Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
31(31%)
4 stars
29(29%)
3 stars
40(40%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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100 reviews
July 14,2025
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A Not Bad Debut


Leaving aside the inaccurate and slanderous portrayal of Spain, this was a rather good debut. It was a fun ride, a bit immature perhaps but truly enjoyable. Brown had the intention of outdoing Sidney Sheldon, as one of Sheldon's books had inspired him to start writing his own and pen a "better" thriller. I would say he achieved his aim, although I'm not sure if that can be considered a victory. DB is really bad when it comes to the background. You can say whatever you want about Sheldon, but he did his research right, or at least most of it.


I read this during good times when the world seemed a little less gray. It was never innocent, not even in 2005, so I have nothing but affection for Digital Fortress. I miss those days. I believed in humanity then.


Then I met people and became like an Audioslave song, perhaps a bit more cynical and jaded. But still, Digital Fortress holds a special place in my heart as a reminder of a time when things were a little bit brighter.

July 14,2025
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Who will guard the guards?!

Open your mouth.. Yes, more than that.. Well, have you fainted.. Well, close it now

In the beginning, we must admit one thing. Dan Brown is the best writer I have read in the modern era

After I finished the Robert Langdon series

Angels & Demons and

The Da Vinci Code and

The Lost Symbol and

Inferno

I was hesitant to read Dan again, and the hesitation was greater especially since Digital Fortress is his first work and was published in the nineties

But as soon as you start reading, you are captivated by his style and you are forced to finish

The novel revolves around the world of cryptography, computers, and the Internet. And when a writer writes about these things in the nineties, you are definitely in front of a story

The feature that is not present in anyone but in Dan Brown is that no matter what you expect and no matter what you predict, you will always encounter something new and it will surprise you throughout the novel. Indeed, this is a great, great, great writer

"WE ARE WATCHING YOU!"
July 14,2025
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I am employed in the Information Technology sector, which made it effortless for me to relate to this book. I have no knowledge about the NSA (National Security Agency) and its modus operandi. However, I am well-versed in concepts such as encryption, algorithm, anagram, computer virus, and code-breaking. Consequently, this book held my attention from beginning to end. My colleague has been raving about this being his favorite Dan Brown book. He mentioned that since I had read all of his other four novels, namely The Da Vinci Code, Angels and Demons, Deception Point (all of which I rated three stars, meaning I liked them!) and The Lost Symbol (which I gave two stars, indicating it was okay!), I would be glad to have finally read this one. Hurray! I am now a Dan Brown completist!



I found the story engaging. The NSA has a program capable of tracking personal conversations worldwide. One employee becomes disgruntled and decides to blow the whistle. The NSA hires a beautiful detective (not yet Robert Langdon, as this is Dan Brown's first novel), and she is so attractive that most of the male characters in the book lust after her. This lust for her body and for power (as is often the case) essentially serves as the driving force for these men to outwit or kill each other, or even themselves. The plot is somewhat overcrowded with characters, and the twists are perhaps a bit too numerous to be entirely coincidental. Nevertheless, this is Dan Brown's debut novel, so such elements are to be expected. Just like any other first-time novelists, Brown was attempting to demonstrate his ability to intricately construct a suspenseful yet implausible plot.



Wikipedia states that this book was based on a real-life incident in cryptography. The story seems to suggest that Dan Brown not only conducted thorough research on the subject but also managed to anticipate what the NSA might do. He was one step ahead of the NSA, or perhaps the NSA was influenced by the book. I don't think this was a coincidence. Maybe Dan Brown was astute enough to befriend an insider at the NSA. I simply had no idea how a novelist could gain access to the NSA. Or perhaps I have read too many suspense-thriller books (by authors like Robert Ludlum, Jeffrey Archer, Ken Follett, John Grisham, etc.) that my rational thinking is now clouded with all these far-fetched possibilities or thoughts.



Dan Brown was born in the same year as I was, namely 1964. His books have been translated into numerous languages, remained on the New York Bestsellers' List, and been adapted into major movie blockbusters. Mediocre individuals could not achieve such feats. I like Dan Brown not necessarily for his literary excellence (as his writing is rather ordinary), but for his imagination and the efforts he invests in his research. He doesn't just sit down and type away his thoughts; he backs them up with facts. He visits museums in Paris or the Capital Building, examines all the writings or symbols on the walls, paintings, and towers. He reads history and current events and incorporates them into his plot. Therefore, let's refrain from subjecting this guy to our senseless rants. We cannot overlook the fact that he knows his craft. His books are worthy of being read, and his efforts deserve to be appreciated.

July 14,2025
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The Digital Fortress is truly the best and most realistic technological thriller to hit the market in years. Dan Brown's ability to vividly depict the gray area between personal freedom and national security showcases his remarkable talent. Readers will be on the edge of their seats every minute.


Dan Brown, as always, is "amazing" in short! I can imagine the effort he puts in to produce such a magical work.


Although there is no Robert Langdon by name, there is a similar character; it's about a renowned university professor who inadvertently gets involved in issues related to national security. Then, in the midst of conflicting events, he finds himself in an environment he doesn't belong to. "What the hell am I doing here? I'm a university professor, not a government agent!" This is what David Becker often thought during his eventful day.


He travels from America to Spain to search for a ring

July 14,2025
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Are you a programmer?
If so, don't miss reading this novel :).
Ordinary people will enjoy reading it, and you alone will understand what lies behind its lines
and its codes. You will feel that it means you alone.

This novel amazed me. I lived it moment by moment, word by word. I used to wake up early to start reading it until my eyes got tired. This story is different from everything I have read and will read!

Two questions are now popping into my mind. The first one is / What is Dan Brown's specialty? History? The science of religions? Or programming :).

The second question is / Why are the women in Brown's novels exemplary to a certain extent silly?

July 14,2025
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The story is full of twists and turns, presented in the true Dan Brown style.

It is paced so fast that it keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages.

Surprisingly, I had an inkling about certain aspects quite early on in the narrative.

However, even that initial suspicion came with its own unexpected twist.

The author's ability to constantly surprise and deceive the reader is truly remarkable.

With each new revelation, the plot thickens and becomes more engaging.

You find yourself completely immersed in the story, unable to put it down until you reach the final page.

The combination of mystery, suspense, and unexpected turns makes this a truly captivating read.

Whether you are a fan of Dan Brown or simply enjoy a good thriller, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for excitement and adventure.

July 14,2025
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Officially, Dan Brown has become my favorite author now.

The novel he writes is truly remarkable. It contains all the elements that make a great story - danger, romance, excitement, and a wonderful adventure as is his usual style.

The way the characters are revealed and the plot unfolds is simply amazing. With each page I turn, the tension keeps increasing, making it impossible for me to put the book down.

The story is set in the heart of the National Security Center in the USA, which is supposed to be one of the most secure places in the country. However, it is being hacked, adding an extra layer of excitement and danger to the plot.

This novel is truly magnificent and I have the utmost respect for this man. He has a unique ability to create stories that keep the readers on the edge of their seats and leave them wanting more.
July 14,2025
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I don't know where to start... Ever since I started reading Dan Brown's books, my admiration for the story of "The Da Vinci Code" has not changed even during my reading of that novel. But everything changed when I approached the end.

I never expected that after all this, he would think of this ending. And what really amazed me was the last page, which contains only a cipher.

I really liked the idea, especially that it can be solved. But it's from the foreign edition, not the Arabic one.

Since I finished chapter 100 and after that, the events became more exciting. I can say that this is the most skillfully written ending I have ever read in my life. Even the ending of "The Da Vinci Code" does not compare to this ending. And I don't mean the last chapter but the end of all the events and the solution of the mystery in the novel. I wished I could see Dan Brown in person to congratulate him on this novel, which I now believe is not one of the best novels I have read, but I will say that it is the best novel I have read in my life. Because it is difficult to find an author who ends his novels with such amazing skill.

I will stop here. Because if I let myself go, I won't be able to stop thanking for this wonderful work.
July 14,2025
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After reading Dan Brown's 'Da Vinci Code' and being completely immersed and engrossed in every chapter, I was a bit disappointed when reading his 'Digital Fortress'. The story begins when the NSA code-breaking machine, TRANSLTER, discovers a new and complex code named Digital Fortress that it cannot crack. Commander Trevor Strathmore summons Susan Fletcher, the head cryptographer, to assist in cracking it. She realizes that it was written by Ensei Tankado, a former NSA employee who was dissatisfied with the NSA's invasion of people's privacy. Tankado intends to auction the code's algorithm on his website and have his partner, "NDAKOTA", release it to the general public if he were to die, essentially holding the NSA hostage. The agency is determined to prevent Digital Fortress from becoming a threat to national security. However, what they don't know is that Digital Fortress is not what it seems.



As a fan of Dan Brown's works and having an interest in computers, I thought 'Digital Fortress' would be a perfect fit for me. Unfortunately, I found that it did not meet the expectations I had. Unlike 'Da Vinci Code', the plot of 'Digital Fortress' was very predictable and weak. I felt that the characters were underdeveloped, and the story could have been much better if Brown had put more effort into character development. On the positive side, I found some parts to be thrilling and edge-of-your-seat, and it was evident that Brown had put a lot of effort into researching computer code and algorithms.



I cannot wholeheartedly recommend this book to many people, but it was not a terrible read. Fans of Brown's work will be slightly disappointed but will find it tolerable. Those who are interested in computers and computer code will find the various references to algorithms and special codes very intriguing, but anyone who is not tech-savvy will find it very confusing.



Although 'Digital Fortress' did not live up to my expectations, I will continue to read his novels as I know his other works are better. This book was just a minor glitch in the computer system.

July 14,2025
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Ormai l'ho letto qualche anno fa però posso dirvi che a distanza di tempo è quello che oltre Il codice Da Vinci mi è piaciuto di più. Tant'è che lo lessi in una giornata unica :D


This book, which I read several years ago, has remained one of my favorites even after all this time. It truly stands out among many others, just like The Da Vinci Code. I was so engrossed in it that I managed to finish reading it in a single day!


The story must have been extremely captivating, with its engaging plot and well-developed characters. It's rare to find a book that can hold your attention for an entire day and leave such a lasting impression. I can still recall the excitement and anticipation I felt as I turned each page.


Perhaps it was the unique setting or the clever twists and turns that made it so enjoyable. Whatever the reason, this book will always have a special place in my heart. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling and unforgettable read.

July 14,2025
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As usual, Dan Brown amazes me with his style and his love for the thrilling events.

His novels are like captivating adventures that take the readers on a journey full of mystery and excitement.

The way he weaves together complex plots and characters is truly remarkable.

Each story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Whether it's about ancient secrets, hidden symbols, or historical mysteries, Dan Brown has a unique ability to bring these elements to life.

His writing is not only engaging but also thought-provoking, making you question the world around you.

I can't wait to see what he comes up with next.

July 14,2025
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I borrowed this audiobook for free at my office.

It accompanied me during a car trip, yet it is truly terrible.

This is an extremely awful and horrible novel that is a complete waste of time.

There isn't a single aspect of this book that is even minimally interesting or well-crafted.

The story lacks depth and coherence, the characters are one-dimensional and unappealing, and the writing style is平淡无奇.

I found myself constantly bored and looking forward to the end of the audiobook.

It's a real disappointment, especially considering that I had high hopes for it.

I would not recommend this novel to anyone, as it offers nothing of value or entertainment.

Save your time and choose a better book to read or listen to.
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