Middling Historical Fiction

On the one hand, Ben Kane's interpretation ('Spartacus: The Gladiator' - also available on Audible) of the famous 71 B.C. Revolt led by a Thracian slave/gladiator is quite a bit better (more exciting and more historically accurate than this book) - On the other, this 1951 offering stimulated the production of the Kubrick-directed Kirk Douglas/Laurence Olivier/Charles Laughton/Peter Ustinov film that brought the story to worldwide attention.. and tells an entertaining (if sociologically agenda-driven) tale.
Author Howard Fast explains in the prologue that he wrote this book while serving a jail sentence for communist activity.. and his politics show through in the story. The Roman aristocracy are invariably profligate, corrupt, exploitative, bloodthirsty, and decadent/depraved.. while slaves are principled, generous, and cartoonishly noble.
If you can get past the heavyhanded messaging, however, the book isn't bad. Fast's non-chronological storytelling technique is occasionally offputting, but dialogue is realistic, his description skills are capable, and the plot includes nicely balanced intrigue, action & romance elements.

The quality narration from Julian Elfer contributes to my generally favorable impression of the book, too. True, he reads a little bit too slowly (listen at 1.15X) and occasionally audibly accumulates saliva in the corners of his mouth.. but his diction/enunciation, timbre, cadence, voice-acting, and tone are solidly above-average.

Altogether, if you are asked for a Credit, spend it on a different retelling of this famous event (there are many available).. but if you can get it as a 'Plus' selection, this 6/10-star recording is worth your time.

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