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

Most accounts highlight Persia's decline, but this book emphasizes its emergence as the first world empire. I wonder what led to this narrative choice.

The vivid recounting of the Greco-Persian Wars really drew me in, but I'm curious if others found the war scenes a bit overwhelming or just immersive.

Given the scarcity of primary sources, I wonder how much of Holland's portrayal is directly supported by evidence and how much is narrative craft.