What do you think?
Rate this book
Bad Influence
Alyssa wants to be seen. Less wants to be someone. She takes two buses to class, posts pictures of her lunch, and pretends it's all effortless. He hides his privilege beneath thrifted clothes and a sketchbook full of impossible designs. Together, they are inseparable – two outsiders constructing a version of themselves the world might finally applaud.
Then Alyssa stumbles upon the hidden world of phrogging – living unnoticed inside other people's homes. She and Less slip through Los Angeles's glossy influencers, producers, pop stars, all so busy performing their perfect lives they don't notice the shadows in their attics, the scratching in their walls.
An act of rebellion. A harmless thrill. A social experiment. Until they choose the wrong house. Until the influencer they idolise catches them in the act. Until the cameras, already rolling, capture everything.
Then Alyssa stumbles upon the hidden world of phrogging – living unnoticed inside other people's homes. She and Less slip through Los Angeles's glossy influencers, producers, pop stars, all so busy performing their perfect lives they don't notice the shadows in their attics, the scratching in their walls.
An act of rebellion. A harmless thrill. A social experiment. Until they choose the wrong house. Until the influencer they idolise catches them in the act. Until the cameras, already rolling, capture everything.
Audible Audio
Published July 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
June 19, 2026
There’s a quote by T. S. Eliot that refers to being “distracted from distraction by distraction” and despite the many years that have passed since he penned this famous phrase, in no era is this more relevant to our society. So, in the spirit of Eliot, Will Carver , one of the most brilliantly versatile and unpredictable writers turns his astute gaze and acerbic wit onto the subject of social media in Bad Influence, and you just know that you will be in for a glorious mindf*ck as usual…
From the man who has brought us a colourful back catalogue of books railing against so many endemic evils in this world, and fighting the cause of those who rail against them in their own moral or immoral ways, it was only a matter of time before the vainglorious, shallow, self primping, and to a large extent, soullessly meaningless world of click bait, likes and shares came to Carver’s attention. As an aside I did have the ultimate earworm of Bros’ When Will I Be Famous (Google it kids) accompanying my reading for much of this book, as Carver immerses us in a world of shallow individuals who share their falsely enhanced lives and mind numbing routines in some kind of attempt to be noticed, worshipped and perhaps most tellingly to add validation to their existence. The book traverses the experience of a social media wannabe, another who is desperate to build their reach with a tinpot health hack that gave me the ick, and an established influencer who begins a descent into madness. It also brings into play the insidious world of reality shows and those who manipulate the hapless fools who take part, whilst setting the whole affair against the backdrop of ‘phrogging’ and its dangerous consequences. It’s all going on.
What I love about Carver’s books is the varying degrees of sympathy, antagonism, or just bone deep dislike that his characters and their actions raise in the reader. The young friends Alyssa and Less encompass all the bone crushing need for attention that defines a lot of kids’ social media habits. Alyssa in particular, despite being an all round good kid as her care for her family shows, has a determination to be ‘famous’ and ropes Less in to her crackpot plans. Less is more measured, and his loucheness and casual ennui (when there really is so much more to him) provides a wonderful foil to Alyssa’s exuberance. What begins as her mild infatuation with a social media eco-warrior then takes them on a strange journey indeed, right into the homes of this generation’s new gods- the successful influencers. I liked Alyssa and Less very much, and although my heart was in my mouth a lot with their actions, I think they perfectly captured the zeitgeist of the time, and how social media is deeply influential generally in the lives of young people, and the false reality it creates for them of what life is.
I have a great deal of sympathy for Carver that as someone who is evidently well versed in the fitness and nutrition industry themselves, probably had to watch a significant amount of these ‘healthy living’ charlatans to establish the contentious relationship between influencers Paige and Ariel vying for the body and soul of their audiences online, and the increasingly poisonous relationship between them. He does this with laser beam precision and well-informed commentary, but also delightfully peppered with the trademark Carver pithy observations. Paige, the more successful influencer, is, well, completely unhinged and I did very much enjoy her increasingly twisted and self gratifying actions to cling on to her influence. When her life is taken over virtually through a network of cameras controlled by two utterly ruthless reality TV producers, you know things are going to take a significant turn for the worse. And it so does. It’s marvellous.
As all the characters eventually collide in Carver’s anarchic playing out of events, the denouement is crazy. But rest assured, crazy in a maniacally good way. How many times do I write that about a book by this author?! As usual, I embraced the insanity, laughed at the madness of our modern existence that Carved so astutely mimics, and kept those pages a turning. Also an inspired layout of the book which totally mimics the protocols of social media scrolling- loved that too…
Carver is just consistently brilliant and Bad Influence is absolutely no exception.
Just get your hands on this one.
You can all stop scrolling now.
^^^^^^^^^^
^^^^^
From the man who has brought us a colourful back catalogue of books railing against so many endemic evils in this world, and fighting the cause of those who rail against them in their own moral or immoral ways, it was only a matter of time before the vainglorious, shallow, self primping, and to a large extent, soullessly meaningless world of click bait, likes and shares came to Carver’s attention. As an aside I did have the ultimate earworm of Bros’ When Will I Be Famous (Google it kids) accompanying my reading for much of this book, as Carver immerses us in a world of shallow individuals who share their falsely enhanced lives and mind numbing routines in some kind of attempt to be noticed, worshipped and perhaps most tellingly to add validation to their existence. The book traverses the experience of a social media wannabe, another who is desperate to build their reach with a tinpot health hack that gave me the ick, and an established influencer who begins a descent into madness. It also brings into play the insidious world of reality shows and those who manipulate the hapless fools who take part, whilst setting the whole affair against the backdrop of ‘phrogging’ and its dangerous consequences. It’s all going on.
What I love about Carver’s books is the varying degrees of sympathy, antagonism, or just bone deep dislike that his characters and their actions raise in the reader. The young friends Alyssa and Less encompass all the bone crushing need for attention that defines a lot of kids’ social media habits. Alyssa in particular, despite being an all round good kid as her care for her family shows, has a determination to be ‘famous’ and ropes Less in to her crackpot plans. Less is more measured, and his loucheness and casual ennui (when there really is so much more to him) provides a wonderful foil to Alyssa’s exuberance. What begins as her mild infatuation with a social media eco-warrior then takes them on a strange journey indeed, right into the homes of this generation’s new gods- the successful influencers. I liked Alyssa and Less very much, and although my heart was in my mouth a lot with their actions, I think they perfectly captured the zeitgeist of the time, and how social media is deeply influential generally in the lives of young people, and the false reality it creates for them of what life is.
I have a great deal of sympathy for Carver that as someone who is evidently well versed in the fitness and nutrition industry themselves, probably had to watch a significant amount of these ‘healthy living’ charlatans to establish the contentious relationship between influencers Paige and Ariel vying for the body and soul of their audiences online, and the increasingly poisonous relationship between them. He does this with laser beam precision and well-informed commentary, but also delightfully peppered with the trademark Carver pithy observations. Paige, the more successful influencer, is, well, completely unhinged and I did very much enjoy her increasingly twisted and self gratifying actions to cling on to her influence. When her life is taken over virtually through a network of cameras controlled by two utterly ruthless reality TV producers, you know things are going to take a significant turn for the worse. And it so does. It’s marvellous.
As all the characters eventually collide in Carver’s anarchic playing out of events, the denouement is crazy. But rest assured, crazy in a maniacally good way. How many times do I write that about a book by this author?! As usual, I embraced the insanity, laughed at the madness of our modern existence that Carved so astutely mimics, and kept those pages a turning. Also an inspired layout of the book which totally mimics the protocols of social media scrolling- loved that too…
Carver is just consistently brilliant and Bad Influence is absolutely no exception.
Just get your hands on this one.
You can all stop scrolling now.
^^^^^^^^^^
^^^^^
August 24, 2026
Hmmmm…
Not what I was expecting from Carver. The premise was spot on and I’m surprised there aren’t more novels dealing with the vacuous nature of social media. However, the slow burn with seemingly random bits and pieces eventually comes together (if you can make it that far). The characters, as expected, are truly atrocious. The final few chapters improved my overall rating but still not sold on the first two-thirds.
Not what I was expecting from Carver. The premise was spot on and I’m surprised there aren’t more novels dealing with the vacuous nature of social media. However, the slow burn with seemingly random bits and pieces eventually comes together (if you can make it that far). The characters, as expected, are truly atrocious. The final few chapters improved my overall rating but still not sold on the first two-thirds.
June 16, 2026
Alyssa and Alessandro (or Less) are best friends, but their social situations are stark opposites. Less’s family are rich and his dream is to become a hat designer. Alyssa comes from a working-class family, who watch every cent in their bank account. She is inspired by influencers on social media, and is hoping to become one.
One day, by total accident, Alyssa discovers phrogging – entering into people’s houses and staying there without their consent and knowledge. She is immediately hooked, and persuades Less to join her on her escapades.
Soon, their jaunts turn more daring and dangerous…
What can I say?
Will Carver has done it AGAIN!
This time he has transported us into the ugly world of social media. He perfectly captured Alyssa who was so enamoured with the influencers that she’s put them on a pedestal, thinking they were sentient beings. However, we all have a darker side, even the so called “perfect” influencers. Once again, Will Carver tells us not to believe everything that we see.
Another theme is the instant gratification that comes with social media. People quickly become bored, so they scroll up and forget. Today’s news is tomorrow’s chip paper never sounded more true!
This book is deliciously dark and disturbing. I definitely recommend it.
One day, by total accident, Alyssa discovers phrogging – entering into people’s houses and staying there without their consent and knowledge. She is immediately hooked, and persuades Less to join her on her escapades.
Soon, their jaunts turn more daring and dangerous…
What can I say?
Will Carver has done it AGAIN!
This time he has transported us into the ugly world of social media. He perfectly captured Alyssa who was so enamoured with the influencers that she’s put them on a pedestal, thinking they were sentient beings. However, we all have a darker side, even the so called “perfect” influencers. Once again, Will Carver tells us not to believe everything that we see.
Another theme is the instant gratification that comes with social media. People quickly become bored, so they scroll up and forget. Today’s news is tomorrow’s chip paper never sounded more true!
This book is deliciously dark and disturbing. I definitely recommend it.
July 23, 2026
I have been a HUGE Will Carver fan since I read Nothing Important Happened Today. When I saw he had a new book out, you know I had to pick it up ASAP. This one was about Alyssa and Less, two friends who want to be famous. One wants to be an influencer and one wants to be a fashion designer. But both want to be part of the rich and famous, which leads them to start phrogging. This means hiding in people's homes without being noticed. But then someone does notice, and things start to go horribly wrong.
Thoughts: This book was so much fun. It was nothing like I thought it would be and addictive in the best way. It dives deep into influencer culture and the lives of those who are always on our screens. The audio book was amazing and the narrators were fantastic. Even though it got slow in some parts, I still couldn't wait to find out what happened. So much fun- 4 stars!
Thoughts: This book was so much fun. It was nothing like I thought it would be and addictive in the best way. It dives deep into influencer culture and the lives of those who are always on our screens. The audio book was amazing and the narrators were fantastic. Even though it got slow in some parts, I still couldn't wait to find out what happened. So much fun- 4 stars!
July 1, 2026
I was sucked in by how vibrant this cover is!
I listened to this book and the voice actors did a great job of bringing the story to life and seamlessly moving between characters with ease and clear definition! The voices definitely sounded true to age thus making the story feel more authentic.
We are in the age of celebrity, fast fame, influencers, and curated lifestyles that play out online. Of course it is enticing and people will want what they don't have, especially when it seems within such easy grasp.
Lesz and Alyssa are two friends from different backgrounds. Alyssa lives with her mum and grandmother, who she helps to look after. Lesz, meanwhile, comes from money, is arty and has less cares in the world.
What starts out as a seemingly harmless hobby - entering the homes of rich/famous people to look around - soon turns deadly and they find themselves in a dangerous situation. Maybe this time they have gone too far.
This story definitely carries an important message, but pacing wise I felt like it dragged in the beginning and then raced ahead at the end. I don't necessarily mind this, but the end felt a little bit too rushed, and some of the action might take a little suspension of belief. The twist at the end was interesting...
My rating is 3.5.
Overall, an alright story. You might enjoy this if you like slow burn, character-driven stories and seeing how the rich live and may appeal more to a younger demographic.
Thank you to Will Carver, Georgie Sadler, Nezar Alderazi and Bolinda Audio for this complimentary advanced copy. This review is being left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
I listened to this book and the voice actors did a great job of bringing the story to life and seamlessly moving between characters with ease and clear definition! The voices definitely sounded true to age thus making the story feel more authentic.
We are in the age of celebrity, fast fame, influencers, and curated lifestyles that play out online. Of course it is enticing and people will want what they don't have, especially when it seems within such easy grasp.
Lesz and Alyssa are two friends from different backgrounds. Alyssa lives with her mum and grandmother, who she helps to look after. Lesz, meanwhile, comes from money, is arty and has less cares in the world.
What starts out as a seemingly harmless hobby - entering the homes of rich/famous people to look around - soon turns deadly and they find themselves in a dangerous situation. Maybe this time they have gone too far.
This story definitely carries an important message, but pacing wise I felt like it dragged in the beginning and then raced ahead at the end. I don't necessarily mind this, but the end felt a little bit too rushed, and some of the action might take a little suspension of belief. The twist at the end was interesting...
My rating is 3.5.
Overall, an alright story. You might enjoy this if you like slow burn, character-driven stories and seeing how the rich live and may appeal more to a younger demographic.
Thank you to Will Carver, Georgie Sadler, Nezar Alderazi and Bolinda Audio for this complimentary advanced copy. This review is being left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 3, 2026
I think Bad Influence by Will Carver is going to find its audience, even if I wasn’t quite the right reader for it.
The premise is really unique. I’d never even heard of phrogging before, so I actually learned something new while reading this. I also liked the way the story digs into influencer culture, identity, and the lives people present to the world. If you enjoy books that feel more like character studies with some dark humor, social commentary, and a twisty ending, I think this one could really work for you. It reminded me of Five by Ilona Bannister in the sense that both books are unique character studies. This one just happens to focus on influencer culture and the versions of ourselves we put out for everyone else to see.
For me, it tracked a little younger than I usually enjoy. The characters are described as being in their twenties, but the audiobook performances by Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi made them sound even younger to me. I thought both narrators fit the characters well and were very believable. I just found myself wishing there was a little more emotion in the performances because I think that would have helped me connect with the story a bit more.
The beginning pulled me in right away, the middle slowed down a little for me, and then the ending took off with a twist I definitely didn’t see coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the complimentary advanced listening copy of this audiobook ahead of publication. All opinions are my own.
The premise is really unique. I’d never even heard of phrogging before, so I actually learned something new while reading this. I also liked the way the story digs into influencer culture, identity, and the lives people present to the world. If you enjoy books that feel more like character studies with some dark humor, social commentary, and a twisty ending, I think this one could really work for you. It reminded me of Five by Ilona Bannister in the sense that both books are unique character studies. This one just happens to focus on influencer culture and the versions of ourselves we put out for everyone else to see.
For me, it tracked a little younger than I usually enjoy. The characters are described as being in their twenties, but the audiobook performances by Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi made them sound even younger to me. I thought both narrators fit the characters well and were very believable. I just found myself wishing there was a little more emotion in the performances because I think that would have helped me connect with the story a bit more.
The beginning pulled me in right away, the middle slowed down a little for me, and then the ending took off with a twist I definitely didn’t see coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the complimentary advanced listening copy of this audiobook ahead of publication. All opinions are my own.
June 18, 2026
I read a review of another book recently that described it as "self indulgent millennial whining". The various, mainly GenZ protagonists of Bad Influence have turned their own self indulgent whining talents into influencing, wannabee influencing or medium level criminality. The level of self-centredness is off the charts!
For the first half of Bad Influence I was engaged in the plot but certainly not a fan of either of the 'anti-heroes'. However, if you find yourself feeling the same, do persist because, without spoilers, things soon pick up! Let's just say that what happens will make a great film set piece one day.
Not my favourite Carver so far, but good to have something that is so up-to-date. Many of us are technically the wrong target demographic. Get your teenagers to read it now they are banned from all the similar platforms so they can see it's not all 'wine and roses' (or Prime and Matcha)!
For the first half of Bad Influence I was engaged in the plot but certainly not a fan of either of the 'anti-heroes'. However, if you find yourself feeling the same, do persist because, without spoilers, things soon pick up! Let's just say that what happens will make a great film set piece one day.
Not my favourite Carver so far, but good to have something that is so up-to-date. Many of us are technically the wrong target demographic. Get your teenagers to read it now they are banned from all the similar platforms so they can see it's not all 'wine and roses' (or Prime and Matcha)!
June 30, 2026
• 3 ☆ •
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Bad Influence had a premise I was immediately sold on. Two teenagers, Alyssa and Less, start phrogging, which means secretly living inside other people's homes. The concept becomes a launching point into influencer culture, curated personas, and the desperate need to be someone worth watching. That setup is genuinely unsettling in a way that feels very plausible.
The dynamic between Alyssa and Less was the strongest part for me. They come from completely different backgrounds but fit together in this strange, believable way. Alyssa wants visibility. Less wants to reinvent himself into someone people notice. Watching them sink deeper into this bizarre experiment was compelling, and I found myself wondering how much further they would go.
The Los Angeles setting does a lot of work too. That glossy surface, hollow underneath energy fits the themes perfectly, and the commentary on influencer culture and the hunger for attention mostly lands.
Where it lost me was the pacing. The opening is fast and chaotic and it works, but the middle drags in a way that had me drifting. The social media commentary started to feel a bit repetitive after a while, and the escalation from thrill seeking to something darker felt a little abrupt. I wanted more time with these two before everything started spiraling.
The audiobook is narrated by Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi, and while both gave solid performances, the audio production itself was distracting. There were these stilted pauses throughout that kept throwing me off. I kept finding myself checking if the audiobook was still playing because the pauses were so noticeable.
Still, this is a bold concept with genuinely interesting characters and a lot of potential. The middle just needed to be tighter.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
If you like:
✔️ social media thrillers
✔️ influencer culture gone wrong
✔️ sharp satire
✔️ online personas vs reality
✔️ obsession with fame
✔️ psychological suspense
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
📅 Pub Day: Jul 1, 2026 🎧
💌 ARC gifted via NetGalley from Bolinda Audio. All opinions are my own.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Bad Influence had a premise I was immediately sold on. Two teenagers, Alyssa and Less, start phrogging, which means secretly living inside other people's homes. The concept becomes a launching point into influencer culture, curated personas, and the desperate need to be someone worth watching. That setup is genuinely unsettling in a way that feels very plausible.
The dynamic between Alyssa and Less was the strongest part for me. They come from completely different backgrounds but fit together in this strange, believable way. Alyssa wants visibility. Less wants to reinvent himself into someone people notice. Watching them sink deeper into this bizarre experiment was compelling, and I found myself wondering how much further they would go.
The Los Angeles setting does a lot of work too. That glossy surface, hollow underneath energy fits the themes perfectly, and the commentary on influencer culture and the hunger for attention mostly lands.
Where it lost me was the pacing. The opening is fast and chaotic and it works, but the middle drags in a way that had me drifting. The social media commentary started to feel a bit repetitive after a while, and the escalation from thrill seeking to something darker felt a little abrupt. I wanted more time with these two before everything started spiraling.
The audiobook is narrated by Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi, and while both gave solid performances, the audio production itself was distracting. There were these stilted pauses throughout that kept throwing me off. I kept finding myself checking if the audiobook was still playing because the pauses were so noticeable.
Still, this is a bold concept with genuinely interesting characters and a lot of potential. The middle just needed to be tighter.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
If you like:
✔️ social media thrillers
✔️ influencer culture gone wrong
✔️ sharp satire
✔️ online personas vs reality
✔️ obsession with fame
✔️ psychological suspense
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
📅 Pub Day: Jul 1, 2026 🎧
💌 ARC gifted via NetGalley from Bolinda Audio. All opinions are my own.
June 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Bad Influence was one of those books where you can’t help but feel bad for the main character because things just keep getting worse… and then somehow get even worse. It was a really interesting story, and what made it hit even harder was how relatable it felt to the world we’re living in today and the way social media and public opinion can spiral out of control.
I listened to this as an ARC audiobook, and the narrators did a great job bringing the story to life and keeping me engaged from start to finish. It wasn’t always an easy listen because of everything the characters go through, but it definitely kept me invested. A solid 4-star read for me.
Bad Influence was one of those books where you can’t help but feel bad for the main character because things just keep getting worse… and then somehow get even worse. It was a really interesting story, and what made it hit even harder was how relatable it felt to the world we’re living in today and the way social media and public opinion can spiral out of control.
I listened to this as an ARC audiobook, and the narrators did a great job bringing the story to life and keeping me engaged from start to finish. It wasn’t always an easy listen because of everything the characters go through, but it definitely kept me invested. A solid 4-star read for me.
October 11, 2026
Stop they finally added point ratings on here clutch rn
What a crazy plot at no point did I know what was going to happen next or maybe I was just hooked cause I'll do anything except finish that final report...
Anyways lowkey new fear unlocked imagine someone's phrogging in my house rn
Slightly odd writing style tbh
What a crazy plot at no point did I know what was going to happen next or maybe I was just hooked cause I'll do anything except finish that final report...
Anyways lowkey new fear unlocked imagine someone's phrogging in my house rn
Slightly odd writing style tbh
August 10, 2026
First I was annoyed by the main characters and the pointless influencer culture, and then it went off the rails. In a really good way. Like, I laughed out loud a couple of times and felt really guilty.
I didn't like the narrators' style because I don't like listening to their personal habits like taking lots of deep breaths, because it's distracting to me. But the story ended up being wildly entertaining. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me listen to this
This is a review of the audiobook.
I didn't like the narrators' style because I don't like listening to their personal habits like taking lots of deep breaths, because it's distracting to me. But the story ended up being wildly entertaining. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me listen to this
This is a review of the audiobook.
October 10, 2026
Worth it for the final third definitely as the build up which definitely felt like too much paid off. Will Carver specialises in surprising you abd focusing on the dark, grimy and seedy side of life all those elements are in play here. At 50% i wasn't sure if it was working for me but the slow burn ramped up and turned it round which im really glad about.
June 19, 2026
Thanks to Bolinda Audio, the author and NetGalley for an ALC in return for an honest review.
This is only my second Will Carver book, having read Kill Them With Kindness last year. With this book he has firmly placed himself as one of my favourite authors!
I really enjoyed this audiobook. Carver once again gives us a deliciously dark and satirical look, this time at influencer culture, social media and the lengths people will go to for attention and fame. I was already familiar with phrogging, but the concept added a suitably creepy element as Alyssa and Less become increasingly caught up in a world that is far more dangerous than they realise.
There’s a very dark take on reality TV here too. It reminded me of The Truman Show, but with the darkness turned up several notches. Rather than simply watching someone's life without their knowledge, this takes the idea of manufactured entertainment into much more disturbing territory. The obsession with being watched, the manipulation behind the cameras and the blurred line between reality and performance all worked really well for me.
I also really enjoyed the audiobook. Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi did a great job with the different characters and perspectives. The story slowed down a little in places but the increasingly bizarre plot kept me hooked and the ending certainly delivered.
Dark, strange, entertaining and thought-provoking. Go and read this NOW!
#BadInfluence #NetGalley
This is only my second Will Carver book, having read Kill Them With Kindness last year. With this book he has firmly placed himself as one of my favourite authors!
I really enjoyed this audiobook. Carver once again gives us a deliciously dark and satirical look, this time at influencer culture, social media and the lengths people will go to for attention and fame. I was already familiar with phrogging, but the concept added a suitably creepy element as Alyssa and Less become increasingly caught up in a world that is far more dangerous than they realise.
There’s a very dark take on reality TV here too. It reminded me of The Truman Show, but with the darkness turned up several notches. Rather than simply watching someone's life without their knowledge, this takes the idea of manufactured entertainment into much more disturbing territory. The obsession with being watched, the manipulation behind the cameras and the blurred line between reality and performance all worked really well for me.
I also really enjoyed the audiobook. Georgie Sadler and Nezar Alderazi did a great job with the different characters and perspectives. The story slowed down a little in places but the increasingly bizarre plot kept me hooked and the ending certainly delivered.
Dark, strange, entertaining and thought-provoking. Go and read this NOW!
#BadInfluence #NetGalley
June 18, 2026
Phrogging"?? It's not a term I was familiar with until I picked up this book. It's defined as "the act of a person secretly living in another person's home without their knowledge or consent, typically hiding in unused spaces like attics, basements, or guest rooms. The term, which is pronounced "frogging," comes from the idea of "leaping" from one occupied house to another to avoid detection." And that is what Alyssa (desperate for attention, poor) and her best friend Less (desperate for attention, wealthy) start doing. But not just in any people's houses. They choose the homes of top social media influencers who make it easy for everyone to know when they won't be home.
Carver's scathingly sharp commentary on the world of social media, and influencers in particular, makes for riveting reading. His characters are morally grey, and most have highly questionable motives for most of their actions. And to be honest, it's all like a colossal car wreck that you can't tear your eyes away from!
Told in alternate POV's the story unfolds as we hear from Alyssa and Less. Intertwined within their narratives are hashtags and social media handles where we hear from various others: influencers, celebrities, wannabes and the cacophony of voices that make up the online world.
It all combines to create the most deliciously awful tale of the lengths people are willing to go to just to be noticed, no matter the reason. And sometimes that length takes them so incredibly far from who they started out as, that they no longer recognise themselves when they look in the mirror.
Oh, and let's not forget the delightful little trolls who take their role as keyboard warriors extremely seriously.
Carver leaves no stone unturned as he goes on a relentless rampage of undisguised disdain for the realms of social media and reality TV and all who wish to dominate them.
This is one of the best books I've read in a long time. A bit of a slow build up while I wondered where it was heading, and in the beginning I took some time to figure out who was who. But once I did ... WOW!!
Yes, there's shock value!
Yes, you might have to stretch your imagination just a tad, but actually when you think about it, a lot of things that seem unbelievable actually do happen!! The world (and those who inhabit it) is just THAT crazy!
I absolutely LOVED it!!!
Thank you to THE Book Club for my ARC.
Carver's scathingly sharp commentary on the world of social media, and influencers in particular, makes for riveting reading. His characters are morally grey, and most have highly questionable motives for most of their actions. And to be honest, it's all like a colossal car wreck that you can't tear your eyes away from!
Told in alternate POV's the story unfolds as we hear from Alyssa and Less. Intertwined within their narratives are hashtags and social media handles where we hear from various others: influencers, celebrities, wannabes and the cacophony of voices that make up the online world.
It all combines to create the most deliciously awful tale of the lengths people are willing to go to just to be noticed, no matter the reason. And sometimes that length takes them so incredibly far from who they started out as, that they no longer recognise themselves when they look in the mirror.
Oh, and let's not forget the delightful little trolls who take their role as keyboard warriors extremely seriously.
Carver leaves no stone unturned as he goes on a relentless rampage of undisguised disdain for the realms of social media and reality TV and all who wish to dominate them.
This is one of the best books I've read in a long time. A bit of a slow build up while I wondered where it was heading, and in the beginning I took some time to figure out who was who. But once I did ... WOW!!
Yes, there's shock value!
Yes, you might have to stretch your imagination just a tad, but actually when you think about it, a lot of things that seem unbelievable actually do happen!! The world (and those who inhabit it) is just THAT crazy!
I absolutely LOVED it!!!
Thank you to THE Book Club for my ARC.
October 7, 2026
Two bored teenagers. One stupid game.The wrong place to play… Alyssa wants to be seen. Less wants to be someone. Together, they are inseparable – two outsiders constructing a version of themselves the world might finally applaud. Then Alyssa stumbles upon the hidden world of phrogging – living unnoticed inside other people’s homes. She and Less slip through Los Angeles’ glossy veneer: influencers, producers, pop stars, all so busy performing their perfect lives they don’t notice the shadows in their attics, the scratching in their walls. An act of rebellion. A harmless thrill. A social experiment. Until they choose the wrong house. Until the influencer they idolise catches them in the act. Until the cameras, already rolling, capture everything. What begins as a reckless adventure becomes a nightmare of lies, power … and murder…
This was my first book by this author and wow, what an introduction to Will’s writing!
This was nothing like what I expected - although to be fair I didn’t really know what I did expect! One thing this was though, very eye-opening indeed, bringing to the forefront the desire for people to become influencers of just about anything and the social cat fights it can create, the flawless becoming the flawed.
And that ending! Well that just came from nowhere, I’m not 100% sure if I took a breath through the last section, the events unfolding so fast and unexpectedly, very very clever indeed! Put it this way, I don’t think I’ll look at reality TV in the same way again!
For me I don’t think the audio format is the best way to read this title, there is a lot of social media excerpts, tweets, hashtags and posts etc and, although perfectly described in the narration, I have a feeling that this would have just worked better in the physical format because of the importance of the visual aspect. Really enjoyed discovering Will’s writing and would definitely read more by him.
This was my first book by this author and wow, what an introduction to Will’s writing!
This was nothing like what I expected - although to be fair I didn’t really know what I did expect! One thing this was though, very eye-opening indeed, bringing to the forefront the desire for people to become influencers of just about anything and the social cat fights it can create, the flawless becoming the flawed.
And that ending! Well that just came from nowhere, I’m not 100% sure if I took a breath through the last section, the events unfolding so fast and unexpectedly, very very clever indeed! Put it this way, I don’t think I’ll look at reality TV in the same way again!
For me I don’t think the audio format is the best way to read this title, there is a lot of social media excerpts, tweets, hashtags and posts etc and, although perfectly described in the narration, I have a feeling that this would have just worked better in the physical format because of the importance of the visual aspect. Really enjoyed discovering Will’s writing and would definitely read more by him.
June 19, 2026
"None of this feels real. None of this feels like anything. I'm numb. A zombie. It's like I'm not even really here. So I need this, I need something that I know is real. I need something that can remind me how to feel."
Bad Influence, by @will_carver
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Look at my page. I am not typically a thriller reader, but I saw this one and thought, y'know what? That actually sounds super interesting.
And look at me now. Sat staring at the wall, emotional and mental whiplash fully activated, possibly having an existential crisis. 🤣 Five stars. I'm serious.
Now, Bad Influence having a book tour is pretty ironic considering it is essentially a novel built around criticising the worst bits of social media: the desperate quest for fame, the lengths people will go to be seen, and the sick thrills people get from messing with lives.
I thought I'd figured it out. I liked the clever narrative style: the social media posts, articles, multiple POVs, and shifts in perspective. I thought I knew what I was in for.
I WAS NOT PREPARED.
The first twist hit like a truck, the second like a freight train — AND THEY JUST KEPT COMING.
I can't say anything else because I refuse to spoil it, but thriller readers, you need this. Not a thriller reader? Apparently, you need it too. No notes. I am not okay.
Bad Influence, by @will_carver
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Look at my page. I am not typically a thriller reader, but I saw this one and thought, y'know what? That actually sounds super interesting.
And look at me now. Sat staring at the wall, emotional and mental whiplash fully activated, possibly having an existential crisis. 🤣 Five stars. I'm serious.
Now, Bad Influence having a book tour is pretty ironic considering it is essentially a novel built around criticising the worst bits of social media: the desperate quest for fame, the lengths people will go to be seen, and the sick thrills people get from messing with lives.
I thought I'd figured it out. I liked the clever narrative style: the social media posts, articles, multiple POVs, and shifts in perspective. I thought I knew what I was in for.
I WAS NOT PREPARED.
The first twist hit like a truck, the second like a freight train — AND THEY JUST KEPT COMING.
I can't say anything else because I refuse to spoil it, but thriller readers, you need this. Not a thriller reader? Apparently, you need it too. No notes. I am not okay.
June 18, 2026
Two bored, best friends Alyssa & Less couldn't be more different. Alyssa is from a working class family and isnt better off. Less on the other hand comes from a very privileged family and openly admits that. But they work great together. It does take a wee bit to get to know them.
Alyssa discoveres phrogging - pretty much breaking an entering while someone is home but without their knowledge. Ofcourse she has to get Less into it aswell. How much can they get away with?
Social media and influencing play a big part of this story aswell and social media posts feature. Showing that what we see isnt always the truth and what goes on behind the scenes. Its not all sunshine & making money. The dark side is very real in this book.
I enjoyed it, it did take me about 10% to get fulling into thw style of writing but once I did, it was full steam ahead. I really enjoyed the way Will portrayed social media Influencing.
Alyssa discoveres phrogging - pretty much breaking an entering while someone is home but without their knowledge. Ofcourse she has to get Less into it aswell. How much can they get away with?
Social media and influencing play a big part of this story aswell and social media posts feature. Showing that what we see isnt always the truth and what goes on behind the scenes. Its not all sunshine & making money. The dark side is very real in this book.
I enjoyed it, it did take me about 10% to get fulling into thw style of writing but once I did, it was full steam ahead. I really enjoyed the way Will portrayed social media Influencing.
July 13, 2026
The premise of this book really intrigued me! Super unique, and I’ve definitely never heard of phrogging. While the writing was unique, lots of hashtags, lots of POVs, I just couldn’t connect. This book I think is more for the YA readers who are into Influencers. I didn’t care for any of the characters.
The narrators were great, I listened at 2x.
I think this book took way too long to get into anything particularly thrilling or suspenseful. It was bogged down by a lot of back story of Alyssa and Les and other influencers. The 3 stars are for the last 75% of the book as it picked up and actually got interesting.
This book wasn’t really my cup of tea, but I can appreciate the writing style and the fact that it was probably meant for a different demographic.
The narrators were great, I listened at 2x.
I think this book took way too long to get into anything particularly thrilling or suspenseful. It was bogged down by a lot of back story of Alyssa and Les and other influencers. The 3 stars are for the last 75% of the book as it picked up and actually got interesting.
This book wasn’t really my cup of tea, but I can appreciate the writing style and the fact that it was probably meant for a different demographic.
Did Not Finish
October 6, 2026DNF at 40% (approx).
I'm usually loathe to DNF a book, any book, but this just wasn't for me. It read VERY YA, as opposed to a thriller for adults, and the subject matter didn't interest me at all.
The idea that 20 year olds are increasingly obsessed with online personalities or influencers isn't surprising in 2026, but to the extent the MCs in this book were, it was just depressing. I swayed between being infuriated by the narrative and feeling total despair. As a result, I couldn't bring myself to finish it.
This might be a really great read for someone else but, unfortunately, that someone isn't me.
I'm usually loathe to DNF a book, any book, but this just wasn't for me. It read VERY YA, as opposed to a thriller for adults, and the subject matter didn't interest me at all.
The idea that 20 year olds are increasingly obsessed with online personalities or influencers isn't surprising in 2026, but to the extent the MCs in this book were, it was just depressing. I swayed between being infuriated by the narrative and feeling total despair. As a result, I couldn't bring myself to finish it.
This might be a really great read for someone else but, unfortunately, that someone isn't me.
June 19, 2026
Thought provoking, great book. It shows the dark side to social media. Phrogging freaks me out. I would die if I found someone hiding in my home!
July 11, 2026
More of a slow-burn than I've come to expect from this author, and not my favourite book by him, but still entertaining and I loved the final part.
July 6, 2026
✨ALC Review✨
You can't believe everything you see online. 👀
You can't believe everything you see online. 👀
July 11, 2026
took a lot of turns
June 25, 2026
4.5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT ~ Book Tour
A delightfully clever and dark satirical thriller! 😍
What a brilliant read this was! So different, so very appropriate and so utterly easy to read. I loved the acerbic focus on influencing and reality TV and found this lens perfect for a thriller, ensuring wit, twists and drama!
Alyssa and Less, two bored teens, stumble upon the world of phrogging, living unnoticed inside other people’s homes. This thrill has murderous consequences when they choose the wrong influencer’s house!
I loved the premise of this read with its want for something you can’t have and living the high of life you shouldn’t be living. The phrogging was terrifying for the victims, especially with the added psychological mind games.
Comedic, dark, thrilling and containing some big and shocking twists, Carver has created an unputdownable read. I was gobsmacked at one point and really didn’t see it coming!
The structure was fantastically unique, with little snippets of each perspective, page breaks and continuous pages with no chapters. So easy to inhale, I demolished this book in a matter of sittings.
I found my attention slightly dipped in the middle, but this was soon heavily captured again as events unfolded and the onslaught of fame and power increased. This thriller highlights an important message and Carver has cleverly delivered it with one hell of a sharp plot!
A huge thank you @randomthingstours, @orendabooks & @will_carver for this proof copy of Bad Influence and for having me on the Book Tour! 🩷
This is one book you don’t want to miss! 🙌
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT ~ Book Tour
A delightfully clever and dark satirical thriller! 😍
What a brilliant read this was! So different, so very appropriate and so utterly easy to read. I loved the acerbic focus on influencing and reality TV and found this lens perfect for a thriller, ensuring wit, twists and drama!
Alyssa and Less, two bored teens, stumble upon the world of phrogging, living unnoticed inside other people’s homes. This thrill has murderous consequences when they choose the wrong influencer’s house!
I loved the premise of this read with its want for something you can’t have and living the high of life you shouldn’t be living. The phrogging was terrifying for the victims, especially with the added psychological mind games.
Comedic, dark, thrilling and containing some big and shocking twists, Carver has created an unputdownable read. I was gobsmacked at one point and really didn’t see it coming!
The structure was fantastically unique, with little snippets of each perspective, page breaks and continuous pages with no chapters. So easy to inhale, I demolished this book in a matter of sittings.
I found my attention slightly dipped in the middle, but this was soon heavily captured again as events unfolded and the onslaught of fame and power increased. This thriller highlights an important message and Carver has cleverly delivered it with one hell of a sharp plot!
A huge thank you @randomthingstours, @orendabooks & @will_carver for this proof copy of Bad Influence and for having me on the Book Tour! 🩷
This is one book you don’t want to miss! 🙌
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
September 19, 2026
This is a psychological thriller with lots of social commentary.
Alyssa and Less (Alessandro) are college students living in Los Angeles. Less describes them as “both mixed-up. We’re both kind of directionless. We’re both what-the-hell-are-we-going-to-do-with-our-lives kids.” Loners, their friendship is what defines them: “Our friendship is one of the only truly real things that either of us has. It’s genuine and it’s deep. And, in our eyes, at least, unbreakable.”
The two become involved in phrogging, living secretly inside strangers’ homes. The duo choose the luxurious homes of influencers and pop stars. They enjoy the thrill until things go awry when they target the home of Paige, a fitness influencer, who discovers them. And because Paige has allowed reality tv producers to install cameras in her house, everything that transpires thereafter is filmed.
Alyssa and Less are interesting, well-developed characters. In many ways they are irresponsible and I could not condone some of their choices like party-crashing and phrogging. Their justifications indicate a self-centredness: “It’s fun. Nobody gets hurt. Nobody that matters” and “We don’t have to steal anything. Nobody will get hurt. It’ll just be a bit of fun. It’s wholesome, really.” Like most young people, they don’t consider the possible unintended consequences of their actions: “they hadn’t really thought about it enough. They only cared about what they wanted, how they were feeling, right there and then.” But we also get to see their positive qualities. Alyssa appreciates what her mother does for her and shows love in how she cares for her grandmother. Less understands his mother’s sadness and so forgives some of her actions: “We’re both struggling but she’s been at it a lot longer than I have and she can’t see a way out.”
The book is a satirical look at social media culture. It examines the lives of influencers, hungry for attention and fame, who curate their lives for their followers. One wannabe influencer takes several photos to get the right one: “Capturing a real, spontaneous moment has never taken so much planning.” Paige, another influencer, realizes that she has lost herself, her identity, to her performance: “Paige wants to be herself again. The way she was before all of this. When she was innocent and naive.” Influencers must perpetuate “the veneer of perfection” and keep posting interesting content or they will lose their followers. She is addicted to validation; there is “something intoxicating about the notification of a new fan.” The irony is that she has no real friends: “A million followers and nobody to be close to. She’s so lost. This job has taken who she was.”
For Alyssa, Less, and Paige, one can feel some sympathy. There are, however, two characters who are so morally bankrupt that it’s impossible to feel anything but the utmost of contempt. Edie and Tammy are producers of reality tv shows, what is called “car-crash television. Shows where they can manipulate a situation. Manufacture a scene and pass it off as reality.” To say they are ruthless is an understatement, focused as they are on “Spinning gold from the darkness of humanity. Profiting from misery.” They are successful because they understand that an audience requires conflict to remain interested so they manipulate their contestants: “they know the best way to manipulate you. They know what incentives to offer to get you to play ball and they know what buttons to press in order to push your emotions in the directions that will ensure you are watched and ratings will increase.”
Even if you’re not interested in becoming an influencer, there’s a warning in the book for anyone using social media: “Plastic has got nothing on the internet. Everything you think and then type is out there for the world to see, forever. Forever.” Information or an opinion shared “is out there forever. Whether it’s right or wrong.” Even deleted postings are not gone.
The style of the book is appropriate to its content. It mimics the style of social media communication, using hashtags, influencer content, tailored ads, numbers of likes and followers, and online commentaries – all that you would see scrolling on your phone or tablet.
I enjoyed the novel. As expected in such a tale about deception and manipulation, there’s a lot of suspense and many twists, though the author does provide subtle clues. If something strikes you as odd, pay attention! But it’s the social commentary that stands out for me; it emphasizes the shallowness of social media culture and how what we see on screens is very different from reality. The book is entertaining, topical, and thought-provoking.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/).
Alyssa and Less (Alessandro) are college students living in Los Angeles. Less describes them as “both mixed-up. We’re both kind of directionless. We’re both what-the-hell-are-we-going-to-do-with-our-lives kids.” Loners, their friendship is what defines them: “Our friendship is one of the only truly real things that either of us has. It’s genuine and it’s deep. And, in our eyes, at least, unbreakable.”
The two become involved in phrogging, living secretly inside strangers’ homes. The duo choose the luxurious homes of influencers and pop stars. They enjoy the thrill until things go awry when they target the home of Paige, a fitness influencer, who discovers them. And because Paige has allowed reality tv producers to install cameras in her house, everything that transpires thereafter is filmed.
Alyssa and Less are interesting, well-developed characters. In many ways they are irresponsible and I could not condone some of their choices like party-crashing and phrogging. Their justifications indicate a self-centredness: “It’s fun. Nobody gets hurt. Nobody that matters” and “We don’t have to steal anything. Nobody will get hurt. It’ll just be a bit of fun. It’s wholesome, really.” Like most young people, they don’t consider the possible unintended consequences of their actions: “they hadn’t really thought about it enough. They only cared about what they wanted, how they were feeling, right there and then.” But we also get to see their positive qualities. Alyssa appreciates what her mother does for her and shows love in how she cares for her grandmother. Less understands his mother’s sadness and so forgives some of her actions: “We’re both struggling but she’s been at it a lot longer than I have and she can’t see a way out.”
The book is a satirical look at social media culture. It examines the lives of influencers, hungry for attention and fame, who curate their lives for their followers. One wannabe influencer takes several photos to get the right one: “Capturing a real, spontaneous moment has never taken so much planning.” Paige, another influencer, realizes that she has lost herself, her identity, to her performance: “Paige wants to be herself again. The way she was before all of this. When she was innocent and naive.” Influencers must perpetuate “the veneer of perfection” and keep posting interesting content or they will lose their followers. She is addicted to validation; there is “something intoxicating about the notification of a new fan.” The irony is that she has no real friends: “A million followers and nobody to be close to. She’s so lost. This job has taken who she was.”
For Alyssa, Less, and Paige, one can feel some sympathy. There are, however, two characters who are so morally bankrupt that it’s impossible to feel anything but the utmost of contempt. Edie and Tammy are producers of reality tv shows, what is called “car-crash television. Shows where they can manipulate a situation. Manufacture a scene and pass it off as reality.” To say they are ruthless is an understatement, focused as they are on “Spinning gold from the darkness of humanity. Profiting from misery.” They are successful because they understand that an audience requires conflict to remain interested so they manipulate their contestants: “they know the best way to manipulate you. They know what incentives to offer to get you to play ball and they know what buttons to press in order to push your emotions in the directions that will ensure you are watched and ratings will increase.”
Even if you’re not interested in becoming an influencer, there’s a warning in the book for anyone using social media: “Plastic has got nothing on the internet. Everything you think and then type is out there for the world to see, forever. Forever.” Information or an opinion shared “is out there forever. Whether it’s right or wrong.” Even deleted postings are not gone.
The style of the book is appropriate to its content. It mimics the style of social media communication, using hashtags, influencer content, tailored ads, numbers of likes and followers, and online commentaries – all that you would see scrolling on your phone or tablet.
I enjoyed the novel. As expected in such a tale about deception and manipulation, there’s a lot of suspense and many twists, though the author does provide subtle clues. If something strikes you as odd, pay attention! But it’s the social commentary that stands out for me; it emphasizes the shallowness of social media culture and how what we see on screens is very different from reality. The book is entertaining, topical, and thought-provoking.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com/).
August 27, 2026
I have been called an influencer. It's not a title I embrace, laden as it is with accusations of inauthenticity, entitlement and downright lying. Nevertheless, I acknowledge that through my reviews, I hope to influence other readers to read the books I recommend. Bad Influence is Will Carver's latest and is one of his most fun reads yet. It's also exactly the sort of book I started blogging for.
Endless scrolling on social media has become a habit for many of us and we're fed by algorithms that echo and inform our interests and beliefs, Even in these artificially created echo chambers, however, there are still the controversial click-bait posts which gain traction and divide opinion between ardent supporters and those vehemently opposed to the point being made, with the inevitable trolls muddying the waters still further. Meanwhile, the early innocence of reality television, which began with Candid Camera and The Family before the competitive social experiments of the likes of Big Brother and the scripted reality of Towie and Made in Chelsea eventually led to the diet of manipulative, shocking excesses that litter TV schedules today. In Bad Influence, Will Carver skewers the inanity of modern popular culture but while he satirises both those desperate for fame and the audiences who lap it all up, his most acerbic observations are saved for those who exploit their craving for adulation and drama.
The social media posts which are interspersed throughout the novel reflect the ubiquitous toxic positivity or pseudoscientific content that promises us a better version of ourselves if we only follow their advice. There are also more honest updates, including an excerpt from a filmed diary entry at the start of the book, from somebody who recognises the ridiculousness of it all and yet still wants to make an impact. They dream of being famous so they finally learn what it's like to be seen. Their attempts so far have failed but now they realise there's a much easier way – all they have to do is break into an influencer's house and live there without them knowing. The term for this is phrogging and while there have been other crime fiction novels that feature sinister home invaders, Alyssa and her best friend, Less just want to have some fun.
The characters in Bad Influence could have been easy to dislike. Alyssa's reckless desire for fame coupled with Less's privileged background mean they are not your usual more sympathetic protagonists. Neither is Paige, a fitness and wellbeing influencer who started off believing she was helping others by using science, knowledge and her experience to stop people being duped by fads but has since been seduced by the inevitable demands and endorsements that follow becoming popular. Nevertheless, as their worlds collide, Will Carver perceptively examines what drives them to behave as they do. We learn more about their lives and the struggles each of them face and ultimately appreciate that in spite of their flaws, they too are victims of the puppeteers controlling what we watch on our TV and phone screens.
It gradually becomes clear that people can only be influenced or inveigled so far before they start to try to regain control of their lives. Paige decides she needs some time away from her daily demands and tells her followers she is taking a break. Unfortunately for her, she is not only the willing yet uninformed subject of a new project by a pair of wildly successful, unscrupulous producers, her house is the next target of Less and Alyssa, who have become addicted to the thrill of phrogging. A shocking encounter changes everything and Paige finds herself in a nightmare which threatens to expose her carefully curated image.
Of course, just as with reality television and social media, Will Carver astutely reminds us that not everything should be taken at face value and we shouldn't believe all we see or read. Bad Influence is a provocative, penetrating exposé of the hypocrisies of modern living but it's also a darkly humorous tale which marries the unlikely combination of soul searching and revenge perfectly. Bad Influence is Will Carver at his best as he proves yet again that books can be entertaining and thought-provoking. I wholeheartedly – and genuinely – highly recommend it!
Endless scrolling on social media has become a habit for many of us and we're fed by algorithms that echo and inform our interests and beliefs, Even in these artificially created echo chambers, however, there are still the controversial click-bait posts which gain traction and divide opinion between ardent supporters and those vehemently opposed to the point being made, with the inevitable trolls muddying the waters still further. Meanwhile, the early innocence of reality television, which began with Candid Camera and The Family before the competitive social experiments of the likes of Big Brother and the scripted reality of Towie and Made in Chelsea eventually led to the diet of manipulative, shocking excesses that litter TV schedules today. In Bad Influence, Will Carver skewers the inanity of modern popular culture but while he satirises both those desperate for fame and the audiences who lap it all up, his most acerbic observations are saved for those who exploit their craving for adulation and drama.
The social media posts which are interspersed throughout the novel reflect the ubiquitous toxic positivity or pseudoscientific content that promises us a better version of ourselves if we only follow their advice. There are also more honest updates, including an excerpt from a filmed diary entry at the start of the book, from somebody who recognises the ridiculousness of it all and yet still wants to make an impact. They dream of being famous so they finally learn what it's like to be seen. Their attempts so far have failed but now they realise there's a much easier way – all they have to do is break into an influencer's house and live there without them knowing. The term for this is phrogging and while there have been other crime fiction novels that feature sinister home invaders, Alyssa and her best friend, Less just want to have some fun.
The characters in Bad Influence could have been easy to dislike. Alyssa's reckless desire for fame coupled with Less's privileged background mean they are not your usual more sympathetic protagonists. Neither is Paige, a fitness and wellbeing influencer who started off believing she was helping others by using science, knowledge and her experience to stop people being duped by fads but has since been seduced by the inevitable demands and endorsements that follow becoming popular. Nevertheless, as their worlds collide, Will Carver perceptively examines what drives them to behave as they do. We learn more about their lives and the struggles each of them face and ultimately appreciate that in spite of their flaws, they too are victims of the puppeteers controlling what we watch on our TV and phone screens.
It gradually becomes clear that people can only be influenced or inveigled so far before they start to try to regain control of their lives. Paige decides she needs some time away from her daily demands and tells her followers she is taking a break. Unfortunately for her, she is not only the willing yet uninformed subject of a new project by a pair of wildly successful, unscrupulous producers, her house is the next target of Less and Alyssa, who have become addicted to the thrill of phrogging. A shocking encounter changes everything and Paige finds herself in a nightmare which threatens to expose her carefully curated image.
Of course, just as with reality television and social media, Will Carver astutely reminds us that not everything should be taken at face value and we shouldn't believe all we see or read. Bad Influence is a provocative, penetrating exposé of the hypocrisies of modern living but it's also a darkly humorous tale which marries the unlikely combination of soul searching and revenge perfectly. Bad Influence is Will Carver at his best as he proves yet again that books can be entertaining and thought-provoking. I wholeheartedly – and genuinely – highly recommend it!
May 31, 2026
Anyone who has ever read a Will Carver substack, or followed his social media posts will know that he is unafraid to voice his opinions on certain subjects. Rightly so. That sometimes acerbic, unflinching honest wit is what makes him so very Will Carver and what makes his writing so refreshingly original. Never the same story twice, even when set very clearly in the same world. For his latest novel, Bad Influence, he turns this razor sharp narrative towards the modern day plague of insanity that is social media, and the relatively modern phenomena of the 'Influencer'. A subject he has voiced opinion on before, one that dominates the headlines far too often, for disproportionately negative reasons, given the Carververse treatment. Who could resist that?
The story follows two friends, Alyssa and Less, short for Alessandro, who come from opposing worlds but who fit together like hand and glove. Alyssa wants to be able to emulate the success and pull of the people she idolises - the titles' 'influencers'. Less wants to make a career as a designer. It is almost as though either would do anything to achieve their dreams, and just how far that 'anythintg will take them really is the crux of the story. It's the strangest thing, the way in which Will Carver has developed these characters, given that I could never really like them, for reasons that become clear in the reading - very flawed in their own unique ways - but I was completely and utterly engaged in their fates, fascinated by their behaviour, and kind of mentally championing their cause, even though it was very, very, wrong. And that is perhaps the most telling aspect of the book. How well if reflects reality, that morbid fascination with car crash TV, where you know what you are witnessing is so very wrong that it becomes compellingly right.
I'll be honest, perhaps one of the most shocking elements of this books is how little anything that happened surprised me, and not because I am used to Will Carver's vision of the world. This book is set in L.A, and perhaps as far removed from the world of Nothing Important and Hinton Hollow as you could imagine. Glitz, glamour and affluence abound, there is also a seedy underside to proceedings that the author captures in unerringly honest, but depressingly plausible fashion. In the modern era of reality television and instafame, the lengths people will go to in order to achieve that level of acclaim and recognition is reflected in the lives of not just the two lead protagonists here, but in those who inhabit the world around them, be that the influencers, Paige and Rosie, or the TV Producers, Edie and Tammy, who seem to get off on creating the most out there programming, designed purely to shock. And yet, whilst I expected the unexpected, Will Carver still has that uncanny knack of being able to surprise and shock just that little bit more.
Then that ending. Worthy of the best of the Carververse mind melts. Not what I was expecting, but given the references throughout, the parallels between Alyssa and Lee's behaviour and another, very high profile LA story, I should maybe have been less surprised. And, as it is a Will Carver book, I should know better by now. The book is slower in pace in the first half whilst the lives and situations of each of the key players is established, but when the scene is properly set, and we get into the heart of the tale, the moment where you know that Alyssa and Less's actions are about to lead to a pivotal moment of reckoning, it picks up a pace, driven as much by shock as direct action.
If you are looking for a loving tribute to the wonderful world of the influencer, well, this is definitely not it. If you want to read a book about a madly modern phenomena - influencing and phrogging (I had no idea before this book either) - that is written with a pitch perfect cutting narrative, aping the very style of social media communication - #hashtageverything - and that acknowledges that the on screen perfection we all see masks what is often a world of paranoia, insecurity and carefully polished excrement, then this is the perfect book for you.
The story follows two friends, Alyssa and Less, short for Alessandro, who come from opposing worlds but who fit together like hand and glove. Alyssa wants to be able to emulate the success and pull of the people she idolises - the titles' 'influencers'. Less wants to make a career as a designer. It is almost as though either would do anything to achieve their dreams, and just how far that 'anythintg will take them really is the crux of the story. It's the strangest thing, the way in which Will Carver has developed these characters, given that I could never really like them, for reasons that become clear in the reading - very flawed in their own unique ways - but I was completely and utterly engaged in their fates, fascinated by their behaviour, and kind of mentally championing their cause, even though it was very, very, wrong. And that is perhaps the most telling aspect of the book. How well if reflects reality, that morbid fascination with car crash TV, where you know what you are witnessing is so very wrong that it becomes compellingly right.
I'll be honest, perhaps one of the most shocking elements of this books is how little anything that happened surprised me, and not because I am used to Will Carver's vision of the world. This book is set in L.A, and perhaps as far removed from the world of Nothing Important and Hinton Hollow as you could imagine. Glitz, glamour and affluence abound, there is also a seedy underside to proceedings that the author captures in unerringly honest, but depressingly plausible fashion. In the modern era of reality television and instafame, the lengths people will go to in order to achieve that level of acclaim and recognition is reflected in the lives of not just the two lead protagonists here, but in those who inhabit the world around them, be that the influencers, Paige and Rosie, or the TV Producers, Edie and Tammy, who seem to get off on creating the most out there programming, designed purely to shock. And yet, whilst I expected the unexpected, Will Carver still has that uncanny knack of being able to surprise and shock just that little bit more.
Then that ending. Worthy of the best of the Carververse mind melts. Not what I was expecting, but given the references throughout, the parallels between Alyssa and Lee's behaviour and another, very high profile LA story, I should maybe have been less surprised. And, as it is a Will Carver book, I should know better by now. The book is slower in pace in the first half whilst the lives and situations of each of the key players is established, but when the scene is properly set, and we get into the heart of the tale, the moment where you know that Alyssa and Less's actions are about to lead to a pivotal moment of reckoning, it picks up a pace, driven as much by shock as direct action.
If you are looking for a loving tribute to the wonderful world of the influencer, well, this is definitely not it. If you want to read a book about a madly modern phenomena - influencing and phrogging (I had no idea before this book either) - that is written with a pitch perfect cutting narrative, aping the very style of social media communication - #hashtageverything - and that acknowledges that the on screen perfection we all see masks what is often a world of paranoia, insecurity and carefully polished excrement, then this is the perfect book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have to add my congratulations to Will Carver, who, since I initially wrote this review, won the Capital Crime Fingerprint Award for Genre-Busting Book of the Year for his novel Kill Them With Kindness. This is so well deserved and long awaited. If anyone writes genre-busting stories, it is Carver and he does them so very well.
I always get really excited about a new book from Will Carver, but I ALWAYS struggle to write a review. He is so clever, so very different, so unexpected, continually surprising, it is really difficult to find the words! Oh, and it's a crime novel with a PINK COVER!!
So here goes! Just when I think I've worked out where his imagination might take him next, he delivers something entirely unexpected. Bad Influence is bold, provocative, darkly funny and utterly compelling from the very first page.
The premise immediately grabs attention. Two teenagers discover the world of phrogging and begin secretly living in the homes of social media influencers, slipping unnoticed through the cracks of carefully curated online lives. It is a fascinating concept and one that the author explores so well, with such creativity.
Alyssa and Less are such brilliantly drawn characters. They are both desperate to be noticed, desperate to mean something, and their friendship really is the heart of this story. It is not really easy to like either of them, but they are both so compelling to learn about. Will Carver has an extraordinary ability to create characters who are so real and flawed and entirely believable, even when their actions push far beyond what most of us would ever consider doing!
The authors intense examination of influencer culture, social media obsession and society's endless craving for validation is just spot on. He is incisive, often uncomfortable, and frequently laugh-out-loud funny. There is an awesome sense of satire running throughout the novel, but beneath the humour lies something much darker and far more thought-provoking.
The structure works brilliantly. Multiple voices, social media snippets, hashtags and online commentary combine to create a world this is both exaggerated and frighteningly familiar. It is clever and completely addictive.
Will Carver's distinctive voice shines through every page, drawing the reader deeper into a story that becomes increasingly unsettling as it unfolds. There were numerous moments when I found myself shaking my head in disbelief, yet unable to stop reading.
Bad Influence is daring, original and wonderfully entertaining. It is a novel that captures the absurdity of modern celebrity culture, yet is also a gripping story. Will Carver continues to push boundaries in ways few writers can, and the result is a book that is impossible to ignore.
Dark, witty, inventive and thought-provoking, Bad Influence is another outstanding novel from an author who never takes the easy route. I loved every page.
I always get really excited about a new book from Will Carver, but I ALWAYS struggle to write a review. He is so clever, so very different, so unexpected, continually surprising, it is really difficult to find the words! Oh, and it's a crime novel with a PINK COVER!!
So here goes! Just when I think I've worked out where his imagination might take him next, he delivers something entirely unexpected. Bad Influence is bold, provocative, darkly funny and utterly compelling from the very first page.
The premise immediately grabs attention. Two teenagers discover the world of phrogging and begin secretly living in the homes of social media influencers, slipping unnoticed through the cracks of carefully curated online lives. It is a fascinating concept and one that the author explores so well, with such creativity.
Alyssa and Less are such brilliantly drawn characters. They are both desperate to be noticed, desperate to mean something, and their friendship really is the heart of this story. It is not really easy to like either of them, but they are both so compelling to learn about. Will Carver has an extraordinary ability to create characters who are so real and flawed and entirely believable, even when their actions push far beyond what most of us would ever consider doing!
The authors intense examination of influencer culture, social media obsession and society's endless craving for validation is just spot on. He is incisive, often uncomfortable, and frequently laugh-out-loud funny. There is an awesome sense of satire running throughout the novel, but beneath the humour lies something much darker and far more thought-provoking.
The structure works brilliantly. Multiple voices, social media snippets, hashtags and online commentary combine to create a world this is both exaggerated and frighteningly familiar. It is clever and completely addictive.
Will Carver's distinctive voice shines through every page, drawing the reader deeper into a story that becomes increasingly unsettling as it unfolds. There were numerous moments when I found myself shaking my head in disbelief, yet unable to stop reading.
Bad Influence is daring, original and wonderfully entertaining. It is a novel that captures the absurdity of modern celebrity culture, yet is also a gripping story. Will Carver continues to push boundaries in ways few writers can, and the result is a book that is impossible to ignore.
Dark, witty, inventive and thought-provoking, Bad Influence is another outstanding novel from an author who never takes the easy route. I loved every page.
June 26, 2026
Will Carver always delivers the unexpected and Bad Influence is no exception.
This time he's turning his attention to the world of influencers; the story is told through a variety of media formats including Instagram posts that brutally detail the number of likes and follows that each post gets.
Alyssa and Less are a pair of teenage best friends, though their home lives couldn't be further apart. Less is the son of a mega-wealthy family who craves a close family and dreams of getting fame for his fashion skills. Alyssa is from the poorer side of town, getting two buses every time she goes to meet Less. Alyssa lives with her hardworking mother and quiz-show obsessed grandmother in a house which is full of love but she envies Less's luxurious lifestyle and freedom to waste his days .
The pair of them are bored and looking for their next thrills - and what could be more intoxicating than phrogging (living in someone's house without them knowing). They decide to break into their favourite influencer's house to snoop around, using all the clues inadvertently left on her social media to track her down within minutes. They see it as quite a harmless pastime, certain that they aren't causing any harm or distress to the unwitting influencer. The first time that they break into Gabi's house, they use the key that she''s left under the doormat (because carrying a key would ruin the lines of her outfit) - and just look around, marvelling that they can touch all of these items that they've seen on social media before.
But their new habit doesn't stop there and they are soon seeking bigger thrills and escapes, breaking into more famous people's houses - often narrowly missing discovery or having to talk themselves out of some tight corners.
One of their new interests is fitness influencer Paige, whose wholesome god-loving lifestyle is making her name more and more well-known in the fitness world. But despite all her fame, Paige is really quite lonely - there's a heartbreaking scene in the book when this hits home for her. Paige is also being courted by reality-TV executives Tammy and Edie, who think that she'll work well in an upcoming, yet to be determined, new show. Unbeknown to Paige, they are filming everything she does for content, sure that there will be a story in there. They are the queens of reality TV with a never-ending queue of wannabes waiting to sign their life away for the chance of fame or infamy.
The stories come together in an utterly shocking and unguessable series of twists and turns that will literally leave your jaw on the ground. And those cameras in Paige's house are there, silently recording every second.
It is a stark reminder about the longevity of anything that we put on the internet and how it can be used against you at any time. There are plenty of lighter moments too and it is as sharp and cutting as anything that Will Carver has ever written before.
Where will he go next?
This time he's turning his attention to the world of influencers; the story is told through a variety of media formats including Instagram posts that brutally detail the number of likes and follows that each post gets.
Alyssa and Less are a pair of teenage best friends, though their home lives couldn't be further apart. Less is the son of a mega-wealthy family who craves a close family and dreams of getting fame for his fashion skills. Alyssa is from the poorer side of town, getting two buses every time she goes to meet Less. Alyssa lives with her hardworking mother and quiz-show obsessed grandmother in a house which is full of love but she envies Less's luxurious lifestyle and freedom to waste his days .
The pair of them are bored and looking for their next thrills - and what could be more intoxicating than phrogging (living in someone's house without them knowing). They decide to break into their favourite influencer's house to snoop around, using all the clues inadvertently left on her social media to track her down within minutes. They see it as quite a harmless pastime, certain that they aren't causing any harm or distress to the unwitting influencer. The first time that they break into Gabi's house, they use the key that she''s left under the doormat (because carrying a key would ruin the lines of her outfit) - and just look around, marvelling that they can touch all of these items that they've seen on social media before.
But their new habit doesn't stop there and they are soon seeking bigger thrills and escapes, breaking into more famous people's houses - often narrowly missing discovery or having to talk themselves out of some tight corners.
One of their new interests is fitness influencer Paige, whose wholesome god-loving lifestyle is making her name more and more well-known in the fitness world. But despite all her fame, Paige is really quite lonely - there's a heartbreaking scene in the book when this hits home for her. Paige is also being courted by reality-TV executives Tammy and Edie, who think that she'll work well in an upcoming, yet to be determined, new show. Unbeknown to Paige, they are filming everything she does for content, sure that there will be a story in there. They are the queens of reality TV with a never-ending queue of wannabes waiting to sign their life away for the chance of fame or infamy.
The stories come together in an utterly shocking and unguessable series of twists and turns that will literally leave your jaw on the ground. And those cameras in Paige's house are there, silently recording every second.
It is a stark reminder about the longevity of anything that we put on the internet and how it can be used against you at any time. There are plenty of lighter moments too and it is as sharp and cutting as anything that Will Carver has ever written before.
Where will he go next?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews