Notes on Infinity

by Austin Taylor
Notes on Infinity cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Contemporary Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £16.99
Bookshop
Format • £16.14
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 533
  • Added: 2025-09-14
  • Updated: 2025-11-01
  • ISBN: 9780241729489
  • Publisher: Michael Joseph
  • Published: 2025-07-10
  • Formats: 49
  • Reviews: 4

Notes on Infinity is a captivating novel that blends the intensity of academic rivalry with the high-stakes world of start-up culture. Zoe and Jack, two brilliant Harvard students, form a deep connection over their shared ambition and intellectual curiosity. Their partnership leads to the creation of a thriving company, but their success is threatened by a shocking accusation that tests their love and their dreams. This poignant story explores the cost of success, the recklessness of youth, and the transformative power of love. With its sharp exploration of ambition and deceit, Notes on Infinity is a deeply moving and unforgettable debut that will resonate long after the final page.

Reviews
Raindrop Reflections · 2025-10-06
disappointing 2.50

The story follows two Harvard students discovering a way to reverse aging, but the execution falls short.

The reviewer from Raindrop Reflections notes that 'Notes on Infinity' has an intriguing premise, but the execution leaves something to be desired. They appreciate the scientific curiosity and the initial setup of the characters, but feel the story struggles to maintain momentum and depth. The bittersweet nature of the narrative is acknowledged, but the pacing issues and somewhat predictable plot make it a less satisfying read overall.

Quick quotes

    Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor follows two Harvard students discovering a way to reverse aging.

    The unpredictability and bittersweet nature of the story are noteworthy.

    The pacing for me made it feel like a book of two halves.

Book Marks · 2025-09-11
thoughtful 4.50

The novel is praised for its sharp, insightful storytelling and emotional depth, vividly portraying the pressures of elite academia and startup culture. It is noted for its nuanced exploration of gender politics and class insecurity.

This review from Book Marks emphasizes the novel's incisive look at the cutthroat culture of elite academic and startup environments. The storytelling is described as beautifully wrought, with a close third-person perspective that brings emotional nuance to the protagonists. The book is appreciated for its sharp critique of gender politics and class dynamics, and its thoughtful meditation on the pressures and ambitions shaping young scientists and entrepreneurs.

Quick quotes

    Taylor’s vividly observed, often beautifully wrought close third-person storytelling lets readers in on the emotional lives of her protagonists.

    A blazing meditation on the pressure cooker of academia, the price of fame in the digital age, and how far is too far to go for a chance at corporeal—or scientific—immortality.

    Taylor, a Harvard graduate, turns a razor-keen eye on the dynamics of a world-famous, high-pressure environment filled with young, ambitious students.

Locus Magazine · Paul Di Filippo · 2025-07-20
engaging 4.00

The novel starts as a romance and ends as a tragedy, with vividly naturalistic writing. The emotional depth and scientific intrigue make it a compelling read.

Paul Di Filippo praises Austin Taylor's ability to blend romance and tragedy in 'Notes on Infinity'. They appreciate the vividly naturalistic writing and the emotional depth that Taylor brings to the story. The novel's exploration of scientific discovery and its consequences is particularly engaging, making it a standout read. They highlight how the characters' journey from romance to tragedy is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the cost of immortality.

Quick quotes

    Taylor has delivered a vividly naturalistic novel that starts as a romance and ends as a tragedy.

    The novel is quite engaging, a well-paced blend of niche and accessible.

    Taylor's writing is solid, deft at avoiding cheesy or clumsy.

The Harvard Crimson · Isabelle A. Lu · 2025-06-18
insightful 4.00

The novel offers a well-paced, credible portrayal of Harvard’s high-pressure academic environment and biotech startup culture. It balances scientific detail with accessibility while exploring complex themes like family pressure, sexism, and ambition.

Isabelle A. Lu praises the author’s vivid and accurate depiction of Harvard’s atmosphere, capturing the intense pressure and high stakes faced by students. The scientific elements of anti-aging research are handled with credibility and clarity, striking a balance that makes the novel accessible without sacrificing realism. The book also thoughtfully addresses broader social issues such as gender politics and the struggle to establish one’s identity in the shadow of successful family members, making it a nuanced exploration of ambition and personal sacrifice.

Quick quotes

    Taylor’s portrait of Harvard is a pretty fresh addition to existing media about the school.

    The anti-aging research... is both clear and credible enough for this category of fiction.

    The novel paints a complex set of motives, commenting on the pressure of having successful family members, rejecting a set path in academia, and facing sexism.

Appears in Lists