The new novel by the famous writer Yulia Andreeva tells the story of one of the most mysterious and odious rulers of antiquity - Herod I, the son of the Roman procurator of Judea Antipater. Flattering Greek writers awarded him the title "Great". An Idumen by birth, Herod rose to the pinnacle of power, using all available means, not disdaining bribery and intrigue. As a result, the Roman Senate confirmed Herod as the new king of Judea. But the matter was complicated by the invasion of the Parthians, who took Jerusalem and installed their king, Antigonus. This did not stop Herod. He gathered an army of mercenaries and Jewish refugees and, with the support of Roman legions, regained power over Judea. However, fate presented Herod with new serious trials...