Book Review
Breaking the Gladiator: An Alpha Attraction Novella by Nicola Rose
Erotica. Dark Romance.
4 Stars.
Delicious. A Must Read in One Sitting.
Cassian
I’m trained to kill… for the amusement of others.
Slave. Fighter. Beast.
Emotions are a weakness, so I have none; except anger and hate. All the good ones were beaten and starved out of me long ago. I barely even feel pain anymore.
But when she touches me? Feelings thrash to the surface, and in my world those are dangerous. She’s poison, feeding off my rage for her own sick pleasures. I hate her. She keeps finding cracks and opening them up, squeezing herself inside my chest.
She’s going to get me killed.
Livia
I’m Domina of the Atticus ludus, where we train gladiators to compete for victory.
Wealthy. Attractive. Powerful husband.
It appears I have it all… and I wish I could make myself feel that way. But I’m numb. Too broken to even care. The only time I feel alive is when I’m with my husband’s champion gladiator. My slave. In the arena, and the bedroom.
It’s disgusting for a woman of my rank to sleep with a man like him. He’s a dirty, worthless animal. His touch should feel repulsive. His gaze upon me should make my skin crawl.
But he’s mine. And I want more.
Note to readers: 20k novella. Contains some blood and action, and steamy romance between characters battling with dominance and consent issues. Expect a lot of heat, and a little darkness. Because romance isn’t always sweet.
This note from author Nicola Rose says it all, and it’s truly why I enjoyed Breaking the Gladiator. From the first, we’re shown how this story will cross the line, just a little. Just enough to really make you feel the true nit and grit. Just enough to rise a blush to your face and elevate that heart-rate.
Those of a more conservative, prudish persuasion should stay away. Those who don’t 
understand the need for a little domination: stay away. Those who can handle this, maybe even like it a bit, should get a copy of this novella that I called delicious upon finishing. It’s all about the sex. All about the fun. And maybe a little about facing your darkness and embracing and sharing it.
I especially enjoyed the dual nature of Livia. Her battle with her life as a beaten being next to her outlet of power over Cassian. A power she too willingly waits to share…
Let’s be honest, anything to do with gladiators is a blast, and I almost wish there was more of Cassian’s training and fighting. Not that that was the point of the book, but it was a great element I couldn’t get enough of.
In lines with the television show Spartacus, and not familiar with the period in history the book takes place, I’d be curious to hear how fitting the roles of all involved in Breaking the Gladiator are to life at the time. Not that it would make the book any less fun to read, just a random curiosity I had.
Have a cold shower ready and dive into Cassian and Livia’s affair… pre-order here.
Happy Reading 🙂
Curious how I review or what books I love?
Stealing Shade 
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