No, the first "Dune" is totally different in quality from the sequels. I love the first one but I don't like the sequels. And I personally like the style. It's got a pseudo-Biblical feel, which is right for an epic....
Darn it, why didn't I steal Dad's Jerry Pournelle books? I need to do some military SF research!
The pseudo-Biblical aspect of the style is fine by me. I was thinking more of things like pacing. The action's a little slow for me.
What military SF research do you need to do?
Maybe all you have to do is ask questions here.