Michael Gruber: excellent author

[maxbookworm]

I just wanted to post a little rave for Michael Gruber. I have read four of his books so far: The Book of Air and Shadows, The Forgery of Venus, The Good Son, and Tropic of Night.

They are extremely engaging, well written, *amazingly* well-researched, and integrate very interesting discussions around religion, philosophy, the nature of reality, psychology. I just love them.

If you're a more traditional fiction lover, I'd recommend The Good Son. It's a pretty straightforward story, but still includes some mind-opening (at least for me) discussions around religion.

The Book of Air and Shadows I don't remember as well, but it might not be his best since it didn't make as much of an impression.

The Forgery of Venus is a wild mind-bender and also includes some amazing historical detail around Renaissance painting.

Tropic of Night is the one I just finished. And while I don't usually enjoy books with a supernatural element, this one was done with just enough 'science' to make it enjoyable for me.

That's all - just had to get that out there

[Mike L]

Thanks for that, Max. I haven't read any of his books yet, but I've now put him on my "under consideration" list, on your recommendation. Do you have any suggestions for which one to read first?

By the way, I see that all the titles you mentioned - and a few more - are available for the Kindle.

Mike

[maxbookworm]

Hi Mike -- The Good Son is probably his most 'conventional' novel, so might be a good place to start. On the other hand, if you're ok with a bit reality warping and such, and like historical fiction, Forgery of Venus is great. I think I need to re-read the Book of Air and Shadows -- I can't recommend it very strongly because I simply can't remember it very well.

[DianNC]

Originally Posted by maxbookworm

That's all - just had to get that out there

Thank you. Reading Recommendations is my favorite forum and I always appreciate learning of new (new to me) authors/books here.

[usuallee]

Originally Posted by maxbookworm

The Book of Air and Shadows I don't remember as well, but it might not be his best since it didn't make as much of an impression.

This book as I recall was pretty good, but you're right, not all that memorable. Didn't inspire me read any more of his books since I read it 3-4 years ago. But some of the others you mentioned sound interesting, so maybe one day.