Gladius — Mark Canter

Jalaam, a bastard son in first-century Judea, escapes the bullies in his village by becoming a stable boy with the Roman cavalry. On a journey far from his desert homeland to the forested world of Germania, he befriends Hannah, a beautiful Hebrew pleasure slave. Through grit and skill Jalaam rises to become an eques sapsarius (cavalry combat medic) and, ultimately, a celebrated gladiator in Pompeii. But Hannah, now a wealthy consort, believes that Jalaam was born for an altogether different destiny. NOTE: This book was previously published under the title "Bastard". BOOK OF THE YEAR 2012, Bronze Medal (ForeWord Reviews) “He uses solid research to create a wide-ranging vibrant world.” �" Kirkus Reviews “This novel has it all -- bullies, forbidden romance, friendship, rivalries, brutal battles, gladiators and the triumph of good over evil.” �" Tallahassee Democrat