If you start with Atkins-style "induction", dropping to <30g/day of carbs, you WILL FEEL LIKE CRAP about 3-4 days in, and it will last for around 4-5 days. This is the body adjusting to the change in fuel, and is normal, but it's the place where most people trying it give up ("It made me sick"). That feeling will pass and your body will adjust.
IMO, more important is to understand the fundamental concept, which is REALLY HARD to get because we have been inundated all our lives with the message that "fat is bad" - it's not. Fat is good. Get your macros right more than anything. Most of your calories from fat, then protein, then carbs. It requires rethinking menus when you cook, but it's not that hard to do if you plan ahead.
I know that last statement disagrees with those saying it's a "very specific" diet, but I think that understanding the basis of the concept is the real key. You've got a good suggestion, i would also recommend "Atkins Diet Revolution" for an overview. Don't worry about the specifics of his plan if you're not planning on following it, but there's some good background on why it works. (and if you DO follow Atkins, then I would agree with "follow it exactly")