Beneath the Waves (The Colosseum)
Rome, 80 AD. Recently freed slave, Althea, works as a scribe for Marcus. As manager of the Colosseum, Marcus has been charged with creating a spectacle unlike any other for Emperor Titus, a water battle that floods the amphitheater. Now Marcus and Althea must figure out how to please the emperor while also submitting to the Senate’s political wish to influence the choice of female company Titus is keeping. In the midst of planning, Althea barely escapes an assault during her walk home. She quickly discovers her close friend’s cousin, Rullus, is the culprit. However, he’s so considerate by day that no one would believe her claims. The way his eyes follow her, Althea fears a repeat occurrence unless she can find some evidence. Especially as her friend develops feelings for Rullus.
At first, I felt a bit lost with the characters, not having read book one; the summarization of their lives happened later in the narration than expected. For a while, I had a hard time keeping people, their histories, and relationships straight. Once I was able to settle in, I enjoyed the way author wove in the varied aspects of Roman culture. The mechanics of putting on a show in the Colosseum are especially intriguing. While public executions are mentioned, these events are mostly brushed aside by the characters. Instead, Addey focuses on the gladiators and other performers who make the games come alive.
The plot has a strong “found family” trope, which I always enjoy. Althea is torn by how she should tell her friend about Rullus. Will it ruin her friendship? Will Rullus retaliate? Being newly freed, Althea finds making difficult decisions a challenge, and her growth drives the narrative forward. Beneath the Waves is a wonderfully researched, character-driven, multifaced story that readers will enjoy getting lost in.
