Not sure which review(s) you referring to but I think the 24mm f2.8 should be an excellent lens thats suitable especially since you mentioned you wanted wide-angle, shooting landscapes & price is a consideration. Of course 24mm f1.4 the best but so is the price.
If you already have 50mm, 35mm is too close to make a real difference. If I have the D700, I wont hesitate for a moment to get this 24mm f2.8. A review here of the lens if you trust it
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/24mm-f28-afd.htm If you dont need a zoom, this prime lens is quite ideal & quote "This 24mm f/2.8 is sharper than the $1,850 14-24mm AF-S at 24mm. It is as sharp as the $1,800 24-70mm AF-S at 24mm, and this compact fixed 24mm lens also has far less distortion than the 24-70mm" unquote.