Blood and Sand

by C. V. Wyk

[Amber]

I picked up Blood and Sand because I have a bit of an obsession with the Spartacus TV show. And Ancient Rome, but mostly Spartacus. So when I saw that a Spartacus-inspired YA book was being released I FREAKED. OUT. Blood and Sand isn’t a true story about the historical events that happened during the Third Servile War, but it’s enjoyable and the parallels made me happy.

The main character, Attia, is a Thracian whose entire tribe is killed by the Romans. She is enslaved, and given to a gladiator as a gift. She tries to plan her escape, but she gets attached to said gladiator and things get a little bit complicated.

I enjoyed the story, and I was kept intrigued the entire time, although as always, I didn’t love the romance. I really wish it hadn’t been included, as I felt the relationship was rushed and far too insta-lovey for my tastes. There wasn’t enough time for a true bond to develop.

The ending was the best part of the book, with the high stakes, intense action, and the explosive event that took me by surprise. I liked that Wyk was willing to take chances with these characters, and I sincerely hope that there are no terrible fake-outs that will be revealed in the sequel.

I’m looking forward to reading the second book in this series when it comes out, which will hopefully be next year!