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Escaping Infinity
“As we crossed the threshold the temperature difference between the air outside and the building we were entering was slight. But for some reason I felt a harsh, icy shiver travel the length of my spine.”Lost on a dark desert highway, Pete Childress just wanted a good night's sleep. Now he must find a way back out of a hotel with no exits and where tomorrow never comes. Worse yet, the fate of a ruined world, and the future of all humanity, hangs in the balance.Working with the lovely, yet mysterious, Hotel Desk Clerk, Liz, and under the ever-watchful eyes of the hotel manager, Pete explores the many mysteries that lay within the walls of The Infinity seeking the answer to the mystery and the way back to the outside world.AWARDS 2017 Dragon Award Finalist – Best Sci-Fi Novel2017 Readers' Favorite Awards - Honorable Mention2017 New Apple Summer E-Book Awards - Official Selection2017 ETWG Blue Ribbon Book Cover Contest – 2nd Place
330 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2017
20 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Richard Paolinelli
84 books68 followersFacebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Richard Paolinelli began his writing career as a freelance writer in 1984 in Odessa, TX and gained his first fiction credit serving as the lead writer for the first two issues of the Elite Comics sci-fi/fantasy series, Seadragon. In 1991 Richard began his sports writing career at the Gallup Independent before moving on to work for the Modesto Bee, Turlock Journal, Merced Sun-Star, Tracy Press, San Mateo County Times and the San Francisco Examiner. He also served as an editor and photographer with some of the newspapers. He won the 2001 California Newspaper Publishers Association award for Best Sports Story while at the Turlock Journal.
In 2010, Richard retired as a sportswriter and decided to return to his fiction writing roots. He released two short stories - The Invited and Legacy of Death - as well as a full-length sci-fi novel, Maelstrom. In 2015, Richard completed nearly two years of research and interviews and published, From The Fields: A History of Prep Football in Turlock, California, chronicling 95 years of high school football in his hometown. One month later, the first book of the Jack Del Rio series, Reservations, was published by Oak Tree Press.
In 2016, Richard was one of a dozen authors selected to participate in, Beyond Watson, an anthology of original Sherlock Holmes stories and was one of 20 writers involved in a second Holmes Anthology, Holmes Away From Home, released in December. Perfection's Arbiter, a biography of National League Umpire, Babe Pinelli, was released on October 8th. W & B Books acquired the Jack Del Rio series and released the second book, Betrayals, in November. The remaining two books in the Jack Del Rio series will follow in 2017 & 2018.
In January of 2017, Richard returned to his science fiction roots with the release of the novel, Escaping Infinity, and will release another sci-fi novel, When The Gods Fell, on September 4, 2018.
Richard Paolinelli began his writing career as a freelance writer in 1984 in Odessa, TX and gained his first fiction credit serving as the lead writer for the first two issues of the Elite Comics sci-fi/fantasy series, Seadragon. In 1991 Richard began his sports writing career at the Gallup Independent before moving on to work for the Modesto Bee, Turlock Journal, Merced Sun-Star, Tracy Press, San Mateo County Times and the San Francisco Examiner. He also served as an editor and photographer with some of the newspapers. He won the 2001 California Newspaper Publishers Association award for Best Sports Story while at the Turlock Journal.
In 2010, Richard retired as a sportswriter and decided to return to his fiction writing roots. He released two short stories - The Invited and Legacy of Death - as well as a full-length sci-fi novel, Maelstrom. In 2015, Richard completed nearly two years of research and interviews and published, From The Fields: A History of Prep Football in Turlock, California, chronicling 95 years of high school football in his hometown. One month later, the first book of the Jack Del Rio series, Reservations, was published by Oak Tree Press.
In 2016, Richard was one of a dozen authors selected to participate in, Beyond Watson, an anthology of original Sherlock Holmes stories and was one of 20 writers involved in a second Holmes Anthology, Holmes Away From Home, released in December. Perfection's Arbiter, a biography of National League Umpire, Babe Pinelli, was released on October 8th. W & B Books acquired the Jack Del Rio series and released the second book, Betrayals, in November. The remaining two books in the Jack Del Rio series will follow in 2017 & 2018.
In January of 2017, Richard returned to his science fiction roots with the release of the novel, Escaping Infinity, and will release another sci-fi novel, When The Gods Fell, on September 4, 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 8, 2020
Thousands of guests have checked into the Infinity Hotel over the years and until now none of them have ever checked out.
Peter Childress and Charlie Womack are on their way to Phoenix when they become lost in thedesert. Not by the grace of god, but perhaps by something or someone else, they stumble across a "super" hotel literally in the middle of nowhere. Strange coincedence aside, the promise of a meal, fuel and a good night’s sleep is enough to convinve them to stay the night.
Both men are intially taken by the hotel and its many amenties. However, Peter guickly begins to see past its facade. Unfortunately, the entrance to the Infinity disappeared. Now its up to Peter to find a way to Escape the Infinity.
The synopsis for this story was brilliant and I was eager to begin reading it. I really enjoyed Paolinelli’s writing style. I found his writing to be engaging and it helps the book flow quickly. I loved the details provided about some of the hotel occupants pasts and I wish there was more of that. I honestly think learning about Elizabeth's life prior to the infinity was one of my favorite portions of the whole novel. Another portion of the book that amused me all to hell was that damn blue teddy bear. While I am still unsure on whether or not that portion was to be taken seriously, I rather enjoyed it and it had me in tears.
Overall I think it was a good science fiction/fantasy story. I definitely plan to follow up with more Paolinelli books in the future.
I recieved a digital copy of this book from Richard Paolinelli in exchange for an honest revew.
Peter Childress and Charlie Womack are on their way to Phoenix when they become lost in thedesert. Not by the grace of god, but perhaps by something or someone else, they stumble across a "super" hotel literally in the middle of nowhere. Strange coincedence aside, the promise of a meal, fuel and a good night’s sleep is enough to convinve them to stay the night.
Both men are intially taken by the hotel and its many amenties. However, Peter guickly begins to see past its facade. Unfortunately, the entrance to the Infinity disappeared. Now its up to Peter to find a way to Escape the Infinity.
The synopsis for this story was brilliant and I was eager to begin reading it. I really enjoyed Paolinelli’s writing style. I found his writing to be engaging and it helps the book flow quickly. I loved the details provided about some of the hotel occupants pasts and I wish there was more of that. I honestly think learning about Elizabeth's life prior to the infinity was one of my favorite portions of the whole novel. Another portion of the book that amused me all to hell was that damn blue teddy bear. While I am still unsure on whether or not that portion was to be taken seriously, I rather enjoyed it and it had me in tears.
Overall I think it was a good science fiction/fantasy story. I definitely plan to follow up with more Paolinelli books in the future.
I recieved a digital copy of this book from Richard Paolinelli in exchange for an honest revew.
March 21, 2017
A thoroughly fun read. Hotel California as Twilight Zone episode and when you think you know what is going on the story really takes off. Solid all around.
October 23, 2017
Superb!
I loved this book! It has mystery and intrigue, it has well plotted characters and a very fascinating storyline. I highly recommend this book!
I loved this book! It has mystery and intrigue, it has well plotted characters and a very fascinating storyline. I highly recommend this book!
June 1, 2024
Well, this took me completely by surprise. I had not read the description but had some assumptions about the volume based on the cover. I can freely state the book is an excellent Science Fiction novel, wrapped up in a mystery. Sort of a Hotel California with a very specific purpose.
It is an absolutely excellent read! This is the 30th volume from the pen of Paolinelli That I have read in the last year. I have also read a couple of his contributions to anthologies. I had not read the description of this story before picking it up. I am hooked on Paolinelli’s writings and am slowing working my way through his entire back catalogue. This is a masterfully written novel. The description of this volume states:
“Thousands have checked into the Infinity Hotel over the years. None of them have ever checked out.
Peter Childress and Charlie Womack are successful engineers on their way to Phoenix for an important presentation. But one of Charlie’s infamous “shortcuts” has gotten them good and lost once again. As night falls, the pair stumble across the Infinity Hotel and the promise of a meal, fuel and a good night’s sleep before starting off fresh in the morning is too good to pass up.
But while Charlie immediately takes to the hotel’s amazing amenities, Peter begins to uncover some of the hotel’s dark secrets – a seemingly unlimited number of floors, guests that appear out of time and place and a next morning that never seems to come. Worse still, the entrance to the Infinity has disappeared and no other apparent exit back to the outside world is in sight.
Now, under the watchful eyes of the hotel’s manager and front desk clerk, Peter searches for a way back out and uncovers the horrible truth behind the mystery of the Infinity Hotel.”
This read instantly grabbed my attention. The jump from the prologue to chapter one was jarring. But once I pieced it together I was in awe of Paolinelli’s skill as a storyteller. I could hardly put it down. As we follow Peter’s discoveries and his attempts to make an escape we slowly piece together what is happening. As we do the tale becomes even more intriguing and fascinating. A real page turner!
There is a companion volume to this called Exploring Infinity that is a collection of stories edited by Richard. There was an announced third volume, Expanding Infinity, but it was announced for 2 years ago. Based on how good this one is I do so hope it will be released.
This story was originally published in 2016, released again in 2017 an an eBook and reprints in 2021 and 2022. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read.
This is an excellent story, great for those who love science fiction or sci-fi with a bit of mystery. In some ways it reminds me of the book by Alfred Bester and the none Dune books of Frank Herbert, like The Green Brain or The Eye’s of Heisenberg. The characters are very well written. The plot is exceedingly well crafted and very unique. I cannot wait to read the next instalment, and hopefully the third. A great read I can easily recommend.
This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!
It is an absolutely excellent read! This is the 30th volume from the pen of Paolinelli That I have read in the last year. I have also read a couple of his contributions to anthologies. I had not read the description of this story before picking it up. I am hooked on Paolinelli’s writings and am slowing working my way through his entire back catalogue. This is a masterfully written novel. The description of this volume states:
“Thousands have checked into the Infinity Hotel over the years. None of them have ever checked out.
Peter Childress and Charlie Womack are successful engineers on their way to Phoenix for an important presentation. But one of Charlie’s infamous “shortcuts” has gotten them good and lost once again. As night falls, the pair stumble across the Infinity Hotel and the promise of a meal, fuel and a good night’s sleep before starting off fresh in the morning is too good to pass up.
But while Charlie immediately takes to the hotel’s amazing amenities, Peter begins to uncover some of the hotel’s dark secrets – a seemingly unlimited number of floors, guests that appear out of time and place and a next morning that never seems to come. Worse still, the entrance to the Infinity has disappeared and no other apparent exit back to the outside world is in sight.
Now, under the watchful eyes of the hotel’s manager and front desk clerk, Peter searches for a way back out and uncovers the horrible truth behind the mystery of the Infinity Hotel.”
This read instantly grabbed my attention. The jump from the prologue to chapter one was jarring. But once I pieced it together I was in awe of Paolinelli’s skill as a storyteller. I could hardly put it down. As we follow Peter’s discoveries and his attempts to make an escape we slowly piece together what is happening. As we do the tale becomes even more intriguing and fascinating. A real page turner!
There is a companion volume to this called Exploring Infinity that is a collection of stories edited by Richard. There was an announced third volume, Expanding Infinity, but it was announced for 2 years ago. Based on how good this one is I do so hope it will be released.
This story was originally published in 2016, released again in 2017 an an eBook and reprints in 2021 and 2022. Richard is not only an author but the driving force behind Tuscany Bay Books, I have read many volumes from the Bay by a number of authors and all have been well worth the read.
This is an excellent story, great for those who love science fiction or sci-fi with a bit of mystery. In some ways it reminds me of the book by Alfred Bester and the none Dune books of Frank Herbert, like The Green Brain or The Eye’s of Heisenberg. The characters are very well written. The plot is exceedingly well crafted and very unique. I cannot wait to read the next instalment, and hopefully the third. A great read I can easily recommend.
This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!
October 14, 2017
Please give my Amazon review a helpful vote - https://www.amazon.com/review/RRY03ZZ...
This is a very nice book about very nice people. That's not intended as a criticism; it is a relaxing change of pace not to have to deal with one of the surly anti-heroes that populate contemporary urban fantasy/science fiction.
The story opens with Peter and Charlie lost in the desert. They are rising young stars in the world of industrial construction. They are fortunate to run into a futuristic resort hotel in the middle of nowhere. Once inside the hotel, Charlie disappears into the casino where he is having the luckiest night of his life. Peter, on the other hand, begins to sense that there is something wrong about the hotel. The fact that he can't get to the highest level of the hotel after traveling 300 stories in the hotel elevator. Or the fact that hotel guests are dressed in togas, as Egyptians, as cowboys and in costumes from every time and place, but they all speak English. Or the fact that time doesn't seem to be passing.
Actually, I was a little bit mistaken when I said that the story started with Peter and Charlie. The story actually starts with a planet with a solitary moon orbiting approximately 93 million miles from its sun being destroyed by a miniscule navigational error. After that scenario, the story about the hotel begins.
What we have here is a puzzle.
Peter is the person we follow as he tries to solve the puzzle. During the course of his exploration, Peter meets and immediately falls in love with the front desk girl, Liz, who is also trying to solve the puzzle of the hotel and its existential weirdness.
The story is well-written and very engaging. I was pulled along for over half the story with my theories about how the story of the hotel intertwined with the story about the accidentally destroyed planet, and who the manager of the hotel was, and what purpose the hotel was intended to play.
Ultimately, the story is about grace and redemption. We ultimately learn that the aliens who destroyed the planet with the single moon are an admirably ethical people, and we - or at least me - end the story with a feeling of "gosh, how nice that it worked out that way" feeling.
You can't ask much more from a book of entertainment.
Nonetheless, as a life-long science fiction reader, I had some questions about the story.
For example, what about Charlie? We burn some time at the beginning hearing about how Peter and Charlie are a team, but when the pair hit the hotel, Charlie essentially disappears from the story until we see him get a pat on the back at the end. I get the feeling that author Richard Paolinelli originally planned a "buddy book" featuring Charlie and Peter until Charlie was ditched instead of becoming a third wheel to the Liz and Peter show.
Likewise, why did we "deify" Peter at the end? Giving Peter the powers of creation at the end seemed like a nice thing to do, albeit somewhat impetuous based merely on his staying on mission. Apart from a kind of authorial wish-fulfillment, what did that add to the story?
Finally, did we need the "coda"? The story was basically about a problem and a solution to the problem, but at the end we get twenty to thirty pages of human evolution into the stars. As a reader, I wondered, what that added to the story. It was very nice, admittedly, but it seemed to distract from the tidiness of the end of the main story (although it was nice to see the the "manager," again.)
In some ways, this a book that I would give to a young adult as an introduction to science fiction. The hero is a scientist who approaches a scientific problem using reason, logic, decency, determination, and virtue. Unfortunately, there is a sort of mild, non-explicit sex scene, which would probably make me reluctant to give it to a "tween" or early teen inasmuch as it models the idea that a good relationship starts with sex. (My prudishness wouldn't prevent me from giving it to anyone 16 years old or older, I suspect.) Apart from that mild concern, the niceness and decency of the characters, and the interesting puzzles presented by the author, make it a book I wouldn't mind sharing with readers beginning to cut their teeth on the science fiction genre.
This is a very nice book about very nice people. That's not intended as a criticism; it is a relaxing change of pace not to have to deal with one of the surly anti-heroes that populate contemporary urban fantasy/science fiction.
The story opens with Peter and Charlie lost in the desert. They are rising young stars in the world of industrial construction. They are fortunate to run into a futuristic resort hotel in the middle of nowhere. Once inside the hotel, Charlie disappears into the casino where he is having the luckiest night of his life. Peter, on the other hand, begins to sense that there is something wrong about the hotel. The fact that he can't get to the highest level of the hotel after traveling 300 stories in the hotel elevator. Or the fact that hotel guests are dressed in togas, as Egyptians, as cowboys and in costumes from every time and place, but they all speak English. Or the fact that time doesn't seem to be passing.
Actually, I was a little bit mistaken when I said that the story started with Peter and Charlie. The story actually starts with a planet with a solitary moon orbiting approximately 93 million miles from its sun being destroyed by a miniscule navigational error. After that scenario, the story about the hotel begins.
What we have here is a puzzle.
Peter is the person we follow as he tries to solve the puzzle. During the course of his exploration, Peter meets and immediately falls in love with the front desk girl, Liz, who is also trying to solve the puzzle of the hotel and its existential weirdness.
The story is well-written and very engaging. I was pulled along for over half the story with my theories about how the story of the hotel intertwined with the story about the accidentally destroyed planet, and who the manager of the hotel was, and what purpose the hotel was intended to play.
Ultimately, the story is about grace and redemption. We ultimately learn that the aliens who destroyed the planet with the single moon are an admirably ethical people, and we - or at least me - end the story with a feeling of "gosh, how nice that it worked out that way" feeling.
You can't ask much more from a book of entertainment.
Nonetheless, as a life-long science fiction reader, I had some questions about the story.
For example, what about Charlie? We burn some time at the beginning hearing about how Peter and Charlie are a team, but when the pair hit the hotel, Charlie essentially disappears from the story until we see him get a pat on the back at the end. I get the feeling that author Richard Paolinelli originally planned a "buddy book" featuring Charlie and Peter until Charlie was ditched instead of becoming a third wheel to the Liz and Peter show.
Likewise, why did we "deify" Peter at the end? Giving Peter the powers of creation at the end seemed like a nice thing to do, albeit somewhat impetuous based merely on his staying on mission. Apart from a kind of authorial wish-fulfillment, what did that add to the story?
Finally, did we need the "coda"? The story was basically about a problem and a solution to the problem, but at the end we get twenty to thirty pages of human evolution into the stars. As a reader, I wondered, what that added to the story. It was very nice, admittedly, but it seemed to distract from the tidiness of the end of the main story (although it was nice to see the the "manager," again.)
In some ways, this a book that I would give to a young adult as an introduction to science fiction. The hero is a scientist who approaches a scientific problem using reason, logic, decency, determination, and virtue. Unfortunately, there is a sort of mild, non-explicit sex scene, which would probably make me reluctant to give it to a "tween" or early teen inasmuch as it models the idea that a good relationship starts with sex. (My prudishness wouldn't prevent me from giving it to anyone 16 years old or older, I suspect.) Apart from that mild concern, the niceness and decency of the characters, and the interesting puzzles presented by the author, make it a book I wouldn't mind sharing with readers beginning to cut their teeth on the science fiction genre.
August 2, 2017
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
The beginning of the book reads like a well-designed bit of mature science fiction, written for an adult audience. 'Adult' is NOT a euphemism for explicit sex, by the way; I mean that it addresses responsibility for actions, friendship, job searches, and meaning-of-life issues, all of which I regard as content appealing to an adult.
The second part of the book strikes me as more engaging to a teen reader. Fast narrative introduced and resolved plot points; the emphasis seemed to be on far-off adventure, rather than character development.
Yesterday evening, I gave my gift-from-God, happily-ever-after trophy wife Vanessa, the elegant, foxy, praying black grandmother of Woodstock, GA, a really quick plot summary of the first part: A woman finds herself lost in the desert in the 1850s; a man from today finds himself also lost. They are saved by discovering a luxury hotel, where every need is met. They also both find in each other the fulfillment of their ideal mate. What will they do next?
She said: "GET OUT OF THERE! It's a TRAP!"
I said, 'Wouldn't you much prefer to spend some nice relaxing vacation time with your beloved, eating delicious food and taking it easy?"
"NO!" she said emphatically. "The delicious food is how you know that you are in a trap."
So, she agrees with the author, and thus the book dances down a long path toward a conclusion.
I'm giving the book FOUR stars, because I did like it. In particular, I liked the idea of the mysterious luxury hotel appearing , just in time to rescue stranded travelers. I liked the description of the starship commander and his colleagues in emotional turmoil as they realize that their actions have precipitated an event that destroyed the earth, and that they feel compelled to do something about it, and ESPECIALLY that the commander willingly sacrifices himself to make that happen. I liked the concept that each one of the stranded travelers sees the hotel & furnishings as being consistent with their own era. I also liked the detail given to Elizabeth's back-story, although I found the murder of her child unrealistic and unnecessary; there were LOTS of ways to lose baby girls at the time without family murders.
What I didn't like: the extremes in the differences of the descriptions. For example, we are given Elizabeth's back story in loving detail (it really WAS remarkable) but we get nothing about almost every other character. I didn't like the abrupt way in which the tone of the book changes, from the detail in the first three quarters of the book, to the treatment of the events as soon as they step into the fog. I would MUCH, MUCH rather the book had been made into a series: Part 1: explorers destroy earth. Part 2: the Infinity Hotel. Part 3: rebuilding, and return to space.
The beginning of the book reads like a well-designed bit of mature science fiction, written for an adult audience. 'Adult' is NOT a euphemism for explicit sex, by the way; I mean that it addresses responsibility for actions, friendship, job searches, and meaning-of-life issues, all of which I regard as content appealing to an adult.
The second part of the book strikes me as more engaging to a teen reader. Fast narrative introduced and resolved plot points; the emphasis seemed to be on far-off adventure, rather than character development.
Yesterday evening, I gave my gift-from-God, happily-ever-after trophy wife Vanessa, the elegant, foxy, praying black grandmother of Woodstock, GA, a really quick plot summary of the first part: A woman finds herself lost in the desert in the 1850s; a man from today finds himself also lost. They are saved by discovering a luxury hotel, where every need is met. They also both find in each other the fulfillment of their ideal mate. What will they do next?
She said: "GET OUT OF THERE! It's a TRAP!"
I said, 'Wouldn't you much prefer to spend some nice relaxing vacation time with your beloved, eating delicious food and taking it easy?"
"NO!" she said emphatically. "The delicious food is how you know that you are in a trap."
So, she agrees with the author, and thus the book dances down a long path toward a conclusion.
I'm giving the book FOUR stars, because I did like it. In particular, I liked the idea of the mysterious luxury hotel appearing , just in time to rescue stranded travelers. I liked the description of the starship commander and his colleagues in emotional turmoil as they realize that their actions have precipitated an event that destroyed the earth, and that they feel compelled to do something about it, and ESPECIALLY that the commander willingly sacrifices himself to make that happen. I liked the concept that each one of the stranded travelers sees the hotel & furnishings as being consistent with their own era. I also liked the detail given to Elizabeth's back-story, although I found the murder of her child unrealistic and unnecessary; there were LOTS of ways to lose baby girls at the time without family murders.
What I didn't like: the extremes in the differences of the descriptions. For example, we are given Elizabeth's back story in loving detail (it really WAS remarkable) but we get nothing about almost every other character. I didn't like the abrupt way in which the tone of the book changes, from the detail in the first three quarters of the book, to the treatment of the events as soon as they step into the fog. I would MUCH, MUCH rather the book had been made into a series: Part 1: explorers destroy earth. Part 2: the Infinity Hotel. Part 3: rebuilding, and return to space.
November 1, 2020
Escaping Infinity
By Richard Paolinelli
Great Story That’s a Little Off the Beaten Path
Escaping Infinity by Richard Paolinelli starts out with a bang – quite literally! Eight alien spacecraft unexpectedly materialized in Earth’s atmosphere before passing through. The resulting catastrophic inferno vaporized every life form on Earth, every bit of water and every hint of an atmosphere. Volcanic eruptions poured out lava that almost instantly cooled, leaving a dismal, lifeless ball of rock. Earth’s death throes even impacted the moon, leaving several wide fracture lines that ran in zigzags across its face and its orbit was changed to be approximately 3 days longer.
The commander of the alien flagship stared at his view screen in horror. He had simply wanted to show this jewel of a world to his colleagues and never envisioned the destruction that ensued. Apparently, the navigation computer had failed to flag a small star near their course that was unexpectedly collapsing into a black hole. The change in the gravitational pull was just enough to cause the ships to emerge in Earth’s atmosphere instead of behind the moon. Sick about the damage they had caused, the aliens came up with a plan to attempt reparations to the planet and its inhabitants.
Welcome to the Hotel Infinity. As I read, I was reminded of the words to The Eagles’ popular song, “Hotel California”, that include:
“We are programmed to receive
You can check out any time you like
But you can never leave …
Welcome to the Hotel California …”
I really enjoyed this somewhat off the beaten path of a science fiction story. It was nothing like I expected from the prologue, but it was a fascinating story, nonetheless. The characters were well drawn, the world building was fantastic and the writing was intelligent. I thought the ending was a little over the top, but hey, what the heck, it’s a futuristic story. If you’re looking for something a little different, then you’re sure to like this book. I highly recommend that you give it a try!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
By Richard Paolinelli
Great Story That’s a Little Off the Beaten Path
Escaping Infinity by Richard Paolinelli starts out with a bang – quite literally! Eight alien spacecraft unexpectedly materialized in Earth’s atmosphere before passing through. The resulting catastrophic inferno vaporized every life form on Earth, every bit of water and every hint of an atmosphere. Volcanic eruptions poured out lava that almost instantly cooled, leaving a dismal, lifeless ball of rock. Earth’s death throes even impacted the moon, leaving several wide fracture lines that ran in zigzags across its face and its orbit was changed to be approximately 3 days longer.
The commander of the alien flagship stared at his view screen in horror. He had simply wanted to show this jewel of a world to his colleagues and never envisioned the destruction that ensued. Apparently, the navigation computer had failed to flag a small star near their course that was unexpectedly collapsing into a black hole. The change in the gravitational pull was just enough to cause the ships to emerge in Earth’s atmosphere instead of behind the moon. Sick about the damage they had caused, the aliens came up with a plan to attempt reparations to the planet and its inhabitants.
Welcome to the Hotel Infinity. As I read, I was reminded of the words to The Eagles’ popular song, “Hotel California”, that include:
“We are programmed to receive
You can check out any time you like
But you can never leave …
Welcome to the Hotel California …”
I really enjoyed this somewhat off the beaten path of a science fiction story. It was nothing like I expected from the prologue, but it was a fascinating story, nonetheless. The characters were well drawn, the world building was fantastic and the writing was intelligent. I thought the ending was a little over the top, but hey, what the heck, it’s a futuristic story. If you’re looking for something a little different, then you’re sure to like this book. I highly recommend that you give it a try!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2017
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
After reading the back cover, I knew I was embarking on a freaky, mind-warping ride and was looking forward to the journey Richard was going to take me on. The front cover looked promising as well. It had me thinking this book would be taking place solely in the future. However, once I began reading the prologue, I soon realized space and alien life would encompass the plot. Even though I was only thrown for a loop for about a nanosecond, I soon found myself engrossed in the mystery of the Infinity.
Even though I fascinated by the happenings of the hotel, one thing was missing for me which would've made me feel more contacted to the storyline. For me, I wanted to know more about the lives of the hotel's occupants before stepping into the time/space paradox. We got a glimpse of Liz and the football star, but the inquisitive side wanted more history regarding its occupants. I guess if Richard was writing a 700 page novel then my wish would've been granted but he wasn't. He didn't. To stay on track, he led us through a series of events which would test the sanity of any man or woman. His writing was equally mystifying and eerie as fellow thriller writers Stephen King, Clive Barker, and R.L Stine. That's saying a lot about his creativity.
All in all, the plot was sound. The follow-through was a tad bumpy but overall a book I am thrilled to have read and happily encourage others to purchase.
Parting remarks.....
1.) Planet Disney cracked me up.
2.) I didn't know whether to laugh or yell RUN when the door's guardian became activated. However, I did laugh a wee bit when it went airborne.
Good science fiction/fantasy story!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
After reading the back cover, I knew I was embarking on a freaky, mind-warping ride and was looking forward to the journey Richard was going to take me on. The front cover looked promising as well. It had me thinking this book would be taking place solely in the future. However, once I began reading the prologue, I soon realized space and alien life would encompass the plot. Even though I was only thrown for a loop for about a nanosecond, I soon found myself engrossed in the mystery of the Infinity.
Even though I fascinated by the happenings of the hotel, one thing was missing for me which would've made me feel more contacted to the storyline. For me, I wanted to know more about the lives of the hotel's occupants before stepping into the time/space paradox. We got a glimpse of Liz and the football star, but the inquisitive side wanted more history regarding its occupants. I guess if Richard was writing a 700 page novel then my wish would've been granted but he wasn't. He didn't. To stay on track, he led us through a series of events which would test the sanity of any man or woman. His writing was equally mystifying and eerie as fellow thriller writers Stephen King, Clive Barker, and R.L Stine. That's saying a lot about his creativity.
All in all, the plot was sound. The follow-through was a tad bumpy but overall a book I am thrilled to have read and happily encourage others to purchase.
Parting remarks.....
1.) Planet Disney cracked me up.
2.) I didn't know whether to laugh or yell RUN when the door's guardian became activated. However, I did laugh a wee bit when it went airborne.
Good science fiction/fantasy story!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
June 27, 2017
I found this to be an interesting, well written science fiction fantasy. It was actually kind of nice to read something a bit lighter, I feel like I've been wrapped up in post-apocalyptic scenarios for a long time and it's taking a toll. The characters are likable and the dialogue is sharp. Nice job.
November 26, 2017
Excellent science fiction. This could be a Twilight Zone episode or movie easily.
October 31, 2020
WOW! I loved loved loved this story! Actually I am not such a big fan of science fiction but might as well convert to be one now. What a great storyline! Amazing characters, and not only Peter and Liz and the manager, but every single one! Sure, the first chapters were a bit confusing, given that without any explanation I was sucked from what felt like Star Wars to an engineer-meeting in our world and time... but then..yeah, then it just sucked me in and didn’t let me go until the last page was turned. Amazing world building next to unbelievable believable technology, the bliss of no knowledge to the devastation of knowing, the horror and the hope...
a wonderful way to explore humanity. Thank you very much M Paolinelli, for this escape from reality... or infinity...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
a wonderful way to explore humanity. Thank you very much M Paolinelli, for this escape from reality... or infinity...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2017
Escaping Infinity is a mysterious tale that sees young Peter Childress and his friend Charlie stranded when their car breaks down. When they come upon a grand hotel, it would appear that luck is on their side. Or is it?
Peter, a smart and resourceful man, begins to notice certain oddities around the Infinity hotel. Secrets are revealed, alongside personal losses in this fast paced story.
There is a great sense of mystery and adventure in this book, which developed as I read on. I loved Peter and Liz's characters but felt that Charlie's character didn't add much to the story.
A great read overall, though I felt the book could have ended quite nicely around page three-hundred. I would recommend Escaping Infinity to lovers of Science Fiction in urban locations.
Peter, a smart and resourceful man, begins to notice certain oddities around the Infinity hotel. Secrets are revealed, alongside personal losses in this fast paced story.
There is a great sense of mystery and adventure in this book, which developed as I read on. I loved Peter and Liz's characters but felt that Charlie's character didn't add much to the story.
A great read overall, though I felt the book could have ended quite nicely around page three-hundred. I would recommend Escaping Infinity to lovers of Science Fiction in urban locations.
May 1, 2018
I enjoyed this audio book. Good narration to a very original story.
April 20, 2021
I loved this book! It took a bit for me to get into but once I was it was so entertaining! It also ended up becoming kind of sweet? Which I liked. Anyways, it's a cool story!
July 23, 2018
The premise of the story looked very promising. But it failed to deliver for me. There were some moments in the second half of the book which I, even as a science fiction fan, thought were a little too much. Overall, a nice and easy read.
will-not-read
December 26, 2017Mr. Paolinelli is now on my author boycott list because he has made sexist remarks on social media and has supported others who have made remarks that are sexist, racist, transphobic, and ableist. He justifies this by saying that liberals are the real intolerant ones, but he told me "hush, dear, men are talking" when I pointed out that he was defending a bigot. He doesn't want anyone who opposes these forms of bigotry to buy his books. If you oppose bigotry against marginalized groups, you might want to avoid the books; especially since Richard doesn't want you to read them.
March 14, 2022
Not at all as expected. And that's a good thing.
What do you get when you cross the Eagles' hit Hotel California with time travel and the end of the world as we know it?
You get the Infinity Hotel, and an endlessly fascinating puzzle from which one young engineer, Peter Childress, will try to escape. And on his escape hinges the doom of every guest in the Hotel.
What do you get when you cross the Eagles' hit Hotel California with time travel and the end of the world as we know it?
You get the Infinity Hotel, and an endlessly fascinating puzzle from which one young engineer, Peter Childress, will try to escape. And on his escape hinges the doom of every guest in the Hotel.
April 4, 2018
Good and intriguing start, but such a disappointing last third of the book. Too many things were not explained and seemed totally illogical. Forced happy resolutions in all situations.
July 30, 2017
The story commences in outer space and is seen from the aliens point of view. The aliens have visited the now dead planet several times in the past before accidentally destroying it in the last few minutes. They are filled with remorse.
Chapters 1 seems to be about a completely different story to the prologue, in which two US modern day business men, lost in a barren wilderness, discover an ultra modern hotel to stay in, just when their need was most. However once inside only Peter Childless, our narrator, queries the structure, its occupants and staff. His friend Charlie gleefully settles in while Peter explores and seeks answers. The collection of human beings accommodated as guests are from varying times in the planets past, and were plucked from their world, in similar circumstances to Peter and are now enjoying, unquestioningly, life in the hotel ad infintum.
We follow Peter as he goes places others failed to go and in seeking a way out finds an ally in Liz an employee and together they attempt to escape. Peter bonding with Liz was nicely handled as was her discovery of the passage of time since her arrival and their subsequent romantic liaison. The story twists and turns as the pair apparently resign to their fate of an endless life in the hotel but eventually they achieve some success and the book then explains the link between the prologue and the story so far. Its a gripping story that journeys on beyond its initial premise and has an optimistic ending that stands in strong contrast with the gloomy opening prologue.
Well written it kept my attention and I was sorry to reach the end.
Escaping Infinity
August 19, 2017
I picked this one up a while back, but only decided to move it up in the queue when it hit the Dragon Award Nominees for 2017. Wow, am I glad I did. What an an amazing ride!
For those of you who don't want to read a whole book, let me summarized it for you:
What's that, now? You really do want to read it? Well, alright then. Let me give you my review.
When I started reading it, it went something like this:
First, the Earth blew up. It was done in the most AMAZING way... by accident! Then I found myself lost on Route 66 with two architectural engineers and I was going WTF just happned? That's when I saw the Infinity Hotel out in the middle of nowhere and realized this was going to be one of those 'try to keep up' books.
Challenge Accepted!
Then I was
No, wait, that wasn't me.. that was the M.C. OMG I'm so confused... don't stop!
The plot... OMG the plot!... is non-stop whiplash where the hell is this thing going and why is it so good!
The characters... well, there's really only three important ones, but trust me, you will know all about them before it's over with.
I really can't say enough good things about how fun this book was to read. It was genuinely refreshing, and it was a mix of so many genres in one! Some of them are not even my typical reading fare, but they were written so well, so engrossingly, that I could not put it down.
5 HUGE stars for this book, and much appreciation to Mr. Paolinelli for writing it! I call it an INFINITELY AWESOME READ!
For those of you who don't want to read a whole book, let me summarized it for you:
What's that, now? You really do want to read it? Well, alright then. Let me give you my review.
When I started reading it, it went something like this:
First, the Earth blew up. It was done in the most AMAZING way... by accident! Then I found myself lost on Route 66 with two architectural engineers and I was going WTF just happned? That's when I saw the Infinity Hotel out in the middle of nowhere and realized this was going to be one of those 'try to keep up' books.
Challenge Accepted!
Then I was
No, wait, that wasn't me.. that was the M.C. OMG I'm so confused... don't stop!
The plot... OMG the plot!... is non-stop whiplash where the hell is this thing going and why is it so good!
The characters... well, there's really only three important ones, but trust me, you will know all about them before it's over with.
I really can't say enough good things about how fun this book was to read. It was genuinely refreshing, and it was a mix of so many genres in one! Some of them are not even my typical reading fare, but they were written so well, so engrossingly, that I could not put it down.
5 HUGE stars for this book, and much appreciation to Mr. Paolinelli for writing it! I call it an INFINITELY AWESOME READ!
October 23, 2018
I would definitely have given it 5 stars, except...
So! Escaping Infinity is so credible it’s a hard to believe. As one reads it, one realises that everything that happens in there is just as likely to happen as one would hope. A hotel like that is absolutely possible in, say, a few thousand - or perhaps only hundreds of - years. And the reasoning behind it is also credible. So the book, up to the better part of the second half is an absolute delight.
However the part where the escape itself takes form is the pivotal point where all hell breaks loose. The need for complete and utter harmony - that isn’t even justified, really - makes the author state some things that are both contradictory and absurd. I won’t mention a lot of them but I will say this: I got most of my biology, zoology and environmental knowledge from Discovery, NatGeo and Science shows and a number of books (enough that I lost count). In my biology classes back when I was at school, however, I learned three fundamental facts that stayed with till now:
1. The earth is most probably not big enough to house all the species of animals that have ever walked the earth in sufficient amount of pairs that they would continue existing.
2. An environment with only herbivores would simply be unsustainable.
3. Noe would have failed in his mission had he solely taken one pair of each species of animals onto his ship.
Richard Paolinelli breaks all three facts in what turns out to be a rather useless turn of events.
Later on he makes other useless mistakes such as having one of many ‘elders’ persuaded to approve of something that was forbidden for 9 centuries only by being asked to do so, with no argument.
And, at the end of the book, such curiosities continue. It turns out it’s a bit nightmarish at the end.
Keeping these small glitches in mind, I hope everyone enjoys the book as much as I did.
So! Escaping Infinity is so credible it’s a hard to believe. As one reads it, one realises that everything that happens in there is just as likely to happen as one would hope. A hotel like that is absolutely possible in, say, a few thousand - or perhaps only hundreds of - years. And the reasoning behind it is also credible. So the book, up to the better part of the second half is an absolute delight.
However the part where the escape itself takes form is the pivotal point where all hell breaks loose. The need for complete and utter harmony - that isn’t even justified, really - makes the author state some things that are both contradictory and absurd. I won’t mention a lot of them but I will say this: I got most of my biology, zoology and environmental knowledge from Discovery, NatGeo and Science shows and a number of books (enough that I lost count). In my biology classes back when I was at school, however, I learned three fundamental facts that stayed with till now:
1. The earth is most probably not big enough to house all the species of animals that have ever walked the earth in sufficient amount of pairs that they would continue existing.
2. An environment with only herbivores would simply be unsustainable.
3. Noe would have failed in his mission had he solely taken one pair of each species of animals onto his ship.
Richard Paolinelli breaks all three facts in what turns out to be a rather useless turn of events.
Later on he makes other useless mistakes such as having one of many ‘elders’ persuaded to approve of something that was forbidden for 9 centuries only by being asked to do so, with no argument.
And, at the end of the book, such curiosities continue. It turns out it’s a bit nightmarish at the end.
Keeping these small glitches in mind, I hope everyone enjoys the book as much as I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2018
Peter Childress, our main character, is beset on all sides with questions he has to answer. Should he stay knowing that he will be happy in this fake place? Can he run away without his friend Charlie? How do you find an exit to a hotel with no doors? Should he keep fighting or give up? Who can I trust, if anyone? How big is this place? Why is it here? The more questions he asks, the deeper the mystery gets. The deeper the mystery gets, the further we get drawn in.
Probably the biggest question Paolinelli asks (and answers without getting preachy) is this: Who is responsible to clean up a massive mess after someone messes up? Is it the person who commits the act or is it his government? Should a person do what they can to make up for the fact that they have committed a horrible sin or should "society" be responsible for it? This isn't the question of "Who watches the watchmen?" It's the question of "I screwed up. Should I atone for it or should everyone else?" It's an interesting question and one that needs to be answered. For what it's worth, I think he comes up with the right answer. Of course, we don't all have the resources available to Paolinelli's ship captain but the point remains valid.
Equally as important is another question: Is it more important to do what's right or to follow society's rules? This is a question I've seen asked over and over again in fiction from Star Trek (Prime Directive anyone?) to Law and Order: Special Victims Unit (Should I give this heroin addict a medicine to cure his addiction or let him suffer and possible die because it's not approved by the proper government agency?) Once again, I find myself agreeing with Paolinelli's answer.
Probably the biggest question Paolinelli asks (and answers without getting preachy) is this: Who is responsible to clean up a massive mess after someone messes up? Is it the person who commits the act or is it his government? Should a person do what they can to make up for the fact that they have committed a horrible sin or should "society" be responsible for it? This isn't the question of "Who watches the watchmen?" It's the question of "I screwed up. Should I atone for it or should everyone else?" It's an interesting question and one that needs to be answered. For what it's worth, I think he comes up with the right answer. Of course, we don't all have the resources available to Paolinelli's ship captain but the point remains valid.
Equally as important is another question: Is it more important to do what's right or to follow society's rules? This is a question I've seen asked over and over again in fiction from Star Trek (Prime Directive anyone?) to Law and Order: Special Victims Unit (Should I give this heroin addict a medicine to cure his addiction or let him suffer and possible die because it's not approved by the proper government agency?) Once again, I find myself agreeing with Paolinelli's answer.
January 6, 2022
Holy cow is this badly written. I am literally cringing at every single page.
Some examples? Certainly. The prologue, for example, shows us a fleet of starships who have come to mourn over a dead planet, because they're the ones who accidentally destroyed it. We're told how the accident happened. Then, just three paragraphs later, we're told the story *again*. Just in case we missed it the first time, possibly.
Then consider the *very first sentence* of Chapter 1: "I think I am a pretty honest enough guy to admit this." Now you can be a "pretty honest guy" or you can be an "honest enough guy to admit this"…but you can't be both together; that's language that makes readers want to pluck out their eyeballs.
Starting your book this badly is actually impressive, in a "not" sort of sense.
A couple of pages later, we're told that the narrator and his friend earned Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering…but then the *same sentence* clarifies that these "Master's degrees" are actually, respectively, a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor's in Architectural Engineering. This kind of precision, no doubt, is what leads the two to be immediately recruited by a prestigious architectural firm.
Honestly, I think I have to give up here. I think I'm losing the will to live.
The book's cover proudly trumpets that it was a "2017 Dragon Award Finalist" for Best Science Fiction Novel. I can only assume that there weren't many to choose from, if this made it to the finals. That it didn't win shows that there is still, now and then, some sanity in the world.
Some examples? Certainly. The prologue, for example, shows us a fleet of starships who have come to mourn over a dead planet, because they're the ones who accidentally destroyed it. We're told how the accident happened. Then, just three paragraphs later, we're told the story *again*. Just in case we missed it the first time, possibly.
Then consider the *very first sentence* of Chapter 1: "I think I am a pretty honest enough guy to admit this." Now you can be a "pretty honest guy" or you can be an "honest enough guy to admit this"…but you can't be both together; that's language that makes readers want to pluck out their eyeballs.
Starting your book this badly is actually impressive, in a "not" sort of sense.
A couple of pages later, we're told that the narrator and his friend earned Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering…but then the *same sentence* clarifies that these "Master's degrees" are actually, respectively, a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor's in Architectural Engineering. This kind of precision, no doubt, is what leads the two to be immediately recruited by a prestigious architectural firm.
Honestly, I think I have to give up here. I think I'm losing the will to live.
The book's cover proudly trumpets that it was a "2017 Dragon Award Finalist" for Best Science Fiction Novel. I can only assume that there weren't many to choose from, if this made it to the finals. That it didn't win shows that there is still, now and then, some sanity in the world.
October 28, 2017
As a writer, I am constantly striving for improvement in my own writing, so my brain is attuned to looking for, and finding, repeating words among other things. If they story isn't strong enough, I am bogged down with the smallest detail. Reading becomes difficult.
That wasn't the case with this book. Yes, I could probably send the author a huge list of repeating words, but I am not going to. His well-crafted story kept me so engaged that I had a hard time extracting myself from the two worlds he created. One, our own Earth destroyed in a freak accident and the other a hotel that spans centuries within its own walls. How the two are related unfolds at a good pace with the narration switching characters and points of view in very smooth transitions. Except for a few places where there was some quick shifting, which again can be forgiven. There was also spots where a different point of view should have been used. Again, no big deal.
I would have given this wonderful read a five star rating, if not for these few hiccups. The fact that I finished the book in one night speaks volumes. I haven't done that in a very long time.
And yes, the way the two worlds connect is very surprising. Predictable perhaps, if I analyzed things in great detail. The beauty of the story is that I didn't want to. No thinking, just pure enjoyment. For which I offer the author my heartfelt thanks.
That wasn't the case with this book. Yes, I could probably send the author a huge list of repeating words, but I am not going to. His well-crafted story kept me so engaged that I had a hard time extracting myself from the two worlds he created. One, our own Earth destroyed in a freak accident and the other a hotel that spans centuries within its own walls. How the two are related unfolds at a good pace with the narration switching characters and points of view in very smooth transitions. Except for a few places where there was some quick shifting, which again can be forgiven. There was also spots where a different point of view should have been used. Again, no big deal.
I would have given this wonderful read a five star rating, if not for these few hiccups. The fact that I finished the book in one night speaks volumes. I haven't done that in a very long time.
And yes, the way the two worlds connect is very surprising. Predictable perhaps, if I analyzed things in great detail. The beauty of the story is that I didn't want to. No thinking, just pure enjoyment. For which I offer the author my heartfelt thanks.
June 21, 2017
Richard Paolinelli’s “Escaping Infinity” is a damn good read. It has the vibe of a “Twilight Zone Episode” while also reminding me of the film “Dark City”, while building up into something truly sensational. The story works so well because the writing is meticulous as it is entertaining, blending together aspects of mystery, sci-fi, and dare I say the paranormal? All the twists and turns really make you question where the story will go next. All the while, I truly felt like a guest of the Infinity, which was both chilling and exciting. I was urged to keep reading to figure out what step our daring Peter would take next to get out of the purgatory he finds himself trapped in.
My only complaint was the Liz back story section. I personally felt it could have been split up into two parts, but it doesn’t distract because the story keeps moving at a furious pace. Paolinelli manages to capture the epic scope of the scenes.
Overall, this is a very solid piece of science fiction that explores so many ideas it will damn near melt your brain trying to absorb them all on the first go. I can’t really go into them without going into spoiler territory, but pick up a copy of this novel today and see for yourself.
My only complaint was the Liz back story section. I personally felt it could have been split up into two parts, but it doesn’t distract because the story keeps moving at a furious pace. Paolinelli manages to capture the epic scope of the scenes.
Overall, this is a very solid piece of science fiction that explores so many ideas it will damn near melt your brain trying to absorb them all on the first go. I can’t really go into them without going into spoiler territory, but pick up a copy of this novel today and see for yourself.
August 6, 2017
The good: This book was compulsively readable, maintaining my interest from beginning to end. The premise was original. The characters were, for the most part, interesting and real.
The bad:
Also, the choice to switch back and forth between 1st person and 3rd person narrative, always a risk, was something I found to be distracting and jarring.
Overall, an enjoyable read, particularly for 99 cents.
The bad:
Also, the choice to switch back and forth between 1st person and 3rd person narrative, always a risk, was something I found to be distracting and jarring.
Overall, an enjoyable read, particularly for 99 cents.
January 9, 2018
Intriguing Sci-Fi
Paolinelli’s “Escaping Infinity” was intriguing Sci-Fi for this long-time reader. I really enjoyed the first section of the story, building up to the mystery of the Infinity Hotel. The different points of view did not detract from the book for me as it apparently did for some other readers; I felt it was necessary for establishing the chemistry between the two main characters and for the ultimate conclusion of the story. Or was it a conclusion?
Only two things disappointed me; the disappearance of Charlie soon after the opening of the story (he did seem to be an important character.) though he does make a brief reappearance later on and that there was no clear indication of a sequel. Or is there?
This was intriguing sci-fi and a recommended read!
Paolinelli’s “Escaping Infinity” was intriguing Sci-Fi for this long-time reader. I really enjoyed the first section of the story, building up to the mystery of the Infinity Hotel. The different points of view did not detract from the book for me as it apparently did for some other readers; I felt it was necessary for establishing the chemistry between the two main characters and for the ultimate conclusion of the story. Or was it a conclusion?
Only two things disappointed me; the disappearance of Charlie soon after the opening of the story (he did seem to be an important character.) though he does make a brief reappearance later on and that there was no clear indication of a sequel. Or is there?
This was intriguing sci-fi and a recommended read!
June 1, 2017
Well written
This is an interesting book. It starts off with the accidental destruction of earth by an alien species. They decide that something has to be done. Next we are introduced to our protagonist Peter Childress. Peter and his business partner become stranded on the roads of Arizona. There they find the Infinity Hotel. They check in for the night, but Peter soon realizes that they may have trouble checking out.
Escaping Infinity is a hopeful story about the future of humanity. It is slow at times, but well paced. The characters are well written and enjoyable.
This is an interesting book. It starts off with the accidental destruction of earth by an alien species. They decide that something has to be done. Next we are introduced to our protagonist Peter Childress. Peter and his business partner become stranded on the roads of Arizona. There they find the Infinity Hotel. They check in for the night, but Peter soon realizes that they may have trouble checking out.
Escaping Infinity is a hopeful story about the future of humanity. It is slow at times, but well paced. The characters are well written and enjoyable.
January 9, 2022
I've been reading some of the Superversive authors and boy am I glad I did.
Paolinelli's Escaping Infinity is so far above everything else that I saw made the short lists for the Dragons, the Nebulas and the Hugos that I can't believe it didn't win the Dragon. Likely finished second to the swarm of fans from the winner that was based on a bad TV show.
This novel bends many rules, breaks a few more and shatters the rest in a compelling, mind-bending story that any sci-fi fan will want to read over and over.
Well done, sir!!!
Paolinelli's Escaping Infinity is so far above everything else that I saw made the short lists for the Dragons, the Nebulas and the Hugos that I can't believe it didn't win the Dragon. Likely finished second to the swarm of fans from the winner that was based on a bad TV show.
This novel bends many rules, breaks a few more and shatters the rest in a compelling, mind-bending story that any sci-fi fan will want to read over and over.
Well done, sir!!!
October 9, 2020
I discovered this author from an outstanding collection of Sherlock Holmes stories and brother am I glad I did. Here is an author who knows how to put together a compelling mystery that hooks you early and keeps you hooked until the very last page.
Even though this mystery is set in a science fiction setting, it is still a brilliantly crafted mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Even though this mystery is set in a science fiction setting, it is still a brilliantly crafted mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
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