This is a first rate historical novel, among the best I've read. I usually have some nits about the writing, plotting, emphasis, pacing, accuracy, etc. But I have nothing negative to say about this fascinating, often lyrical, work.The narrative is a flashback from the only Greek survivor of the battle, Xeones, a refugee adopted (as a semi-slave) by the Spartans while still a boy. He relates the story of his time with the Spartans to Xerxes, the Persian King who defeated the 300 at Thermopylae and was intensely interested in what made the Spartans tick. You learn about Spartan culture, values, discipline, sense of honor, weapons and war strategy. Pressfield weaves all of that into absorbing character studies with sparkling dialogue and surprising plot twists. His descriptions of the battles are vivid and frightening.I was surprised I was so moved by Xeones and his fate. I think it's because he represents my idea of honor.