Blood and Sand (Blood and Sand #1) by C.V. Wyk

🌟🌟🌟🌟 out of 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

FORGED IN BATTLE...
FROM THE DUST OF THE ARENA...
A LEGEND WILL RISE

The action-packed tale of a 17-year-old warrior princess and a handsome gladiator who dared take on the Roman Republic―and gave rise to the legend of Spartacus...

For teens who love strong female protagonists in their fantasy and historical fiction, Blood and Sand is a stirring, yet poignant tale of two slaves who dared take on an empire by talented debut author C. V. Wyk.

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...

This review is for everyone that may or may not have been disappointed by Valiant by Lesley Livingston. If you loved it than this book is similar and you may want to read it. If you hated it than this book is better! I've always loved Roman history. I find the concept of gladiators to be barbaric and fascinating. The wars during this time period also intrigue me so I knew I needed to read Blood and Sand. 
I thought that the concept of having an origin story of sorts for Spartacus was interesting but switching him to a teenage girl was inspired. She was underestimated time and again even though she kicked major butt in this book. She had such a thirst for revenge! 
I liked the bond that she formed with Xanthus even though I would have liked to have had a book without romance in it. I don't feel like it was needed and took focus away from more important aspects of the book. 
I know that there will be a sequel but the ending seemed a bit rushed to me. It seemed like things were coming to a head when I feel like the author cuts that off abruptly. I'm hoping that things will be discussed more rather than glossing over that in the next book.