I haven't been around for a while, but I'm glad to see that there's still some activity on the bibliography. Thanks people, I'll post your suggestions.

I have found the ultimate beginners guide to the EB time period. The Hellenistic Age, a short history, Peter Green. Covers the years 336 BCE to 30 BCE in only 130 pages, and yet is full of detail and commentary. If you read nothing else read this one!

Also found an old gem. Hannibal, Harold Lamb. From 1958, a straightforward narrative biography. Not bad.

First post updated.