my gladiator girlies where I can!
I had previously read a title from this author before and I wanted to give her another chance. I definitely feel a kinship because we share the same name. I haven't read too many Roman gladiatorial romances and it's always exciting to explore new genres. Unfortunately, I feel the same as I did with my first attempt. These books are notorious slow burns and the plot tends to outweigh the romance. Gladiator's Touch had unique features like older woman, former temple priestess, and the coliseum setting. I just personally wished it had a faster pace and the heroine wasn't kicking and screaming towards her happy ending. I understand she dedicated her life to her faith, but it's hard to read these types of books when a character doesn't seem like she wants a relationship. I'm undecided whether I'll pursue this collection, but I'm grateful for this opportunity. Gotta support my gladiator girlies where I can!
June 18, 2026
Loved this storyline ....
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