Over a decade ago, civilisation was wiped out. Those who survived, living in the Moscow Metro, are doing their best to keep going. But it seems that human nature has not changed at all. Each underground station has become a faction, claiming its own territory, beliefs and ideology. There's the Red Line with its Soviet-style hardliners, the Fourth Reich built on fascist beliefs, the Hansa Stations that control trade, and there's also a strange religious sect that worships the Great Worm.
This is the backdrop for Artyom, a young man who has never seen the world above ground. He is on a quest to save the Metro, and possibly all of humanity. As his travels take him from station to station, he is confronted with humanity in all its aspects.
The book is very readable, despite its long passages. Yet it manages to distil the great characteristics and philosophical reflections. I found it hard to feel the horror, although there's a constant presence of fear coming from dark passages and tunnels. Nevertheless, it's a book worth recommending.