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
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 14,2025
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Dan Brown has always amazed me with his golden ingenuity.

His digital fortress novel is written with great proficiency and intense effort. It is also full of twists and excitement, and it doesn't differ much from his subsequent works.

Brown's ability to create complex and engaging plots is truly remarkable. He weaves together elements of mystery, history, and technology to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The Digital Fortress is a prime example of his talent. The story takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of cryptography and government secrets.

With its fast-paced action and unexpected turns, it is a book that is difficult to put down.

Overall, Dan Brown is a master storyteller, and The Digital Fortress is a must-read for fans of mystery and thriller novels.
July 14,2025
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The first novel by the author, the name of the author is always associated with the hero Robert Langdon. But it didn't start with this professor. The third novel that Dan read still causes continuous astonishment. The author was able to switch and diversify the style. From the historical style in "The Da Vinci Code" to the religious-scientific conflict in "Angels & Demons", to his first style in following the information development in the era of communications, the Internet and computer networks that threaten in a terrifying way the invasion of privacy and the breakdown of the privacy shield between individuals. This shows the contradiction of the street on one hand and those who rely on this scientific industry on the other hand in terms of the possibility of controlling such an explosion...

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July 14,2025
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If you possess even a basic understanding of cryptography, or perhaps just of computers in general, you will discover that it is simply impossible to suspend your disbelief. In fact, you may find yourself unable to refrain from rolling your eyes and miming those little "GAG ME" gestures.

Cryptography is a complex and fascinating field that deals with the protection of information through the use of mathematical algorithms. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of our digital lives, from online banking to e-commerce.

However, when it comes to certain claims or scenarios related to cryptography, it can be difficult to take them seriously. This is especially true when the explanations provided are lacking in substance or seem far-fetched.

As consumers of information, it is important for us to be critical thinkers and to question the validity of what we are being told. By doing so, we can avoid falling victim to misinformation and make more informed decisions.
July 14,2025
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The article briefly describes an amazing work. It states that at least it can be described as "amazing". Whether one is a computer programmer or an ordinary reader, they will feel excitement, enjoyment, and inspiration. There is a lot of information in it, and most importantly, the mentioned organizations are real and exist! The first amazing work by Dan Brown never loses its charm even after being read many times. On the last page of the novel, there is a code that one of the friends solved, and until now, the author has not been able to figure out how he solved it! :D

This work seems to have a great appeal. It not only provides interesting content but also challenges the reader's mind. The mystery of the code on the last page adds an element of excitement and curiosity. It makes the reader want to explore and try to solve it themselves. The fact that the organizations mentioned are real gives the work a sense of authenticity and makes it even more engaging. Overall, this amazing work by Dan Brown is definitely worth reading and exploring.


أقل ما يقال عنها \\"رائعة\\"

سواء أكنت مبرمج كمبيوتر أم قارئ عادي ستشعر بالإثارة والمتعة والتشويق
والكم الكثير من المعلومات
والأهم من ذلك بأن المنظمات المذكورة حقيقية وموجودة!

رائعة دان براون الأولى التي لا تفقد رونقها أبداً حتى مع تعدد مرات القراءة.

في آخر صفحة من الرواية توجد شيفرة قام بحلّها أحد الأصدقاء وحتى الآن لم أستطع أن أعرف كيف قام بحلّها! :D
July 14,2025
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This book is an absolute must-read for each and every individual who is involved in SOFTWARE development.

It is truly an amazing piece of work.

The content within its pages offers invaluable insights, practical tips, and in-depth knowledge that can significantly enhance one's skills and understanding in the field of SOFTWARE development.

Whether you are a beginner just starting out or an experienced professional looking to expand your horizons, this book has something for everyone.

It covers a wide range of topics, from the fundamental principles of SOFTWARE design to the latest trends and techniques in the industry.

The author's writing style is engaging and easy to understand, making it accessible to readers of all levels.

In conclusion, if you are serious about SOFTWARE development, this book is a must-have addition to your library.
July 14,2025
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When I compare the digital fortress with my first readings of Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code, I am very surprised.

The Da Vinci Code was remarkable, while here you feel as if you are in front of a simple and long scenario for any commercial film.

The digital fortress seems to lack the depth and complexity that made The Da Vinci Code so captivating.

Perhaps it is because the digital fortress is a more straightforward thriller, while The Da Vinci Code delved into history, art, and religion.

However, the digital fortress still has its own merits. It is a fast-paced and exciting read that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The story is engaging, and the characters are well-developed.

Overall, while the digital fortress may not be in the same league as The Da Vinci Code, it is still a worthy addition to the thriller genre.
July 14,2025
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Dan Brown is truly a master of the written word. His works are ingeniously crafted, captivating readers from the very first page.

With his unique blend of mystery, history, and conspiracy, Brown has created a world that is both thrilling and intellectually stimulating.

His characters are well-developed and relatable, and his plots are full of twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

From "The Da Vinci Code" to "Inferno," Brown's novels have become international bestsellers, cementing his place as one of the greatest authors of our time.

It's no wonder that he is considered the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in the world of mystery and thriller writing.

His ability to weave together complex storylines and present them in a way that is both accessible and engaging is truly remarkable.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to his work, Dan Brown's novels are sure to leave you spellbound.

So, if you're looking for a good read that will keep you entertained and guessing until the very end, look no further than the works of Dan Brown.
July 14,2025
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Zero redeeming qualities. Do not waste your time on this garbage. It starts off bad and just deteriorates further and further. I wasn't even anticipating much, simply a fun adventure mystery involving cryptology and outdated, nostalgic takes on technology and the NSA. While it does manage to deliver about 5 paragraphs' worth of that throughout the 400+ page book, the rest is充斥着糟糕的人物、故事和散文,再加上随意的性骚扰、令人尴尬的男性权力幻想和令人毛骨悚然的男性凝视垃圾。

Like, I understand, this isn't high-class literature. But it's like frozen pizza. It's not supposed to be as good as the real thing, but it's meant to satisfy while being cheap and easy. This book is like if you bought a frozen pizza and it had literal human feces as toppings. That's how bad it is. It's an insult to good pop fiction.

The first two Langdon books were guilty pleasures of mine when I read them years ago. Maybe they're worse than I remember, or perhaps there is something about that series that's different from Digital Fortress, Dan Brown's first novel. But even if you're a fan of the Langdon series and interested in reading this book, seriously, do not waste your time.

Also, while I usually roll my eyes when a reviewer says they guessed the villain early, I LITERALLY guessed the villain in his introduction scene on page freaking 25. It was that painfully obvious.

Here are some ironically hilarious quotes (but trust me, the book takes itself very seriously so don't think reading it you'll find more of this).
> Jabba resembled a giant tadpole. Like the cinematic creature for whom he was nicknamed, the man was a hairless spheroid.
> "How the hell are you?" "No complaints." Jabba wiped his mouth. "You on site?" "Yup." "Care to join me for a calzone?" "Love to Jabba, but I'm watching these hips." "Really?" He snickered. "Mind if I join you?" "You're bad." "You have no idea."
> The motley assortment of drunken and drugged-out kids at the nearby tables were now in hysterics. Two-Tone stood up and sneered at Becker. "What the fuck do you want from me?" Becker thought a moment. I want you to wash your hair, clean up your language, and get a job. Becker figured it was too much to ask on a first meeting. "I need some information," he said. "Fuck you." "I'm looking for someone." "I ain't seen him." "Haven't seen him," Becker corrected.
> The air felt caustic in her windpipe.
> Two thin lines had appeared outside the concentric circles. They looked like sperm trying to breach a reluctant egg.
> Susan turned to Soshi. "I need access to the Web. Is there a browser here?" Soshi nodded. "Netscape's sweetest." Susan grabbed her hand. "Come on. We're going surfing."
> Becker was dark--a rugged, youthful thirty-five with sharp green eyes and a wit to match. His strong jaw and taut features reminded Susan of carved marble. Over six feet tall, Becker moved across a squash court faster than any of his colleagues could comprehend. After soundly beating his opponent, he would cool off by dousing his head in a drinking fountain and soaking his tuft of thick, black hair. Then, still dripping, he'd treat his opponent to a fruit shake and a bagel. (((this character, the main character of the book, has identical initials as the author. gross.)))
July 14,2025
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You know how on some days, you just have an insatiable craving for candy?

And then it's not just one piece, but more and more, perhaps even topped off with ice cream, cookies, and cake.

On some days, that's okay. But until about eight o'clock at night, when your body has reached a state of being overly full.

And then you think to yourself, just one last cookie.

Your stomach is protesting, gurgling and complaining about the hours of abuse it has endured, but you keep imagining how delicious that cookie will taste.

So you give in and eat it, only to immediately regret it.

You realize that in the end, it didn't taste that great.

In fact, you know it was far too much, and you wish you could take it back because now you have a full-blown case of stomach aches.

And you completely regret your gluttonous behavior.

Well, that's exactly what reading "Digital Fortress" felt like...a gluttony for your brain.

It was strangely addicting and completely entertaining, but it had absolutely no substance.

I think my brain might be a little dumber for having read it.

Maybe it was because I had just finished Brown's "Deception Point", and the last thing I needed was to follow it with more mind-numbing ridiculousness.

Or perhaps it was because this is Brown's first novel, his freshman attempt.

I know I should give it one star. But because it was entertaining, I had to give the guy some credit.

However, when you set up a main character to be a genius, and I quote, "His eyes fell the length of her slender torso - to her white blouse with the bra barely visible beneath, to her knee-length khaki skirt, and finally to her legs...Susan Fletcher's legs. 'Hard to imagine they support a 170 IQ', he mused."

I'm not going to analyze the whole thing. I'm willing to accept that stock thrillers like this are full of hackneyed descriptions of people, especially women, like Brown's "sexy" portrayal of Fletcher.

I don't read these books expecting F. Scott Fitzgerald. I read them because they are entertaining, plain and simple.

BUT...notice that Fletcher has an IQ of 170. 1.7.0!!! Is that even possible? I don't know.

The point is that she's supposed to be this genius decoder, right? Super smart and completely capable of decoding some of the most complicated ciphers.

And yet there are extremely obvious "ciphers" right in front of her face that she doesn't get. Really? I'm no genius, but I got them right away.

So I thought that was really not so great.

And she's this completely smart and perfectly beautiful woman who knows when all these different men are attracted to her.

But the crazy one, who is so obviously into her, she doesn't see? Even when it's right in front of her face all the time?

It reminded me too much of that one Patricia Cornwell novel with the Kay Scarpetta character who is also supposed to be a genius.

But she does some really ill-advised...STUPID...things. I'm not sure I understand how someone can be a genius one moment and then not be a genius the next. So that was annoying.

I also think Brown cleaned up his act when it comes to sex after this novel.

This bordered on a Harlequin Romance extravaganza! The feminist in me screams out in protest at such garbage.

I'm all for chemistry and attraction, but I revolt at silly depictions of the perfect woman and the perfect man falling in love.

They are both just sooooooooo attractive and sooooooooo smart. And they have the most perfect jobs and perfect lives. Ugh!

There wasn't anything really graphic. It just felt cliché and empty.

And finally, the climax. It just went on and on and on. Oh dear me, just get to the point already.

It was no longer exciting when all the brainiacs in the NSA couldn't solve the freaking mystery that was right in front of their faces!

And the whole thing was going to blow up, and of course the perfect couple can save the day in the end. Because they are perfect and that's what they do!!!

I just couldn't suspend my disbelief anymore, so there were some serious sighs, some eye rolling, and some straight out laughs. It was far too melodramatic.

Now, to be fair to Brown, I have now read all of his books, and I've obviously enjoyed them, for the most part.

And I think now that he's written a few thrillers, his writing has improved.

He's no longer focused on sexual liaisons between characters. And while his stories are completely unbelievable, they are also entertaining.

The guy isn't claiming to be the next Hemingway, after all. He's selling a product.

I just think that from now on, I'll take my gluttony in smaller doses.
July 14,2025
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If the widely criticized The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons are considered as examples of Dan Brown at his most refined, then one can only fathom how糟糕 his early works might have been.

Actually, one can either imagine or read Digital Fortress to discover the truth for oneself. However, I do not recommend it. In the Langdon books, the secrets are revealed two acts too early for anyone with a basic understanding of French or Latin roots. In contrast, Digital Fortress features a simplistic wordplay that collapses like a fortune cookie for anyone who knows Spanish. Yes, Spanish. Just like the slow and predictable punches from Butterbean, the plot twists in Digital Fortress come at a molasses-slow pace and are highly foreseeable. While The Da Vinci Code was at least an enjoyable ride despite its lazy narration and gaping plot holes, Digital Fortress is not even a guilty pleasure; it is merely a regrettable purchase.

I could continue to elaborate, but I will refrain from doing so. In conclusion, let me just say that Digital Fortress was so idiotic that my ears popped every time I opened the book.
July 14,2025
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Dan Brown has firmly established his reputation in the realm of fiction. He masterfully combines intricate mental puzzles with action-packed adventure and a touch of romance. His thriller, "Digital Fortress," encompasses all these elements, presenting an exhilarating novel that poses timely and thought-provoking questions.


A covert agency, the NSA (jokingly referred to as "No Such Agency"), possesses a multi-billion dollar secret device called TRANSLTR. This device has the remarkable ability to decrypt any code, allowing it to eavesdrop on encrypted email communications worldwide. The data it gathers plays a crucial role in preventing terrorists from carrying out planned attacks. However, if civilians were to discover that the government is spying on them, they would likely be far from pleased. Ensei Tankado, a cryptographer who was dismissed by the NSA, despises everything TRANSLTR represents. He believes the government has overstepped its bounds in invading people's privacy.


Tankado claims to have developed an unbreakable algorithm, known as "digital fortress," that even TRANSLTR cannot crack. He threatens to release this algorithm unless the NSA publicly admits its illegal gathering of private information. If the general public were to obtain Tankado's code, the government would lose its ability to read encrypted emails. However, Tankado's plan goes awry, and what could have been a mere nuisance now threatens to turn into a full-blown disaster.


Brown makes excellent use of his subject matter. His descriptions of how cryptographers work and think are truly outstanding, and the mind-bending ciphers at the end of the novel are captivating. The protagonists, Susan Fletcher and David Becker, are well-developed, although perhaps a bit too perfect. Susan is a brilliant cryptographer working for the NSA, while David is an expert in linguistics. They both play a vital role in attempting to save the United States from an intelligence meltdown.


"Digital Fortress" does have some flaws, such as Brown's struggle to write realistic romantic dialogue. Nevertheless, when he focuses on sadistic assassins, thrilling chase scenes, and improbable heroics, the story races along at a breakneck pace. Additionally, the author has important insights to offer regarding the conflict between an individual's right to privacy and the government's responsibility to safeguard its citizens.
July 14,2025
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Quite enjoyable cyber thriller!!


The suspense in this book is truly unrelenting. It continuously bombards you with thrilling moments at the end of each chapter. The plot is indeed great, filled with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. However, the character development is rather lacking. For a book to be regarded as truly great, having a great plot alone is insufficient. It also requires well-developed and strong characters. Due to the poor character development, I found it difficult to become overly attached to this book. Perhaps this is the reason why Digital Fortress isn't as popular as some of Dan Brown's other works.


Overall, it is still a good book. It is a quick read that is full of suspense. Any fans of Dan Brown or those with an interest in cryptography will surely find enjoyment in this one. It offers an exciting and engaging adventure that delves into the world of cyber secrets and cryptographic puzzles. Despite its flaws in character development, the book manages to captivate readers with its thrilling plot and fast-paced narrative.

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