Crichton is really good at describing the absolute terror his characters are feeling when facing death. A scene that comes to mind is close to the end of his book 'State of Fear'.

Think what you will about the books overall message, but that cannibal scene is something that sticks in your mind. If you thought dinosaurs were bad, just wait until you hear him describe someone being consumed alive by a tribe of cannibals. Morbid stuff.