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Summary: Capivating! Left me breathless and trembling
Review: Jeff Long's writing style coupled with his vast knowledge of geology and climbing, make this book a first-class read. This is one that when you pick it up, you can't put it down.
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Summary: A Unique Journey
Review: I really enjoyed this book! I always enjoy a writer who has put so much research, thought and "blood, sweat and tears" into their book. The only disappointment was the lack of a great, long speech by "satan" at the end. I was waiting for an incredible story to be told by his evilness but it didn't really happen. Otherwise, it was really a compelling, fantastic read. Highly recommended!
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Summary: Overall, a pretty descent read. Needed more fleshing out...
Review: Great idea, good characters,well thought out plot and pacing.However... When I reached the end I felt as though I had read the condensed version of the story. There was so much subject matter that could have been explored more fully that would have made this book come alive. In the book, one is exposed to: - drama of exploration into the unknown - contact with ancient and enigmatic species - corporate shenanigans - international politics - slightly off-kilter CEO bent on conquest - religious and moral debates - Dante's Inferno tie-ins - potential mass xeno/genocide - exploration into the intricacies of lost civilizations - linguistics and symbology - the nature and personality of Satan - Goof-ball religious gun nuts - Not-so-secret societies - and more... Mr. Long has done a fine job in introducing us to a world in which all of our nightmares have a basis in reality. I would love to see a "director's cut" of this novel. I get the feeling that there was a lot of supporting material that ended up on the editing floor in order to keep the book under 500 pages. Perhaps if the book could have been delivered as a two part series, that would have given Mr. Long the space necessary to really get into the story. Overall, I enjoyed The Descent. It kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. I just came away wanting more than had been delivered.
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Summary: Excellent plot concept, but not enough development
Review: This book is so promising in its plot concept, but the author's failure to really develop the characters or delve into greater detail about the underworld makes the book frustrating. This is one of the few novels that could actually use a couple hundred extra pages. The book really barrels through the plot, almost like it was written to be made into a movie. In a way, its a complement to the author that his idea is exciting enough to make readers simply want more book with more detail. Regardless, the author writes well, and I found the book to be an entertaining read.
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Summary: Greatest Fiction Book Ever
Review: This was the greatest fiction book that I have evr read. if you like biblical mystries with a really intense plot get this book. Even if you don't like this get it any way you will thank me.
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Summary: UNDERGROUND TERROR
Review: Nothing can bring on fears of impending terror more than the absolute darkness of a cave. And to some being underground in a cave can be a living hell. Long has written a great story that takes the reader down into the depths of that living hell and brings him back a changed person. Not since reading Steward's, "Tales of Dirt, Danger, and Darkness, have I read a story that so vividly describes the terrors one my encounter underground. Buy this book. Read this book. You'll never be the same!
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Summary: "The Descent" ascends my expectations!
Review: If you're looking for a book to read which is a page-turner and very different from anything you've read recently, this is for you! When I first ordered "The Descent" off of amazon, I wasn't sure what to expect. But the book kept me enthralled for countless days and nights. Jeff Long does an excellent job of character development (there are enumerous players in the story, but the ones that matter, you realy start to feel for). Best of all is perhaps Ali, the nun in search of both her way and for the origin of human language. Several readers have remarked on the great start the story has. I would agree; the first four chapters were fantastic. The book takes a brief fall, however, after this as the discovery of hell under earth and its human reaction is quickly blazen through in several pages which somehow encompasses global war and the deaths of millions. The book recovers nicely afterwards though, and you will find yourself deeply interested as The Jules Vernes Society searches for their knowledge, Ali searches for her word, Ike searches for his meaning, and The Beowolf Circle searches for their Satan. This is recommended reading for a twist of something different, and I look forward to more coming from Jeff Long.
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Summary: GREAT BOOK WITH A GOOD HOOK!
Review: This is truly a great book. An oasis in a desert of bad books. This book will hook you from the very beginning. Some books make good movies. This book would have to be a television mini-series. It would truly make for great entertainment. The book plays on all of our natural fears and haunts. I hope there is a sequel. The story cannot end. It is to vast.
Rating: 
Summary: Not very good.
Review: Starts out real interesting, but just goes downhill. Author is a good writer, just needs to stick to what he's writing and stop jumping from one event to another. The characters need to be more developed. Wait for the paperback if you have to read it.
Rating: 
Summary: Starts well, failed to maintain my interest
Review: After the first few chapters I felt that "The Descent" was outstanding, however it failed to keep pace and I struggled to complete the book. Too bad, it had great potential.
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