As I have consumed the Audible version, I should point out that there are no notes here nor a bibliography. The historical writing of this period, including the Bible and Josephus, are usually presented with more of a bias than one finds in modern historical writing. So not knowing Chilton’s sources, I do have an underlying skepticism that Chilton is presenting uncontestable fact. The dates of certain facts do not agree with some of my previous readings, but they sure are interesting. Reading the Bible, I never had the idea that John the Baptist died in 21 CE, years before the ministry of Jesus for instance.

But I was fascinated by Chilton'[s filling in the facts of the Herodian period. Chilton makes clear the relations of Antipater and Herod with Roman leaders and emperors. The gospels have some major discrepancies (such as John placing the Last Supper on a different day than the others to emphasize what he feels the gospels should convey), so reading them as true historical fact can be misleading. Chjilton attempts to be factual (I just wonder about his sources). and that expanded my comprehension of Roman politics, particularly during the second triumvirate. He also shows that several of the Judean procurators used their office to loot, if not pillage, Judea. Sounds very Roman from what I have read about other Roman governors. I was exposed to many new facts.

So I do recommend this book to those who want a better understanding of what was happening, particularly politically, than one gets from the Bible.