Consider Phlebas Culture Novel #1

Conflict ravages the galaxy, claiming billions of lives and dooming countless more. Moons, planets, and stars all face ruthless destruction in a battle between the Idirans, fighting for their Faith, and the Culture, fighting for its right to exist. This conflict holds principles at its core and neither side will back down. Amidst this epic struggle, a critical game of wits unfolds. Hidden deep within a mythical maze on a forbidden planet, lies a rogue Mind coveted by both the Culture and the Idirans. The fate of Horza, the Changer, and his diverse group of mercenaries, both human and machine, is to locate this Mind - and ultimately seal their own demise.