The Son of Man

Chris May is an exceptionally talented author. Having read his first novel (Silent Light) many (over 20) years ago I have waited patiently for his next novel. Thankfully that wait is finally over. May's prose is as sharp as ever, his character's relatable and ideas out of this world! Not wanting to give too much away the author successfuly manages to weave together elements of modern quantum theory (no prior knowledge assumed), AI, near-future predictions, along with the perennial tension between science and faith, into a gripping thriller of a novel. Given that this novel has likely been brewing in the writer's mind since well before 2019 it was portentous in it's prediction of a global pandemic albeit with a twist. Talking of twists (and this may be a slight spoiler) the bombshell on which the novel concludes is an interesting thought experiment which combines Clarke's 3rd Law with emerging quantum mechanics theories and stretches them to a devastating conclusion. A recommended read if any of the aforementioned topics pique your interest, particularly if you happen to have a modecom of Bible knowledge to cross-reference with some of the allegorical characters. Here's hoping we don't have to wait another 20+ years for Chris' next novel.

I'm so pleased I was introduced to this book. It's fantastically written. The story, set in the future, is filled with intrigue, thought-provoking mixed with faith, friendships, science and a love that reaches deep inside of you. The twists that grow within each section had me hooked from start to finish, I thought I had it all worked out, how wrong was I?! It builds to a thrilling climax, completely unexpected, leaving you not only with lots of questions but wanting more. A highly recommended read.

It used to be said that religion and science don’t mix and, in publishing terms at least, are best kept apart. Chris May debunks these myths as he weaves the foibles and riches of both religious enquiry and scientific exploration into a page-turning work of fiction. In a plot that is satisfyingly character and dialogue driven, we are taken into a futuristic world where technology has resolved many of life’s practical difficulties. Reassuringly, however, the human need for love is as strong as ever, as a tender love story demonstrates. But when medical advances have no answer for a disturbing new disease, scientific experimentation takes on a new urgency in which, it turns out, the organised church is unusually interested. Why? The puzzles multiply. Chasing down what is going on takes us to the very last page with no let up to the pace along the way. Behind the short, accessible chapters is a consistent authorial voice introducing serious lines of enquiry with a lightness of touch. We are being invited to consider the nature of life, love and meaning as we engage with the reflections and debates of the characters themselves. If the interplay between quantum activity and biblical parallels stretches credibility at times, we are willing captives, eager to stay on this entertaining and thought-provoking ride. It is rare to find a book which encourages robust dialogue between science and faith and with such an open, warm and enquiring mindset. This is one to savour.

The Son of Man is a cerebral, idea-driven novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy philosophical science fiction and theological debate. It is ambitious and the interplay between science and spirituality was compelling. While the physics content, though fascinating, often felt excessive and slowed the pace, the final chapters were gripping and thought-provoking, with twists that made the journey worthwhile. The ending genuinely shocked me.

I really enjoyed getting to read this, it had that element that I wanted and enjoyed the futuristic element in this book. I was hooked from the premise and how it was used in this universe. The characters were so well written and enjoyed the concept and enjoyed how they worked during this. Chris May has a strong writing style and am excited for more from him.