If you are interested in learning more about Hannibal’s crossing of the Alps and the use of chemical and biological weapons in the ancient world, I highly recommend Hannibal Crosses the Alps by John Prevas and Greek Fire, Poison Arrows amp; Scorpion Bombs-Biological and Chemical Warfare in the Ancient World by Adrienne Mayor.
Both John and Adrienne were extremely helpful in my researching of this novel, and I thank them for their generosity.