I did not know what to expect when i picked up Conversations With Manfreid, but by the time i got 7 or 8 pages into it, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. The story is incredibly engaging and one finds oneself really rooting for the main character, Troy,and hoping that he can achieve the spiritual growth he so longs for. I also found the setting, which is Southern California, in the 1980's, and the fact that all the characters are musicians, to be really original and entertaining. The metaphysical aspects of the book, like spirit guides and channeling, are presented in a manner that is never sensationalist and the blending of metaphysical concepts with traditional Christian precepts is tastefully done and very illuminating. I loved this book and recommend it to anyone who wants to read a highly engrossing and truly inspirational story.