A
novel by the talented
science fiction writer
Iain M. Banks, also known as
Iain Banks for his
fiction.
Little can be said about the book without spoiling the story, but it can be safely said that this book has a less obvious point than most of Banks' novels. The book is, as is suggested by the title, a glance at the differing results of different methods, trying to achieve the same goal.
The book is set in the same universe as that of the Culture, but the setting is outside the Culture's sector of the galaxy. It reads quite differently from the majority of Banks' science fiction novels, but is nevertheless an engrossing read. Not a must for every Banks fan, but a worthwhile read, especially if you are willing to take the time to read it twice.