Influence

Influencing Trilogy #1

by Daniel Hurst

Would you kill for a million followers?

Emily Bennett dreams of being a social media influencer, just like her idols Mason Manor and Ivy Lane. But shortly after Ivy’s untimely death she is contacted by a secretive businessman who offers her the chance at the fame and fortune she so desperately craves.

While Emily initially gets to experience the things she has always wanted, it soon becomes clear that her new employer had sinister motives for approaching her and it isn’t long before she discovers that the life of her dreams comes with the kind of conditions that are the stuff of nightmares.

Social media isn’t life or death. It’s more important than that.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Ebooks

337 pages, Paperback

Published July 27, 2020

About the author

Daniel Hurst is an Amazon #1 bestselling author of fast paced psychological thrillers. His most popular titles include Til Death Do Us Part, The Passenger and The Doctor's Wife, the latter title reaching #1 on the Amazon UK Kindle store in February 2023. A regular KDP Select All Star since he became a full-time author in 2021, Daniel prides himself on writing fast, releasing stories often and engaging with his readers.

You can visit him at www.danielhurstbooks.com, where you can also download a copy of his FREE thriller 'Just One Second.'

Reviews

[chantalsbookstuff · Rating 4 out of 5]

"PhoGlow" is the hottest social media platform every influencer dreams of dominating. But Sebastian? He’s got a different game plan. He's using PhoGlow to make money in his own way and even promises some lucky influencers a boost on the platform. The concept is super intriguing, and Daniel's storytelling is top-notch. I really enjoyed Book 1!

[SVETLANA · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable book about social media and influencers who can change people's opinions on many things, including clothes, food, lifestyle, politics etc.

If the power of influencing influencers gets in bad hands, the world can change at their wish.

The plot is very actual for the world ruled by the Internet and I recommend it to everyone concerned about it.

[Alyssa Casanova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel has done it again!

I was mesmerized by this book with all the glamour of social media and it’s promises; but Daniel showed a side of social media that doesn’t exist (or to the literal extent like it did in this novel) and I just had to keep reading to see what was in store for Sebastian’s team of social media stars.

[Sandy Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did you ever wonder what it would be like to have the ability to shape the world's opinion on everything from what to wear and how to wear it to what to do, where to go, what to eat, and everything inbetween? In today's media world there are those who do just that. They are called "Influencers". Daniel Hurst takes us inside that world and creates a thrilling drama of what can happen when a psychopath gets involved.

Emily just wants a better life. She is willing to work hard but how do you grab the attention of millions of followers when the internet is loaded with thousands just like her trying to grab the spot light.

Enter Sebastian, a man who promises to make all her dreams come true. A man who says he has the magic formula to make her an overnight success. All she has to do is follow his instructions exactly and only his instructions. She is not to do anything or say anything unless he tells her to do it. She eagerly agrees, after all, what could possibly go wrong?

I received an advanced reader copy but the review and opinions are my own.

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was lucky enough to read an advanced copy and I really enjoyed it. Fast paced and easy to read. The characters were likeable and enjoyed how the story went. Left me wondering how much of this really happens. Can't wait for the next installment.

[Natalie Auld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn’t put this down! Off to read the rest of the trilogy!

[Victoria (teadrinking_booklover) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was such a frustration to read. I have both good things and bad things to say about it. I'll start with the negatives and finish on a high.

Firstly, my main issue with this book was the writing and the seemingly total lack of editing. It was bad, to the point where I considered DNFing. The errors were continuous throughout the book and for a lot of them, they were glaring errors, such as sentences that just didn't make sense. There were incorrect words used, along with times where the sentences were missing words entirely. I found myself, multiple times, having to go back over what I had read and re-reading it to make sense of it. It was really disruptive to the reading experience and did a lot of damage to what could have been a very good book.

Secondly, we have the characters, which were a mild annoyance, but still a negative.
The characters were not particularly all that likeable and I find it hard to enjoy a book if there is nobody for me to root for. A couple of the characters became more likeable and less shallow within the last third of the book, but trying to push through the first two thirds with a cast full of unpleasant characters was hard. The characters also didn't feel particularly well developed or layered. They were all pretty shallow and one dimensional.

Now for the positives.

The premise of this book is really interesting (if a little unbelievable at times) and something I have not come across before. It is really relevant in this day and age and put a dark spin on something that is now an everyday element for anyone who uses social media.

The book was also a very straight forward and easy read and if the editing is addressed, would be a fantastic palette cleanser after a heavy, complex read. I found I flew through this book with relative ease, but wish I could have enjoyed it more.

Overall, a very good idea and an enjoyable story that would be massively improved by the author taking the time to revise it and amend the grammatical errors plaguing what could otherwise be a great first book in the series.

[Agnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing like reading a Daniel Hurst book....or 2, or 3 of them. Once you start on this trilogy you will not stop until you have read all three books. If you are one who is always on their phone on social media then start with this one. Know what an influencer is? I am sure you do. Follow this story about becoming one, whats involved and what happens to influencers. The story takes us into some interesting things Emily Bennett finds out when her wish to become an influencer comes true.

You will be hooked and definitely go on to Book #2 and #3

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW I really enjoyed Influence book 1 of Influencing Trilogy by Daniel Hurst. Influence is the capacity to have an effect on something. Bad Influence is something or someone that teaches others to do wrong.

PhoGlo is a social media website that is overtaking the world by storm and their followers are called 'glowers.'

Mason Manor has 200 million followers and along with seven other Influencers who make their boss, Sebastian Sawyer a very wealthy businessman and also make a lot of money for themselves by selling and posting products that will sell well onto this website which garners millions of followers.

Sebastian Sawyer is a spin doctor and a devil in disguise as he gets his band of influencers to follow his rules to the letter as he enjoys his hold over them all.

Who will the grim reaper be coming for in this exciting no holds barred first book in the Influencing trilogy?

[Fiona McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant and very current

[Harley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting premise but poor execution. None of the characters felt very likable, some stuff just seemed on the wrong side of far fetched and nothing really seemed to connect. Also the constant change of narrator in chapters felt forced just to make the book longer as often it was just repeating information we already knew just from a new person without adding much to the story. Don't think it's worth investing in the sequel.

[Jools Brooksbank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book and wow!
The story is fantastic, the characters are great. I read it in a day, I really couldn't put it down.
Cant wait for the next book in the series

[Donna Mallery · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting idea on the use of social networking! What happens when you are conned into becoming an influencer and all goes wrong? And it’s life or death! I can always count on Hurst for a good time, and I enjoyed the first of this trilogy! I’m anxious to see what happens next in part 2!

[QueenBee Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing highly recommend and very well written can’t wait for the rest of the trilogy !!

[Hayley (Backpacking Bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the premise of this novel which is right on-trend with social media influencing one of the most profitable and successful advertising tactics used by businesses. I've never thought of the idea that one man could be controlling a group of influencers to profit his own investments, blackmailing them if they refuse to follow his rules. It was a scary idea but could totally be happening behind closed doors.

The chapters were short and told from different character perspectives which gave us an insight into the influencer's lives, the man running the show, his hit-man, his business partner and a few other minor characters. This is a technique used by the author in his other novels and I think it is a great way to get inside all the different mindsets.

I had no idea how the influencers were going to escape the clutches of the man that created their success. It was fast-paced and unpredictable, keeping me invested throughout. It also ended on a cliffhanger which normally I hate but I have a feeling the sequel will be worth waiting for.

Thanks so much to Daniel for sending me a digital copy of Influence in exchange for an honest review.

Rating breakdown
Plot/narrative - 4.3
Writing style/readability - 4.4
Characters - 4
Diverse themes - 4.1
Ending - 4
Overall - 4.2

[Sarah Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

A thought provoking exploration of modern aspirations.
The influencer by Daniel Hurst is a thought provoking book that delves into the desires of the younger generation who dream of becoming influencer. As a parent whose children have expressed a wish to enter this field, I found the books premise to be particularly relevant. It raises important questions about the reality of the influencer lifestyle is the money glamour truly worth it.
However while the book introduces intriguing concepts it is important to note that it is a work of fiction and does not depict real events. Hurst takes the narrative to extreme levels to provoke readers to consider the impact of social media and the information we share online. The comparison of influencing to door to door selling, albeit through a digital medium is an interesting perspective.
Despite the compelling themes, I found the pacing of the story to be slow, and it did not manage to grip my attention. This led to a slight disappointment, as I had hoped for a more engaging narrative. While I plan to read the other two books in the series I am not rushing to do so, I am, hoping they will offer a more captivating experience.
In conclusion, the influencer deserves a three star read for the thought provoking content but the execution left much to be desired.

[Caitlin · Rating 2 out of 5]

“Nothing kills smiles quicker than that man.”


Rating: 2 /5

Method: Kindle

Spice: 1 scene at the end, but it was more closed door than open


Emily Bennett has always dreamed of becoming an Influencer on PhoGlow, the world's most popular social media app- just like her idols. So when opportunity finally knocks, she jumps on the chance with no hesitation. But her new boss may not be all that he seems, and Emily may have gotten herself into something much bigger than she knows. 



Thoughts 💭💭

I’m gonna keep this short and sweet: honestly, I’m not sure how I feel about this book.The storyline was predictable,but it still held my attention all the way through. That said, the whole time I was reading the book (after the first couple of chapters), I kept thinking what the heck is going on?! 


It was interesting seeing the influencer side of social media, and it actually made me a little paranoid about posting on my Instagram and accepting offers from people I don't know. Even though this is a work of fiction, the author highlights some very real aspects of social media that feels relevant in today's world. 


I'm not sure if I'll pick up the second book, but this one had a solid storyline that kept me engaged and was a quick, entertaining read.

[Holly Cerutti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing read by Daniel Hurst!! This book was a gripping, fast-paced story with all the hallmarks of his signature style. This time, it's an inspirational yet cautionary tale wrapped in the glitter of social media fame and luxury lifestyles.

The characters are undeniably stereotypical, but in a way that works. Emily, our protagonist, is the quintessential innocent dreamer—a young British woman determined to become a social media influencer. Despite pouring her heart and soul into building a brand, she’s stuck at 5,000 followers and going nowhere fast.

Enter Sebastian Sawyer: a mysterious, ridiculously wealthy stranger who offers to bankroll Emily and catapult her into influencer stardom. It’s the offer of a lifetime, and Emily can't resist. What follows is a whirlwind of exotic locations, beautiful people, luxury goods, and the kind of opulence most of us only see on Instagram.

For a while, Emily is living the dream—almost. She’s basking in the glow of "influencer-lite" fame. But just when things seem to be going right, the story takes a sharp turn. The bottom falls out. The price of Emily’s dream becomes terrifyingly clear.

What does it mean to "pay the piper"? You'll have to read it to find out—but I promise, you’ll be surprised.

On to book two of this trilogy!!

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this amazing book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a totally surreal topic but while it's surreal it's also totally believable that something like this could happen in real life with how big a part social media plays in society currently. From the first chapter I was invested in this book, the writing style is so easy to follow and the main characters are incredibly likeable and have you rooting for them the entire way through. After reading a lot of non-fiction recently I thought I'd find it difficult to get back into fiction but this book was the perfect way to convert me back to reading fiction again, and I'm so thankful I've had the opportunity to read it early.
The book ends with a cliffhanger but also with the promise of a sequel which will be available from the beginning of August 2020, which I will definitely be preordering and I genuinely cannot wait to read🤩 And also a free prequel to the story called 'Influence Me' which I have downloaded and will definitely be reading.
Overall a thoroughly enjoyable book which I would definitely recommend to anybody who likes a bit of mystery, true crime and social media.

[Vina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading “Influence” by Daniel Hurst. This is the first of a trilogy, and I look forward to the rest. The book sets out the heights and depths social media can take us to. Specifically, in the “Lifestyle Influencer” category. When social media can boost up an individual’s wealth and celebrity status sky high, their posts and pictures and of course, their hashtags are considered the last word in style. Companies and advertisers begin to pay them for advertising their products because they have a large following ready to be influenced by their celebrity. But there are wily operators who use an influencer’s following to make and break political figures, ruin people,, damn a career. They have even more diabolical plans in mind.“Influence” is the story of just such a star maker who uses, and misuses the influence of his exclusive team of influencers.
A word about the editing - sorry to say, as the book progresses, the proof-reading gets slacker, and appears to be coining words.

4 Stars

[Pheadra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in the Influence/Influencer/Influenced trilogy. It is current and engaging and somewhat disturbing about the effects of social media influencers on the world and the puppets who pull their strings. All start out similarly. Young, over-eager to please people, leading dreary lives in dead-end jobs from single parent households who are approached by an evil mega-wealthy anonymous man, Sebastien Sawyer. In return, he promiser the wannabe influencer loads of money, travel, exotic locations, 5-Star holidays. All they have to do is follow every request he makes for them to post to their Pho-Glo account. His hackers have worked out the necessary hash tags for each post to achieve maximum reach. All is good until, as is his habit six months after joining his enterprise his instruction to the influencer is to murder someone. Fail to comply and the influencer is dealt with. 4 stars

[Mr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read, kindle version needs proofing

Two points to my review- first the book and story line- it was actually a really clever storyline with a great twist but the writing felt a little basic, probably aimed at a YA audience. It was a tiny bit repetitive but I actually read it quite fast as was intrigued to see where the story would go and actually I do want to read the sequel.
However- point 2, the errors in the book. There must have been at least 10 typo errors that I spotted throughout the book! It’s just annoying that it’s not been proof read properly.

[Becky Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this because I wanted to read “People like her” and it wasn’t available on my kindle yet (kindle release is 21/02/21 in UK)

I was pleasantly surprised how much it sucked me in. I, like most others my age, use social media a lot so I find it fascinating to read a darker side of it. It was fiction but I didn’t find it too far fetched really.

The ending was a bit rushed/ abrupt in my opinion but I think it’s meant to end in a way that makes you want to read on to the other two in the trilogy. This worked on me as I will be reading the next two.

[Tori Yardley · Rating 5 out of 5]

How far would you go to become famous on social media? Are you willing to kill for the followers? Risk your life and the life of those you love for the fame?

Emily was working hard to grow her following and build her platform, and one day, it finally paid off. But she didn’t realize just how dangerous the life of an influencer could be. But is the danger enough to kiss the fame and fortune goodbye? When you get a taste of being rich and popular, can you really walk away when things get too serious?

[Suzyq (Battle_0f_the_b0oks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is good. The story is captivating and I flew through this because the writing makes it so enjoyable to read. I would not categorize this as a thriller at all. I would say this is an action drama but that is my personal opinion. I don't know if I will continue with the second book though.

I docked a star because the editing in this book is very poor. The amount of spelling mistakes and grammar errors is astonishing and just comes across as highly unprofessional.

[Arielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author knows how to write a suspenseful tale...I've read several of his books, this being one of the best and I am really excited to learn there are two more in this series. Where could he possibly go with the story now? I don't know but my bleary eyes are ready to find out.

If you spend time on social media, you will never forget this novel. We saw something a bit like this when the former guy was in office and we will see more, I fear. Be aware.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

if the remaining couple of books in the trilogy are as good as book one, I know I am in for theMost thrilling, exciting, suspenseful read ever! If you definitely want to see the effect that social media could have, you need to read the series. Daniel Hearst does a wonderful job of weaving together suspense, thrills, and every day life. he will also get to experience what happens when you let the greed of material things over come your personality. Be careful what you wish for!

[Diane Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Interesting Read!

These Influencers got a lot done in the first book so I wonder how they will top it in book number two of this series. I’m very disappointed in Daniel Hurst for using the very one that gave him so much talent to use His name in vain. It didn’t make the book any better and if anything it made some of his followers very upset. There’s no reason to ever use the Lord’s name in vain!!

[Lynn Mccorry · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4

Be careful what you wish for!

This is the first book in a trilogy and what a wonderful start it was. Told from various view points I found it kept me interested the whole way through. The story was exciting and the pace of the book was quick. I finished it in a day.

I look forward to reading the other two books in the series as well as more of this authors books.

Recommended.

[Lib · Rating 3 out of 5]

*2.5 stars this book was so good and really interesting, i loved the fact that it was fast paced! but what threw me off was all the povs like some characters would literally have just one pov yk? and i just feel like all that wasn’t necessary and what happened in their povs’ could have easily been in the main povs like emily or mason!! idk i loved it like ate this story up but idk the povs… maybe it’s just me tho!