I've already read them at the beginning of my campaign. But I could not wait so many years to expand my empire! XD
However I've conquest minor settlements. Then yes I've conquest the entire Iberia, but it didn't help me, at the contrary I've lost many troups and my financial situation was terrible because of Iberia conquest.
And when I've attacked and conquest the first Roman city, the time passed from the beginning of my game was at least 40 years. So I don't think my fast expansion gives me great advantage over Romans. Probably if I would waited 40 years without making wars, I had a more powerful and bigger army.
Anyway I've just conquest Taranto, the way for Rome is still long. Maybe Roman AI is keeping best troups to protect the capital!!
