I bought it because....well, I buy nearly every architecture book and appreciate the efforts. I just received my copy this week and was looking at it as I opened the computer and this thread.
A bit less than I may have imagined, yes. But, I think that's because I seek really detailed info about thought processes, etc. that a non-architect might not, so I'm always a bit disappointed in architecture books.
I noticed the graphic layout wasn't great, but I also received Cutten's (and Paul Daley editing) Evolution of Golf Design, much more finished in presentation, but a broader brush look at golf architecture theory, so by necessity even more vague, at least to my way of thinking. I guess, in the end, I believe the study of architecture needs more books on specific and lesser known architects by real devotees than it does coffee table books, etc.
And, as mentioned, its full of photos I would have never seen, so I did learn many things I didn't know, so to be disappointed that I didn't learn more is hardly a criticism. Since we knew so little about Dev compared to other architects, it's certainly a worthwhile endeavor, which I appreciate. I'll bet part of the five years was hesitation to publish, lest the day after, some new facts become available, LOL.
My last thought is it made me want to know more about Alfred Tull, his ten year associate who from what I know (which isn't much, granted) developed a style almost devoid of things in Emmet's style. Was that because he opened the office in 1934, a la the depth of the Depression and knew (like Mac and others) he needed a simpler to maintain style, with less bunkers, etc.?