This book is an absolute masterpiece.  Rarely have I read a book that takes place in such a well-developed setting, with such great characters, and with so much depth to it.  Yes, it is long.  Yes, it's descriptive.  But I believe these things make it even better.  It's perfect as a standalone, but also is the perfect start to the epic series that is the Dune Chronicles.  This truly is the Lord of the Rings of the Science Fiction genre.

On a second readthrough, I only came to love it even more.  I caught on to so many things I completely missed the first time around.  Definitely has solidified itself as one of my top five favorite books of all time.