Okay, so I finally got around to reading Eruption after seeing it everywhere, and wow - this book totally consumed my weekend! As someone who normally takes weeks to finish a novel (adulting is hard), finishing this in three days says something.

The science bits? Surprisingly digestible. Unlike some Crichton works that feel like attending a college lecture, this one keeps the tech talk just deep enough to feel smart without needing a PhD. Though my biologist friend did side-eye some virus mechanics - but hey, it's fiction!

Character-wise, we've got classic Crichton archetypes - the rugged scientist, corporate baddies, and government folks making questionable choices. Some relationships felt rushed (looking at you, random romantic subplot), but the main players kept me hooked.

Pacing is WILD with over 100 short chapters. Felt like watching a disaster movie where you're constantly yelling 'NO DON'T GO THERE!' at the pages. The Hawaii setting descriptions actually made me Google volcano vacations mid-read (bad idea?).

Biggest gripe? That ending came at me like an erupting lava bomb - super abrupt after all that buildup. Left me wanting more closure... or maybe just wanting to stay in this adrenaline-fueled world longer.

Verdict: Perfect beach/poolside read if you want escapism with some scientific seasoning. Already imagining which actors would play who in the inevitable movie adaptation!