Science fiction has as many subgenres as romance, and like romances, these subgenres tend to rise and fall in popularity: time travel, space opera, cloning/genetics. Parallel universes are having their moment now (and perhaps in other universes as well) with the popularity of the Marvel multi-universes and the Apple+ TV adaptation of Blake Crouch’s Dark Matter. Now screenwriter Marc Guggenheim has published his take on the trope, In Any Lifetime. In it, Guggenheim adds his own twist: An active universe that works in favor of certain outcomes. Can scientist Jonas Cullen defy it?
Dr. Jonas Cullen is riding high—he’s just won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his Many Worlds Proof, confirming the existence of parallel universes. And his beloved wife, Amanda, has just told him she’s pregnant. But in the limo after the party, tragedy strikes. The vehicle crashes into a wall and overturns, and Amanda is killed instantly.
Jonas spends the next two years turning his proof into reality. All he needs is to break into CERN and find his way into the Large Hadron Collider, where he’ll be dosed with enough energy to find the universe where Amanda survived the crash, but he did not. Complicating matters: Only organic material can move through universes, so cotton clothes can make the trip, but not money. There’s a crazy scientist on his trail, Victor, who’s convinced that Jonas plagiarized his research and wants to punish him for it. And of all the infinite universes out there, there’s only a handful where Amanda survived.
In Any Lifetime is a fun, comic-book style ride, and it’s easy to see the visual influences in Guggenheim’s writing style. If the story weren’t so similar to Dark Matter, I’d expect it to be an Apple series someday. But the universe favors efficiency, and there are only so many ways to tell the story of a scientist with an artist wife searching through universes to find her again.
Guggenheim expands his storytelling universe by including Victor’s point-of-view, which provides a look at the other side of the same coin that drives Jonas. Victor’s obsession has cost him his marriage (his wife left him), his moral compass, and most of his sanity, and it’s easy to see how Jonas could devolve into the same morass. There are also many chapters devoted to showing Jonas and Amanda’s love story, which I imagine were included to demonstrate the type of love that could push a man through multiple universes, but I found to be a momentum-killer.
One element that distinguishes Guggenheim’s story from other works on parallel universes is his stance that universes are finite and events tend to play out in similar ways across them. (But he does provide purists with a glimpse at a “what if” World War II timeline.) In other words, you can’t avoid fate.
Guggenheim’s narrative voice reminded me of Dan Brown’s, and his location-jumping and maniacal, unstoppable villain will also appeal to Brown’s readers. In Any Lifetime has plenty to offer both romance and sci-fi fans. It unfolds in predictable ways, but it’s a fun ride nonetheless.

In Any Lifetime by Marc Guggenheim is an ambitious and thought-provoking exploration of love, destiny, and the connections that transcend time and space. From my perspective, Guggenheim’s narrative weaves a complex tapestry of multiple lives and lifetimes, making it both engaging and introspective. The characters are richly developed, each with their own struggles and triumphs, which adds depth to the overarching story.

I appreciated how the plot intertwines the themes of fate and choice, forcing me to reflect on how our decisions shape our paths. The pacing is generally strong, although some sections feel a bit dense, which can slow down the narrative flow. Guggenheim’s writing is insightful, with moments of genuine emotion that resonated with me. However, I sometimes felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of storylines and characters, which made it challenging to keep track of everything.

Overall, In Any Lifetime is a captivating read for those who enjoy intricate narratives that delve into philosophical questions about life and love. Despite its occasional complexities, it left me pondering the nature of connection and the many lives we might lead.

This is a very good time travel novel, well written, a super interesting premise, with lots of thrills and action. The characters are both likable and have depth. It’s a fast read and a worthwhile one with just the right amount of “science” to both confuse and amuse the reader.

I have a horrible habit of binge reading reviews on books I'm about to read or are currently reading. So based on some of the reviews, I did not expect to like this book as much as I did. Admittedly, I didn't find Jonas' character particularly sympathetic or likeable (honestly, none of them were), but I did appreciate Jonas' grief and obsession with finding another universe in which his wife was alive. The timing of the book was also difficult to follow - it didn't just jump universes, but past and present as well. What drew me into this story was the idea of parallel universes, and the universe favoring certain outcomes. I enjoy books that make me think, and this one did exactly that. It was overly technical and sciencey at times, but I was just a little bit obsessed with the whole idea of random and minute choices changing the entire course of my future, and I feel like that concept is going to stick with me for years.

This book started out very promising. I love anything involving the multiverse or time travel. However, this one didn’t work for me. I found the villain unbelievable and didn’t find myself rooting for the couple to be together.

The last book I read had very short chapters, so I had a hard time actually starting this book. Then I did. And wow am I so glad I actually decided to read it.

Jonas Cullen is a heartbroken man who lost his wife, a woman he was so in love with he couldn’t see living without her. And why should he? I mean, he discovered proof of parallel worlds. Who’s to say he can’t discover a way to travel to them, to travel to a world where he can be with his one true love?

The concept of this book drew me in so quickly, and the execution was amazing. The book goes back and forth, between “Now” and years ago, taking us through his journey first meeting Amanda and his mission to be reunited with her simultaneously. It’s amazing.

This also isn’t my first book on parallel worlds. The idea isn’t new. But the execution of this one- the limitations and how the travel works- is so different that I didn’t feel at all like I was reading a story I’ve already seen before.

Jonas is also so interesting, because his development wasn’t quite what I anticipated, and yet it fit so perfectly. I really enjoyed reading this book.


Rating: 4.2/5

Recommend? Yes!

You know... I should have DNF-ed this after being a third way through. At first, I thought this interesting, but then it really went downhill from there. It continues on and on in a way I thought was pretty annoying. I'm sure the author tried to make the main character seem romantic with the never ending groundhog day, but it wasn't working on me. I've read another multiverse series a while back that was a million times better, and now I want to re-read that series - A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray. Go read that one instead!

A novel about a scientist searching for his lost love. I like books set in a multiverse but unfortunately I did not take to the narrative style and failed to finish.

This is not your typical romance alternate universe love story. Those are schmaltzy and don't go very deep. They use the parallel universe strictly as a way to reconnect the two characters. In Any Lifetime is anything but those things.

I loved the science behind the multiverse or Multiple Worlds Proof. Questions that are always raised for me when reading other books of the same ilk were answered and then some. I also really enjoyed that it wasn't an easy journey. I'll just say, the universe favors certain outcomes.

Overall I absolutely adored this book. The ending felt a bit rushed, or maybe cobbled together is a better way of putting it, and there were a few plot holes but I just couldn't stop thinking about this story even when I wasn't reading. I'll definitely be looking for more books from Marc Guggenheim.

Thanks to NetGalley for the free eArc in exchange for my honest opinion. (I may go buy this one for my 'favorites' shelf)

Lake Union Publishing provided an early galley for review.

Author Brad Meltzer mentioned his enjoyment of this new novel on social media, so I knew I had to check it out. The plot description was right up my alley, and I was familiar with Guggenheim's writing from television as well. Therefore, I was confident this would be a great ride.

The story bounces between "now" and flashbacks, the latter filling the reader in on how Jonas and Amanda's relationship developed as well as key moments relating to rising conflict. It is a method that works well in various forms of media (novels included). This allows Guggenheim to control the pacing with intense action followed by less stressful narrative releases that still move the story forward. The characters are interesting and likable which goes a long way to getting me invested in how the story will turn out.

As for the plot itself, it definitely kept me engaged. The concept of parallel universes is one I've enjoyed since childhood, so having that history made wrapping my head around the "science" here easy enough. The challenges that Jonas faces along the way as well as his actions to conquer them ring true. The themes of love, desperation, and revenge add to the story nicely.

I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it to anyone intrigued by the synopsis.

This novel offers a vibrant and suspenseful journey through parallel universes, following Jonas as he frantically searches for a reality where his wife is still alive. The story intercuts his present-day quest with heartfelt glimpses of their past romance and marriage, adding depth to his emotional struggle.

The blend of science fiction and romance is well-executed, making for a thrilling read that captures the powerful lengths one will go for love. It’s an engaging and dynamic story that keeps you hooked and invested in Jonas and Amanda’s fate.

This book had a sweet premise but as the story progressed it felt like the romance was eclipsed by ego. It felt less like a man who absolutely adored his wife and more like a guy who wouldn’t let his opp win. The action was interesting but once a second love interest was added and there was barely any chemistry between them I began to question exactly what the MCs motives were. Surprisingly the flashbacks did little to highlight the connection and felt a bit cliche. By the time the story ended I was ready for the story to end. Not a bad read but also not what I was hoping for.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

**Review of *In Any Lifetime* by Guggenheim**

*In Any Lifetime* by Guggenheim is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the boundaries of reality. This bold novel takes readers on a poignant journey through the multiverse as Dr. Jonas Cullen, a dedicated physicist, defies cosmic odds in a desperate quest to reunite with his beloved wife, Amanda.

The story begins in the aftermath of a harrowing tragedy. Jonas, who has just celebrated the joyous news of his wife Amanda's pregnancy, is abruptly thrust into grief when a tragic car accident claims both Amanda and their unborn child. Devastated, Jonas’s grief drives him to push the boundaries of his scientific understanding. His newfound obsession with parallel universes becomes a quest not merely for intellectual discovery but for a deeply personal redemption.

Guggenheim masterfully weaves a dual narrative, alternating between Jonas's present-day pursuit across multiple realities and poignant flashbacks that trace his and Amanda's relationship from its first spark to their life together. These past glimpses provide a rich, emotional backdrop that amplifies the stakes of Jonas's journey, making his quest for Amanda in another universe all the more heartbreaking and compelling.

The novel delves into complex themes of fate and the nature of the universe, questioning whether certain outcomes are truly inevitable or if they can be altered by sheer will. Jonas’s struggle to find a parallel universe where Amanda is alive raises profound questions about destiny, love, and the limits of human perseverance. His journey is marked by scientific intrigue and existential reflection, presenting a unique blend of speculative fiction and deeply personal drama.

Guggenheim’s narrative is both suspenseful and emotionally charged, with each alternate reality Jonas explores adding layers to his understanding of love and loss. The depiction of Jonas’s emotional turmoil and his relentless pursuit of hope is both heartbreaking and inspiring, creating a powerful resonance with readers.

*In Any Lifetime* is a novel that pushes the boundaries of genre and emotion, offering a compelling meditation on the lengths to which we will go for love and the ultimate question of whether we can ever truly alter our fate. It is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the undying hope of finding one’s beloved across the infinite expanse of the multiverse.

I adore books about time travel or parallel universes and love the possibilities that it presents - especially when intertwined with lost love.

Although I did enjoy this book, I didn’t fall in love with it. Maybe it felt repetitive or was a little on the long side. The ending wrapped up a bit too quickly and seemed convienient.

IN ANY LIFETIME is a gripping, emotional, high-concept thriller. Loved the big ideas, loved the big heart even more.

Mostly enjoyed this. Could have done without the flashback chapters really, they didn’t add much to the current story for me. The reader already knows how Jonas feels about Amanda and those chapters just felt too saccharine vs the rest of the story. To be honest the rest of the story isn’t without problems, some holes and frustrating bits. But overall it works and was a quick fast paced read.

One of the most beautiful books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

When Dr. Jonas Cullen's wife dies in a car accident he uses his life work as an award winning physicist to take his proven theory of parallel universes and make it his reality where he can reunite with his soul mate. The catch, the universe favours certain outcomes and Jonas will have to travel through multiple realities to find a world where his wife is still alive. The book takes us on an epic journey of multiple realities and what one man will give to change 'fate'

This book was truly wonderful, it was a classic love story with a science fiction twist and I have never read anything similar. Although the book was filled with a lot of science jargon it wasn't overwhelming and was told in a way that made you truly believe that the theory of multiple realities and favoured outcomes could be true in the real world. Not only was the concept and the relationship romantic but the book was filled with an almost life like adventure that took us through different forms of our world and reading what our world could be like if past events had happened differently was an incredible addition to this book.

The book also had a villain which was unexpected but a really great part to the book and the villain really was evil.

I need more of this authors writing asap.

Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union for the early read of this book. I’ve always been interested in the whole idea of multiverse even though I’m not a big sci-fi fan. I recently read Dark Matter and surprisingly really liked it so I jumped on this. There were parts I skimmed a bit over, like I said not a huge sci-fi fan, but the reason behind it is what drew me in. I know that if I lost my husband and had the chance to find him again, you bet I would. The love story is what pulled me through and sucked me in. It really got me thinking what if. Very cool book.

I'm going to be the odd one out who found this well, confounding. Dr. Jonas Cullen searches for his wife Amanda across the multiverse after she's killed in a car accident. That's an interesting idea but there's just so much going on here and I got lost. Ultimately, and unusually for me, put this aside. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Over to others.

This is my first time reading a sci-fi book and didn’t have any expectations for this book. That being said, I did find this book to be enjoyable. I didn’t necessarily like the multiple timelines because I felt as though it was a lot of jumping around. I usually am a sucker for time travel, but this was a little much.
I liked the romantic aspects of the book though! It was well balanced with the physics and science topics presented in the book without it being too overbearing.
In Any Lifetime read almost like a TV show or movie. What I mean by that is that I could see this being on a screen rather than on paper. Although this book was good, I see that Marc Guggenheim has a greater passion in screenwriting than in writing novels.