Spartacus the Gladiator by Ben Kane (historical fiction)

Spartacus' story has been thrilling us for thousands of years even though there are only 4,000 words about him in the ancient sources.  I've read books by Ben Kane before, but this was by far the best.  He really fleshes out the character with his vast knowledge of Roman history, especially warfare.  Amazing fight scenes made me wince.  I can't wait for the second novel to come out later this year.