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Immortal
What if the Fountain of Youth was real?
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
162 pages, ebook
Published May 1, 2020
2 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
David Boiani
6 books36 followersDavid Boiani is an American author living in Coventry, RI. He writes Psychological thrillers mixed with a touch of horror. He recently released a collection of short stories called "Dark Musings". He also plans to start "The redemption", the sequel to his debut novel, "A Thin Line", later this year. Visit his website here...
http://www.authordavidboiani.com/
http://www.authordavidboiani.com/
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 16, 2022
Madison square with a lower-case s in case you were thinking of Madison Square Gardens in New York. Daniel “squares” the answer to his mid-life crisis with his wife, Madison. I decided not to attempt empathy with Madison. After all, how would any woman feel if her successful Ivy League university professor husband suddenly announced he proposed to take off for a weekend once a month in search of the Fountain of Youth?
The fault, if one wants to apportion blame, lies with Daniel’s bachelor friend Tim, who isn’t tied to a beautiful wife and a growing family, and feels there should be more to life than work. And the idea doesn’t start out grandiose; the pair merely want to experience the high points of their youth... or the ones they missed. Where’s the harm in recapturing old times by attending a gig? None.
David Boiani cleverly underpins what could have been a light-weight story by including sessions where Daniel is guiding his philosophy students. It slows the pace, but it makes for fascinating reading, especially if you too had a childhood passion for Monopoly.
Sarah Stuart – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer
The fault, if one wants to apportion blame, lies with Daniel’s bachelor friend Tim, who isn’t tied to a beautiful wife and a growing family, and feels there should be more to life than work. And the idea doesn’t start out grandiose; the pair merely want to experience the high points of their youth... or the ones they missed. Where’s the harm in recapturing old times by attending a gig? None.
David Boiani cleverly underpins what could have been a light-weight story by including sessions where Daniel is guiding his philosophy students. It slows the pace, but it makes for fascinating reading, especially if you too had a childhood passion for Monopoly.
Sarah Stuart – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer
July 24, 2020
“Immortal” is a book that makes you think. The concept of reversing time and getting one’s youth back is fascinating as it is, but when it’s contrasted with the priorities that an individual may have, such as one’s family, that’s where it gets even more intriguing. The main protagonist Daniel leads a wonderful life everyone can only wish for. He has a job he loves, a family he adores, and he’s more than comfortable financially. Yet, something is still missing from even such an idyllic routine; something he can’t quite put his finger on. So, when his friend Tim approaches him with quite an unorthodox proposal, Daniel decides to go through with the adventure, which would soon change both men’s lives. Is it possible that in their pursuit of excitement they actually discovered the secret to immortality? And when is it too late to stop before one vanishes altogether? “Immortal” will definitely make you contemplate quite a few questions as you turn the pages and, who knows, maybe even discover something new about yourself. A truly fascinating read.
June 6, 2020
Through the shifting tides of time, humans have yearned for eternal youth. How does one achieve the seemingly impossible? Is youth a physical or mental condition? Immortal unlocks the mind to explore these questions and more. It challenges the reader to step beyond the box of contemporary thinking and reach beyond accepted limitations. Each page invites the reader to not only enjoy the tale unfolding around two compelling and relatable characters, but to question deeper and seek further along with the characters.
A thoroughly unexpected and satisfying page-turner, Immortal will tempt you to unlock the Fountain of Youth waiting in your own life. A highly recommended read, particularly for these challenging times.
A thoroughly unexpected and satisfying page-turner, Immortal will tempt you to unlock the Fountain of Youth waiting in your own life. A highly recommended read, particularly for these challenging times.
July 7, 2020
Immortality. Would you accept it if offered? Not sure I would, but when David Boiani’s Immortal showed up in my recommendations, I wanted to read his take on it. Glad I did!
Synopsis (from the author):
What if the Fountain of Youth was real?
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
What I liked:
Immortal had an interesting spin on the immortality quest. Not what I expected, but it entertained me throughout. The premise of finding a non-magical fountain of youth, plus insights into various philosophies, made for a good read. All told, it was an imaginative and thought-provoking novel!
What I didn’t like:
Two things bothered me about Immortal. First, despite the main characters’ education, their language when they were at the bar plotting their adventures, was more suited to a locker room and seemed out of character for whom they were supposed to be. Secondly, Daniel’s wife, Madison, seemed to be completely fine with everything and didn’t ask questions as long as Daniel performed in the bedroom. Little things, but they didn’t add to the book for me.
Overall impression:
Immortal was an enjoyable read! Interesting insights into philosophy, cool adventures, and an existential take on immortality added up to a thought-provoking novel. Good stuff!
My rating:
4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
Synopsis (from the author):
What if the Fountain of Youth was real?
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
What I liked:
Immortal had an interesting spin on the immortality quest. Not what I expected, but it entertained me throughout. The premise of finding a non-magical fountain of youth, plus insights into various philosophies, made for a good read. All told, it was an imaginative and thought-provoking novel!
What I didn’t like:
Two things bothered me about Immortal. First, despite the main characters’ education, their language when they were at the bar plotting their adventures, was more suited to a locker room and seemed out of character for whom they were supposed to be. Secondly, Daniel’s wife, Madison, seemed to be completely fine with everything and didn’t ask questions as long as Daniel performed in the bedroom. Little things, but they didn’t add to the book for me.
Overall impression:
Immortal was an enjoyable read! Interesting insights into philosophy, cool adventures, and an existential take on immortality added up to a thought-provoking novel. Good stuff!
My rating:
4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
July 9, 2020
Immortal is about two friends in their forties searching for the elusive something in their lives. Although philosophy professor Daniel Burton seems to have it all: a beautiful wife, healthy and happy children, a respectable job, and a stately home—he feels in a rut. His wife, Madison, notices his unease and encourages him to do something about it—even if that something is unconventional. When his friend Tim, who is also highly regarded—he’s wealthy, handsome, with his pick of women admirers—suggests how the two men can put a spark into their lives—Daniel is all in. Together they go on monthly adventures which transport them out of their comfort zones. The first, a ride on the most terrifying rollercoaster ever, is a huge success, despite Daniel’s initial trepidation about his friend’s strange suggestion.
With insights into various philosophies, this well-written book is thought-provoking without sinking the reader into heavy discourse. In fact, Immortal is an easy read—light and fun. If you are searching for the elusive something somewhere—you’ll find it in the pages of this book. Although Madison is one-dimensional, the main characters are well-constructed and relatable. Kudos to author David Boiani for an enjoyable read.
With insights into various philosophies, this well-written book is thought-provoking without sinking the reader into heavy discourse. In fact, Immortal is an easy read—light and fun. If you are searching for the elusive something somewhere—you’ll find it in the pages of this book. Although Madison is one-dimensional, the main characters are well-constructed and relatable. Kudos to author David Boiani for an enjoyable read.
July 26, 2020
At the start of Immortal, 40-something Daniel is living the perfect life with a perfect wife, Madison, yet something is missing. We know these things because we're told them. In fact over the first part of Immortal I felt like I was being told a few too many things, and not being shown which would have been more interesting. Daniel's friend Tim has a solution to their respective mid-life crises which forms the main part of this story. Throughout his adventures Madison is supportive, which is not unreasonable for a wife, but I found Madison to be somewhat flat as a character. Some adventures are more outrageous than others, and I agree from personal experience that challenging yourself and even taking great risks, regardless of age, does carve away the years and make life more interesting.
Interspersed with these adventures were philosophy lectures which threw me at first, until I realised that the American college used in this story doesn't have separate lectures and tutorials more common in other parts of the world. Once more I felt like I was being told, or in this case lectured, which dragged for me.
Despite my reservations I did enjoy reading Immortal, mostly because it was both fast-paced and an unusual story concept, so this is why I give it four stars.
Interspersed with these adventures were philosophy lectures which threw me at first, until I realised that the American college used in this story doesn't have separate lectures and tutorials more common in other parts of the world. Once more I felt like I was being told, or in this case lectured, which dragged for me.
Despite my reservations I did enjoy reading Immortal, mostly because it was both fast-paced and an unusual story concept, so this is why I give it four stars.
January 13, 2022
Madison square with a lower-case s in case you were thinking of Madison Square Gardens in New York. Daniel “squares” the answer to his mid-life crisis with his wife, Madison. I decided not to attempt empathy with Madison. After all, how would any woman feel if her successful Ivy League university professor husband suddenly announced he proposed to take off for a weekend once a month in search of the Fountain of Youth?
The fault, if one wants to apportion blame, lies with Daniel’s bachelor friend Tim, who isn’t tied to a beautiful wife and a growing family, and feels there should be more to life than work. And the idea doesn’t start out grandiose; the pair merely want to experience the high points of their youth... or the ones they missed. Where’s the harm in recapturing old times by attending a gig? None.
David Boiani cleverly underpins what could have been a light-weight story by including sessions where Daniel is guiding his philosophy students. It slows the pace, but it makes for fascinating reading, especially if you too had a childhood passion for Monopoly.
Sarah Stuart – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer
The fault, if one wants to apportion blame, lies with Daniel’s bachelor friend Tim, who isn’t tied to a beautiful wife and a growing family, and feels there should be more to life than work. And the idea doesn’t start out grandiose; the pair merely want to experience the high points of their youth... or the ones they missed. Where’s the harm in recapturing old times by attending a gig? None.
David Boiani cleverly underpins what could have been a light-weight story by including sessions where Daniel is guiding his philosophy students. It slows the pace, but it makes for fascinating reading, especially if you too had a childhood passion for Monopoly.
Sarah Stuart – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer
June 6, 2020
I have read the first two novels by this author and really enjoyed them so I was over the moon when a friend lent me this one.
This book is very different to his first two; it is about the journey instead of the destination and I can see it appealing to a lot of different types of readers. The main character is instantly relatable. You can see yourself in him, or someone you know. His thoughts and feelings and realistic and understandable. You find yourself not wanting anything bad to happen to him, but can’t help worrying that it will.
As well as the main story, there are a couple of other minor storylines which intertwine well. The flashbacks to his past are handled masterfully.
While this genre doesn’t appeal to me personally as much as his previous, this book does show how he has matured as a writer. With his other books, I was so caught up in the storyline I didn’t have chance to critique his writing ability. This one gave me that opportunity and showed me how good he is.
This book is very different to his first two; it is about the journey instead of the destination and I can see it appealing to a lot of different types of readers. The main character is instantly relatable. You can see yourself in him, or someone you know. His thoughts and feelings and realistic and understandable. You find yourself not wanting anything bad to happen to him, but can’t help worrying that it will.
As well as the main story, there are a couple of other minor storylines which intertwine well. The flashbacks to his past are handled masterfully.
While this genre doesn’t appeal to me personally as much as his previous, this book does show how he has matured as a writer. With his other books, I was so caught up in the storyline I didn’t have chance to critique his writing ability. This one gave me that opportunity and showed me how good he is.
February 27, 2021
“Seriously, look at us Tim. We both look ten years younger… doesn’t it worry you, the abnormality of it all?”
Daniel Burton has a wonderful life, a great marriage, children, a career. In his forties, he doesn’t feel as if there were anything missing. His life-long friend, Tim, a bachelor, convinces Daniel to start spending a weekend every month with him on an adventure. They will take turns choosing the destination. Daniel’s wife agrees that it would be okay for him to do this.
Interspersed with Daniel’s philosophy classes he teaches at Princeton as well as moments of his home life, Daniel goes on several adventures with Tim, returning from each feeling more invigorated. His health improves, as does his appearance. Tim’s does as well.
The book is not mystical. It never gets heavy or burdened down with prose and emotions. It is lighthearted and genuine in its approach to dealing with middle age. It is thought-provoking, especially in the classroom as he covers many of the great philosophers with his students. Well done. Enjoyed it.
Daniel Burton has a wonderful life, a great marriage, children, a career. In his forties, he doesn’t feel as if there were anything missing. His life-long friend, Tim, a bachelor, convinces Daniel to start spending a weekend every month with him on an adventure. They will take turns choosing the destination. Daniel’s wife agrees that it would be okay for him to do this.
Interspersed with Daniel’s philosophy classes he teaches at Princeton as well as moments of his home life, Daniel goes on several adventures with Tim, returning from each feeling more invigorated. His health improves, as does his appearance. Tim’s does as well.
The book is not mystical. It never gets heavy or burdened down with prose and emotions. It is lighthearted and genuine in its approach to dealing with middle age. It is thought-provoking, especially in the classroom as he covers many of the great philosophers with his students. Well done. Enjoyed it.
February 25, 2022
People have always had an interest in eternal youth. And for good reason, because it's a natural biological urge to self-preserve, not only one's life but quality of life. The dreaded mid-life crisis is all too real. We've seen it in real life and in movies such as City Slickers. This is the central premise of Immortal. Two lifelong friends in their mid-forties, Daniel and Tim, decide to go on excursions one weekend a month in an attempt to capture their youth. Daniel, the family man, and professor with a wife and kids is reluctant at first but eventually relents to Tim's proposal. It's an interesting concept that highlights how mortality can haunt even the most successful of people that seem to have it all: the house with a white picket fence, successful career, family. For months the men take adrenaline-inducing trips to concerts, and far-off destinations resulting in not only newfound rejuvenation, but what seems like an actual reversal of the aging process. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading other works by David Boiani. Five Stars!
May 16, 2020
What if the Fountain of Youth was real?
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Humans have always been obsessed with aging and death. Throughout history, the quest for a way to remain forever young has consumed mankind. What if two men stumbled upon a way to ensure eternal youth? What if it changes their lives, not only for the better, but in ways they never could have imagined?
Immortal is a story filled with adventure, mystery, and thrilling twists. Follow these men as they stumble upon not only their greatest discovery, but possibly their ultimate undoing.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2020
As is the case with most human beings, the time arrives for "the itch" --- that longing, that burning desire to discover something more out of life. In IMMORTAL, the itch leads two of the characters, Tim and Daniel, on a quest for eternal youth. They make a dangerous pact to try to fill the void in their otherwise predictable lives. But alas, there is always a catch, a cost, that is attached to such a quest that can lead to one's ultimate undoing. IMMORTAL follows this theme to a tee, but with a couple of surprising twists. The novel is a fast-paced read, but I felt that Madison, Daniel's wife, needed to be fleshed out a bit more. Her one-dimensional character was too complaisant regarding all that was happening around her, and she seemed to be interested in only one thing. That being said, if it's an intriguing, action-filled, thought-provoking novel you are looking for, this could be the book for you.
January 27, 2021
This is a story that makes you think, not only about the philosophical discussions that take place in Daniel's classroom, but about one's own life and death, and their meaning and purpose. Although he teaches the subject, he's about to apply some of those ideas to his own life as his friend Tim entices him to live a daring life. As each adventure becomes more dangerous, it has a strange effect on their lives. Don't expect a fast-moving story. This one gradually builds up the tension as you, along with Daniel, begin to understand what is happening. A great story that will keep you interested and thinking about your own life and mortality, no matter what age you are. Would you do what they did if it had those results? For me, the answer is a definite "no."
October 18, 2020
A well-written, engaging read with a thought-provoking underlying message.
Ultimately the book is about two middle-aged men taking stock of their lives and deciding what is really important to them. Not surprisingly, without giving anything away, the final decision depends on individual circumstances. The journey on how they get there is well worth the read.
It is an intriguing idea and the characters are easily relatable.
Ultimately the book is about two middle-aged men taking stock of their lives and deciding what is really important to them. Not surprisingly, without giving anything away, the final decision depends on individual circumstances. The journey on how they get there is well worth the read.
It is an intriguing idea and the characters are easily relatable.
June 28, 2020
A mild-mannered philosophy teacher discovers something important about himself and his own life when he makes a pact with a friend to push the boundaries once a month and do something he would never do. Immortal is a compelling, thought-provoking read, skillfully written and presented in a unique way.
June 12, 2020
This wasn't what I was expecting at all judging by the title. However, I found this to be very heartwarming and insightful. It'll make you feel good and you'll want to keep reading all the way to the end.
November 13, 2020
Immortality is something humans have been fascinated by and chased after since the beginning of time and as such is a deep and philosophical topic. Would you reverse time and find your youth again if you could? What would happen if you did?
A thought provoking and entertaining read!
A thought provoking and entertaining read!
December 9, 2025
Garbage in a book spine
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