Blood and Sand (Spoiler Free Review)

“‘Spartacus was a Thracian from the nomadic tribes and not only had a great spirit and great physical strength, but was much more than one would expect…’ Plutarch of Chaeronea, AD 100” 

Title: Blood and Sand

Author: C.V. Wyk

Publisher: Tor Teen

My Rating: 4 Stars

*Synopsis taken from Goodreads*

“Roma Victrix. The Republic of Rome is on a relentless march to create an empire―an empire built on the backs of the conquered, brought back to Rome as slaves.

Attia was once destined to rule as the queen and swordmaiden of Thrace, the greatest warrior kingdom the world had seen since Sparta. Now she is a slave, given to Xanthus, the Champion of Rome, as a sign of his master’s favor. Enslaved as a child, Xanthus is the preeminent gladiator of his generation.

Against all odds, Attia and Xanthus form a tentative bond. A bond that will spark a rebellion. A rebellion that threatens to bring the Roman Republic to its end―and gives rise to the legend of Spartacus…”

*I got a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review! Thank you!*

Sweet mother of Caesar what a grand adventure this book was! It had action, adventure, romance, and a butt kicking heroine who takes a licking and keeps on kicking! (I seriously want to learn her crazy moves.) I loved Attia. I thought she was the perfect amount of feisty while still maintaining a gentleness. Just look at her relationship with Rory, who is a six year old child. Six year olds are crazy and wild and a lot to handle! Attia managed her caretaker duties flawlessly in one scene and then maim some dude in the next! She was everything I imagine a warrior princess should be! She is by far my favorite character I’ve read about in a long time!

And can we talk about Xanthus?! He is basically the worlds best gladiator! He was the perfect calm to her storm. Don’t get me wrong, he also knows a million ways to kill a guy, but he does it all with a stoic demeanor. I adore his tortured soul.

Now, the reason I gave this book 4 stars was because I felt as though the romance moved too quickly and didn’t make a smooth transition. At one point, they didn’t trust each other at all, then a day later they were best friends. It was just a little too choppy. And y’all remember that I only give a book 5 stars if I am going to re-read it. I don’t feel as though this was that type of book for me.

Overall:  I found this book to be HIGHLY entertaining with a unique plot! I would recommend this to anyone who loves Roman culture, adventure type, YA, historical fiction. Also, the ending is brutal and I need Fire and Ash RIGHT NOW!