The Gladiator’s Temptation
In 100 BC Rome, Fortunada, a golden-haired beauty, and Baro, a gladiator, meet secretly. They are in love and plan to marry. Although Fortunada is divorced with two young children, Baro is willing to break his contract with a Ludus, a gladiatorial school. Fortunada’s ex-husband, Albinius, returns unexpectedly. Having divorced his second wife, he plans to start a Ludus in another town. Fortunada is alarmed that he wishes to not only take custody of his children, but also – having been offered a dowry – remarry her. Baro intentionally loses a fight and obtains his release. Fortunada is faced with a dilemma of having to either remain with her children or go with her lover, who has thrown off his career for her.
This captivating love story explores the laws and norms of the Roman era. Under the paterfamilias system, women had very few rights, if any. Children were considered the property of the husband; divorced or widowed women would be returned to their father and could be sold into slavery. The boundless efforts that Fortunada has to exert to keep her children, and Baro, under those oppressive conditions are well narrated. The evocative love scenes and settings transport us to Rome, while enjoying the story.
