Beneath the Sand

4,5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this. The setting was unusual for me, I appreciated the different perspectives.

This is one of those times when I love the fact that I enjoy reading a variety of books. I haven't read much of the Roman times but what I have, I enjoyed. This one is no different.

It is a very interesting and well-written look into the “games” the emperor suffered onto his people during their executions. It still baffles me how the citizens of Rome could sit through these “events” as if it were sport and worthy of spectatorship.

Alongside the executions, we follow Noemi (animal handler for the animals used in the arena) and Cato (up and coming Gladiator). Their love is forbidden but that doesn't stop them from pursuing happiness with each other and braving the possibility of being caught and sentenced to death.

Livia, Noemi's sister, is also a focal point throughout the story and at the very end she redeemed herself in my eyes and I ended up loving her.

I did feel the ending was a tad rushed but I'm sure it was just me as this was also predictable for me. I knew very early on where this was all headed, but that did not take away from my enjoyment overall. This is a solid debut and one I would definitely recommend for fans of historical fiction.

I sincerely appreciate the publisher for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.