The Sam Fadala book is the best by far... especially if you are interested in historical black powder arms. Too many of the writers have bought into the high velocity inline craze but Sam treats the subject accurately. If you can find a copy the Lyman Black Powder Handbook it is another excellent starting point for a new muzzleloader. Another good read and something that is free is Doc White's article at www.whitemuzzleloading.com on the effectiveness of heavy weight conicals compared to sabots.