I bought the book, & have skimmed much of it. One magor drawback imo, no index. But she seems to have done her research (17 years worth iirc) during her struggles with health issues to 'find the answer'.
Something to keep in mind on how they were able to manipulate so many of the populace, is that the great majority were illerate. So they relied only on the stories that came from the élders' in the synagogue, or through oral history w/in the family. Then, the invention of the printing press, & distribution of the Gutenburg Bible & increased literacy helped awaken many.
Go Martin Luther!