Book Review: Infinity

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Infinity Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Maggie Shayne
Class/Genre: Romance Mystery Supernatural Witchcraft
Jove, Oct 1999, $6.99, 352 pp.

In 1511, when her beloved sister Raven dies in a drowning accident, seventeen years old Arianna deeply mourns her loss even as she feels guilty for surviving. She no longer cares about how the villagers perceive her. Only the intervention of Nicodimus saves her life and that of her parents.

Over seven-hundred years ago, Nicodimus abducted a willing Anya, sister of abusive brothers (Marten and Kohl), who vow vengeance. Nicodimus became an Immortal through the Light by rescuing an endangered High Witch. Anya's siblings converted into Immortals through the Dark by stealing the hearts of High Witches. In the same year he rescues Arianna, Nicodimus kills Kohl, removing and burning the man’s heart. However, Marten captures Arianna. When Nicodimus comes to rescue her, treachery occurs and Nicodimus’ loses his heart. An enraged Arianna escapes, but lives by herself for several centuries until the present where she now has the knowledge to bring her beloved back to life. If she succeeds in returning her beloved from his deep sleep, will he hate her because he believes she is a traitor?

INFINITY is a superb fantasy romance that readers of both genres will enjoy. The story line, especially the historical segment, is stupendous as the witch species seems genuine due to the talent of Maggie Shayne. Nicodimus is a wonderful hero and the support cast adds dimension while propelling the tale forward to its exciting climax. However, this novel belongs to Arianna. As a teenager just coming into her powers without proper guidance, she will remind the audience of some of the athletes who overnight go from food stamps to millions. Ms. Shayne augments her growing reputation for some of the best fantasies on the market today.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner