The Son of Man

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.

This is a remarkable book. It is clever, original, very well written and completely different. It successfully embraces philosophy, quantum physics and Christianity within a warm hearted story about a group of friends working in a research laboratory set in the future. It is also a compelling read that draws you to a conclusion that is massive and very thought provoking. You will be thinking about the conclusion for days after you’ve finished reading it! Highly recommended

Beautifully written and engaging. Tackles big questions about science, faith, and humanity while keeping you hooked with a gripping plot. The characters are compelling, it's clever, thought-provoking, and builds to a brilliant finale. Highly recommend.