Invictus Shakes: A Gladiator Slice of Life [Book 2 complete]

To taste glory, gladiators must bring a whole new flavor to the arena or die trying. Here in the Imperium Aeterna, Rome never fell and gladiators still fight. No one knows why the gods pulled the realm out of space and time, but centuries have passed and it's time for something fresh. Meet Maximilia, adopted daughter of the retired champion. Armed with protein powder and a cheeky grin, she opens a smoothie shop next to the coliseum. There, she takes on rude customers while learning there's a lot more to gladiators than guts, glory, and good looks.  But the drama is just beginning. New territories are suddenly appearing, ripped from the world left behind. They bring dangerous warriors to the arena forcing Max to remember that blood can spill the same as juice. With lives and love on the line, she prays to the gods she didn't just hand her friends their last drink. Ingredients to expect - Slice of life: Drama, action, humor, love & tragedy  - Romance and also slowburn...I really do mean slowburn (No harem) (Queer representation: this is ancient Rome, people) - Found family - Strong lead slowburn - Gladiators vs other cultures - Complex characters & relationships Cover art by @andrewrussell_art Volume art by @seter.san Shop hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Bene advenisti! Welcome! While I've worked hard to incorporate historical accuracy, I am by no means an expert on the cultures, history, or combat depicted...(or Latin. I'm sorry!) So as a writer, I've taken some creative liberties. I also usually work on stories that are emotionally heavy with an extensive writing process. In contrast, Invictus Shakes is very much a project started for fun and to try something new...although it's not without its heartfelt moments. It's charmed me and I hope it charms you too. — Grātiās vōbīs agō (My thanks to you all!)