"Well researched and exciting."

-- Library Journal

"Duffy combines a sure sense of character and narrative with an extraordinary knowledge of the world of the Roman arena.  It's an exciting, thrilling novel. I'm looking forward to more in the series."

–John Maddox Roberts, Author, 

SPQR historical fiction series

"An action-packed, head-spinning ride... Duffy writes with enthusiasm, and his affection for his gladiators shines through on every page."

-- Nicolas Nicastro, Author,

The Isle of Stone: A Novel of Ancient Sparta &

Empire of Ashes: A Novel of Alexander The Great

“Just when you thought you’ve read everything there is about the Roman gladiator, along comes Sand of the Arena to galvanize the genre.”

July, 2005-- Historical research isn't limited to books and libraries. In order to get a better feel for what it was like to do battle with gladius, trident, and sica, Jim worked with the members of Ludus Magnus Gladiatore in Maine this summer. The gladiator reenactment troupe invited Jim to their Roman Days festival near Kennebunkport to learn the art of arena combat from their trainers and fighters. He came away with more than a few cuts and bruises, but also a better understanding of the offensive and defensive uses of each weapon. This first-hand experience will certainly result in enhanced arena battle scenes for future books. 

Jim (beneath the Thracian helmet) trains with head doctore Mike Cattelier (aka Lupus Britanicus).

A practice fight between group leader John Ebel (aka Maximus Mercurius Gladius) as a murmillo and Al Barbato (aka Tritonius) as a retiarius.

The men and women of Ludus Magnus Gladiatore.

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