A review by natbookreviews
100 Fathoms Below by Nicholas Kaufmann, Steven L. Kent

2.0

Review of “100 Fathoms Below”

How I read: 🎧
⭐⭐☆☆☆ - (Rating System Below)

”100 Fathoms Below” was definitely an experience, but not one I’d rush to repeat. The premise—a Cold War submarine mission turned supernatural horror—sounded intriguing, and my reading group had joked about it before we found it free on Audible. While it wasn’t a total waste of time, the story’s disjointed writing and uncomfortable prologue set a rocky tone that never fully recovered, even as the tension picked up aboard the USS Roanoke.

The middle portion of the audiobook had some gripping moments as the crew faced both external threats and internal chaos. The mix of Cold War intrigue and horror elements didn’t always mesh well, leaving parts of the story feeling forced or awkward. The narration was solid, but even a good performance couldn’t save the disjointed storytelling.

The ending was where things truly went off the rails. While I am glad I finished it for the joke of it all, the final scenes felt unnecessary and left me with an unpleasant aftertaste. I wouldn’t recommend this book unless you’re really curious or, like me, need to satisfy a long-running joke. It’s a short listen, but not one I’ll revisit or easily recommend to others.

Get it at…


📗 - Hard Copy -📗
📱 - Digital - 📱
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Libro.FM - (Not Available at Time of Review)
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*Star Rating Guide*
⭐ - The writing style didn’t appeal to me. The characters didn’t resonate with me. I pushed myself to the limit to avoid DNF’ing. I wouldn’t suggest this book to anyone I’m acquainted with.
⭐⭐ - The book was passable, but it won’t stick in my mind. Although I didn’t abandon the book, my mind wasn’t fully immersed in the story. I discovered that it was easy for me to stop reading it and not feel compelled to continue promptly. When everything was said and done, I was unsure of my immediate opinion on this book.
⭐⭐⭐ - If someone is actively seeking a book in this general premise, I would suggest this. While it was good, I don’t think I’ll ever pick up this book for a second read. If it were part of a series, I’d probably venture into the next book. Reading it was time well-spent.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - This book was brilliant. I had the urge to keep reading and turn to the next page. The book stayed on my mind for days after I finished it. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I was actively engaged in wanting to finish reading this book. My thoughts are consumed by this book after completing it. I want to have a physical copy as a trophy that I can display on my shelf. I felt a strong connection and investment while reading this book, would definitely recommend.