Queen Salome Alexandra ruled ancient Judea in the turbulent century before the birth of Jesus. She led troops, introduced universal education, expanded the rights of women, and brought healing to a nation torn apart by a civil war between the Pharisees and Sadducees. Vividly evoking scenes of ancient Jerusalem, Judy Petsonk's novel brings to life the queen's stormy relationship with her husband--and her love for the people who called her Shalom-Zion: the peace of Zion. ""A gripping, fun read . . . Judy Petsonk's sexy heroine, Queen Salome Alexandra, possesses the brains, hutzpah, and vision to save Israel not only from its many enemies but also from its own conflicted nature. A marvelous window into a neglected and little-known chapter of Jewish history."" --Ellen Frankel, former Editor in Chief of the Jewish Publication Society ""A whirlwind blend of palace intrigue, bitter rivalries and shifting loyalties circa 100 B.C. in Judea's Hasmonean dynasty . . . a romp of a novel, particularly for fans of Jewish history and culture."" --Kirkus Reviews Queen Salome Alexandra was ""an important, yet overlooked Jewish-leader . . . a model, especially for women, and for all who seek insight and inspiration."" --Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky, Executive Director, Jewish Outreach Institute Judy Petsonk is the author of Taking Judaism Personally; Creating a Meaningful Spiritual Life, and the co-author, with Jim Remsen, of The Intermarriage Handbook: A Guide for Jews and Christians.