It's 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars for GR.Let me tell you that I don't watch the TV series Spartacus, so I can't judge how derivative this book is, or if it is. It read very quickly and the plot kept me glued to the book, even if I didn't like the characters or I couldn't connect with them. It's not an easy book because there is no real romance, let's face it. What there is, it seems written more as an afterthought. The setting is engaging, the fact that the lives of these men depend on the whims of moody owners that pursue their own agenda and use them for politics or for their own pleasure.Gold, the main character, is the greatest gladiator, but he's denied the battle in the arena by his own master, who doesn't want to risk of losing him. Gold keeps everyone at a distance, he doesn't want to feel desire, and when we read about his tribulations, the reason why he doesn't want to attach himself to anyone becomes clear. It's interesting to see how Samson, the new gladiator, stirs his passion, but when it's declined as love, I couldn't help but feeling surprised. It came a bit out of nowhere and it wasn't convincing, or it took away that cool edge from Gold without adding a convincing passionate one.There were a lot of typos or editing issues and there was something in the writing that sometimes made me roll my eyes, quite a lot telling instead of showing. The story doesn't end with this book, I think I'll have to read the whole trilogy to get a happy ending. I enjoyed this one. This is more like a 4.5 stars for me if Goodreads would allow half stars. I've had "gladiator withdraws" since this season of Spartacus ended and this was the perfect replacement. DJ has such a wonderful talent for capturing all the rich details of the story. You may as well be watching a movie for all the detail that you see in your minds eye. I love the historical feel. The story is full of intrigue and has interesting twists. My heart went out to Gold for reason for fearing love and then when he finally is able to find someone that could get past that barrier, it was taken away before it could start. I can't wait to read the next book in the series to find out what happens between Gold and Sampson.
What do You think about House Of Simeon (2010)?
I was expecting more from this story. It was good, but I'm not sure if I'll continue the series.
—Adele
