he's a famous philosopher and scholar of religion, but apparently he also wrote fiction in his spare time. two of his works, Serpent and Mistress Christina sound very interesting and tickle that folkloric itch I have. can anyone here attest to their quality?

I had to read and prepare Maitreyi for the romanian baccalaureate. I was never a big fan of his works during my teenage years. I'd say "La țigănci" is my favourite, which is conveniently a short novella. You could also read Marriage in Heaven.