BOOK BRIEF

Persian Fire: The First World Empire and the Battle for the West

Tom Holland
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Persian Fire: The First World Empire and the Battle for the West

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006

Book Brief

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Tom Holland

Persian Fire: The First World Empire and the Battle for the West

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

418

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Persian Empire • 5th century BCE

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Persian Fire: The First World Empire and the Battle for the West, Tom Holland explores the rise of the Persian Empire and its conflict with Greece. The book examines cultural, political, and military aspects of the ancient civilizations, focusing on the Greco-Persian Wars and the broader impact on Western history.

Informative

Adventurous

Mysterious

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

12,533 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Tom Holland's Persian Fire masterfully narrates the Greco-Persian Wars, blending vivid storytelling with rigorous research. Critics praise its accessibility and engaging prose, though some note occasional historical oversimplifications. Overall, the book effectively illuminates a pivotal era with dynamic narrative flair and insightful analysis.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Persian Fire: The First World Empire and the Battle for the West?

A reader captivated by ancient history, military strategy, and empire dynamics would enjoy Persian Fire by Tom Holland. Fans of Herodotus or books like Guns, Germs, and Steel would appreciate its narrative style and analysis of East-West tensions in classical antiquity.

4.4

12,533 ratings

83%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

418

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Persian Empire • 5th century BCE

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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