Use of Weapons was my first foray into Iain M Banks but I haven't read it since about 30 years ago but I still remember it was fantastic and would recommend. It is unusual as it is two narratives separated by chapters, one going forward and one going backwards in time. Up to then I hadn't read anything with such an interesting style.
I think it is the third book in the Culture Series but I don't think it matters reading it out of sequence (From memory the books are set in that universe but most of them - I think! - don't have to be read in a particular order ie stand alone books, different plots, characters, etc.)
Just don't read too many reviews, etc. about Use of Weapons as spoilers could easily be given away.
I like a good majority of his non sci fi books under the name Iain Banks, too. Wasp Factory and Complicity both excellent.
I think it is the third book in the Culture Series but I don't think it matters reading it out of sequence (From memory the books are set in that universe but most of them - I think! - don't have to be read in a particular order ie stand alone books, different plots, characters, etc.)
Just don't read too many reviews, etc. about Use of Weapons as spoilers could easily be given away.
I like a good majority of his non sci fi books under the name Iain Banks, too. Wasp Factory and Complicity both excellent.