In VOLUME ONE: THE LIFE OF JUDAS OF GAMALA, you will read three intertwined stories. First, Judas of Gamala who passionately cares for God and his people-enough to rob and kill in the name of righteousness. Second, the Iscariot's family faces constant change in politics, rituals, rising costs, and attacks from soldiers. Third, leaders who shape the lives of the people, for better or worse.

Judas of Gamala, leader of the Palestinian Zealot Freedom Fighters, introduces portions of history that contrarily helped destroy Jewish life by 73 CE.

Events occur in rapid order: Stolen weapons taken to unusual hiding places. An unusual birth story and an unusual circumcision ritual that includes the infant and an adult! A damaged synagogue need the help of women. A joyful wedding takes place, representing the spoils of the wealthy.

These are examples of 'ordinary' living in the 30s CE. Ordinary-that appreciation for a peaceful life-did not last. The stories that follow are often disturbing. They include soldier abuse, killings, rapes, and the destruction of entire villages and people. Crucifixions happen most days as examples of Roman injustice. Terrorist acts occur most days as examples of the people's hatred toward Rome.

Because of its bombardment of constant change, citizens live in a state of worry. Changes in Palestine's leadership, from Herod the Great's death to Rome's changes in prefects and army generals to change in the Highpriest's office to a people's determination to destroy the taxation burden that keeps them in bondage, and the manmade stifling laws that dull their spiritual lives.

Hope comes their way through the acts of Judas of Gamala and his Zealot Freedom Fighters. This movement acts in ways the people cannot. The Zealots goal is to keep their Land free from infidels, for this Holy Land became theirs-the Chosen People-through the Words of their One God. No act is beyond them. They show no mercy. Rome calls them terrorists, but their people call them heroes.