############################################Sarah Benson - Lakeville, MN
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I loved this book! I loved the language the author used because it made everything seem more real and life-like, like it could really happen. It was obvious the author did extensive research while writing this novel. I wish there was a sequel so we can find out more about Diego's heaven. Great ending. I love this book!!Janet M. - (as seen on Amazon.com)
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I also came by this book via an odd anonymous letter. None of the other reviewers mentioned specifics regarding profound allegory, but by their responses I think they must have at least sensed something important was being said beyond the surface text. The author used a "worldly" secular environment to underscore spiritual concepts. He employed a lot of theological symbolism, even to the point of acronyms and anagrams, which were obscure enough that I wonder how many I still haven't discovered.
Diego (the main character) is born to a girl named Mary. She's a street whore as opposed to a virginal bride, so already the idea of setting aside dogmatic beliefs about God is being presented. Even if she had been a virgin, the crude circumstances of Diego's conception remove all resemblance to Christ's particulars. Diego resides in the fictional city of Wormwood, Ohio. The unusual name is prophetic; Wormwood is mentioned in the New Testament as a star that falls to earth, causing many people to die.
In the next chapter there is a Cub Scout meeting (referred to as "Pup Scout") where Diego breaks a piñata, providing goodies to the other boys, who wrestle over them. Diego doesn't join in, but instead watches in silence. Later in his bedroom, he takes the ruined leftover candy the den father gave him, and drops it in the garbage. I think this early scene illustrates the moral of the entire work, which has much to do with the importance of personal sacrifice over selfishness, while still maintaining dignity.
I found the writing to be cogent. The general scarcity of ornate diction might disappoint spoon-fed or snobbish readers. The author's voice was confident and his prose clean. Descriptions were sometimes detailed, other times brief. Action usually took precedence over meditative pauses. In terms of content, his vision was occasionally disturbing...persons easily offended should take note. He didn't sweep objectionable matters under the rug, he shined a spotlight on them.
Although I disagreed with one specific element of the book's philosophy, my opposition had no relevance to the author's ability to effectively tell the tale. His unique interpretation of bible mythology is far more worthy of mention. He managed to combine technology, biblical tenets and the classic struggle of good vs. evil into a surprising mix of harsh secular logic.
All in all, the story was compelling, the characters memorable. The original concept (I can't reveal without spoiling) was surprising when presented at the end. I'm an English professor; I gave it four stars because I think there's always room for improvement. Nevertheless, the effort was more imaginative than ninety percent of what comes across my desk. For a first book, I think Mr. Valenzuela has plenty of which to be proud.Jerrod Davis - Giant Eagle, Ohio (as seen on Amazon.com)
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This is my first review on amazon and the first time I have been compelled to do so.
I can't say enough about this book! Like the others I too could not stop reading.
Mr. Valenzuela goes to great depths to bring you into this delightful tale, evoking all of your emotions as you read on- I
I was so excited! My adrenaline was actually kicking in on some scenes! I laughed at the witty humor in others.
As a jaded skeptic, Absolute Infinity surprised me.
Absolute Infinity proves to be A deep book that really will make you think about consciousness, existence, and the idea of time itself- Plus its all done with a colorful cast of believable characters!!
Thanks to some clever writing, the surrounding environments are clearly viewable in the minds eye.
Nicolas Valenzuela knows how to take the reader there!
If you're looking for an interesting read that's fun AND will make you think- Absolute Infinity gets my fullest recommendation! I love this book!
I would pay twice the price listed above. I read some scenes over for sheer pleasure. Absolute Infinity is A spectacular book.Debbie Sims - Marion, Ohio
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Everyone at work was talking about it so naturally I had to see what the big excitement was about. This book is awesome! The first page got my attention and I was hooked. In just a few pages I think you go through every emotion there is. It gets you to really thinking about life. I'm already looking forward to the next book. This man can definitely write! I can honestly say I'm glad I bought the book because this is one I will reread over and over.Courtney Cook - Columbus, Ohio
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This book was deeply profound. Right from the beginning it hooked me and I became more attached to the characters as it moved forward. The philosophical discussions/points and the author's imagined possibilities force intellectual thought that is rarely present in fiction. The end came as quite a surprise, and was perhaps a little off from the rest of the book. Nonetheless, it left a lasting impression and planted vivid images in my mind. I can't wait for this author's next book.D.S. Engler - Oberlin, Ohio (as seen on Amazon.com)
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At the end of the book I sat back and said "Wow." I couldn't put it down. The characters were believable and likable, the plot was interesting and took some twists I wasn't expecting, and I absolutely loved it. It really made me think, not only about the nature of people, but about the nature of the world we live in and where we go from here. Can't wait for Valenzuela's next book!Jeb Bowman - Columbus, Ohio
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I thought Absolute Infinity was a brilliant novel. This book is so close to real, it's scary. I think a great job was done in capturing what many people are feeling or thinking. As far as relating to the characters, I'm somewhere between the three main characters. Diego was my favorite, but I was closest to Gabe and Oz. This book will definitely leave you with something to think about, a regular mindf--k. I think the movie will be off the hook with laughs, cries, and wicked twists of people's perceptions.Milton Colombe - Delaware, Ohio
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It has been many years since I have read a book that touched me so deeply. The sense of self this story projected took me by surprise. To be so deeply lonely for no apparent reason, hurt and drew me further into the story. A very good collection of people and diverse stories. The way the story unfolded and cast its spell of awareness kept me awake more than I wanted to be. In short: engrossing story, complex characters, and a hero you can't help but love.Gregory Wilcox - Greater Columbus, Ohio
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Rarely does a work of fiction so well represent the truth of life as we know it while still stimulating the intellect as to the possibility of life as it could be if only we dare to try. Is it possible that existence is what we make it? How many Diegos have I known? Is Infinity absolute? When a book makes you ask these questions and actually think about what the answers truly are, is it well worth reading? Take the time to find out for yourself.Carol A. Lang - Arboles, Colorado
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Absolute Infinity... A great read that will keep the reader turning the pages and looking for more! A deep understanding of each of the main characters and the emotions that perhaps a lot of readers can understand. It gives meaning to the phrase, "Judgment Day" and hopefully it will help people really look into themselves and think about the realization of "our actions have consequences." I know it got me to thinking... I highly recommend this book!Jon Kalin - Rochester, Washington
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Absolute Infinity is an absorbing exploration of matters of philosophy and morality, with detailed characterizations and an intriguing plot. The author makes a thoughtful and moving foray into the possibilities of reality.Angela Chagnon - Lawton, Oklahoma (as seen on Amazon.com)
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Absolute Infinity is a novel that captures you in the beginning and holds on tight until the end. A very thought provoking book in which it reaches into the realm of our own comfort and makes you think outside of that comfort.Mallory Arnold - Delaware, Ohio
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I loved reading Absolute Infinity. I'm going to recommend it to everyone I know. I hadn't found a book in six years that kept my interest until this one. When I sat down to read this book, I couldn't put it down. I read it all in about three days. When I finished one chapter, I wanted to read on and find out what happened to Diego in the next chapter. The only part that I had difficulty reading, because it wasn't as interesting as the rest of the book had been, were the chapters near the end involving Dan. I think there may have been a better way to do the ending, but it was still good and tied everything up. There are many other things I liked about the book, but don't have enough time to write everything down. Those are the main things I wanted everyone to know. Can't wait for the next book to come out. :)W. Dluhosh - (as seen on Amazon.com)
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For lack of a better term, "I couldn't put this book down," and I'm a non-fiction reader. I don't read many fiction books, but the book's description of loneliness and how people fit into this world caught my attention. Nicolas' writing style, and his attention to detail, was amazing. You really get to know these characters and what drives them. This was a very well written and fun book to read. I have never read, or heard of any story quite like this one. This is a truly original idea.Kim George - Grove City, Ohio
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The book brought to mind a modern day Biblical story. I liked the way the main characters' lives were brought together. I liked following each character's development by age. Good ending. Unique characters.Kalina T. - Hawaii (as seen on Amazon.com)
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You know it's a good book when you close the book at the end and feel sad that you've finished it. This book left me wanting more! It had everything a reader could want: intriguing plot, characters you care about, amazing writing. I would write more, but why waste your time? You should stop reading this immediately and concentrate on getting your hands on a copy!
I'm looking forward to more books by the author and wishing and hoping to see Absolute Infinity playing someday at my local theater. It would make a fantastic movie!
And another reason I don't have time to write a longer review: I want to read the book AGAIN!Kimberly Schroeder - Hilliard, Ohio
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First of all, let me preface this with the fact that I am not an avid reader, or much of a reader at all. Absolute Infinity was one of those books that kept the intrigue alive. I finished this book in 2 weeks, a feat which would have normally taken well over a month for me. I found myself not wanting to put it down. The ending was quite a surprise, and would be quite a fantastic real life experience. Makes one really think.....what if?
I'm looking forward to Nicolas' next project! Give us more!Louis Tucci - Lewis Center, Ohio
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I really enjoyed the book. I felt it was very real & suspenseful in its unique way. Lots of emotions. There are even some hearing lessons, i.e., when Diego asked the girl on the school bus for a date (don't give in to peer pressure). Enjoyed all the characters, especially Diego. Felt the book started to drag (just a little) towards the end of the book with all the computer jargon. However, the author did a great job of picking it up again. The moral of the story is very touching. Excellent book - have recommended to many folks. Can't wait for his next one!!