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Roman trilogy #2
The Protector
Quintus Ambustus is a slave—Adiona Leonia is a wealthy socialite. He fights for his life in the gladiator's ring—she plays cutthroat politics in Rome's high society. He's sacrificed everything for his Christian faith—she believes in nothing and no one. But when Adiona's life is threatened, Quintus is chosen as her bodyguard, and their fascination with one another shocks them both. Neither thought to find joy in a match society would condemn…but their feelings cannot be denied. Have they lost too much to believe in happiness? Or will their growing love let them leave the past behind—and build a new future together?
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
12 people are currently reading
942 people want to read
About the author
Carla Capshaw
14 books243 followersCarla Capshaw is a Florida native who grew up dreaming of traveling the world and writing novels.
After visiting numerous countries, Carla began writing novels in earnest and eventually won two Golden Heart awards as well as a double Rita nomination for her first novel, The Gladiator. Carla loves passionate stories with compelling, nearly impossible conflicts. She's found Inspirational Romance is the perfect vehicle to combine lush settings, vivid characters and a Christian worldview.
Still living in Florida, Carla is always planning her next trip and plotting her next novel. Visit her at www.carlacapshaw.com.
After visiting numerous countries, Carla began writing novels in earnest and eventually won two Golden Heart awards as well as a double Rita nomination for her first novel, The Gladiator. Carla loves passionate stories with compelling, nearly impossible conflicts. She's found Inspirational Romance is the perfect vehicle to combine lush settings, vivid characters and a Christian worldview.
Still living in Florida, Carla is always planning her next trip and plotting her next novel. Visit her at www.carlacapshaw.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 6, 2011
Why do you think I thought of Quintus? Who better to protect a woman than the man who can’t keep his eyes of her?
Quintus is a gladiator. Stripped of his social status, his wealth, his life, he is forced to fight brutally for his life, because of his new belief in Christ, which he holds to strong, never faltering. While training for the gladiator ring, he catches the eye of the beautiful, well sought after Lady Adiona Leonia. Tall, dark, and handsome, she’s breathless when she watches him fight, fearful that this could be the day he died. And he can’t stop thinking about her either. But he tries to deny his feelings, he could never have her because of his new lowered status. Trying to make himself believe this, and not even knowing the lady, he tells a former gladiator what he really thinks about her, but knowing that he can’t know this for sure. Adiona hears him saying those rude things, and is hurt deeply. But she refuses to let it show. One night she is attacked, and she and her friends realizes someone is trying to kill her. Quintus is appointed her bodyguard as she travels to see a dying friend. They set off on their journey, both trying to squelch their feelings, both thinking the other could never possibly want them, but then finding out hidden things about each other that bring them to new light, and makes their budding love grow.
I loved Quintus' and Adiona's banter. It made their relationship so real and endearing. But I especially loved the parts when they let their guard down, and they shared little tender moments, a touch of the face, a link of her arm threw his, that made their hearts race, and wonder if the other could feel something more for them than contempt. I couldn’t stop smiling through the whole book. And several times I was laughing at the characters, at the sometimes awkward moments between Quintus and Adiona. And it takes them a time to realize they do love each other. I loved this bit of wisdom given to Adiona from her friend, When two people are in love they're often the last to know. So true, isn't it!
The ending surprised me. Not quite close to the end, they thought they had found the true attempted killer, and Adiona felt safe, especially when Quintus was with her. But then Capshaw threw a twist at us. Someone was almost lost, but their ardor for each other was shown, and they knew that they will always love each other, no matter what happens.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet, endearing, Christian love story. The religion was handled nicely, the dialogue was amusing and real, and the plot well thought out. I think I’m going to have to read more of these Love Inspired Historical books :)
Quintus is a gladiator. Stripped of his social status, his wealth, his life, he is forced to fight brutally for his life, because of his new belief in Christ, which he holds to strong, never faltering. While training for the gladiator ring, he catches the eye of the beautiful, well sought after Lady Adiona Leonia. Tall, dark, and handsome, she’s breathless when she watches him fight, fearful that this could be the day he died. And he can’t stop thinking about her either. But he tries to deny his feelings, he could never have her because of his new lowered status. Trying to make himself believe this, and not even knowing the lady, he tells a former gladiator what he really thinks about her, but knowing that he can’t know this for sure. Adiona hears him saying those rude things, and is hurt deeply. But she refuses to let it show. One night she is attacked, and she and her friends realizes someone is trying to kill her. Quintus is appointed her bodyguard as she travels to see a dying friend. They set off on their journey, both trying to squelch their feelings, both thinking the other could never possibly want them, but then finding out hidden things about each other that bring them to new light, and makes their budding love grow.
I loved Quintus' and Adiona's banter. It made their relationship so real and endearing. But I especially loved the parts when they let their guard down, and they shared little tender moments, a touch of the face, a link of her arm threw his, that made their hearts race, and wonder if the other could feel something more for them than contempt. I couldn’t stop smiling through the whole book. And several times I was laughing at the characters, at the sometimes awkward moments between Quintus and Adiona. And it takes them a time to realize they do love each other. I loved this bit of wisdom given to Adiona from her friend, When two people are in love they're often the last to know. So true, isn't it!
The ending surprised me. Not quite close to the end, they thought they had found the true attempted killer, and Adiona felt safe, especially when Quintus was with her. But then Capshaw threw a twist at us. Someone was almost lost, but their ardor for each other was shown, and they knew that they will always love each other, no matter what happens.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet, endearing, Christian love story. The religion was handled nicely, the dialogue was amusing and real, and the plot well thought out. I think I’m going to have to read more of these Love Inspired Historical books :)
May 25, 2010
This book made me smile! I love how we get Characters from her first book, The Gladiator, to return and make an appearance. And, yea for Cat!! Made me smile when he appeared in the first couple of chapters. Quintus and Adiona's story is great. Adiona has issues of self-worth and hiding behind a veneer of wealth, makeup and clothes to look good to society, while hurting on the inside. She is so in need of Christ's love and saving grace and doesn't fully realize it till her life is in danger. Quintus and Adiona have had an unusual connection since they first met in The Gladiator, but the fact that Quintus now has to protect her from a murderer throws them together in a whole different way. Despite both of their pasts, they both have to overcome stigmas and prejudices that they have the opposite sex. I love how Carla Capshaw kept the same characters involved from The Gladiator to help these two along. Maybe Josephina and Onesimus' story is next....?
June 10, 2017
So sweet
October 19, 2019
A SOLID 3.5 STARS!
I ENJOYED THIS ONE, I MEAN IT'S A CLEAN ROMANCE BUT LIKE THE FIRST BOOK IT WAS BRIMMING WITH EMOTIONS TO MAKE UP FOR THE LACK OF PASSION.
QUINTUS is a Christian man who has been trialed and thrown to the Ludus for his faith as were the fate of the people during his time. Once a wealthy man, with a wife and son, he's now a widower and with his pride, is reluctant to let the lanista set him free out of friendship. When Adiona's life is endangered, he is assigned to become her protector which he accepted with a bit of hesitance. Adiona, the Lioness is the only woman who disturbs him immensely, mostly because he's attracted to her but there are many rumours surrounding the woman, that reminds him of his dead wife - a woman he was forced to marry but never loved. But, he will come to realise that she's merely a wounded female trying to protect herself and one who can steal his heart just as easily.
ADIONA was married to a man over three times her age at 12. Her father never loved her, thinking her a burden only good for marriage and when her husband finally died, she became a rich widow at 23. Adiona became a man hater after her traumatic marriage where she was abused. Now, a woman of her own fate, she's interested in no one, until she encountered Quintus. Unfortunately, one time she overheard his conversation with another and believed he disliked her, bruising her pride and girlish adoration of him. When someone sets out to murder her, Quintus becomes her guard and finally they get to know each other and fall in love.
OVERALL it was a sweet gladiator romance. Not much of the arena scene here compared to the first book, but the romance was just as nice.
I ENJOYED THIS ONE, I MEAN IT'S A CLEAN ROMANCE BUT LIKE THE FIRST BOOK IT WAS BRIMMING WITH EMOTIONS TO MAKE UP FOR THE LACK OF PASSION.
QUINTUS is a Christian man who has been trialed and thrown to the Ludus for his faith as were the fate of the people during his time. Once a wealthy man, with a wife and son, he's now a widower and with his pride, is reluctant to let the lanista set him free out of friendship. When Adiona's life is endangered, he is assigned to become her protector which he accepted with a bit of hesitance. Adiona, the Lioness is the only woman who disturbs him immensely, mostly because he's attracted to her but there are many rumours surrounding the woman, that reminds him of his dead wife - a woman he was forced to marry but never loved. But, he will come to realise that she's merely a wounded female trying to protect herself and one who can steal his heart just as easily.
ADIONA was married to a man over three times her age at 12. Her father never loved her, thinking her a burden only good for marriage and when her husband finally died, she became a rich widow at 23. Adiona became a man hater after her traumatic marriage where she was abused. Now, a woman of her own fate, she's interested in no one, until she encountered Quintus. Unfortunately, one time she overheard his conversation with another and believed he disliked her, bruising her pride and girlish adoration of him. When someone sets out to murder her, Quintus becomes her guard and finally they get to know each other and fall in love.
OVERALL it was a sweet gladiator romance. Not much of the arena scene here compared to the first book, but the romance was just as nice.
July 24, 2011
Carla Capshaw brings the readers to early A.D. It is a time of gladiators and persecution for Christians.
If you have not read Carla's first book in this series, The Gladiator, I would suggest doing so. She has started Quintus & Adiona's story in that book and she has wound the beloved characters from that book into The Protector.
Quintus Ambustus was turned in as a Christian and sold into slavery. Caros, a former champion gladiator, had bought him. Quintus was a quick learner in the training school Caros has.
Adiona Leonia is a wealthy widow. Those who want to be known in Rome's social circles want to be in her circle. She is known as a hard woman and a man hater, except for Caros whom many suspect she had been in an affair with.
From the moment Adiona seen Quintus she was drawn into his unique green eyes. Quintus struggled against his attraction for her as she was not a Christian and he had assumed she lived as many in her circle did.
Both of them were hiding deep hurts. When Adiona's life was threatened Quintus was assigned as her body guard. He soon see's that Adiona is not what she portrays to be.
This book is captivating and holds your attention. There is danger to Adiona as they travel as they do not know who her assailant is. Quintus must return to his hometown as well not knowing who had turned him as a Christian eight months ago. It will keep you hanging on to the end.
The third book in this series will be out in August, 2011, The Champion.
If you have not read Carla's first book in this series, The Gladiator, I would suggest doing so. She has started Quintus & Adiona's story in that book and she has wound the beloved characters from that book into The Protector.
Quintus Ambustus was turned in as a Christian and sold into slavery. Caros, a former champion gladiator, had bought him. Quintus was a quick learner in the training school Caros has.
Adiona Leonia is a wealthy widow. Those who want to be known in Rome's social circles want to be in her circle. She is known as a hard woman and a man hater, except for Caros whom many suspect she had been in an affair with.
From the moment Adiona seen Quintus she was drawn into his unique green eyes. Quintus struggled against his attraction for her as she was not a Christian and he had assumed she lived as many in her circle did.
Both of them were hiding deep hurts. When Adiona's life was threatened Quintus was assigned as her body guard. He soon see's that Adiona is not what she portrays to be.
This book is captivating and holds your attention. There is danger to Adiona as they travel as they do not know who her assailant is. Quintus must return to his hometown as well not knowing who had turned him as a Christian eight months ago. It will keep you hanging on to the end.
The third book in this series will be out in August, 2011, The Champion.
July 17, 2010
I was wise to start this book early in the day so I didn't have to stay up late to finish-for surely I would have!
I think I may have enjoyed this book even more than The Gladiator, which I thought would be quite impossible. I think it's mostly due to the fact that I relate in personality to Adiona. :) I loved her from the last book, knowing there was a lot hidden beneath the surface. Man do I ever love her and her spirit! I was beyond thrilled to hear her and Quintus' story, and glad I waited to read when I could go from the first to the next! I love it when characters can overcome and work through the challenges life has given them, in a way that feels real and true, which Carla captures perfectly! Quintus is beyond dreamy too, who wouldn't want him as a protector? I am in love with the book cover itself. ;)
I want more, and am hopeful for another story to be told, as these characters are now near and dear to my heart! Sigh.
As always I feel so grateful for my life, and the love of the Savior for us all.
I think I may have enjoyed this book even more than The Gladiator, which I thought would be quite impossible. I think it's mostly due to the fact that I relate in personality to Adiona. :) I loved her from the last book, knowing there was a lot hidden beneath the surface. Man do I ever love her and her spirit! I was beyond thrilled to hear her and Quintus' story, and glad I waited to read when I could go from the first to the next! I love it when characters can overcome and work through the challenges life has given them, in a way that feels real and true, which Carla captures perfectly! Quintus is beyond dreamy too, who wouldn't want him as a protector? I am in love with the book cover itself. ;)
I want more, and am hopeful for another story to be told, as these characters are now near and dear to my heart! Sigh.
As always I feel so grateful for my life, and the love of the Savior for us all.
May 16, 2010
I picked up The Protector with trepidation. Would this follow up to the Rita-nominated The Gladiator live up to my expectations? I should not have been concerned. Once again, Capshaw has written what I have come to term a "mature" inspirational with vivid detailing of the first century, alpha males like no other, and an action packed plot. Capshaw's ability to create a vivid world often neglected in historical romances as well as her knack for twists and turns make this a book not to be missed.
Capshaw's gift for faith development shows through on every page as she draws characters who are human in their frailties but have the ability to change as they discover Christ. She took a less than likable character from her first book and made her a wonderful heroine worthy of her hero, a character I fell in love with immediately.
All I can say is "More, More!"
Capshaw's gift for faith development shows through on every page as she draws characters who are human in their frailties but have the ability to change as they discover Christ. She took a less than likable character from her first book and made her a wonderful heroine worthy of her hero, a character I fell in love with immediately.
All I can say is "More, More!"
July 19, 2010
Carla Capshaw's ability to put very interesting characters in the midst of a very believable historical setting and continually hold the reader's interest throughout the entire story is amazing. She brings back some of the characters from her first book,"The Gladiator," but "The Protector" focuses on Adiona and Quintus. The novel also deals with how hard it is to overcome fears that are deeply rooted in your past, and the beauty of new-found faith. Add the intrigue of a killer on the loose and you will be hooked. I hope the author isn't tired of writing about ancient Rome, because I would love to hear more. This is one of the best books I've read this year! BRAVO!!
February 13, 2011
Another great book from Carla. I enjoyed this book as much as the first. After reading The Gladiator I really wanted to read Quintus and Adiona's story and I wasn't disappointed. Right from the start this book is full of action. Quintus becomes a bodyguard for Adiona and it is here we learn more of both there histories. In the prologue we learn alot about what it is like to be a girl in early Rome. We learn girls are not valued and were treated badly. I didn't realize it was like this for girls back then also. I love how the book unfolds and admit I was often wondering what would happen next. Great read.
January 25, 2012
Really liked it!
It certainly has a different plot from the others by Carla in the series- which results in a fairly good book... I wouldn't say it was particularly intriguing, but it was good.
My favorite part were the characters! They're always the best developed part in Carla's books!
I also like how characters from other books are brought together!!
Another overall lovely book by Carla Capshaw!!!!
It certainly has a different plot from the others by Carla in the series- which results in a fairly good book... I wouldn't say it was particularly intriguing, but it was good.
My favorite part were the characters! They're always the best developed part in Carla's books!
I also like how characters from other books are brought together!!
Another overall lovely book by Carla Capshaw!!!!
March 4, 2013
Compared to Book 1 (The Gladiator), this one was not nearly has enjoyable. Once again, Carla Capshaw does a good job of writing a love story during the harsh time of Ancient Rome. Like her first book, she will get you feeling a bit sad as you read these people's backgrounds and what they have to endure. But the end definitely brings things together and ties it up in a nice heartwarming story.
September 4, 2013
Very similar to the first one The Gladiator. I enjoyed it though. The Christian elements were a little much in this one to me. But overall, a good one.
Moral Note: Mild/Heavy Violence - some attempted murder, talk of murder, gladiator violence, abusive forced marriage between 12 yr old and older man. Mild talk of unfaithfulness in marriage. No language, clean romance between H/h.
Moral Note: Mild/Heavy Violence - some attempted murder, talk of murder, gladiator violence, abusive forced marriage between 12 yr old and older man. Mild talk of unfaithfulness in marriage. No language, clean romance between H/h.
August 28, 2010
I could hardly wait for Quintus and Adiona's story after reading "The Gladiator," and this book didn't disappoint. I shed a fear tears but mostly loved the romance, and the twist at the end caught me by surprise.
September 14, 2011
this second book was just as good as the first one! loved it so much. i also gave this one to my sister and she flew through the book and asked if there was another in the series. cant say anything else except it was amazing!
July 2, 2010
A very good example of the genre'.
July 16, 2010
Great story! I loved that they both felt unloved and had tragic backgrounds and discovered love in each other.
November 15, 2010
A great sequel to The Gladiator!
January 25, 2012
Fantastic Romance!!!!!
March 23, 2021
2021 READ: 5 STARS!
(BOOK THAT I READ DURING LENTEN SEASON)
I actually never thought that a story with Christian theme, with the Hero being a Christian, could also be so hot that I could feel the steam off the screen hahahaha!
This is a clean romance. It doesn't mean though that I could not feel the electric charge between the two characters. The tension came from the known and unknown desires of both towards each other.
She, an elite widow and he, a slave (with a very stint of being a gladiator). Adiona craved for Quintus but she never wanted to be enslaved by a man anymore. Quintus craved for Adiona but she was not his and he was not hers - his devout faith for Christ was one of the reasons why he stepped back.
To be honest, I've read erotica, smut and other steamy stories. In my personal opinion, if this was not a Christian themed romance, the sexual needs would be met and both would literally combust. I may not like or like it. But as it was written like this, heavily Christian theme, I really never thought that it could be hot as well. This is a clean romance with only kisses and hugs, a lovable Hero and heroine, and a tension that could cut the sun.
My review is not for intelligent discussion. It's what I felt/thought while reading the book. For 2021, I would rate the book this way:
1 - DNF'ed
2 - does not exist
3 - did not like
4 - it was okay
5 - I like it / I enjoy reading it (but it doesn't mean I recommend it)
(BOOK THAT I READ DURING LENTEN SEASON)
I actually never thought that a story with Christian theme, with the Hero being a Christian, could also be so hot that I could feel the steam off the screen hahahaha!
This is a clean romance. It doesn't mean though that I could not feel the electric charge between the two characters. The tension came from the known and unknown desires of both towards each other.
She, an elite widow and he, a slave (with a very stint of being a gladiator). Adiona craved for Quintus but she never wanted to be enslaved by a man anymore. Quintus craved for Adiona but she was not his and he was not hers - his devout faith for Christ was one of the reasons why he stepped back.
To be honest, I've read erotica, smut and other steamy stories. In my personal opinion, if this was not a Christian themed romance, the sexual needs would be met and both would literally combust. I may not like or like it. But as it was written like this, heavily Christian theme, I really never thought that it could be hot as well. This is a clean romance with only kisses and hugs, a lovable Hero and heroine, and a tension that could cut the sun.
My review is not for intelligent discussion. It's what I felt/thought while reading the book. For 2021, I would rate the book this way:
1 - DNF'ed
2 - does not exist
3 - did not like
4 - it was okay
5 - I like it / I enjoy reading it (but it doesn't mean I recommend it)
August 11, 2022
⭐3.5
Fun story full of faith and interesting characters. However, Adionas and Quintus attraction was interesting. As someone of strong faith, it's very important that my partner be a strong believer, for me that's part of what makes them so attractive. It felt like a bit of a moral battle when it came to Quintus attraction for Adiona, because of her lack of faith. We could call Quintus's pull towards Adiona lust, but even as the book progresses, he feelings get stronger even when she hadn't professed Christ as her savior, which is a core value they would have to share. He already made a point of how his first wife wasn't like this, and acted vainly and was without faith. Still like the story, just had a bit of a time getting over that.
Violence?: Abuse (physical and emotional) is mentioned throughout the book so heads up on that one, snakes, poison, suicides.
Romance: kisses, embraces.
Profanity: none
Age?: 12+
Fun story full of faith and interesting characters. However, Adionas and Quintus attraction was interesting. As someone of strong faith, it's very important that my partner be a strong believer, for me that's part of what makes them so attractive. It felt like a bit of a moral battle when it came to Quintus attraction for Adiona, because of her lack of faith. We could call Quintus's pull towards Adiona lust, but even as the book progresses, he feelings get stronger even when she hadn't professed Christ as her savior, which is a core value they would have to share. He already made a point of how his first wife wasn't like this, and acted vainly and was without faith. Still like the story, just had a bit of a time getting over that.
Violence?: Abuse (physical and emotional) is mentioned throughout the book so heads up on that one, snakes, poison, suicides.
Romance: kisses, embraces.
Profanity: none
Age?: 12+
March 20, 2025
Once again, a little biased toward this entire series.
The dual pining of Qunitus and Adiona is relatable in a way of thinking there is a gap too large to be bridged. Especially in faith. I like how these characters really evolve (after meeting them in book one “The Gladiator”) their personalities shine and you get to see different facets of their characters. Such as Quintus’ temper and Adiona’s fears, and how they help each other conquer them.
Quintus’s constant reference to his faith and admitting to his failures and short comings, gives a realistic view of faith. The sweet testament Adiona experiences through her friendships with Christians, is a great example for us all to live out our faith and be bold enough to pray for our friends.
The mystery element keeps you guessing until the end! Over all a good book about two people equally pining for each other until FINALLY! they admit they love each other!
The dual pining of Qunitus and Adiona is relatable in a way of thinking there is a gap too large to be bridged. Especially in faith. I like how these characters really evolve (after meeting them in book one “The Gladiator”) their personalities shine and you get to see different facets of their characters. Such as Quintus’ temper and Adiona’s fears, and how they help each other conquer them.
Quintus’s constant reference to his faith and admitting to his failures and short comings, gives a realistic view of faith. The sweet testament Adiona experiences through her friendships with Christians, is a great example for us all to live out our faith and be bold enough to pray for our friends.
The mystery element keeps you guessing until the end! Over all a good book about two people equally pining for each other until FINALLY! they admit they love each other!
June 3, 2022
My first "Christian Romance" because, quite frankly, I had no idea that this was even a thing, so... why not, right? Not as preachy as I expected (thankfully!), but also not as interesting or well-plotted as I hoped. The main characters are obsessed with each other from Page 1, and since the rules of the genre dictate that there Shalt Not Be Any Funny Business Of Any Kind WHATSOEVER, there really isn't anywhere for them to go - except, of course, newly converted and betrothed. If you're looking for G-rated romance with fun characters and tight plots, do yourself a favour and pick up a Georgette Heyer. No funny business - I promise!
March 5, 2020
I was so happy to see Quintus and Adiona take center stage in the second of this series. They both stole my heart immediately. I think this will be my favorite out of the three books.
July 18, 2017
Happily Ever After.... Sigh
What a great story, love the storyline. God does answer prayers, God does love bringing two people together. God can change hearts.
What a great story, love the storyline. God does answer prayers, God does love bringing two people together. God can change hearts.
January 3, 2018
Not what I expected a clear gospel message novel more then a romance novel not a bad thing just not my cup of tea
July 18, 2019
Enjoyable love story, but too short and watered down due to the publishing constraints.
November 16, 2020
This was a really good read about Roman times shortly after the death of Christ when being a Christian could be punishable by death.
March 7, 2013
Well, may I just start out by saying that I love the cover! This Guy is SMOKIN' HOT!!! I had no problem whatsoever with picturing Quintas like this.
Based on the first book, whenever Adiona and Quintas saw eachother I thought Quintas would look away and do other things because he did not like her and found her annoying. However, I was definetly wrong. He would look away because he didn't know how to act in front of her without feeling embarrassed by his decline is social status. Not only that but just the way she looked sent his heart into a frenzy. It was really cute.
Adiona hated the whole male race, except her best friend Caros, because of her past experience with men. However, when she first saw Quintas she couldn't figure out why she felt drawn to him.
Over the course of the story Quintas and Adiona learn about eachothers past hurts and grow closer to eachother. I liked how they both had painful pasts. I think that made it more realistic for the time period of the story instead of one of them having a cookie cutter life. Also, it is their pasts that brought them together. If Quintas would of never been imprisoned he never would of met Adiona, and if Adiona would of never had a hatred towards men Quintas would of had know reason to get her to trust again.
I liked how Adiona came to Christ too. She hated her father and when she found out that Christians called God "Father" it was really hard for her. She didn't want another one based on how her first Dad treated her. But as she got close to Quintas, became friends with Pelonia, and saw Caros's transformation she couldn't help but acknowledge that God existed and played a role in everything in her life.
The only thing I did not like about this book was that, like the first one, it changed people alot without having a break or a pause in the story. So, I would be reading one persons thoughts one paragraph and another persons in the next. I had to do a little back tracking here and there because of it.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a little bit of romance in their books as well as a good message.
If you liked this review please go to my blog for more at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
Based on the first book, whenever Adiona and Quintas saw eachother I thought Quintas would look away and do other things because he did not like her and found her annoying. However, I was definetly wrong. He would look away because he didn't know how to act in front of her without feeling embarrassed by his decline is social status. Not only that but just the way she looked sent his heart into a frenzy. It was really cute.
Adiona hated the whole male race, except her best friend Caros, because of her past experience with men. However, when she first saw Quintas she couldn't figure out why she felt drawn to him.
Over the course of the story Quintas and Adiona learn about eachothers past hurts and grow closer to eachother. I liked how they both had painful pasts. I think that made it more realistic for the time period of the story instead of one of them having a cookie cutter life. Also, it is their pasts that brought them together. If Quintas would of never been imprisoned he never would of met Adiona, and if Adiona would of never had a hatred towards men Quintas would of had know reason to get her to trust again.
I liked how Adiona came to Christ too. She hated her father and when she found out that Christians called God "Father" it was really hard for her. She didn't want another one based on how her first Dad treated her. But as she got close to Quintas, became friends with Pelonia, and saw Caros's transformation she couldn't help but acknowledge that God existed and played a role in everything in her life.
The only thing I did not like about this book was that, like the first one, it changed people alot without having a break or a pause in the story. So, I would be reading one persons thoughts one paragraph and another persons in the next. I had to do a little back tracking here and there because of it.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a little bit of romance in their books as well as a good message.
If you liked this review please go to my blog for more at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
June 28, 2016
I've constantly avoided these 'love inspired' and smallish books, but I'm so glad I picked this one up. Okay, it was mostly for the guy on the cover, but the description on the back is amazing and totally accurate. Quintus and Adiona meet 5 months before the book beings while Quintus is training to become a gladiator. A few sparks fly. The book picks up when Quintus is in the ring, battling elephants and men on chariots shooting arrows. Men around him are falling and as he vaults atop an elephant he catches sight of Adiona, staring at him petrified. The sight of her catches him off guard and he suffers from a few arrows. Later, in the 'gladiator hospital', he insults Adiona (although he immediately regrets it) and she overhears (she came down to check on him). He is trying to avoid her and ignore his attraction towards her, but Adiona thinks he intensely dislikes her. He, on the other hand, think she intensely dislikes him, while he is the first man she's noticed since the abuse and torture of her now dead husband. Through a series of events, Quintus becomes Adiona's protector on a journey she must make. And, boy, does he protect her. He goes to any lengths and does everything to keep her safe, unafraid, and comfortable. Although he is a man, Adiona comes to trust Quintus. At times her sharp tongue still does some harm, but neither one can deny that they are falling in love. Quintus is so sweet. He lives every day in pain because of the death of his son and it is only Adiona who instills in him the desire to live again. She becomes his entire life and he cannot imagine himself without her. Unfortunately he still thinks she finds him repulsive because he is a man and still technically a slave. Quintus does everything in his power to prove his worth to his lady and things finally work out in the depths of the grotto...won't spoil that part! Obviously, I completely enjoyed this book, otherwise it would have not gotten 4 stars. Reasons it didn't get 5 stars: It was a small book, it should have been longer, the relationship moved a bit fast although everything was still realistic, the writing seemed a bit amateur. Loved it and now I just have to read the other two! Totally recommend this book!
July 25, 2010
I really enjoyed reading The Protector. It was a great reminder of just how much Christ loves us, no matter our background or social standing. He died on the cross for all, equally. Adiona saw it played out in the lives of her friends, who weren't afraid to stand as Christians in a society where Christianity was illegal. They were testimonies to the love and grace of Christ, and through their lives she saw what she needed so desperately. And Christ is no respector of persons, whether rich, slave, or gladiator. Adiona was abused terribly by her husband, and she bore emotional scars that she tried to hide by an indifferent spirit. She soon found that not all men are like her husband, and by Quintus's care for her, she saw the love of Christ in his life. I thought he was a good example of Christ's love for us.
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