Literature about FX

Hey, I'd like to be independent from VSTs. So -although I know it's a big field- I'd like to start programming my own FX. I can find some patches here, some bites of information there, but is there a good book (maybe even in context with Max) or good sites which explain the technical aspect of the most common audio FX ? What kind of parameters do I need for a special kind of effect, why do I need these parameters, etc etc.....

Thanx for any hints Cheers Peer