Instruct: Classify Amazon reviews into positive or negative sentiment
Query: A masterful tale of the classical world

Steven Pressfield does something here that very few historians (and not many novelists, either) are able to accomplish: Create a compelling yet historically accurate tale of the Classical World. He brings exquisite life to the Spartans, eschewing the base stereotypes and embracing the noble stereotypes of these remarkable people. He also empowers the women of Sparta (oft overlooked) without coming off as a feminist (it is obvious he conveys their status for reasons of historical accuracy, not political correctness). The only minus is the digressionary voice that sometimes finds its way into the work; I feel a chronological tale would have revealed more of the development of the narrator's person. I also disliked the Persian voice in the book, but I understand its necessity as many readers are not familiar with the events of the aftermath of Thermopylae. Do not let these minor details distract you from a great read; I recommend it heartily.