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Leonidas the Gladiator Mysteries #1
Das Blut des Gladiators
Leonidas, der Spartaner, der bekannteste Gladiator Roms, befindet sich auf dem Höhepunkt seines Ruhms, als ihn ein geheimnisvoller Wohltäter aus der Arena freikauft. Auch wenn er eine Wohnung und eine Sklavin, die Schreiberin Cassia, erhält, muss er sich seinen Lebensunterhalt selbst verdienen. Die scharfsinnige Cassia besorgt ihm schnell einen Posten als Leibwächter für einen ehemaligen Senator, den Leonidas nach Ostia begleiten soll. Doch der Auftrag entwickelt sich anders als erwartet, und plötzlich finden sich Leonidas und Cassia mitten in einer gefährlichen Intrige wieder, die sie von einem Bordell in der Subura über die Badehäuser und die Paläste der Patrizier bis zum Palatin und Kaiser Nero selbst führt …
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2020
469 people are currently reading
907 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Gardner
48 books678 followersAshley Gardner is the pseudonym for NY Times bestselling and award-winning author Jennifer Ashley and nationally bestselling and award-winning author Allyson James. Her award-winning Captain Lacey Regency mysteries have garnered top reviews and an enthusiastic following. These books are now available as digital editions. More about the series can be found at http://www.gardnermysteries.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 26, 2022
A tale set in Rome during the reign of Nero, Leonidas the Gladiator, the current favorite of the Roman crowds, has just been granted his freedom. He is out of a job with no funds or idea of how to survive.
I enjoy tales of the Roman Empire because a good author can make the period come alive. Those include:
Steven Saylor’s “The Finder”: Roma Sub Rosa series
Lindsey Davis’s Falco: Marcus Didius Falco and Flavia Albanus
Ruth Downie “Medicus”: Gaius Petreius Ruso series
Robert Harris' series involving Cicero as an investigator
From reading this first book in a new series, I have concluded that I will be able to add this series to the above list. I love the descriptions of tasks, people and things that made this period so alive.
"Paulinus sharpened his half-moon shaped razor against his stone while I seated myself on the small stool. He lifted a dipper from a bucket of water, poured the water over the blade and then into his palm, and smoothed the water onto my face. Then he began. The process was never pleasant, but my skin was tough. The blade scraped off the day and a half growth of beard, nicking and cutting as it went…When Paulinus finished, Cassia calmly asked him the price of the shave, as though she hadn’t been accosted by a brute on the street only a short while before. She made a note of Paulinus’s answer and serenely told him he’d be paid at the Nones of the coming month."
And
"Shops made up the ground floors of five- and six-storied insulae that lined the lower streets of the Esquiline, the buildings towering above us. As the road bent up the hill, the insulae fell away to be replaced by one- and two-storied homes, the domii of the wealthy. Shops were built into these dwellings as well, as owners of the houses saw no reason not to collect extra rent by letting out part of their property."
And
"The roads flowed like rivers, the curved pavement encouraging the water along to gutters that would drain into the sewers beneath our feet. I walked across the streets on stones that stuck up for this purpose, having to join a line of pedestrians to do so. There weren’t many crossings, and we all had to file along one behind the other."
More than these, I enjoyed the novel relationship between Leonidas and his new gift of a slave, Cassia. They are truly an odd couple who learn to appreciate each other and work well as a team. They have many challenges and, a few who wish them ill. Unless Leonidas is working, they will both starve.
"“No one has hired me,” I pointed out.
“Not yet.”
I lifted my bowl and spooned the remainder of the lentils into my mouth. I chewed noisily and swallowed, then wiped out the bowl with the last of the bread. “Aemil always made arrangements with people and then told me to go do the job.”
“Because you were a slave. Now you’re a freedman. You find your own work.”
I hadn’t the least idea how."
So this book spins out the “how” and we are taken along on a very interesting journey of experience and personal growth. Cassia and Leonidas are fully-imagined characters and Gardner is careful to “keep them in character.” My thanks to my GR friend, Jan, for tempting me to take the plunge into this caldarium.
I enjoy tales of the Roman Empire because a good author can make the period come alive. Those include:
Steven Saylor’s “The Finder”: Roma Sub Rosa series
Lindsey Davis’s Falco: Marcus Didius Falco and Flavia Albanus
Ruth Downie “Medicus”: Gaius Petreius Ruso series
Robert Harris' series involving Cicero as an investigator
From reading this first book in a new series, I have concluded that I will be able to add this series to the above list. I love the descriptions of tasks, people and things that made this period so alive.
"Paulinus sharpened his half-moon shaped razor against his stone while I seated myself on the small stool. He lifted a dipper from a bucket of water, poured the water over the blade and then into his palm, and smoothed the water onto my face. Then he began. The process was never pleasant, but my skin was tough. The blade scraped off the day and a half growth of beard, nicking and cutting as it went…When Paulinus finished, Cassia calmly asked him the price of the shave, as though she hadn’t been accosted by a brute on the street only a short while before. She made a note of Paulinus’s answer and serenely told him he’d be paid at the Nones of the coming month."
And
"Shops made up the ground floors of five- and six-storied insulae that lined the lower streets of the Esquiline, the buildings towering above us. As the road bent up the hill, the insulae fell away to be replaced by one- and two-storied homes, the domii of the wealthy. Shops were built into these dwellings as well, as owners of the houses saw no reason not to collect extra rent by letting out part of their property."
And
"The roads flowed like rivers, the curved pavement encouraging the water along to gutters that would drain into the sewers beneath our feet. I walked across the streets on stones that stuck up for this purpose, having to join a line of pedestrians to do so. There weren’t many crossings, and we all had to file along one behind the other."
More than these, I enjoyed the novel relationship between Leonidas and his new gift of a slave, Cassia. They are truly an odd couple who learn to appreciate each other and work well as a team. They have many challenges and, a few who wish them ill. Unless Leonidas is working, they will both starve.
"“No one has hired me,” I pointed out.
“Not yet.”
I lifted my bowl and spooned the remainder of the lentils into my mouth. I chewed noisily and swallowed, then wiped out the bowl with the last of the bread. “Aemil always made arrangements with people and then told me to go do the job.”
“Because you were a slave. Now you’re a freedman. You find your own work.”
I hadn’t the least idea how."
So this book spins out the “how” and we are taken along on a very interesting journey of experience and personal growth. Cassia and Leonidas are fully-imagined characters and Gardner is careful to “keep them in character.” My thanks to my GR friend, Jan, for tempting me to take the plunge into this caldarium.
Read
May 8, 2020Book 1 in the Leonidas the Gladiator mystery series by me writing as Ashley Gardner. In print and e-book! Events in this book happen before those in the novella, Blood Debts (which is book 1.5). I hope you enjoy the adventures of Leonidas and Cassia!
Want to read
May 10, 202010/5/20
Gladiator turned detective?!
Why, yes I am! Gimme!
Gladiator turned detective?!
Why, yes I am! Gimme!
February 1, 2021
Delightful mystery set during Nero's reign, featuring an ex-gladiator, Leonidas the Spartan, and his "sidekick", the clever quick-witted slave scribe, Cassia. He's the "brawn" and clueless about life as a freedman and she is the "brains." He is accused of the murder of the madam at the brothel he has often frequented; Much of the novel is given over to his proving his innocence. Through a job Cassia gets for him as bodyguard to a senator and his continued association with him, he is witness to the revelation of long-buried family secrets. Nicely written and well-paced, I hope to read more of this appealing duo. I especially liked the last few sentences where another character asks him, "Is she your mistress?" and Leonidas replies, "No, she's my friend."
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
March 29, 2022
This was enjoyable with good ancient Roman setting. I liked Leonidas and Cassia but Nero felt a little off, and so was Regulus - his hatred made little sense. The mystery was interesting but not very sophisticated; however we got a good glimpse into the social hierarchy of ancient Rome and the life of otcasts like gladiators and prostitutes.
Overall a promising setup for a series, but a little green. I am interested to see where Gardner takes it from here.
Overall a promising setup for a series, but a little green. I am interested to see where Gardner takes it from here.
August 18, 2020
VERY SLOW start. Very slice of life -- I'd read the next if I'm in the mood for something slow.
But he's a decent sort. Sheepdog that finally found a sheep. ;)
But he's a decent sort. Sheepdog that finally found a sheep. ;)
May 24, 2020
FINAL DECISION: The unusual setting along with the introduction of characters with mysterious pasts kept me turning pages on this one. The author now has three great historical mystery series going. I can't wait for the next one in this series.
THE STORY: Set in ancient Rome, Leonidas, a famous gladiator, is freed from the deadly games by an unknown benefactor who gives him a place to live and a servant but he has to earn his own living. Cassia, a slave, is sent to help Leonidas, but also to spy on him. Leonidas's first job is as a bodyguard, but it also lands him -- and Cassia -- in a series of mysteries involving death and kidnapping.
OPINION: This book is a mystery set in historical Rome, during the time of Nero. In this book we get to meet Leonidas who has been retired from gladiator fighting -- something he has been very good at but is heart weary and does not desire to continue to kill and maim. One of the overarching mysteries is who Leonidas's mysterious benefactor is and what his plans for Leonidas are. Leonidas's story is interesting as he tries and find a place for himself and determine what he wants after years of his life being decided for him. I really liked him as a character because he has secrets that are yet to be mined in the story.
Cassia is also an intriguing character. What is her history, her purpose and her true motives. She is clever and because readers are not privy to her thoughts, she remains mysterious throughout the story. I really liked reading about her because she uses her brains and her recording skills (she is a scribe) to help resolve the mysteries.
Cassia and Leonidas are a good pair. Thrown together for some mysterious purpose, they are developing a good working relationship in this book. I especially liked the respect and care that they show for one another. The book also manages to have quite a bit of action along with the mental exercise of the crime -- which is appropriate for a man of physical feats and his scribe slave.
The mystery here has multiple layers which I really enjoyed. The plot is developed through the interviews with various characters in different stations in life -- from the emperor himself to merchants to builders to gladiators to brothel women. The story gives a nice view of Roman society along with a good mystery.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading more about these characters.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a straight-up mystery without any romance -- at least right now. I have hopes for the future.
CONNECTED BOOKS: BLOOD OF A GLADIATOR is the first book in the Leonidas the Gladiator series. This book occurs before the events in the novella BLOOD DEBTS.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.
NOTE: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
November 12, 2024
Jennifer Ashley/Ashley Gardner scores again!
She has set aside her usual 19th century England setting for Rome in the time of Nero. Indeed, Emperor Nero himself is an important bit player in this story.
The blurb sets it up nicely:
"Leonidas, champion gladiator of Rome, is set free from the games by a mysterious benefactor who grants him freedom, a place to live, and a servant—Cassia, a scribe—to look after him.
But the benefactor is only so generous—Leonidas must pay his own way and Cassia’s, which means hiring himself out. The sharp-witted Cassia quickly lands him a post as a bodyguard, escorting a retired senator to Ostia.
The trip soon turns deadly, as Leonidas and Cassia find themselves squarely in the middle of intrigue that reaches from the slums of the Subura to the Palatine Hill and the emperor Nero himself."
There are a couple of tricky mysteries for Leonides and Cassia to solve and a bunch of interesting characters, including a young vigile, an architect, a member of the Praetorian Guard, and Nero himself.
The story is told in the first person by Leonidas. He's not snarky nor is he stupid. I liked him a lot. But I loved Cassia! She's smart, clever, street-wise. She is also a slave, with some bad experiences behind her. She's so wary around Leonidas in the beginning. They gradually establish a good working relationship. I appreciated that the author didn't head into romancelandia with these two (at least in this book).
Now, on to Blood Debts. It was actually written first, but takes place after this book.
She has set aside her usual 19th century England setting for Rome in the time of Nero. Indeed, Emperor Nero himself is an important bit player in this story.
The blurb sets it up nicely:
"Leonidas, champion gladiator of Rome, is set free from the games by a mysterious benefactor who grants him freedom, a place to live, and a servant—Cassia, a scribe—to look after him.
But the benefactor is only so generous—Leonidas must pay his own way and Cassia’s, which means hiring himself out. The sharp-witted Cassia quickly lands him a post as a bodyguard, escorting a retired senator to Ostia.
The trip soon turns deadly, as Leonidas and Cassia find themselves squarely in the middle of intrigue that reaches from the slums of the Subura to the Palatine Hill and the emperor Nero himself."
There are a couple of tricky mysteries for Leonides and Cassia to solve and a bunch of interesting characters, including a young vigile, an architect, a member of the Praetorian Guard, and Nero himself.
The story is told in the first person by Leonidas. He's not snarky nor is he stupid. I liked him a lot. But I loved Cassia! She's smart, clever, street-wise. She is also a slave, with some bad experiences behind her. She's so wary around Leonidas in the beginning. They gradually establish a good working relationship. I appreciated that the author didn't head into romancelandia with these two (at least in this book).
Now, on to Blood Debts. It was actually written first, but takes place after this book.
June 30, 2022
This book had a really great start. The author really has the ability to create imagery and the emotions of the characters well. I do like how the character development progressed about half of the book.
Cassia, one of the main characters, seemed like a different woman character that I've read in many books. She did not come off as the "damsel in distress", and actually spoke her mind (at least to the best of her ability that she could being a woman slave in the Roman Empire) I was happy to read this strong woman character. There were times where she knew what to do (and do it well) more than the man counterpart, Leonidas, and that was refreshing to read.
But towards a little bit after half of the book, her character began to fall a little flat for me. She was no longer really that interesting. I don't know why but it seemed she lost that spunk? I did like Leonidas character throughout the book as his character development was written so well and his inner struggles remained throughout in the book which kept him interesting. Kind of feels like the author gave up on giving that much attention to Cassia's character development after a while.
Then in one part, Leonidas (a former Roman Gladiator) and Cassia were the presence of the emperor Nero, and at one point, it seemed like Leonidas was being defiant to him in a way. And it says that Nero looked at him coldly but basically agreed to his demands? Um, don't know much about Nero, but what I have read, I doubt anyone who was defiant to him would get away with it, much less an ex Gladiator and his slave. Just look at his family history lol.
Overall, it was a pretty entertaining read, but I don't think I'll read the other books in the series.
Cassia, one of the main characters, seemed like a different woman character that I've read in many books. She did not come off as the "damsel in distress", and actually spoke her mind (at least to the best of her ability that she could being a woman slave in the Roman Empire) I was happy to read this strong woman character. There were times where she knew what to do (and do it well) more than the man counterpart, Leonidas, and that was refreshing to read.
But towards a little bit after half of the book, her character began to fall a little flat for me. She was no longer really that interesting. I don't know why but it seemed she lost that spunk? I did like Leonidas character throughout the book as his character development was written so well and his inner struggles remained throughout in the book which kept him interesting. Kind of feels like the author gave up on giving that much attention to Cassia's character development after a while.
Then in one part, Leonidas (a former Roman Gladiator) and Cassia were the presence of the emperor Nero, and at one point, it seemed like Leonidas was being defiant to him in a way. And it says that Nero looked at him coldly but basically agreed to his demands? Um, don't know much about Nero, but what I have read, I doubt anyone who was defiant to him would get away with it, much less an ex Gladiator and his slave. Just look at his family history lol.
Overall, it was a pretty entertaining read, but I don't think I'll read the other books in the series.
June 2, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery duo, Leonidas the famed gladiator who is thoroughly fed up with killing, and Cassia, the far more educated and astute, though enslaved, scribe who has been "gifted" to him by an unknown benefactor. Their unlikely bond takes root as Cassia helps Leonidas navigate his new freedom--and a threat that could quickly imperil it, along with both of their lived unless they uncover the real perpetrator of a crime leading all the way to the hall of the mercurial and dangerous princips Nero.
Likable, well-drawn characters and an unusual, fully realized setting make this another excellent diversion from Gardner, author of the Captain Lacey series.
Likable, well-drawn characters and an unusual, fully realized setting make this another excellent diversion from Gardner, author of the Captain Lacey series.
May 22, 2020
Good mystery
One of the first things to strike me about this mystery was the incredible level of historical detail woven throughout the story. Obviously, quite a bit of research went into fleshing out the world of Leonidas in spectacular detail, down to the insulated copper pots the street vendors used to serve hot food to the public. The characters are also well thought out and detailed. Even at the end of the book there are still plenty of mysteries about the main characters and their backgrounds left to explore. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
One of the first things to strike me about this mystery was the incredible level of historical detail woven throughout the story. Obviously, quite a bit of research went into fleshing out the world of Leonidas in spectacular detail, down to the insulated copper pots the street vendors used to serve hot food to the public. The characters are also well thought out and detailed. Even at the end of the book there are still plenty of mysteries about the main characters and their backgrounds left to explore. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Read
May 8, 2020Book 1 in the Leonidas the Gladiator mysteries. Events happen before those in the novella, Blood Debts (which is Book 1.5). Setting is Ancient Rome, in the reign of Nero, 62-63 AD. I hope you enjoy the adventures of Leonidas and Cassia! All books will be released in print and e-book. Audio to come.
June 29, 2024
Simple.and enjoyable with a complex puzzle.
While the harshness proofs Ancient Rome is hinted at in this book there is no great detail given. Peonies the Gladiator has won his freedom but has no clue what to do.with it. He also has no money, house, clothes (except for those on his back) or prospects. Peonies has no.clue how to exist as a free man he is used to someone telling him what to do.and where to go and taking care of his needs. He never saved any of his.prize money from his rights as his owner out such a high price on him he could never hope to save enough. So we find him the day after his liberation thrown out of a brothel for being unable to.pay whereupon he is approached by a man who.offers him a lifeline. Someone is willing to be his patron (support him) they wish to remain anonymous but are willing to provide Leonidas with an apartment and a slave (Claudia a young woman who is far more that she seems) as for food and necessities Leonidas must find employment to pay for these himself. His first client is a retired general who reads his life is at risk. So begins an extremely convoluted but enjoyable tale.............,...
While the harshness proofs Ancient Rome is hinted at in this book there is no great detail given. Peonies the Gladiator has won his freedom but has no clue what to do.with it. He also has no money, house, clothes (except for those on his back) or prospects. Peonies has no.clue how to exist as a free man he is used to someone telling him what to do.and where to go and taking care of his needs. He never saved any of his.prize money from his rights as his owner out such a high price on him he could never hope to save enough. So we find him the day after his liberation thrown out of a brothel for being unable to.pay whereupon he is approached by a man who.offers him a lifeline. Someone is willing to be his patron (support him) they wish to remain anonymous but are willing to provide Leonidas with an apartment and a slave (Claudia a young woman who is far more that she seems) as for food and necessities Leonidas must find employment to pay for these himself. His first client is a retired general who reads his life is at risk. So begins an extremely convoluted but enjoyable tale.............,...
April 19, 2021
This was an enjoyable read of a gladiator who wins his freedom by a mysterious benefactor and then becomes embroiled in a complicated mystery. Leonidas is a great fighter, but not a bad thinker, and the slave he's given to work for him is a brilliant, extremely organized, troubled but sweet woman who methodically documents everything and helps him think through his problems.
Entertaining and well-researched, I liked this better than The Hanover Square Affair and look forward to more of this series
Entertaining and well-researched, I liked this better than The Hanover Square Affair and look forward to more of this series
September 21, 2024
A strong start and a tidy ending, but the middle really dragged for me. This might have had something to do with my listening to it as an audiobook and being exhausted, so I was getting through about ten minutes a night. But also, nothing happened. There was a lot of chasing of people who were difficult to find and trudging about Rome until things finally picked up again and threads were resolved.
However, I did quite enjoy hanging out in Nero's Rome. The book had enough research to make the setting plausible, even if the plot required low-class Leonidas to spend time with Nero himself on more than one occasion. There were a few head-tilt-y things like this, but if that doesn't bother you it's maybe worth the trip to ancient Rome.
There were striking similarities to Gillian Bradshaw's Render Unto Ceasar, which was impeccably researched. That had a citizen taking up with a female gladiator (and some oddly judgmental views on men liking men for the time period). This had a freed gladiator with an anonymous benefactor thrown together with a female slave who is also a scribe. (She kept a stack of wax tablets with all of her observations about the mystery... yeah.)
Probably worth a try if you enjoy Roman history on a casual level. The audiobook was read competently, but the (male) gladiator was read by an American woman, where I am conditioned to Rome=British accent. All of the Latin words were pronounced in a Latin way, and we heard a lot about returning to the domus etc.
I thought that I wouldn't continue with these books, but I might switch away from audiobooks and see how that goes.
However, I did quite enjoy hanging out in Nero's Rome. The book had enough research to make the setting plausible, even if the plot required low-class Leonidas to spend time with Nero himself on more than one occasion. There were a few head-tilt-y things like this, but if that doesn't bother you it's maybe worth the trip to ancient Rome.
There were striking similarities to Gillian Bradshaw's Render Unto Ceasar, which was impeccably researched. That had a citizen taking up with a female gladiator (and some oddly judgmental views on men liking men for the time period). This had a freed gladiator with an anonymous benefactor thrown together with a female slave who is also a scribe. (She kept a stack of wax tablets with all of her observations about the mystery... yeah.)
Probably worth a try if you enjoy Roman history on a casual level. The audiobook was read competently, but the (male) gladiator was read by an American woman, where I am conditioned to Rome=British accent. All of the Latin words were pronounced in a Latin way, and we heard a lot about returning to the domus etc.
I thought that I wouldn't continue with these books, but I might switch away from audiobooks and see how that goes.
May 16, 2020
I received an ARC of this book to read in exchange for a fair review. Blood of a Gladiator is the first book in an exciting new mystery series by Ashley Gardner. Set in ancient Rome during the reign of Nero, a newly freed gladiator Leonidas sets out to solve a mysterious death when it appears that he could be held responsible for the murder. Assisted by his slave Cassia a scribe, his search goes from the palace of Nero to a lowly brothel, and each answer he finds leads to more questions. I enjoyed this story very much and look forward to reading future books in this series. Publishing Date May 21, 2020. #booksagram #BloodOfAGladiator #AncientRome #MurderMystery #historicalmystery #AshleyGardner
June 11, 2022
When in Ancient Rome🏛, Watch👀 Your Back!
ADULT Ancient Roman Gladiator🐺💪👊🔪 Adventure🐺🔪💪👊 and Romance💕.With a mystery.
An ex gladiator🐺🔪💪👊 becomes a body guard to a wealthy nobleman in Rome. Graphic Violence🔪💪👊 , and a kidnapping, are among the trials and tribulations of the hero, Leonidas🐺🔪💪👊, as well as protecting a young woman who is a witness to evil.
I didn't much care for the first person narrative and dialogue by Leonidas🐺🔪💪👊 because we never know what the other characters are thinking.
ADULT Ancient Roman Gladiator🐺💪👊🔪 Adventure🐺🔪💪👊 and Romance💕.With a mystery.
An ex gladiator🐺🔪💪👊 becomes a body guard to a wealthy nobleman in Rome. Graphic Violence🔪💪👊 , and a kidnapping, are among the trials and tribulations of the hero, Leonidas🐺🔪💪👊, as well as protecting a young woman who is a witness to evil.
I didn't much care for the first person narrative and dialogue by Leonidas🐺🔪💪👊 because we never know what the other characters are thinking.
July 12, 2021
I enjoyed this new series from Ashley Gardner, set during the reign of Nero in Rome. Leonidas was condemned to the gladiator's ring as a boy, after being accused of a crime he didn't commit. He has risen to the rank of primus palus, the champion - until he is suddenly freed, his freedom bought by an unknown benefactor. He is also presented with a slave, Cassia, a highly-educated scribe, and a small apartment over a wine shop - but told he must pay his own rent and other expenses by finding work, while waiting for his mysterious patron to reveal him or herself and their purpose. I liked the amount of historical research and the sense of place, as well as the characters. Between this series and Witness For The Dead (by Katherine Addison), I am left with an inexplicable longing to walk all day in large cities.
May 17, 2021
A.D. 62 Rome. Gladiator Leonidas the Spartan is given his freedom by an unknown benefactor. But he must keep himself and his slave Cassia by obtaining employment. His first position is as a bodyguard for Decimus Laelius Priscus as he travels to Ostia Antica to retrieve a valuable cargo. Meanwhile Leonidas is convinced someone is trying to kill him, and frame him for a murder he did not commit.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters.
Read
July 12, 2021DNF @ 35%
Although well-written, I've yet to see any signs of a mystery or investigation.
Although well-written, I've yet to see any signs of a mystery or investigation.
May 30, 2020
Review to come
April 21, 2021
Good reading
I had already read one book about the Gladiatior Leonodis and Cassia - this book was like meeting up with old friends. The sense of being in a Roman city is quite surreal, the big, tough, sleepy Leonodis is finding life as a free citizen rather complicated; and Cassia serenely creates order in their world.
I had already read one book about the Gladiatior Leonodis and Cassia - this book was like meeting up with old friends. The sense of being in a Roman city is quite surreal, the big, tough, sleepy Leonodis is finding life as a free citizen rather complicated; and Cassia serenely creates order in their world.
September 5, 2022
Quite good. The author's descriptive skills make you feel you're living in Ancient Rome.
November 28, 2020
The premise of the story makes for fun reading.
June 9, 2020
Leonidas and Cassia make a great duo! Love them already.
September 19, 2024
Excellent story. Characters were very interesting and story line was original. Left me wanting to continue the series
June 22, 2020
Mystery was intricate and I really like Leonidas and Casia's characters. They are well drawn and vivid for the time period. I look forward to the next in the series.
July 1, 2020
Fantastic!
July 5, 2022
Throughout the Roman Empire, gladiator games were popular. They were meant to entertain the so-called “civilized” spectators of the time. A gladiator was recruited from the ranks of slaves, prisoners, and even criminals. One of the slaves turned gladiator was Leonidas, the Spartan.
Set in A.D. 62, Blood of a Gladiator is the first installment of the Leonidas the Gladiator Mysteries.
Leonidas, the central character, is thrust into slavery for a crime everyone believes he committed. He is then picked to fight as a gladiator. For seven years, he fights many battles and becomes one of the best gladiators in Rome. Because of this, he earns the nickname “Leonidas, the Spartan”.
Leonidas’ last fight is against his friend, Regulus. And, he’s on the winning end. But instead of killing his opponent, as the rule calls for, he spares his friend’s life. Regulus, on the other hand, scorns Leonidas for not killing him. He so wanted to die and this was his chance to exit from a gladiator’s life. Leonidas explains to him that he doesn’t want any more bloodshed. He loathes his “job” and is tired of it. He says,
Leonidas expects a repercussion from the emperor for doing what he did. But, instead, he’s surprised to learn that an unnamed benefactor frees him from slavery.
The Gladiator is Free at Last
Leonidas is now a free man. But, his trainer offers him an option. He either stays in the gladiators’ quarters and helps train new gladiators or leaves the place. Leonidas chooses the latter. Once out, however, he realizes he has neither a place to go home to nor money to buy food. He’s also skeptical of getting a job, given his background. Essentially, Leonidas does not know how to get by as a free man.
While contemplating his new situation, someone comes to visit him. The man informs him that he must get a job to move on with his life. The same man also gives Leonidas a slave girl.
Although he’s not comfortable having a slave, Leonidas needs Cassia to help him get on with his life. Cassia is a smart girl. She does everything for Leonidas, including finding a job for him. Soon enough, Leonidas lands a job as a bodyguard for a wealthy and influential senator. And, this is the turning point of Leonidas’ life. Since then, he and Cassia work together as peers.
Follow the eventful life of Leonidas and Cassia together. Learn how they face the challenges that come their way. Read Blood of a Gladiator.
The Book and the Author
Written by Ashley Gardner, Blood of a Gladiator is historical fiction. The story brings readers back in time to the 1st century. Although Leonidas, the major character, is fictional, he reveals the real-life situation of a gladiator. His character is well-developed and consistent throughout the story so the reader may think he’s a real person. And so is the other major character named Cassia. This only shows how adept and keen at weaving a story the author is.
Likewise, Ashley’s style of writing is straightforward and fast-paced. She leaves no dull moment in the story. She also provides vivid descriptions of the scenes. Thus, making the reader feel like they were right there. What I like the most in Blood of a Gladiator is Cassia’s character. She is not the typical picture of a slave.
Overall, I give the book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and I highly recommend it to all readers.
NOTE: The Above review is also found at The Catalyst.
Set in A.D. 62, Blood of a Gladiator is the first installment of the Leonidas the Gladiator Mysteries.
Leonidas, the central character, is thrust into slavery for a crime everyone believes he committed. He is then picked to fight as a gladiator. For seven years, he fights many battles and becomes one of the best gladiators in Rome. Because of this, he earns the nickname “Leonidas, the Spartan”.
Leonidas’ last fight is against his friend, Regulus. And, he’s on the winning end. But instead of killing his opponent, as the rule calls for, he spares his friend’s life. Regulus, on the other hand, scorns Leonidas for not killing him. He so wanted to die and this was his chance to exit from a gladiator’s life. Leonidas explains to him that he doesn’t want any more bloodshed. He loathes his “job” and is tired of it. He says,
“I killed because I was ordered to. I was a weapon.”
Leonidas expects a repercussion from the emperor for doing what he did. But, instead, he’s surprised to learn that an unnamed benefactor frees him from slavery.
The Gladiator is Free at Last
Leonidas is now a free man. But, his trainer offers him an option. He either stays in the gladiators’ quarters and helps train new gladiators or leaves the place. Leonidas chooses the latter. Once out, however, he realizes he has neither a place to go home to nor money to buy food. He’s also skeptical of getting a job, given his background. Essentially, Leonidas does not know how to get by as a free man.
While contemplating his new situation, someone comes to visit him. The man informs him that he must get a job to move on with his life. The same man also gives Leonidas a slave girl.
Although he’s not comfortable having a slave, Leonidas needs Cassia to help him get on with his life. Cassia is a smart girl. She does everything for Leonidas, including finding a job for him. Soon enough, Leonidas lands a job as a bodyguard for a wealthy and influential senator. And, this is the turning point of Leonidas’ life. Since then, he and Cassia work together as peers.
Follow the eventful life of Leonidas and Cassia together. Learn how they face the challenges that come their way. Read Blood of a Gladiator.
The Book and the Author
Written by Ashley Gardner, Blood of a Gladiator is historical fiction. The story brings readers back in time to the 1st century. Although Leonidas, the major character, is fictional, he reveals the real-life situation of a gladiator. His character is well-developed and consistent throughout the story so the reader may think he’s a real person. And so is the other major character named Cassia. This only shows how adept and keen at weaving a story the author is.
Likewise, Ashley’s style of writing is straightforward and fast-paced. She leaves no dull moment in the story. She also provides vivid descriptions of the scenes. Thus, making the reader feel like they were right there. What I like the most in Blood of a Gladiator is Cassia’s character. She is not the typical picture of a slave.
Overall, I give the book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and I highly recommend it to all readers.
NOTE: The Above review is also found at The Catalyst.
May 28, 2023
Because I took high school Latin, I was familiar with some of the terminology in this story. Even without my high school Latin, this book is terrific.
Leonidas is a retired gladiator. Because he was the best for several years, he was given his freedom. There is a secret benefactor who has provided him with a small income and a slave. There are expectations for him to do well in life by working.
Cassia is his slave. She is a skilled scribe who has talents that Leonidas does not. Eventually Leonidas realizes what a treasure he has received.
The two of them make a wonderful team.
The first job Cassia finds for Leonidas is guarding a retired general on a journey which could be dangerous. Leonidas is able to use his fighting abilities and he earns his wage by going above and beyond to protect his employer.
That job, leads to a mystery. And that mystery leads to Nero.
There is a dead madam, a band of pirates, supercilious upper servants, and visits to Nero in his home. Because of Leonidas’ fame, doors open for he and Cassia. And Cassia is able to learn things when they are within those open doors.
I really liked this book.
The mystery is well done. Several times I knew who the villain was. I was wrong. The motive was a surprise as well as the guilty party.
The character development is very well done. Leonidas is a man who has had no life except his life as a gladiator. In some ways he is quite sophisticated and in other ways he is quite naive. He was trained to battle and kill, but he was not trained in the subtle ways of dealing with people.
Cassia is an extremely intelligent woman. She has learned how to make her way in the world, by listening closely to what others say and do and how they express themselves. She keeps complete records in her scrolls. Very little escapes her as she travels through her days.
These two are perfect supports for one another.
I liked this book. It is my first book by this author and it will not be the last.
Leonidas is a retired gladiator. Because he was the best for several years, he was given his freedom. There is a secret benefactor who has provided him with a small income and a slave. There are expectations for him to do well in life by working.
Cassia is his slave. She is a skilled scribe who has talents that Leonidas does not. Eventually Leonidas realizes what a treasure he has received.
The two of them make a wonderful team.
The first job Cassia finds for Leonidas is guarding a retired general on a journey which could be dangerous. Leonidas is able to use his fighting abilities and he earns his wage by going above and beyond to protect his employer.
That job, leads to a mystery. And that mystery leads to Nero.
There is a dead madam, a band of pirates, supercilious upper servants, and visits to Nero in his home. Because of Leonidas’ fame, doors open for he and Cassia. And Cassia is able to learn things when they are within those open doors.
I really liked this book.
The mystery is well done. Several times I knew who the villain was. I was wrong. The motive was a surprise as well as the guilty party.
The character development is very well done. Leonidas is a man who has had no life except his life as a gladiator. In some ways he is quite sophisticated and in other ways he is quite naive. He was trained to battle and kill, but he was not trained in the subtle ways of dealing with people.
Cassia is an extremely intelligent woman. She has learned how to make her way in the world, by listening closely to what others say and do and how they express themselves. She keeps complete records in her scrolls. Very little escapes her as she travels through her days.
These two are perfect supports for one another.
I liked this book. It is my first book by this author and it will not be the last.
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