Absolutely. I love the Culture series, but Consider Phlebas has always been one of the least enjoyable books.
I’d personally start with the excellent Player of Games and go from there.
(Also skip Inversions)
I’d personally start with the excellent Player of Games and go from there.
(Also skip Inversions)
I'd also suggest avoiding Excession until you've become familiar with the Minds. It's my favourite book, I think, but you lose a lot without having a little context.