Yes, I read Prince of Tides when it first came out. I was already a Conroy fan by then. I eventually wound up reading everything he has written and keep a watch on him for anything new.
Now, I've got a tongue twister name for you: Chris Bohjalian. He wrote a delightful novel, Trans-Sister Radio, that is NOT to be missed.
I'll make you the same deal: You read it and if you don't like it I'll cover the cost of the book.
He also wrote Midwives, The Buffalo Soldiers, and The Law of Similars. Terrific writer. Right up there with Conroy.