Once Upon A Romance

Once Upon A Romance's Review Of...
The Protector by Carla Capshaw

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Cover art: The Protector Reviewer: Robyn Roberts
Title: The Protector - Sequel to The Gladiator
Author: Carla Capshaw
Publisher: Steeple Hill/Love Inspired Historical
ISBN-13: 978-0373828401
Release Date: July 2010
Genre/Sub-genre: Inspirational Historical Romance
Year/Setting: 81 A.D., Rome
Overall Rating: 4.5
Sexual Content Rating: None
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content Rating: Very Mild
Violent Content Rating: Very Minimal
Carla's Website/Blog: www.carlacapshaw.com


Quintus Ambustus has been enslaved for his ‘crazy’ beliefs. He’s fighting for his life and his freedom in the gladiator’s ring. He’s noticed the beautiful Adiona Leonia, but knows nothing can come of his desire to learn more about her. She’s wealthy socialite and caught up in the politics of Rome. She lives the life of the very privileged and can have nothing to do with a mere slave…no matter how much she might like to know more about this handsome gladiator. She keeps her thoughts and feelings under wraps and manages to watch him from afar. When her life is threatened, he is assigned to keep her safe. Will either one of them be able to put their pasts behind them and look towards a future? Will the killer strike again? Can she plan a future life if her life might be ending?

Let’s face it, I’ve read hundreds of romance novels. I’ve read historicals set in England, Scotland, Persia, Asia, China, the United States, but I’ve never read one set in ancient Rome. Carla Capshaw chose a brilliant setting for her book. I was so fascinated by the pieces of history she shared and how places and events talked about in the Bible and in Bible commentaries came to life through her pen.

The story was captivating on many levels. For Quintus to be a slave because of his faith is a rarity—most men cry off Jesus and gain freedom. His integrity and ability to stand fast to his beliefs made him all the more appealing. And when he is tasked with keeping Adiona safe, he puts all of his integrity and energy into the endeavor.

I loved the moment Adiona realizes he’s no ordinary slave. He’s actually a merchant whose wealth and prior social power rivals her own. As her feelings continue to flourish for Quintus, I wondered if they could ever find a way to being happy and being together. It’s obvious that they are both smitten with each other, but each one has a reason to fight the attraction and keep it hidden. It was a constant circling and I rooted for them throughout the book.

I’m so intrigued by this book that I’m now looking to purchase The Gladiator and read the story before this one. While The Protector stands fully on its own as a story, I caught hints of what came in the book before and I’d like to read the full account. If you like inspirational historicals, I think you will love The Protector.

Robyn

Question or comment regarding the review or the book? Click here and let Robyn know.





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