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The Colosseum #2
Beneath the Waves
Rome, 80AD. The Emperor orders the Colosseum to be flooded. There must be vast battles, astonishing props and epic storytelling to put on a spectacle no-one will ever forget. But water brings its own dangers, mistakes and emotions rushing to the surface and manager of the Games, Marcus, must face them head-on, even if his life is in danger. Meanwhile his scribe Althea is facing a hidden danger of her own. Secrets and desires must be spoken out loud, but finding the right words is harder than it seems. Will the backstage team survive the flooding of the Colosseum? Will Althea realise her own desires? And when all hope is lost, will the only solution be a sharp blade in the watery depths? Beneath the Waves is the second novel in the engrossing Colosseum series. Grow to care more deeply for the members of the backstage team as they take on the daunting task of flooding the Colosseum and find their own lives growing ever more challenging. Dive into a new adventure with Marcus and Althea. Buy Beneath the Waves today.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
304 pages, Paperback
Published November 26, 2021
45 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Addey
25 books117 followersI mainly write historical fiction: my first novel, The Fragrant Concubine, was Editor’s Choice at the Historical Novel Society, my latest, The Cold Palace, won the 2019 Novel London award.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 14, 2021
Althea is a freed slave who works in the amphitheatre with Marcus, her protector, they organise the gladiator games which are so much in demand in the Rome of those times and are often attended by Titus the Emperor himself. Titus ordered an naumachiae to be held at the close of that season's games which involved getting the arena flooded and the myths to be enacted. Marcus was ordered to pass on a message to Titus through these enactments so that he realises that Queen Berenice who was a Jew was unloved by the people. A dangerous message indeed to pass on. Furthermore although Althea was a free woman who worked as a scribe, an attempted rape made her realise how vulnerable woman were in those times as she started to fear even going to sleep in her own home. The attempted rapist happened to be the newcomer on the block, who was about to marry her best friend and owner of the popina, Cassia, and Althea knew she had to tell her friend before it was too late, but how to do this? This is a very well researched historical fiction novel which takes us back to the time of the gladiators under the reign of Titus in Rome, a harsh and cruel time where lives of both people and animals were used for show to please the bloodthirsty populace. So whilst I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in the culture of the daily life of the people living in the insula and eating in their popina, in their community spirit and sticking up for their own, I found it very hard to read about the cruelty of the games which were also a major part of that same culture. I really loved Althea's kind act towards Karbo and seeing her growing feelings towards Marcus and am hoping to see these returned in the next book in this breath taking but brutal Colosseum series.
May 8, 2023
Beneath the Waves is the thrilling second part of The Colosseum series by Melissa Addey.
Picking up the tale of Althea, a Greek slave woman, from where we left her at the end of From the Ashes, this is the story of the ending of the 100 days of Games, begun in From the Ashes, and also takes the reader through to the second year in the life of the Colosseum.
Our much-loved characters reappear in Beneath the Waves, along with a few new additions. While From the Ashes focused very much on surviving the events of Vesuvius, the plague and the fire that our characters suffered, book 2 is perhaps less filled with huge peril for everyone, as instead, it focuses on the peril our main characters experience. Their humanity is very evident. They are people. They don't always do the right thing. They are perhaps beset with irrational fears. And they also perhaps do what they're supposed to do when we, as a modern audience, would demand alternatives. Althea and Marcus are characters of their time, which is one of the huge strengths of the novel.
I adore the descriptions of the Games and the minutiae of day-to-day life, and this second novel builds very much to an impressive and potentially dangerous ending for Marcus, Althea and their young charge.
I so look forward to book 3.
Picking up the tale of Althea, a Greek slave woman, from where we left her at the end of From the Ashes, this is the story of the ending of the 100 days of Games, begun in From the Ashes, and also takes the reader through to the second year in the life of the Colosseum.
Our much-loved characters reappear in Beneath the Waves, along with a few new additions. While From the Ashes focused very much on surviving the events of Vesuvius, the plague and the fire that our characters suffered, book 2 is perhaps less filled with huge peril for everyone, as instead, it focuses on the peril our main characters experience. Their humanity is very evident. They are people. They don't always do the right thing. They are perhaps beset with irrational fears. And they also perhaps do what they're supposed to do when we, as a modern audience, would demand alternatives. Althea and Marcus are characters of their time, which is one of the huge strengths of the novel.
I adore the descriptions of the Games and the minutiae of day-to-day life, and this second novel builds very much to an impressive and potentially dangerous ending for Marcus, Althea and their young charge.
I so look forward to book 3.
March 21, 2022
Emperor Titus wants a Naumachia, a water event including a mock sea battle and other features. After the first event, he is so pleased that he wants another the following year, on a grander scale, this one with deeper water and deadly aquatic creatures: eels, vipers, sharks and crocodiles. An ensemble of workers have to figure out how to waterproof the floor of the Amphitheatre; how to get water to the Amphitheatre and onto the floor of the arena, then how to drain it quickly. They also have to get ships (2/3 the size of a regular ship) into the water; get sea creatures from Ostia, and house them safely until showtime. And, really, there is no point in having man-eating creatures in the water unless there is something to eat.
Fighting gladiators falling from the ships satisfy this need, but the author skims very lightly over this part.
Marcus, the manager of games and his assistant, Althea, face these Herculean tasks after having put on one hundred days of consecutive games, along with others recruited occasionally for their expertise. As well as working closely together, Althea and Marcus live in the same insula (apartment block) which has a popina (eating place) on a corner run by Cassia and her father. Various other occupants of the insula include a retired Vestal Virgin and a lively, energetic orphaned black boy who’s a sort of mascot.
One night, Althea barely escapes being raped. The next day, she realises her attacker is a cousin of Cassia’s come for a visit. She faces a moral dilemma. Should she tell Cassia or just hope the cousin will go home? Delay only makes things worse because it is soon apparent that the cousin has his eye on the popina through marriage to Cassia. Althea tells no one and lives in fear. She copes with her secret and the burdens of her job with the support of friends. This is only one of several sub-plots.
Three things I particularly liked about this book: the narrative takes a simple, unadorned style, in keeping with the characters; likewise the dialogue is simple, even when explaining technically complicated things relating to the Naumachia, and skips along naturally without ever seeming forced. The third is the supportive and loving community of the insula, which add a few heart-warming moments to the drama.
Anyone who reads this book would be forgiven for wondering how the author found information on something as arcane as Naumachia, which apparently only happened twice. It is explained in the Afterword, but I can’t begin to imagine the difficulty the author must have had tracking down resources on the subject. Kudos for that.
It is the second in a series. The first deals with the destruction of Pompeii – a must read for me. Highly recommended.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
Fighting gladiators falling from the ships satisfy this need, but the author skims very lightly over this part.
Marcus, the manager of games and his assistant, Althea, face these Herculean tasks after having put on one hundred days of consecutive games, along with others recruited occasionally for their expertise. As well as working closely together, Althea and Marcus live in the same insula (apartment block) which has a popina (eating place) on a corner run by Cassia and her father. Various other occupants of the insula include a retired Vestal Virgin and a lively, energetic orphaned black boy who’s a sort of mascot.
One night, Althea barely escapes being raped. The next day, she realises her attacker is a cousin of Cassia’s come for a visit. She faces a moral dilemma. Should she tell Cassia or just hope the cousin will go home? Delay only makes things worse because it is soon apparent that the cousin has his eye on the popina through marriage to Cassia. Althea tells no one and lives in fear. She copes with her secret and the burdens of her job with the support of friends. This is only one of several sub-plots.
Three things I particularly liked about this book: the narrative takes a simple, unadorned style, in keeping with the characters; likewise the dialogue is simple, even when explaining technically complicated things relating to the Naumachia, and skips along naturally without ever seeming forced. The third is the supportive and loving community of the insula, which add a few heart-warming moments to the drama.
Anyone who reads this book would be forgiven for wondering how the author found information on something as arcane as Naumachia, which apparently only happened twice. It is explained in the Afterword, but I can’t begin to imagine the difficulty the author must have had tracking down resources on the subject. Kudos for that.
It is the second in a series. The first deals with the destruction of Pompeii – a must read for me. Highly recommended.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
December 13, 2021
I am enjoying all of her books. I have been going through one after the other and I can’t put them down. I am anxiously waiting for the 3rd one in the series about Rome. Her books draw a person in so that you feel you are right there with characters.
January 27, 2022
Heart-stopping, heart-warming, and heart-aches too
Melissa Addey is becoming my favorite historical fiction author. Beneath the Waves is typical of her wonderful books; I learned more about the lives and language of plebeian Ancient Rome than in any history text I have read, and it was so beautifully integrated into the loves and dreams and hopes of the characters that it seemed real and natural. I can't find praise enough for her thorough research, her finely drawn characters, her deep understanding of the human heart. All I can say is, this complex and evolving story of the woman who rises from slave girl to free woman with an incredible career in show production entranced me and haunted me. I felt a part of her story, I felt her emotions, the fears, the joys, the sorrows and the hope. Magnificently written!
Melissa Addey is becoming my favorite historical fiction author. Beneath the Waves is typical of her wonderful books; I learned more about the lives and language of plebeian Ancient Rome than in any history text I have read, and it was so beautifully integrated into the loves and dreams and hopes of the characters that it seemed real and natural. I can't find praise enough for her thorough research, her finely drawn characters, her deep understanding of the human heart. All I can say is, this complex and evolving story of the woman who rises from slave girl to free woman with an incredible career in show production entranced me and haunted me. I felt a part of her story, I felt her emotions, the fears, the joys, the sorrows and the hope. Magnificently written!
May 2, 2022
Rome, 80 AD. Recently freed slave, Althea, works as a scribe for Marcus. As manager of the Colosseum, Marcus has been charged with creating a spectacle unlike any other for Emperor Titus, a water battle that floods the amphitheater. Now Marcus and Althea must figure out how to please the emperor while also submitting to the Senate’s political wish to influence the choice of female company Titus is keeping. In the midst of planning, Althea barely escapes an assault during her walk home. She quickly discovers her close friend’s cousin, Rullus, is the culprit. However, he’s so considerate by day that no one would believe her claims. The way his eyes follow her, Althea fears a repeat occurrence unless she can find some evidence. Especially as her friend develops feelings for Rullus.
At first, I felt a bit lost with the characters, not having read book one; the summarization of their lives happened later in the narration than expected. For a while, I had a hard time keeping people, their histories, and relationships straight. Once I was able to settle in, I enjoyed the way author wove in the varied aspects of Roman culture. The mechanics of putting on a show in the Colosseum are especially intriguing. While public executions are mentioned, these events are mostly brushed aside by the characters. Instead, Addey focuses on the gladiators and other performers who make the games come alive.
The plot has a strong “found family” trope, which I always enjoy. Althea is torn by how she should tell her friend about Rullus. Will it ruin her friendship? Will Rullus retaliate? Being newly freed, Althea finds making difficult decisions a challenge, and her growth drives the narrative forward. Beneath the Waves is a wonderfully researched, character-driven, multifaced story that readers will enjoy getting lost in.
At first, I felt a bit lost with the characters, not having read book one; the summarization of their lives happened later in the narration than expected. For a while, I had a hard time keeping people, their histories, and relationships straight. Once I was able to settle in, I enjoyed the way author wove in the varied aspects of Roman culture. The mechanics of putting on a show in the Colosseum are especially intriguing. While public executions are mentioned, these events are mostly brushed aside by the characters. Instead, Addey focuses on the gladiators and other performers who make the games come alive.
The plot has a strong “found family” trope, which I always enjoy. Althea is torn by how she should tell her friend about Rullus. Will it ruin her friendship? Will Rullus retaliate? Being newly freed, Althea finds making difficult decisions a challenge, and her growth drives the narrative forward. Beneath the Waves is a wonderfully researched, character-driven, multifaced story that readers will enjoy getting lost in.
May 6, 2024
I’m so enjoying the continuing story of Althea, the slave turned freewoman. In this book, we see Althea struggling with what it means to be a freewoman, what space she can claim now that she is no longer a slave. When she suffers a personal attack from somebody that everyone else seems to like, will anyone believe her if she speaks up?
Against the brutal backdrop of the games in the Flavian Amphitheatre (aka the Colosseum), Addey weaves a gripping tale full of intrigue and historical insight. The series focusses on the team responsible for putting on the games backstage at the Colosseum, a unique period of history and a group of people that I’ve never seen explored before in fiction.
If you’re looking for a story that carries you along while giving insight into ancient Roman life, this is a great series to read.
Against the brutal backdrop of the games in the Flavian Amphitheatre (aka the Colosseum), Addey weaves a gripping tale full of intrigue and historical insight. The series focusses on the team responsible for putting on the games backstage at the Colosseum, a unique period of history and a group of people that I’ve never seen explored before in fiction.
If you’re looking for a story that carries you along while giving insight into ancient Roman life, this is a great series to read.
August 3, 2025
A Good Second Book to the Series. Can't Wait to Start Book 3!
This was another interesting read. While I have read other great books on events that happened in the Colosseum, I have never fully thought about just how many people it may have taken to create these games and/or what their struggles may have been (both in their personal life and in putting together a day of games). Also, I never realized they had flooded the Colosseum more than once. It's hard to imagine how they did that so many years ago without the technology and machinery that we now have, but it's amazing nonetheless.
Can't wait for book 3!
This was another interesting read. While I have read other great books on events that happened in the Colosseum, I have never fully thought about just how many people it may have taken to create these games and/or what their struggles may have been (both in their personal life and in putting together a day of games). Also, I never realized they had flooded the Colosseum more than once. It's hard to imagine how they did that so many years ago without the technology and machinery that we now have, but it's amazing nonetheless.
Can't wait for book 3!
December 19, 2022
Read this 2nd book in one sitting! Interesting historical descriptions, particularly with regard to food and women's clothing. Fascinating accounts of how the grand spectacles were done, the mechanics of the shows and the wild animals. You can smell the sweat, feel the bloodlust, and are totally enthralled as the spectators were. I am very much looking forward to reading the upcoming 2 books in the series.
May 16, 2024
Beneath of the Waves focused more on the backstage of the Colosseum. I was fascinated by how the characters organized not one but two naumachia in this novel.
Marcus and Althea walked their separate ways, which I think was necessary.
I adored the inhabitants of the Insula. I always loved the found family trope.
Beneath the Waves' main theme was water, and as in Book One, it was a historically accurate theme. ( I loved reading about the Roman baths!)
Marcus and Althea walked their separate ways, which I think was necessary.
I adored the inhabitants of the Insula. I always loved the found family trope.
Beneath the Waves' main theme was water, and as in Book One, it was a historically accurate theme. ( I loved reading about the Roman baths!)
August 14, 2023
Love Melissa Addey's historical fictions!
If you love historical fiction and you have not read Melissa Addey's books you are really missing ,out! I love the themes of fire and water of the Colosseum books 1 & 2, and I know I'm in for a treat in the next one. Seriously, thank you, Melissa for weaving such fascinating stories from the historical records!
If you love historical fiction and you have not read Melissa Addey's books you are really missing ,out! I love the themes of fire and water of the Colosseum books 1 & 2, and I know I'm in for a treat in the next one. Seriously, thank you, Melissa for weaving such fascinating stories from the historical records!
July 23, 2022
full review soon
April 28, 2023
another great read
I enjoy all of Melissa Addey’s books. Every series has grabbed me and I love when I cannot put down a book and want it to last forever. She does that.
I enjoy all of Melissa Addey’s books. Every series has grabbed me and I love when I cannot put down a book and want it to last forever. She does that.
July 20, 2023
How is this rated so highly lol! It’s not that it was a bad book, I enjoyed it. I just found it kind of anti-climactic and as if nothing happened when things were happening, if that makes sense.
February 10, 2025
I absolutely LOVE this author and her captivating historical fiction novels. Each book is simply and beautifully written, making them accessible and enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds. What I appreciate most is that these stories don't demand too much from you; they aren't unnecessarily heavy or complex. Instead, they offer a refreshing take on history, reimagining past events with a modern twist.
The author skillfully employs familiar contemporary language, using familiar language and phrases that resonate with even a casual reader. A perfect blend of historical context and modern vernacular creates a vibrant atmosphere that pulls you into the narrative, allowing you to connect with the characters and their experiences.
I often found myself pausing to look up visuals online—searching for hairstyles, outfits, and architecture from the time periods depicted. This added layer of exploration enhanced my reading experience and deepened my appreciation for the vivid world she creates and the real history behind it . I highly recommend for a delightful literary journey that feels both enlightening and relatable!
The author skillfully employs familiar contemporary language, using familiar language and phrases that resonate with even a casual reader. A perfect blend of historical context and modern vernacular creates a vibrant atmosphere that pulls you into the narrative, allowing you to connect with the characters and their experiences.
I often found myself pausing to look up visuals online—searching for hairstyles, outfits, and architecture from the time periods depicted. This added layer of exploration enhanced my reading experience and deepened my appreciation for the vivid world she creates and the real history behind it . I highly recommend for a delightful literary journey that feels both enlightening and relatable!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews