Johnston Thurwell is one of the world’s richest men. When he dies twelve people in his life are brought to his country mansion to decide the apportion of his wealth among themselves, according to his instructions which he calls The Danse.

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Really different to most books I have read. Everyone can take something away from this book. ( )

The Philanthropist's Danse was an engrossing read for me - i read it as a group/book club read - it was quite controversial, and many disliked it, but I really enjoyed it. I will admit, in the middle of the book, I was doubtful - virtually all of the characters are really horrible, and the "Danse" - a process of them all squabbling over the Philanthropist's fortune - was pretty distasteful. That said, I think what made the book so interesting for me was that it really was a psychological study of the characters and the process, which had a bit of a game theory (prisoners' dilemma) kind of feel to it. In the last half of the book, and as various secrets were revealed, I literally couldn't put it down. But it definitely won't be to everyone's taste. For myself, I immediately went off looking for other books by the author, only to discover that this is not just his debut novel, but so far his only work. I hope he writes more... ( )

When I read the synopsis for this, I immediately made the decision to buy this book as I felt it was a cracking plot. However I felt let down by the execution - it was too long and complicated. Paul would have benefited from having a good editor as I felt momentum was lost after the first third and it all became a bit ridiculous. I was also expecting some kind of twist at the end that never came. Quite disappointed, but a good effort for a self published author. ( )

This book tells the unlikely story of a group of people gathered together to decide which of them will receive what proportions of a wealthy decedent's estate.

In many cases the reason for each participant's involvement is not clear. This becomes so as the story develops, as does the character and personality of each potential recipient of a share of the estate. In the early stages the book is a bit heavy going in places ... but please don't be deterred - there are ample rewards for the tenacious reader.

This is a story unlike any I have read before. I give the author full marks for imagination and producing a work that is really unique creative writing.

Overall this is an awesome work that I can heartily recommend. ( )