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Infinite
102 pages, Paperback
Published November 20, 2023
10 people want to read
About the author
Victor Cabinta
5 books9 followersVictor Cabinta, a Filipino-American author from the small island of Guam, aspires to become an internationally published writer. Specializing in fiction, he delves into various genres such as short stories, contemporary romance, fantasy, science-fiction, horror, and occasionally explores poetry. Victor has a Master's degree in Creative Writing with the ambition of earning a Ph.D. Alongside his passion for writing, he has been engaged in dancing since 2010 and continues to do so. Victor's ultimate dream is to own a dance studio complemented by a library.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 1, 2023
Throughout my experience reading an advance reader copy of “Infinite” by Victor Cabinta, I noticed one theme that outshone the rest: decision making and the consequences that come along with it. When the invisible thread of life is woven into each person on this earth, we often find ourselves willingly and purposefully using it to create meaningful relationships with those we meet who we then come to love, despise, or grow apart from. However, this thread is, in fact, invisible. Living up to its name, we may often form connections that slip our notice. And it’s these connections that have a frighteningly profound impact in our lives and the lives of others.
“Infinite” exemplifies this through and through. From the first story to the last, we see this woven interconnectivity present in each character portrayed. The decisions each character makes directly affect their mentality, physicality, and spirtuality. The same choices then affect those around them, especially in ways that are unbeknownst to the decision maker, hence the invisible thread. This book teaches a powerful and timely lesson that I’m sure will be useful for generations to come.
Truthfully, each story may seem to tread shallow waters, gravitating to the mundane and the familiar. I even went into the first story thinking, “I’ve read this before.” However, as you continue to dive deeper into each of them, you will notice how surprises are constantly incorporated. Cabinta artfully uses the mundane to ground his story with resonance and relatability, but uses plot twists that keep the narrative fresh, unique, and exciting.
I am so happy to have been given this opportunity to support local Guamanian art. Seeing references to Filipino culture and Fil-Am struggles is sure to be a huge leap in representation within literature. I also foresee this collection of short stories being used in English Literature classes on-island as a way to showcase how locally grown stories can have a large impact on an international level.
Please grab yourself a copy when you’re given the chance. This collection is a gem that should be admired by all.
“Infinite” exemplifies this through and through. From the first story to the last, we see this woven interconnectivity present in each character portrayed. The decisions each character makes directly affect their mentality, physicality, and spirtuality. The same choices then affect those around them, especially in ways that are unbeknownst to the decision maker, hence the invisible thread. This book teaches a powerful and timely lesson that I’m sure will be useful for generations to come.
Truthfully, each story may seem to tread shallow waters, gravitating to the mundane and the familiar. I even went into the first story thinking, “I’ve read this before.” However, as you continue to dive deeper into each of them, you will notice how surprises are constantly incorporated. Cabinta artfully uses the mundane to ground his story with resonance and relatability, but uses plot twists that keep the narrative fresh, unique, and exciting.
I am so happy to have been given this opportunity to support local Guamanian art. Seeing references to Filipino culture and Fil-Am struggles is sure to be a huge leap in representation within literature. I also foresee this collection of short stories being used in English Literature classes on-island as a way to showcase how locally grown stories can have a large impact on an international level.
Please grab yourself a copy when you’re given the chance. This collection is a gem that should be admired by all.
November 30, 2023
This was a very fulfilling and easy read. I've been in a reading slump and needed something to get me out of it, so what better way than to read a collection of short stories that are highly relatable and emotionally-enticing?
My favorite piece was entitled pandesal, but every story brought such charm and heart into this book. I even cried for two of the stories because of how well the details evoked my emotions. These stories are like pieces of a puzzle brought together to fill the emptiness the reader may have. This book is wonderfully told and has a little magic included in some of the pieces, as well.
I highly recommend reading this to have a taste of what it means to have your life's passions plucked from you, how to persevere in times of sorrow, seeing the importance of the little things, and how love can manifest in different ways for one's self, their friends, and their romantic partners. Overall, this was a quick and beautiful read.
Thank you to Victor Cabinta for sharing his stories. I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and am very grateful for the opportunity!
My favorite piece was entitled pandesal, but every story brought such charm and heart into this book. I even cried for two of the stories because of how well the details evoked my emotions. These stories are like pieces of a puzzle brought together to fill the emptiness the reader may have. This book is wonderfully told and has a little magic included in some of the pieces, as well.
I highly recommend reading this to have a taste of what it means to have your life's passions plucked from you, how to persevere in times of sorrow, seeing the importance of the little things, and how love can manifest in different ways for one's self, their friends, and their romantic partners. Overall, this was a quick and beautiful read.
Thank you to Victor Cabinta for sharing his stories. I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and am very grateful for the opportunity!
December 5, 2023
I received an ARC (Advance Readers copy) of Infinite (Infinite: Short Stories) by Victor Cabinta in exchange for an honest review and I have to say I was really impressed. Victor's ability to capture a part of his culture, the essence of each character and their unique experiences was truly remarkable. Each story was like a little glimpse into a different world and I found myself completely immersed in each one.
What I appreciate most about this collection is the emotion it evokes, and he often described it. Some of the stories were heartwarming and uplifting, while others were dark and thought-provoking. But regardless of the tone, each story left a lasting impression on me.
Overall, if you are looking for a book to move and inspire you, this is definitely a book to check out. Victor's writing style is both accessible and engaging, making it an ideal choice for readers of all ages and backgrounds. It's a quick read, but one that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
What I appreciate most about this collection is the emotion it evokes, and he often described it. Some of the stories were heartwarming and uplifting, while others were dark and thought-provoking. But regardless of the tone, each story left a lasting impression on me.
Overall, if you are looking for a book to move and inspire you, this is definitely a book to check out. Victor's writing style is both accessible and engaging, making it an ideal choice for readers of all ages and backgrounds. It's a quick read, but one that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
December 2, 2023
Infinite is an absolute gem when it comes to captivating short stories.
Even though these were short stories, the plot twists were mind-blowing, totally unexpected with every turn of the page.
The emotional stages portrayed within each story were deeply moving, evoking a range of feelings that have left a lasting impact. Infinite created a rollercoaster of emotions within the narrative of each story.
The flow of the stories were impeccable, keeping me engaged from start to finish. It effortlessly transported me into different genres and immersing me in a world of imagination.
If you're looking for riveting short stories that will keep you hooked until the very end, look no further than Infinite.
Thank you so much to Victor for sharing your stories. I received a copy of this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am honestly amazed by the writing and I can't wait to read it again!
Even though these were short stories, the plot twists were mind-blowing, totally unexpected with every turn of the page.
The emotional stages portrayed within each story were deeply moving, evoking a range of feelings that have left a lasting impact. Infinite created a rollercoaster of emotions within the narrative of each story.
The flow of the stories were impeccable, keeping me engaged from start to finish. It effortlessly transported me into different genres and immersing me in a world of imagination.
If you're looking for riveting short stories that will keep you hooked until the very end, look no further than Infinite.
Thank you so much to Victor for sharing your stories. I received a copy of this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am honestly amazed by the writing and I can't wait to read it again!
February 12, 2024
Very fast read, interesting examination of the profound within the mundane. Victor is a dear friend from Guam and I loved the ways he approached storytelling, a very round about and circular way that kept me on my toes (in a good way) as a western reader.
December 11, 2023
Grief appears in various forms, and none follow the same pattern. Victor truly encapsulates this idea in the six stories presented in Infinite through the use of engaging narration and realistic dialogue, coupled with his masterful ways to mold characters to be relatable and tragic.
While every story touches on grief through death, they're coupled with a type of grief that every human experiences at some point in their life: grief from losing a friend, a lover, a community, and even a personal object. This allows an exploration of loss that's much more nuanced and interwoven with day-to-day life, bringing about the inherent tragedy that's living and living through trauma. But Victor doesn't stop there--he also sees the beauty in grief, where people come together to support each other, where people push past their anger to help others, where the ruthless flow of time also shows great promise in bringing someone from their darkest despair. I think that's what truly makes Victor's stories more personal--it's easy to say that grief is melancholic, but it's hard to say that grief can also be beautiful.
There's also a certain touch to each of these stories that feel deeply personal, as though Victor writes from the heart, pouring his soul to bring life to these characters. I feel like I know Victor on a deep, almost voyeuristic level through these stories, which drives me to reflect on my own life and my own personal relationship with grief. How has grief driven the greater parts of my life? Have I opened my heart to the potential beauty that lies in it? These are questions that only a great wordsmith would be able to invoke in someone using such short universes.
I do think there are some moments that need polishing along with some pacing issues. There are a couple of stories that would have really shined much more brilliantly if there was a little more time spent within them, may it be fleshing out character relationships or refining the overall craft ("Pin Boy" comes to mind; I did not feel very strongly about Bon and Carlos' relationship, nor fully understood why the full pressure of high school popularity pushed Bon's decisions so greatly).
However, the stories that did shine were like diamonds. My personal favorite was "The Witch of Albatross", which felt like a fairytale in its presentation. It touches on the grief felt from being ostracized from your community and the grief felt from losing family, both subjects being deeply personal to me.
For a first published set of works, I think you have a bright future ahead of you, Victor.
I received a free ARC copy of Infinite in exchange for an honest review. This exchange has not influenced my views on it.
While every story touches on grief through death, they're coupled with a type of grief that every human experiences at some point in their life: grief from losing a friend, a lover, a community, and even a personal object. This allows an exploration of loss that's much more nuanced and interwoven with day-to-day life, bringing about the inherent tragedy that's living and living through trauma. But Victor doesn't stop there--he also sees the beauty in grief, where people come together to support each other, where people push past their anger to help others, where the ruthless flow of time also shows great promise in bringing someone from their darkest despair. I think that's what truly makes Victor's stories more personal--it's easy to say that grief is melancholic, but it's hard to say that grief can also be beautiful.
There's also a certain touch to each of these stories that feel deeply personal, as though Victor writes from the heart, pouring his soul to bring life to these characters. I feel like I know Victor on a deep, almost voyeuristic level through these stories, which drives me to reflect on my own life and my own personal relationship with grief. How has grief driven the greater parts of my life? Have I opened my heart to the potential beauty that lies in it? These are questions that only a great wordsmith would be able to invoke in someone using such short universes.
I do think there are some moments that need polishing along with some pacing issues. There are a couple of stories that would have really shined much more brilliantly if there was a little more time spent within them, may it be fleshing out character relationships or refining the overall craft ("Pin Boy" comes to mind; I did not feel very strongly about Bon and Carlos' relationship, nor fully understood why the full pressure of high school popularity pushed Bon's decisions so greatly).
However, the stories that did shine were like diamonds. My personal favorite was "The Witch of Albatross", which felt like a fairytale in its presentation. It touches on the grief felt from being ostracized from your community and the grief felt from losing family, both subjects being deeply personal to me.
For a first published set of works, I think you have a bright future ahead of you, Victor.
I received a free ARC copy of Infinite in exchange for an honest review. This exchange has not influenced my views on it.
April 10, 2024
Victor is one of the closest Author friends I have ever had. This was such an anticipated book for me. Not only can I finally dive into his world, but I also want to support this man. BOY, WAS I AMAZED!! I loved this collection with all of my heart, my favorites are Magic Shop, Boy and his tea pot, Pin boy, and From me.
This collection shows the meanings of grief, love, friendship, and importance in life. I never thought a book would almost make me cry, but this one did. The only con I have is that I wish this were longer.
I recommend you all read this book and give your own opinions.
This collection shows the meanings of grief, love, friendship, and importance in life. I never thought a book would almost make me cry, but this one did. The only con I have is that I wish this were longer.
I recommend you all read this book and give your own opinions.
December 2, 2023
I had the pleasure and honor of reading the arc copy of “Infinite” by Victor Cabinta. I have to say that I am glad and enjoyed every story in this book. This book that VC wrote was an intriguing and easy read. It was hard to put the book down. There were also stories that brought nostalgia of being around friends, family and my culture of the Philippines.
Every story had a unique storyline and some pulled on my heartstrings. There were three of the stories in the book that brought out tears and emotions. They touched me with happiness, hope, grief and love. It also made me realize to have joy in the little things in life and to not take people for granted.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel written by Victor Cabinta. He created touching and heart warming book that will take you on a journey. I am truly Thankful in a being able to read and be immersed into the stories you created!
Every story had a unique storyline and some pulled on my heartstrings. There were three of the stories in the book that brought out tears and emotions. They touched me with happiness, hope, grief and love. It also made me realize to have joy in the little things in life and to not take people for granted.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel written by Victor Cabinta. He created touching and heart warming book that will take you on a journey. I am truly Thankful in a being able to read and be immersed into the stories you created!
December 22, 2023
The teapot story will be my absolute favorite short story of all time! SOMEONE NEEDS TO MAKE IT A PIXAR SHORT. Victor is so talented and knows how to pull at the heartstrings. I can’t wait for his debut novel!
December 7, 2023
"Infinite" by Victor Cabinta is a captivating anthology comprising six distinct narratives, each possessing its own intrinsic beauty and moral depth. When presented with the opportunity to peruse this book in advance for an honest review, I welcomed the chance with enthusiasm. Free book? Yes, please!
Upon delving into the text, the notable feature that immediately caught my attention was Cabinta's adept writing style – both accessible and engaging. While there were instances where the construction of certain scenes left room for improvement, particularly when resorting to telling rather than showing, the overall enjoyability of Cabinta's writing remained evident. While there were moments when a more immersive approach, depicting actions rather than narrating them, would have heightened the reading experience, the narrative style was consistently approachable. Like instead of saying, "I yell in agony," feeling the actual agony would've hit differently if it was described like... "My fists clenched, nails digging into my palms, as if trying to physically grasp hold of the pain that reverberated through every fiber of my being. The sound echoed through the..." But, overall, it is commendable for the author for keeping it easy and engaging.
The inclusion of a photo within the narrative, while unexpected, added a novel dimension to the reading experience. However, my personal preference leans towards more primarily text-based expressions.
Among the tales presented, "The Boy and his Teapot" emerged as my standout favorite. Delivered with poetic finesse, the narrative skillfully conveyed the nuances of aging, love, and commitment. The title alone exudes an air of intrigue, and the emotional impact of the story resonated deeply with me. Although shedding tears is a rarity for me, the evocative prose enveloped me in warmth and beauty.
I highly recommend "Infinite," especially to new readers. Beyond being an accessible read, the anthology unfolds myriad stories and emotions, each imbued with distinct tones and profound lessons. It offers a rich literary tapestry that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Upon delving into the text, the notable feature that immediately caught my attention was Cabinta's adept writing style – both accessible and engaging. While there were instances where the construction of certain scenes left room for improvement, particularly when resorting to telling rather than showing, the overall enjoyability of Cabinta's writing remained evident. While there were moments when a more immersive approach, depicting actions rather than narrating them, would have heightened the reading experience, the narrative style was consistently approachable. Like instead of saying, "I yell in agony," feeling the actual agony would've hit differently if it was described like... "My fists clenched, nails digging into my palms, as if trying to physically grasp hold of the pain that reverberated through every fiber of my being. The sound echoed through the..." But, overall, it is commendable for the author for keeping it easy and engaging.
The inclusion of a photo within the narrative, while unexpected, added a novel dimension to the reading experience. However, my personal preference leans towards more primarily text-based expressions.
Among the tales presented, "The Boy and his Teapot" emerged as my standout favorite. Delivered with poetic finesse, the narrative skillfully conveyed the nuances of aging, love, and commitment. The title alone exudes an air of intrigue, and the emotional impact of the story resonated deeply with me. Although shedding tears is a rarity for me, the evocative prose enveloped me in warmth and beauty.
I highly recommend "Infinite," especially to new readers. Beyond being an accessible read, the anthology unfolds myriad stories and emotions, each imbued with distinct tones and profound lessons. It offers a rich literary tapestry that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
December 4, 2023
(This review was made in an exchange for an advanced copy of the book (ARC). It reflects my honest opinion.)
If there is one theme author Victor Cabinta absolutely nails it’s friendship. Throughout all his stories contained in ‘Infinite Arc’, the warmth, shelter, safety, and understanding friends provide for his main characters are frequently the main source of the MC’s strength and that which helps them to overcome their obstacles and fears.
And boy, those obstacles can tug at your heartstrings! Do not expect a light-hearted high school romance, for the topics of this author’s stories deal with loss and death, and heavily so. There are not always unforeseeable twists, yet if there are, they tend to hit home, much like a punch in the gut.
Cabinta’s stories, in my opinion, reverberate with a modern-day audience. He writes from experience, his settings are often places he might be intimately familiar with. His characters do not fear to show their emotions, be it boys or girls. Their connection of friendship feels incredibly tangible and real. As a middle European woman, I am also fascinated by the relative ‘exoticness’ of the settings. Cabinta is heavily influenced by his Filipino heritage and to get a glimpse into this culture through his works is a glimpse into a world I had previously not have any connection with.
Not all the stories in ‘Infinite Arc’ make complete sense to me, and some feel like they’re perhaps a way to process something very personal to the author. I suppose I’m also a few years too old to grasp a few references and some of the language used. But there more than enough gems in there to discover, and I would especially recommend this book to younger readers (late teens, early 20s).
My personal favourite is ‘The Boy and his Teapot’, for it floored me, emotionally, and feels the most ‘rounded-out’.
If there is one theme author Victor Cabinta absolutely nails it’s friendship. Throughout all his stories contained in ‘Infinite Arc’, the warmth, shelter, safety, and understanding friends provide for his main characters are frequently the main source of the MC’s strength and that which helps them to overcome their obstacles and fears.
And boy, those obstacles can tug at your heartstrings! Do not expect a light-hearted high school romance, for the topics of this author’s stories deal with loss and death, and heavily so. There are not always unforeseeable twists, yet if there are, they tend to hit home, much like a punch in the gut.
Cabinta’s stories, in my opinion, reverberate with a modern-day audience. He writes from experience, his settings are often places he might be intimately familiar with. His characters do not fear to show their emotions, be it boys or girls. Their connection of friendship feels incredibly tangible and real. As a middle European woman, I am also fascinated by the relative ‘exoticness’ of the settings. Cabinta is heavily influenced by his Filipino heritage and to get a glimpse into this culture through his works is a glimpse into a world I had previously not have any connection with.
Not all the stories in ‘Infinite Arc’ make complete sense to me, and some feel like they’re perhaps a way to process something very personal to the author. I suppose I’m also a few years too old to grasp a few references and some of the language used. But there more than enough gems in there to discover, and I would especially recommend this book to younger readers (late teens, early 20s).
My personal favourite is ‘The Boy and his Teapot’, for it floored me, emotionally, and feels the most ‘rounded-out’.
December 1, 2023
As someone who has experienced an immense loss, I can only say “thank you”. While reading the arc copy of Infinite, I discovered how delicate and fragile human beings can be.
Grief is not merely about people, but something internalised, trivial to others, yet all-consuming for the individual. These stories share a common theme: life is full of unexpected events, and we are often unprepared to deal with the pressure that emerges when we have to take responsibility for the consequences of something we never desired but happened for reasons beyond our control.
The burden of social responsibilities after grief outweighs the grief itself as it acknowledges our true identity, what we did in the past, and what awaits in the future. The aftermath, however, is always uncertain.
Every single aspect of human nature comes to the surface, leaving no space for anything else but the relentless passage of time. As individuals, we learn that life continues to flow, despite everything.
Reading every single story was a truly beautiful journey, a full immersion in the unique universe crafted by the author. I deeply appreciated the amount of thought put into exploring the depths of grief. The underlying message that resonated with me was that throughout our lives, we experience multiple deaths and rebirths, an ongoing cycle that, despite its painful nature, offers valuable lessons and opportunities to start over.
Grief is not merely about people, but something internalised, trivial to others, yet all-consuming for the individual. These stories share a common theme: life is full of unexpected events, and we are often unprepared to deal with the pressure that emerges when we have to take responsibility for the consequences of something we never desired but happened for reasons beyond our control.
The burden of social responsibilities after grief outweighs the grief itself as it acknowledges our true identity, what we did in the past, and what awaits in the future. The aftermath, however, is always uncertain.
Every single aspect of human nature comes to the surface, leaving no space for anything else but the relentless passage of time. As individuals, we learn that life continues to flow, despite everything.
Reading every single story was a truly beautiful journey, a full immersion in the unique universe crafted by the author. I deeply appreciated the amount of thought put into exploring the depths of grief. The underlying message that resonated with me was that throughout our lives, we experience multiple deaths and rebirths, an ongoing cycle that, despite its painful nature, offers valuable lessons and opportunities to start over.
December 10, 2023
Absolutely loved these short stories! My favorites were the Magic Shop, The Boy and his teapot, & From Me. But all the other stories were incredible as well. As a Filipino-American, I can definitely relate to stories that deal with my Filipino heritage. Each story evoked emotions that I've been dreading to feel, but it also made me realize that these are things you need to feel to get through to heal. Back to the point, these short stories were amazing! I would definitely recommend reading!
As a newly proofreader and copyeditor, I found a couple of typos, which can easily be fixed. Other than that, it was well-written.
As a note, these are my honest opinions, which we given an exchange for a copy of the book as an ARC reader. I hope everyone will enjoy this book as much as I have so that it can be seen that everyone is always going through something. We're not alone and you can share in those moments to heal and be better.
As a newly proofreader and copyeditor, I found a couple of typos, which can easily be fixed. Other than that, it was well-written.
As a note, these are my honest opinions, which we given an exchange for a copy of the book as an ARC reader. I hope everyone will enjoy this book as much as I have so that it can be seen that everyone is always going through something. We're not alone and you can share in those moments to heal and be better.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews