What do you think?
Rate this book
Notes on Infinity
Harvard students Zoe and Jack find themselves propelled into the intoxicating biotech startup world when they announce they’ve discovered the cure for ageing.
Zoe, the daughter of an MIT professor who grew up in her brother’s shadow, can envision her future anew at Harvard University. Jack, a boy in Zoe’s organic chemistry class with unruly hair and a gleam of competitiveness, matches her intellect and curiosity with every breath. When Jack refers Zoe for a position in a prestigious professor’s lab, the two become entwined as colleagues, staying up late to discuss scientific ideas. They find themselves on the cusp of a breakthrough: the promise of immortality through a novel anti-ageing drug.
Zoe and Jack set off on their new project in secret. Finding encouraging results, they bring their work to an investor, drop out of Harvard, and form a startup. But after the money, the magazine covers, and the national news stories detailing their success, Zoe and Jack receive a startling accusation that threatens to destroy both the company they built and their partnership.
Zoe, the daughter of an MIT professor who grew up in her brother’s shadow, can envision her future anew at Harvard University. Jack, a boy in Zoe’s organic chemistry class with unruly hair and a gleam of competitiveness, matches her intellect and curiosity with every breath. When Jack refers Zoe for a position in a prestigious professor’s lab, the two become entwined as colleagues, staying up late to discuss scientific ideas. They find themselves on the cusp of a breakthrough: the promise of immortality through a novel anti-ageing drug.
Zoe and Jack set off on their new project in secret. Finding encouraging results, they bring their work to an investor, drop out of Harvard, and form a startup. But after the money, the magazine covers, and the national news stories detailing their success, Zoe and Jack receive a startling accusation that threatens to destroy both the company they built and their partnership.
400 pages, Hardcover
Published June 3, 2025
107 people are currently reading
24345 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
April 18, 2025
I don't know when this book was written so I can't tell if it's a direct ripoff of Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow or if it is just a coincidence that made the publicity team's job very easy. But the problem with being so similar to a big book like that is that you make the comparisons so easy and you make your flaws more obvious.
I didn't like T&T&T, but I still read the whole thing in a flash. And while I was reading it I could tell that Zevin is really good at what she does. I may not have liked what she did with her plot and characters, but there was still a lot of other things to like. There is some pleasure to be taken in handing yourself over to a skilled storyteller. This is Taylor's debut and she is clearly under 25. You cannot just surrender to this book because this book does not understand the world. It is not wise but precocious, like a tween with a very large vocabulary but no real life experience.
Sadly this is just not a good book. It's not even an okay book. It doesn't have a cool idea or concept beyond Hey Did You Know I Went to Harvard. If you have never been to Harvard, this book will have no setting beyond the names of places you don't recognize. It follows the outline of a character study but it gives you no actual characters. Zoe and Jack are cardboard cutouts. They are supposed to be these amazing science geniuses but if you have actually taken any college science classes or worked in a college science lab, you will see very quickly how ridiculous all of this is. (Yes I know it is supposed to be HARVARD but that doesn't change how college works or how labs work.)
I could have predicted the entire plot after reading the first chapter. It was very annoying to be proven right over and over again.
I didn't like T&T&T, but I still read the whole thing in a flash. And while I was reading it I could tell that Zevin is really good at what she does. I may not have liked what she did with her plot and characters, but there was still a lot of other things to like. There is some pleasure to be taken in handing yourself over to a skilled storyteller. This is Taylor's debut and she is clearly under 25. You cannot just surrender to this book because this book does not understand the world. It is not wise but precocious, like a tween with a very large vocabulary but no real life experience.
Sadly this is just not a good book. It's not even an okay book. It doesn't have a cool idea or concept beyond Hey Did You Know I Went to Harvard. If you have never been to Harvard, this book will have no setting beyond the names of places you don't recognize. It follows the outline of a character study but it gives you no actual characters. Zoe and Jack are cardboard cutouts. They are supposed to be these amazing science geniuses but if you have actually taken any college science classes or worked in a college science lab, you will see very quickly how ridiculous all of this is. (Yes I know it is supposed to be HARVARD but that doesn't change how college works or how labs work.)
I could have predicted the entire plot after reading the first chapter. It was very annoying to be proven right over and over again.
May 23, 2025
Austin Taylor is coming out of a Harvard degree, with a debut novel and is politely giving us one of the best books of 2025.
Just wow. How to summarize a story with so much intrigue and depth and love and heartache? This genre is unmatched, coming from a place similar to The Circle and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. and Tomorrow, Notes on Infinity is truly setting itself apart in its own genre. It’s such a mixture of speculative fiction, literary fiction, mythological and philosophical elements and it’s so good, I don’t care to classify it as any one thing.
We follow our main characters Zoe and Jack through a soul mate like friendship to lovers, into betrayal, hope and tragedy. Does it seem like a lot? Sure. But the execution is so impeccable that I quickly became so unbelievably attached to these characters. A surprising and beautiful POV shift three quarters of the way through had me gasping in delight and pain. The writing was unparalleled and the expertise Taylor brings of their chemistry and scientific background was a true delight and extremely accessible.
I truly went through so many emotions and it will take a long time to truly digest it all. This has the making of an instant beloved book and I truly cannot wait for this to hit shelves so everyone else can witness and experience. Because this book truly was� an experience and one I won’t soon forget.
Just wow. How to summarize a story with so much intrigue and depth and love and heartache? This genre is unmatched, coming from a place similar to The Circle and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. and Tomorrow, Notes on Infinity is truly setting itself apart in its own genre. It’s such a mixture of speculative fiction, literary fiction, mythological and philosophical elements and it’s so good, I don’t care to classify it as any one thing.
We follow our main characters Zoe and Jack through a soul mate like friendship to lovers, into betrayal, hope and tragedy. Does it seem like a lot? Sure. But the execution is so impeccable that I quickly became so unbelievably attached to these characters. A surprising and beautiful POV shift three quarters of the way through had me gasping in delight and pain. The writing was unparalleled and the expertise Taylor brings of their chemistry and scientific background was a true delight and extremely accessible.
I truly went through so many emotions and it will take a long time to truly digest it all. This has the making of an instant beloved book and I truly cannot wait for this to hit shelves so everyone else can witness and experience. Because this book truly was� an experience and one I won’t soon forget.
May 21, 2025
3.75 stars.
4 for the first 60%, 3 for the remainder.
This is NOTHING like Tomorrow x3. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. The writing styles are nowhere similar. Zevin hooked me in from the beginning, while Taylor's writing is quite different.
If you see a book that says it's familiar to Tomorrow x3, there's a 90% chance that it's nothing like it.
The first 60% of the book was intriguing: Zoe and Jack meet in Harvard, where they discover they can create an anti-aging drug.
Or have they really? There are moments of science that I am the last person to define here, but it will remind users of ELizabeth Holmes, now spending twelve years in prison after her failed attempt at creating a machine that will solve modern medical issues. Yes, Holmes was dynamic, smart, strong, a WOMAN, but Theranos didn't actually work.
When Zoe and Jack's company Manna has in common with Theranos, is a dynamic female CEO, which investors find fascinating. Turns out, the two don't actually have a working drug, just a data insight.
I wish this story delved more into the crime committed, the court case, and the aftermath. The remaining 40% seemed to rush through this, while focusing more on their relationship. It starts to turn into a dream sequence, and I'm neither here nor there about it.
I think this book will be on many reader's radars, and looking at the release date, will possibly be a BOM.
While I didn't hate it, I felt a little unsatisfied by the end.
Thank you to Netgalley and Celadon for the free ARC/book!
4 for the first 60%, 3 for the remainder.
This is NOTHING like Tomorrow x3. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. The writing styles are nowhere similar. Zevin hooked me in from the beginning, while Taylor's writing is quite different.
If you see a book that says it's familiar to Tomorrow x3, there's a 90% chance that it's nothing like it.
The first 60% of the book was intriguing: Zoe and Jack meet in Harvard, where they discover they can create an anti-aging drug.
Or have they really? There are moments of science that I am the last person to define here, but it will remind users of ELizabeth Holmes, now spending twelve years in prison after her failed attempt at creating a machine that will solve modern medical issues. Yes, Holmes was dynamic, smart, strong, a WOMAN, but Theranos didn't actually work.
When Zoe and Jack's company Manna has in common with Theranos, is a dynamic female CEO, which investors find fascinating. Turns out, the two don't actually have a working drug, just a data insight.
I wish this story delved more into the crime committed, the court case, and the aftermath. The remaining 40% seemed to rush through this, while focusing more on their relationship. It starts to turn into a dream sequence, and I'm neither here nor there about it.
I think this book will be on many reader's radars, and looking at the release date, will possibly be a BOM.
While I didn't hate it, I felt a little unsatisfied by the end.
Thank you to Netgalley and Celadon for the free ARC/book!
May 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ This was an interesting read heavily focused on science and lab research at Harvard.
Zoe is a bright student interested in the anti-aging field. She befriends Jack an equally brilliant science major. Their working relationship develops into much more.
They find themselves working long hours in a professors lab trying to develop a breakthrough anti-aging drug. They quickly form their startup, Manna. After all the investors, publicity, and hype around their drug, things come under question.
I enjoyed the plot and the characters of Zoe, Jack, friend Carter, and Zoe’s brother Alex. I was a little lost in the telling of the science research parts, but the story was engaging and kept my interest.
The last chapters were very emotional and sad.
Thank you NetGalley and Celadon Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Zoe is a bright student interested in the anti-aging field. She befriends Jack an equally brilliant science major. Their working relationship develops into much more.
They find themselves working long hours in a professors lab trying to develop a breakthrough anti-aging drug. They quickly form their startup, Manna. After all the investors, publicity, and hype around their drug, things come under question.
I enjoyed the plot and the characters of Zoe, Jack, friend Carter, and Zoe’s brother Alex. I was a little lost in the telling of the science research parts, but the story was engaging and kept my interest.
The last chapters were very emotional and sad.
Thank you NetGalley and Celadon Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Read
January 17, 2025Got to read this early release copy for a Galentine's book club! It was so enthralling that I finished it in two days. Really loved the storyline and characters. Clever premise and well written!!
May 15, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
i just broke down sobbing over this novel- what a gut churning, devastating read that was so unexpectedly painful. this was laced with tender moments, so much hope, and yet, it was met with the fleeting reality that we cannot live forever.
a debut that brilliantly proves austin taylor's impeccable craft.
i just broke down sobbing over this novel- what a gut churning, devastating read that was so unexpectedly painful. this was laced with tender moments, so much hope, and yet, it was met with the fleeting reality that we cannot live forever.
a debut that brilliantly proves austin taylor's impeccable craft.
May 25, 2025
This is a slow-paced story of two Harvard students, both brilliant, who come up with an idea and drop out to create their own startup and explore their scientific theories. And whileit is slow-paced, it is intriguing and full of depth and emotion, and the pace is fitting. I liked this pacing for this story, I only mention it because if it feels slow to you, just keep going. I definitely did not understand all of the science parts, but I didn't have to. Zoe and Jack have this intoxicating and toxic pull towards each other. I just picture these brilliant people with this inevitable pull towards each other, trying to create something in this life together. Where it winds up going was a surprisefor me. I don't want to give anything away by even hinting at it, but I didn't see it coming. It adds tremendously to the emotional aspect of this story. People are comparing it to Tomorrow x3 and while it serves similar vibes, it is absolutely different and its own journey. By the end of it, I enjoyed it more than I anticipated I would at the onset. If you like interesting and tragic and quirky stories about what could be real people, give this one a go!
Book releases 6/3/2025. Thank you to Celadon Books for sending me a physical finished copy ahead of release and inviting me to join in a big "read together". Discussing things along the way with fellow readers was fun! Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. I'm glad I could listen along while I read, I love doing that, and the audiobook narrator did a wonderful job.
Book releases 6/3/2025. Thank you to Celadon Books for sending me a physical finished copy ahead of release and inviting me to join in a big "read together". Discussing things along the way with fellow readers was fun! Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. I'm glad I could listen along while I read, I love doing that, and the audiobook narrator did a wonderful job.
May 16, 2025
Thanks to Celadon Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted copies!
After days of lab work and nights discussing scientific ideas, two Harvard students, Zoe and Jack, announce that they're on the edge of having a cure for aging. They decide to drop out of college and pursue their research, turning their work into a full-fledged biotech startup complete with (a LOT of) investor money as their positive results come in.
As someone who is a biomedical engineer / woman in STEM, HOLY COW THIS BOOK WAS RELATABLE. From Zoe being mistaken as Jack's girlfriend instead of his research partner, to working in a male-dominated field, this was absolutely spot-on from that perspective. As someone who was also obsessed with the Elizabeth Holmes / Theranos case, I also couldn't put this book down. Accusations that might destroy the company they built?! Early success maybe not being all it says it is?! Totally, 100% in. I loved reading this book with the Celadon Readalong crew, and really enjoyed the dual natrration by Helen Laser and Shahjehan Khan.
After days of lab work and nights discussing scientific ideas, two Harvard students, Zoe and Jack, announce that they're on the edge of having a cure for aging. They decide to drop out of college and pursue their research, turning their work into a full-fledged biotech startup complete with (a LOT of) investor money as their positive results come in.
As someone who is a biomedical engineer / woman in STEM, HOLY COW THIS BOOK WAS RELATABLE. From Zoe being mistaken as Jack's girlfriend instead of his research partner, to working in a male-dominated field, this was absolutely spot-on from that perspective. As someone who was also obsessed with the Elizabeth Holmes / Theranos case, I also couldn't put this book down. Accusations that might destroy the company they built?! Early success maybe not being all it says it is?! Totally, 100% in. I loved reading this book with the Celadon Readalong crew, and really enjoyed the dual natrration by Helen Laser and Shahjehan Khan.
March 17, 2025
This book is a beautifully intricate tapestry of emotions and I found it addictive. You can immediately sense the author's scientific mindset; the depth of research behind the narrative is palpable, adding a rich layer of authenticity to the storytelling.
Initially, I found myself put off by Zoe. She struck me as an arrogant, privileged brat, someone who was hard to empathise with. However, the more I read and the backstory gradually unfolded, my perspective shifted. Her relationship with the family revealed nuances and complexities that made her character much more relatable and sympathetic.
Zoe's dynamic with Jack was particularly captivating. It was fraught with tension and complexity that had me almost shouting at the pages in frustration. Both are remarkably intelligent, academically gifted individuals, yet their decisions often defy logic, leaving me exasperated yet engrossed.
Jack's narrative was equally compelling, slowly unravelling like a tightly wound coil. Despite the challenges he faced, I found myself rooting for him, hoping he'd find his way through the labyrinth of his circumstances.
However, I did have some issues with the story, firstly I can't begin to imagine why Zoe would take a backseat on the science aspect of the business. She loves science so why wouldn't she also want to be in the lab? I understand the plausible explanation given in the book but I just can't see someone like Zoe giving in to this pressure or giving up her love of the lab.
Also we can talk about this wonderful love story, and even I was totally sucked in by Jack but let's not pretend that what he did was totally wrong. He lied and gaslit her. She even became the face of the business. How can you do this to someone you're supposed to love?
While the story plunges into bleakness at times, it makes the lighter moments all the more impactful. I believe this author has immense potential, and I eagerly anticipate what literary gems they will present in the future.
A heartfelt thanks to the author, the publishers, and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy of this book. This review reflects my own thoughts and opinions.
Initially, I found myself put off by Zoe. She struck me as an arrogant, privileged brat, someone who was hard to empathise with. However, the more I read and the backstory gradually unfolded, my perspective shifted. Her relationship with the family revealed nuances and complexities that made her character much more relatable and sympathetic.
Zoe's dynamic with Jack was particularly captivating. It was fraught with tension and complexity that had me almost shouting at the pages in frustration. Both are remarkably intelligent, academically gifted individuals, yet their decisions often defy logic, leaving me exasperated yet engrossed.
Jack's narrative was equally compelling, slowly unravelling like a tightly wound coil. Despite the challenges he faced, I found myself rooting for him, hoping he'd find his way through the labyrinth of his circumstances.
However, I did have some issues with the story, firstly I can't begin to imagine why Zoe would take a backseat on the science aspect of the business. She loves science so why wouldn't she also want to be in the lab? I understand the plausible explanation given in the book but I just can't see someone like Zoe giving in to this pressure or giving up her love of the lab.
Also we can talk about this wonderful love story, and even I was totally sucked in by Jack but let's not pretend that what he did was totally wrong. He lied and gaslit her. She even became the face of the business. How can you do this to someone you're supposed to love?
While the story plunges into bleakness at times, it makes the lighter moments all the more impactful. I believe this author has immense potential, and I eagerly anticipate what literary gems they will present in the future.
A heartfelt thanks to the author, the publishers, and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy of this book. This review reflects my own thoughts and opinions.
April 18, 2025
I have a feeling this will be the next romance/lit fic darling. I’ve been seeing buzz around it already so I’m sure at release this will be the next big thing. But honestly, to me, this was fine.
We follow Zoe and Jack, two scientists who
start a new biotech company after Zoe’s research leads to a possibility for a cure for aging. We see their partnership and their business through various trails and tribulations as their research continues to grow.
The writing is good but I felt it was bogged down by a lot of scientific jargon. It might work for someone who has a background with science, but as an average reader I felt like it held a the story back like everything comes to a screeching halt so we can hear about a certain subject.
At around the 60% mark is where the book shifts and doesn’t work as well. I won’t say what it is (I don’t want to get yelled at for potential spoilers lol) but I think other reviews have discussed it so if you’re curious I’m sure you can figure it out. The remainder of the novel is very redundant and not as compelling as the first 3/4ths. It honestly would’ve been better if all of it was weaved together even if it negated some of the more shocking revelations later on.
I don’t regret my time with it. I’m sure it’ll be a hit for other people but unfortunately it wasn’t for me.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me an ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own*
We follow Zoe and Jack, two scientists who
start a new biotech company after Zoe’s research leads to a possibility for a cure for aging. We see their partnership and their business through various trails and tribulations as their research continues to grow.
The writing is good but I felt it was bogged down by a lot of scientific jargon. It might work for someone who has a background with science, but as an average reader I felt like it held a the story back like everything comes to a screeching halt so we can hear about a certain subject.
At around the 60% mark is where the book shifts and doesn’t work as well. I won’t say what it is (I don’t want to get yelled at for potential spoilers lol) but I think other reviews have discussed it so if you’re curious I’m sure you can figure it out. The remainder of the novel is very redundant and not as compelling as the first 3/4ths. It honestly would’ve been better if all of it was weaved together even if it negated some of the more shocking revelations later on.
I don’t regret my time with it. I’m sure it’ll be a hit for other people but unfortunately it wasn’t for me.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me an ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own*
June 3, 2025
I am going to be brutally honest here - I almost DNF'd Notes On Infinity several times, but everything changed about halfway into the book and I could not put it down. The ending also had me sobbing, which is a mark of a good book in my opinion. Luckily, I was sent this book by the publisher, Celadon as part of a Read Together with a few other awesome book bloggers, which motivated me to keep reading.
This book is about two twenty year old Harvard Sophomores, Zoe and Jack who embark on a scientific quest to create a new antiaging drug unlike anything that has ever been seen before. They gain the mentorship of one of the most scientifically renowned Harvard professors for their project and later raise billions of dollars from venture capitalists for their startup. The sky, or rather infinity, is the limit, but do they have what it takes to get there?
The first half of the book told from Zoe's POV is dull. We slog through her daily life as a Harvard student sitting in classes and her tedious lab work and her love triangle? square? with Jack, their beautiful project partner Divya and Jack's roommate and their other project partner, Carter. Despite getting a full background on Zoe's life and family and despite her potentially juicy love life, she is flat and I feel no connection to her or any of the other characters in the first half of the book. Carter is the most intriguing to me, although I git the vibe that he was gay, so it was a little surprising when he and Zoe were suddenly in a relationship with each other.
For reference, several people have compared this book to Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, which I also hated. They both have the students building startup theme and I was not attached to the characters in either book.
However, the POV of the book abruptly shifts to Jack about halfway through the book and his origin story is much more dramatic, tumultuous and sad. Suddenly, the characters begin to have more depth and dimension. While I never particularly liked Jack or Zoe, the ending, told through notes, a substack and news headlines hit me hard and I fully sobbed. It took me almost a month to get through the first half, but I read the second half in one sitting. I am glad I didn't give up! This book makes me want to go back and watch the Theranos documentary again!
Content Warnings: Drug Addiction & Recovery, Infidelity, Animal Experimentation, Suicide
This book is about two twenty year old Harvard Sophomores, Zoe and Jack who embark on a scientific quest to create a new antiaging drug unlike anything that has ever been seen before. They gain the mentorship of one of the most scientifically renowned Harvard professors for their project and later raise billions of dollars from venture capitalists for their startup. The sky, or rather infinity, is the limit, but do they have what it takes to get there?
The first half of the book told from Zoe's POV is dull. We slog through her daily life as a Harvard student sitting in classes and her tedious lab work and her love triangle? square? with Jack, their beautiful project partner Divya and Jack's roommate and their other project partner, Carter. Despite getting a full background on Zoe's life and family and despite her potentially juicy love life, she is flat and I feel no connection to her or any of the other characters in the first half of the book. Carter is the most intriguing to me, although I git the vibe that he was gay, so it was a little surprising when he and Zoe were suddenly in a relationship with each other.
For reference, several people have compared this book to Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, which I also hated. They both have the students building startup theme and I was not attached to the characters in either book.
However, the POV of the book abruptly shifts to Jack about halfway through the book and his origin story is much more dramatic, tumultuous and sad. Suddenly, the characters begin to have more depth and dimension. While I never particularly liked Jack or Zoe, the ending, told through notes, a substack and news headlines hit me hard and I fully sobbed. It took me almost a month to get through the first half, but I read the second half in one sitting. I am glad I didn't give up! This book makes me want to go back and watch the Theranos documentary again!
Content Warnings: Drug Addiction & Recovery, Infidelity, Animal Experimentation, Suicide
May 26, 2025
Thank you Celadon #partner for the finished copy and to Macmillan Audio for the ALC to review.
This was a little slow to start for me, but the content and character development was strong and the way everything came together I thought was very well done. This was a fascinating peek into biotech startups and how they work, a little scary even, as I’m sure this is not too far from reality even though it is fiction. I started this via physical copy and finished via audio during a long drive, and both were excellent ways to read this one. Once I got a good ways in, I knew it was going to take a turn, but did not expect the turn it took, and man, it got me.
There is a lot going on in here, but Taylor writes it in a way that it is not too much, in fact it really got me in my emotions and if I tried to cover everything in here I would be writing a novel myself. I enjoyed this overall, I am still thinking about it, and definitely recommend when it publishes June 3.
This was a little slow to start for me, but the content and character development was strong and the way everything came together I thought was very well done. This was a fascinating peek into biotech startups and how they work, a little scary even, as I’m sure this is not too far from reality even though it is fiction. I started this via physical copy and finished via audio during a long drive, and both were excellent ways to read this one. Once I got a good ways in, I knew it was going to take a turn, but did not expect the turn it took, and man, it got me.
There is a lot going on in here, but Taylor writes it in a way that it is not too much, in fact it really got me in my emotions and if I tried to cover everything in here I would be writing a novel myself. I enjoyed this overall, I am still thinking about it, and definitely recommend when it publishes June 3.
April 16, 2025
While this book may be tailormade to my own interests in science and academia, I am still pretty sure this is one of the best things I have read in a long time, and I can't wait to make everyone I know read it and discuss it with me.
Notes on Infinity follows the story of Jack and Zoe, two students who meet during their freshman year at Harvard and bond over their love of biology and an interest in understanding the cellular basis of aging. When an experimental breakthrough leads them both to drop out of college to pursue a well-funded startup, their friendship is quickly put to the test as public scrutiny increases and their promised immortality treatment seems increasingly out of reach. I loved both main characters so much, and Austin Taylor does such an excellent job in exploring how their own personal backgrounds inform their approach to research, success, and love.
I honestly could not take a break from this book once I had started it, and I can't believe this is a debut. The audiobook production is fantastic and both narrators do an excellent job of telling the story from both Zoe and Jack's point of view, I would warn that I think it's best to jump into this one without reading too much about it beforehand, so you aren't spoiled by any of the twists and turns the plot takes. Even though I cried through the entire ending, I can't wait for a physical copy to arrive to read this all over again.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Notes on Infinity follows the story of Jack and Zoe, two students who meet during their freshman year at Harvard and bond over their love of biology and an interest in understanding the cellular basis of aging. When an experimental breakthrough leads them both to drop out of college to pursue a well-funded startup, their friendship is quickly put to the test as public scrutiny increases and their promised immortality treatment seems increasingly out of reach. I loved both main characters so much, and Austin Taylor does such an excellent job in exploring how their own personal backgrounds inform their approach to research, success, and love.
I honestly could not take a break from this book once I had started it, and I can't believe this is a debut. The audiobook production is fantastic and both narrators do an excellent job of telling the story from both Zoe and Jack's point of view, I would warn that I think it's best to jump into this one without reading too much about it beforehand, so you aren't spoiled by any of the twists and turns the plot takes. Even though I cried through the entire ending, I can't wait for a physical copy to arrive to read this all over again.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2025
2.5 stars rounded down.
(4 stars for 80% of the book. 1 star for the ending.)
Thank you, Celadon Books, for the early copy of Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor. This review is voluntary, and all thoughts are my own.
Notes on Infinity is about two young Harvard undergrads who uncover a lead in reversing aging. To me, this book is a coming-of-age story that is introspective and philosophical without being overly heavy-handed. I thought it was wonderfully written, though I did not appreciate how it ended.
The rest of this review contains spoilers, so please read at your own discretion.
Overall, I enjoyed most of the book, but I was disappointed by its final notes. I’ll be keeping an eye on the author’s future work, but I can’t say I would recommend this book.
(4 stars for 80% of the book. 1 star for the ending.)
Thank you, Celadon Books, for the early copy of Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor. This review is voluntary, and all thoughts are my own.
Notes on Infinity is about two young Harvard undergrads who uncover a lead in reversing aging. To me, this book is a coming-of-age story that is introspective and philosophical without being overly heavy-handed. I thought it was wonderfully written, though I did not appreciate how it ended.
The rest of this review contains spoilers, so please read at your own discretion.
Overall, I enjoyed most of the book, but I was disappointed by its final notes. I’ll be keeping an eye on the author’s future work, but I can’t say I would recommend this book.
June 6, 2025
3.9 ⭐️
I think it’s a heart breaking book. I didn’t see the ending coming, but when it arrived, it was like this conclusion was the only possible one. It has a lot of “science talk�, but I’ve read other academia based fiction and so it didn’t bother me much. What did bother me was the wordi-ness. I’m not a huge fan of long winded paragraphs and run-on sentences, which this book has a LOT of. But the plot itself kept it interesting enough to stay interested despite those things.
Minus points for taking multiple jabs are certain religions and political parties (seriously, WHY do authors feel the need to insult entire demographics just to try and get their book to sell?)
But overall, I enjoyed the book.
I think it’s a heart breaking book. I didn’t see the ending coming, but when it arrived, it was like this conclusion was the only possible one. It has a lot of “science talk�, but I’ve read other academia based fiction and so it didn’t bother me much. What did bother me was the wordi-ness. I’m not a huge fan of long winded paragraphs and run-on sentences, which this book has a LOT of. But the plot itself kept it interesting enough to stay interested despite those things.
Minus points for taking multiple jabs are certain religions and political parties (seriously, WHY do authors feel the need to insult entire demographics just to try and get their book to sell?)
But overall, I enjoyed the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2025
✨𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘� 𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬�
🅶🅴🅽🆁🅴—𝒮𝒸𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒸� 𝐹𝒾𝒸𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃/ 𝒞𝑜𝓃𝓉𝑒𝓂𝓅𝑜𝓇𝒶𝓇𝓎 𝐹𝒾𝒸𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃
🗓ℙ𝕦� 𝔻𝕒𝕥𝕖—𝕁𝕦𝕟� 𝟛, 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟝
✂️ P L O T L I N E
Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor follows Harvard students Zoe and Jack as they dive into the high-stakes world of biotech after claiming to discover a cure for aging. As their secret project turns into a headline-making startup, their bond is tested by fame, ambition, and a devastating accusation that could unravel everything they’ve built.
💭 ⓂⓎ ⓉⒽⓄⓊⒼⒽⓉⓈ
It’s no surprise around here that many of my book ratings are based on the feelings I experience while reading. The chemistry major in me and my science background were what initially drew me to this story, but the relationship dynamic between Zoe and Jack completely sucked me in. This one definitely did a number on my emotions. There were so many nostalgic moments for me, especially reading about the science classes they took in college and the complicated relationship dynamics we often experience when we’re younger. I can’t say the book wrapped up exactly how I was hoping it would, but honestly I think that made the story even more impactful. I definitely didn’t see the bombshell that was dropped coming. And can we talk about how bombshells are always dropped while I’m listening to an audiobook during the most mundane tasks like brushing my teeth? I literally gasped at this one and had to rewind. Anyway, if you like to feel all the feelings and you’re okay with books that are heavy and emotionally impactful, whether you’re into science or not, this one is for you.
📚 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎:
🧬Science backdrop
💔Complex romantic dynamics
🧪Women in STEM
❎Flawed characters
😢dzپDzԲ
💰Success and betrayal
🏫Academia setting
🫶🏼Found family
🗣️Dual POV
⚠️ 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: drug abuse, physical and emotional abuse, death.
🧬𝕄𝕐 ℝ𝔸𝕋𝕀ℕ𝔾�
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
💕Q U O T E: "𝐼 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝒽𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓀 𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓇𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝑜𝓊𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝓈, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒽𝑒𝓁𝓅𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓈𝓅𝒶𝒸𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝒸𝒸𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃. 𝐵𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝒶𝓃𝓉, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝑔𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓈, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝒻 𝓌𝑒 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝒶𝓉 𝒽𝑒𝓁𝓅𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓈𝑒 𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓈 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹, 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎'𝓁𝓁 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹."
🙏Thank you celadon for this free physical book and macmillan for the audio book.💕
🅶🅴🅽🆁🅴—𝒮𝒸𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒸� 𝐹𝒾𝒸𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃/ 𝒞𝑜𝓃𝓉𝑒𝓂𝓅𝑜𝓇𝒶𝓇𝓎 𝐹𝒾𝒸𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃
🗓ℙ𝕦� 𝔻𝕒𝕥𝕖—𝕁𝕦𝕟� 𝟛, 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟝
✂️ P L O T L I N E
Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor follows Harvard students Zoe and Jack as they dive into the high-stakes world of biotech after claiming to discover a cure for aging. As their secret project turns into a headline-making startup, their bond is tested by fame, ambition, and a devastating accusation that could unravel everything they’ve built.
💭 ⓂⓎ ⓉⒽⓄⓊⒼⒽⓉⓈ
It’s no surprise around here that many of my book ratings are based on the feelings I experience while reading. The chemistry major in me and my science background were what initially drew me to this story, but the relationship dynamic between Zoe and Jack completely sucked me in. This one definitely did a number on my emotions. There were so many nostalgic moments for me, especially reading about the science classes they took in college and the complicated relationship dynamics we often experience when we’re younger. I can’t say the book wrapped up exactly how I was hoping it would, but honestly I think that made the story even more impactful. I definitely didn’t see the bombshell that was dropped coming. And can we talk about how bombshells are always dropped while I’m listening to an audiobook during the most mundane tasks like brushing my teeth? I literally gasped at this one and had to rewind. Anyway, if you like to feel all the feelings and you’re okay with books that are heavy and emotionally impactful, whether you’re into science or not, this one is for you.
📚 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎:
🧬Science backdrop
💔Complex romantic dynamics
🧪Women in STEM
❎Flawed characters
😢dzپDzԲ
💰Success and betrayal
🏫Academia setting
🫶🏼Found family
🗣️Dual POV
⚠️ 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: drug abuse, physical and emotional abuse, death.
🧬𝕄𝕐 ℝ𝔸𝕋𝕀ℕ𝔾�
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
💕Q U O T E: "𝐼 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝒽𝑜𝓅𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓀 𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓇𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝑜𝓊𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝓈, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒽𝑒𝓁𝓅𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓈𝓅𝒶𝒸𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝒸𝒸𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝒷𝓁𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃. 𝐵𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝒶𝓃𝓉, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝑔𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓈, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝒻 𝓌𝑒 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝒶𝓉 𝒽𝑒𝓁𝓅𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓈𝑒 𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓈 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹, 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎'𝓁𝓁 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹."
🙏Thank you celadon for this free physical book and macmillan for the audio book.💕
February 4, 2025
Read for a Galentines event and would've DNFed if not 😂 for me, it was super boring and very sad and depressing.
June 2, 2025
Notes on Infinity is a contemporary novel about two ambitious Harvard students who shake up the biotech startup world with their research into anti-aging.
Zoe and Jack meet in a Harvard chemistry class as academic rivals and eventually become lab partners and innovators in the field of aging. Despite being just twenty-year-old sophomores, they manage to develop some incredible theories that get them noticed and funded. With major investors and media attention, the two are under immense pressure to deliver on the promise of a cure for mortality. As the work pulls Zoe into the spotlight and pushes Jack behind the scenes, questions about their results begin to surface.
Despite the “rarefied air� that Zoe and Jack inhabit, there is something very relatable about their characters and what they go through. They are both complicated and flawed, but by the time we get to Jack’s point of view, I found myself rooting so hard for them both. Although I know absolutely nothing about biotech or startups, I was completely engrossed by their work—which is a huge accomplishment for the author to pull off. I highly recommend this one to readers who enjoy complex relationships and the ambitions that drive people to dizzying heights.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclosure: An advanced copy of Notes on Infinity was provided by Celadon for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Zoe and Jack meet in a Harvard chemistry class as academic rivals and eventually become lab partners and innovators in the field of aging. Despite being just twenty-year-old sophomores, they manage to develop some incredible theories that get them noticed and funded. With major investors and media attention, the two are under immense pressure to deliver on the promise of a cure for mortality. As the work pulls Zoe into the spotlight and pushes Jack behind the scenes, questions about their results begin to surface.
Despite the “rarefied air� that Zoe and Jack inhabit, there is something very relatable about their characters and what they go through. They are both complicated and flawed, but by the time we get to Jack’s point of view, I found myself rooting so hard for them both. Although I know absolutely nothing about biotech or startups, I was completely engrossed by their work—which is a huge accomplishment for the author to pull off. I highly recommend this one to readers who enjoy complex relationships and the ambitions that drive people to dizzying heights.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclosure: An advanced copy of Notes on Infinity was provided by Celadon for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2025
3.75 stars
Thank you Celadon for an ARC!
I haven’t even read Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow yet but this is what I’m assuming that book to be like. So if you liked that you’d probably enjoy this one! Just instead of creating a video game it’s two twenty year old Harvard students getting 9 billion dollars for a start up to discover the cure for aging. What could possibly go wrong?
Thank you Celadon for an ARC!
I haven’t even read Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow yet but this is what I’m assuming that book to be like. So if you liked that you’d probably enjoy this one! Just instead of creating a video game it’s two twenty year old Harvard students getting 9 billion dollars for a start up to discover the cure for aging. What could possibly go wrong?
May 2, 2025
such fun
May 28, 2025
This one left me with a lot to think about. On the surface, Notes on Infinity is a sharp, ambitious debut about science and the price of wanting more. But at its heart, it’s a story about two people, Zoe and Jack, whose paths collide at Harvard and spiral into the high stakes world of launching a biotech startup up. Fame, fortune, ego, heartbreak� it’s all here.
I’ll be honest� I was confused at times as well with the shifts of POV. But I did appreciate it. The science was fascinating and it did keep me turning the pages.
If you’re a fan of character driven stories with a touch of science and a lot of heart, this one’s for you.
I’ll be honest� I was confused at times as well with the shifts of POV. But I did appreciate it. The science was fascinating and it did keep me turning the pages.
If you’re a fan of character driven stories with a touch of science and a lot of heart, this one’s for you.
March 10, 2025
Fantastic debut!
May 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
Two brilliant 20-year-olds at Harvard decide to cure aging. One’s the visionary. One’s the scientist. Together, they launch a startup that catches fire and suddenly, they’re not just chasing immortality� they’re selling it.
“I don’t want to live forever. I just don’t wanna die.�
That line wrecked me. Because this book isn’t just about literal immortality, it’s about legacy. About ambition, youth, love, ego, and what we think it means to matter.
It’s got major Theranos vibes, but with more heart. Think The Social Network meets a philosophy class you accidentally got emotionally invested in.
I loved this book so much I wrote a song for it: “Chasing Forever.� Because that’s what they’re doing. And maybe what we’re all doing.
Two brilliant 20-year-olds at Harvard decide to cure aging. One’s the visionary. One’s the scientist. Together, they launch a startup that catches fire and suddenly, they’re not just chasing immortality� they’re selling it.
“I don’t want to live forever. I just don’t wanna die.�
That line wrecked me. Because this book isn’t just about literal immortality, it’s about legacy. About ambition, youth, love, ego, and what we think it means to matter.
It’s got major Theranos vibes, but with more heart. Think The Social Network meets a philosophy class you accidentally got emotionally invested in.
I loved this book so much I wrote a song for it: “Chasing Forever.� Because that’s what they’re doing. And maybe what we’re all doing.
March 14, 2025
This book needs the hype! It is Tomorrow Tomorrow Tomorrow crossed with Lessons in Chemistry
It is better than both! A must read when it comes out in July! I would pre order if I was you!!
It is emotional, interesting, heart breaking, exciting and so detailed
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! I am so glad I read this
It is better than both! A must read when it comes out in July! I would pre order if I was you!!
It is emotional, interesting, heart breaking, exciting and so detailed
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! I am so glad I read this
April 10, 2025
4.5 Rounded up.
Thank you to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Notes on Infinity is a gorgeous, evocative debut novel that is complex and intellectual and, at the same time, simple and deeply emotional. Jack and Zoey are both brilliant Harvard chemistry undergrads looking to find their place and make their mark in academia and beyond. In pursuit of prestigious research opportunities, the two find themselves with exciting, life-changing prospects that catapult them into the world of big tech and pharma and VCs and the insane amounts of money that accompany them. Their connection is instantaneous, but their relationship is flawed by the tragic naivety of youth and the insatiable need to belong.
Lovely prose, endearing characters, intriguing backstory, tragic love, and Theranos-style scandal all make for a fascinating and completely engrossing read. I could not ‘put it down�.
Thank you to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Notes on Infinity is a gorgeous, evocative debut novel that is complex and intellectual and, at the same time, simple and deeply emotional. Jack and Zoey are both brilliant Harvard chemistry undergrads looking to find their place and make their mark in academia and beyond. In pursuit of prestigious research opportunities, the two find themselves with exciting, life-changing prospects that catapult them into the world of big tech and pharma and VCs and the insane amounts of money that accompany them. Their connection is instantaneous, but their relationship is flawed by the tragic naivety of youth and the insatiable need to belong.
Lovely prose, endearing characters, intriguing backstory, tragic love, and Theranos-style scandal all make for a fascinating and completely engrossing read. I could not ‘put it down�.
February 9, 2025
This was beautifully written yet so haunting. The idea of success, fame, and power is intoxicating until the consequences set in. Zoe and Jack are so opposite yet very similar. They were both written so well with flaws and strengths. I can also appreciate the biblical themes in this book: the beginning, the manna, the fall to grace. And the theme that your name will last forever, whether it's positive or negative. This book started off a little slow with all the science lingo, but once I got to the depth of the story, it was hard to put down.
April 20, 2025
“I don’t want to live forever,� Jack said, closing his eyes. “I just don’t want to die.�
Zevin’s Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow meets Powers� Playground in this emotion-fueled whirlwind of love, science, and� immortality? Zoe and Jack meet at Harvard and become unlikely friends; after a series of pivotal moments together, they spend a night developing a potential cure for aging . They begin to put their theory to the test, and suddenly their lives are a whirlwind. We proceed to follow follow Zoe and Jack as they navigate their personal lives while also running a multi-billion dollar startup, all while still in their early 20s. What follows is beautiful, thought-provoking, and heartbreaking.
A book hasn’t made me feel emotions this strongly for a long time. The depth of character was so important to this story, and was executed beautifully. Taylor made each character, but especially Zoe and Jack, come alive. I also appreciated the structure of the book, and how the storytelling changed towards the end, revealing parts of the narrative we had only guessed. This is a gorgeous debut novel, and I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Celadon Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Zevin’s Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow meets Powers� Playground in this emotion-fueled whirlwind of love, science, and� immortality? Zoe and Jack meet at Harvard and become unlikely friends; after a series of pivotal moments together, they spend a night developing a potential cure for aging . They begin to put their theory to the test, and suddenly their lives are a whirlwind. We proceed to follow follow Zoe and Jack as they navigate their personal lives while also running a multi-billion dollar startup, all while still in their early 20s. What follows is beautiful, thought-provoking, and heartbreaking.
A book hasn’t made me feel emotions this strongly for a long time. The depth of character was so important to this story, and was executed beautifully. Taylor made each character, but especially Zoe and Jack, come alive. I also appreciated the structure of the book, and how the storytelling changed towards the end, revealing parts of the narrative we had only guessed. This is a gorgeous debut novel, and I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Celadon Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 9, 2025
2.5 Stars
ARC: Releases 10th July�
Thank you to Penguin Michael Joseph and NetGalley for the advanced review copy.
I was really happy to get the chance to read this early � it was positioned as one for fans of Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow (here referred to as TTT), which was my favourite read of 2024 and has become an all-time favourite. But that both made me nervous and excited � it had big shoes to fill and gave me 5-star expectations.
Zoe and Jack meet at Harvard in a chemistry class. They cross paths a few times, and when Jack realises that Zoe’s theoretical skills could really benefit his practical research, they team up to work on anti-ageing projects. After two years of hard work, they’re on the brink of launching a huge start-up valued at billions � until an accusation made against Jack threatens everything they’ve built.
___
I feel like I went through a few stages with this book:
˾️ 0�40%: I struggled quite a bit here. There were a lot of similarities to TTT that were hard to ignore: friendship turning into business partnership, inexperienced students trying to build a company, a “third friend� joining the mix. This section was very centred on Harvard, and it felt like the author really wanted you to know she went there.
˾️ 40�60%: The plot jumped around a lot � at times, one paragraph covered a week, and the next, we were suddenly months ahead. It felt like the book was trying to force plot progression, but the pacing was off after the slow first 40%. This section could have done with a re-edit � cutting some parts, adding detail to others. It came across as a bit panicked.
˾️ 60�90%: The pacing slowed down, and we had a perspective flip, revisiting earlier events from another point of view. If anything, this part could have been faster � it recapped what we already knew, just from a different angle, and could have been more concise.
Towards the end of this section, the switches between present and past felt more organic and polished.
˾️ 90�100%: It felt like we reached the end of the story � and then suddenly jumped back in time again. By that point, it disrupted the momentum. ___
I liked where the book ended up, but it was a long road to get there. The story seemed to struggle early on to find its own identity, with elements that were hard to overlook in their similarity to TTT.
I think the author assumed a lot of prior knowledge from the average reader around scientific terms � for example, “PI� (which came up a few times early on but wasn’t explained � it’s essentially a project manager for a scientific project, by the way).
Austin Reed herself is a Harvard graduate in English and Chemistry. This is her debut novel and, at 25, between the bursts of scientific terminology, the tone sometimes veered into YA � which I don’t think was intentional. Once we moved past the university setting, the plot lost its linearity somewhat, perhaps because we’d moved beyond the parts of the story the author could draw on most naturally.
The Harvard setting felt overdone at times, with niche references to courtyards and buildings that might amuse a select few readers � but in the first 40%, it felt like every few pages dropped in a random location, and I wanted to shout, “Okay, I get it, you went to Harvard.�
Overall, this had the bones of something good � but it didn’t feel like a finished, fully edited book. More like a mid-stage draft, with elements that felt disjointed and rushed.
ARC: Releases 10th July�
Thank you to Penguin Michael Joseph and NetGalley for the advanced review copy.
I was really happy to get the chance to read this early � it was positioned as one for fans of Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow (here referred to as TTT), which was my favourite read of 2024 and has become an all-time favourite. But that both made me nervous and excited � it had big shoes to fill and gave me 5-star expectations.
Zoe and Jack meet at Harvard in a chemistry class. They cross paths a few times, and when Jack realises that Zoe’s theoretical skills could really benefit his practical research, they team up to work on anti-ageing projects. After two years of hard work, they’re on the brink of launching a huge start-up valued at billions � until an accusation made against Jack threatens everything they’ve built.
___
I feel like I went through a few stages with this book:
˾️ 0�40%: I struggled quite a bit here. There were a lot of similarities to TTT that were hard to ignore: friendship turning into business partnership, inexperienced students trying to build a company, a “third friend� joining the mix. This section was very centred on Harvard, and it felt like the author really wanted you to know she went there.
˾️ 40�60%: The plot jumped around a lot � at times, one paragraph covered a week, and the next, we were suddenly months ahead. It felt like the book was trying to force plot progression, but the pacing was off after the slow first 40%. This section could have done with a re-edit � cutting some parts, adding detail to others. It came across as a bit panicked.
˾️ 60�90%: The pacing slowed down, and we had a perspective flip, revisiting earlier events from another point of view. If anything, this part could have been faster � it recapped what we already knew, just from a different angle, and could have been more concise.
Towards the end of this section, the switches between present and past felt more organic and polished.
˾️ 90�100%: It felt like we reached the end of the story � and then suddenly jumped back in time again. By that point, it disrupted the momentum. ___
I liked where the book ended up, but it was a long road to get there. The story seemed to struggle early on to find its own identity, with elements that were hard to overlook in their similarity to TTT.
I think the author assumed a lot of prior knowledge from the average reader around scientific terms � for example, “PI� (which came up a few times early on but wasn’t explained � it’s essentially a project manager for a scientific project, by the way).
Austin Reed herself is a Harvard graduate in English and Chemistry. This is her debut novel and, at 25, between the bursts of scientific terminology, the tone sometimes veered into YA � which I don’t think was intentional. Once we moved past the university setting, the plot lost its linearity somewhat, perhaps because we’d moved beyond the parts of the story the author could draw on most naturally.
The Harvard setting felt overdone at times, with niche references to courtyards and buildings that might amuse a select few readers � but in the first 40%, it felt like every few pages dropped in a random location, and I wanted to shout, “Okay, I get it, you went to Harvard.�
Overall, this had the bones of something good � but it didn’t feel like a finished, fully edited book. More like a mid-stage draft, with elements that felt disjointed and rushed.
May 19, 2025
Gah! My heart!! This book is a powerhouse debut. I received my physical and audiobook copies from The Celadon Books team as part of their Read Together Program, and despite wanting to pace myself for group discussions, I devoured this book in about two days.
The plot follows two Harvard students, Zoe and Jack, whose interest into chemistry and biology lead them to develop a theory that could potentially reverse the effects of aging. From dorm room study sessions and all-night lab experiments, these two friends are swept up in a whirlwind of bio-tech investment firms and end up dropping out of Harvard to pursue their vision. Will the science work? Will investors� demands ruin their love for the field? Will their relationship change due to the influx of *millions*?
Taylor is a brilliant scientist herself who makes this book incredibly technically sound yet incredibly accessible to non-Science minded readers. Her strength in writing and deep characterization really cemented this book for me as a five star experience. There is so much emotion packed into this coming-of-age story with insecurities, friendship, first loves, familial expectations, jealousy, competition, patriarchal barriers and how fame and notoriety change one’s life. Even the secondary characters (roommates, siblings, lovers) were fully fleshed, and while I’ve read multiple reviews critiquing the book’s ending, I argue it is the book’s culmination that makes the story more compelling and powerful. I also cannot see how it could have ended in any different way!
Readers who enjoy contemporary fiction books with academic settings, flawed characters, descriptive/emotional prose, and plots that warrant discussions with friends absolutely need to pick up Notes on Infinity!
The plot follows two Harvard students, Zoe and Jack, whose interest into chemistry and biology lead them to develop a theory that could potentially reverse the effects of aging. From dorm room study sessions and all-night lab experiments, these two friends are swept up in a whirlwind of bio-tech investment firms and end up dropping out of Harvard to pursue their vision. Will the science work? Will investors� demands ruin their love for the field? Will their relationship change due to the influx of *millions*?
Taylor is a brilliant scientist herself who makes this book incredibly technically sound yet incredibly accessible to non-Science minded readers. Her strength in writing and deep characterization really cemented this book for me as a five star experience. There is so much emotion packed into this coming-of-age story with insecurities, friendship, first loves, familial expectations, jealousy, competition, patriarchal barriers and how fame and notoriety change one’s life. Even the secondary characters (roommates, siblings, lovers) were fully fleshed, and while I’ve read multiple reviews critiquing the book’s ending, I argue it is the book’s culmination that makes the story more compelling and powerful. I also cannot see how it could have ended in any different way!
Readers who enjoy contemporary fiction books with academic settings, flawed characters, descriptive/emotional prose, and plots that warrant discussions with friends absolutely need to pick up Notes on Infinity!
May 28, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Celadon Books for this advance readers copy, in exchange for an honest review. This book follows the story of Jack and Zoe, two bright, young Harvard students who set out to better understand the scientific process of aging and ultimately develop an anti-aging therapy. The book explores what happens from their time at Harvard to the world of startups and biotech with some major revelations identified throughout the book.
The comps of this book to Tomorrow x3 are very real; I was reminded of it without even reading that it was considered a comp from other reviewers. This book definitely leans more into the niche of the scientific background but, I actually liked this. I do think the subject matter is a bit more inaccessible than the video game concepts of Tomorrow X3 but, again I found it to be engaging, smart, and exciting as it the characters were clearly so passionate about their work. I also found the dynamic between our two characters to work so well� they both display an outright passion for their research and you can sense the tension and harbored feelings between them personally. The layers in this story of the covering the research at hand, the role females in STEM, the pressure of academia and biotech culture, the feeling when you’re on top of the world and about to achieve it all� this book has something for everyone and was so enjoyable to read. The plot was propulsive, while still feeling substantial and multi-faceted.
I’m so impressed by this novel, especially for a debut. The ending of this book solidified it as five stars for me and I was moved by it. Overall, this book was a huge win for me. I was so invested in the characters, found them to be very endearing, and was captivated by the plot� the scientific element, the research, the academic setting� it was perfect for me. I can see how this may not be everyone’s cup of tea but, I hope this book finds its readership and I can’t wait to see what else the author puts out!
The comps of this book to Tomorrow x3 are very real; I was reminded of it without even reading that it was considered a comp from other reviewers. This book definitely leans more into the niche of the scientific background but, I actually liked this. I do think the subject matter is a bit more inaccessible than the video game concepts of Tomorrow X3 but, again I found it to be engaging, smart, and exciting as it the characters were clearly so passionate about their work. I also found the dynamic between our two characters to work so well� they both display an outright passion for their research and you can sense the tension and harbored feelings between them personally. The layers in this story of the covering the research at hand, the role females in STEM, the pressure of academia and biotech culture, the feeling when you’re on top of the world and about to achieve it all� this book has something for everyone and was so enjoyable to read. The plot was propulsive, while still feeling substantial and multi-faceted.
I’m so impressed by this novel, especially for a debut. The ending of this book solidified it as five stars for me and I was moved by it. Overall, this book was a huge win for me. I was so invested in the characters, found them to be very endearing, and was captivated by the plot� the scientific element, the research, the academic setting� it was perfect for me. I can see how this may not be everyone’s cup of tea but, I hope this book finds its readership and I can’t wait to see what else the author puts out!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.