So, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from Influence, since I didn't think I was keen on a social media soap opera. However, I was totally blown away by what turned out to be a thrilling drama about the dangers of the internet and sharing your life with strangers. The plot was totally engrossing, with twists and turns and so much drama I couldn't put it down! The mystery was brilliant and kept me guessing right to the end. I completely loved the book! I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I just want to start by saying I was super excited when I heard about this book as I absolutely love Sara Shepard. I never thought in a million years that I would get approved to read an advanced copy of one of her books. I absolutely love that Sara partnered up with Lilia and you can definitely see where Lilia's knowledge was essential throughout this book. Such a lovely collaboration that you should both be super proud of. As for the storyline... This book absolutely made me want to be become an influencer. I have no idea what my specialist subject would be and what I would even promote but I wanted to be an influencer. One point I love that this book made is that we all have an online persona that doesn't quite ring true to who we are and that maybe we should actually just embrace who we are as a person and share that with the world instead of a carefully constructed character. The world of fame and fortune has perks, sure. But are they really worth it when you have to pretend to be someone you're not? I felt like the four main characters in this book all had traits that I most likely have myself. I like the loyalty and the friendship that is displayed. I like that there were two sides to every story. I know this book is effectively a fictional story but it really has made me think quite deeply about a lot of things. I don't want to go into the story too much as I don't want to spoil it but I just want to say be kind. Be kind to others and of course, be kind to yourself. Sometimes we are our biggest critics. Overall I loved this book! It had a great story and there were things that I did not see coming which was nice as a lot of books can be quite predictable. I love that this book mixed media from two generations. It mixed the world of Instagram and influencers with the world of books. I would even go as far as saying that this book will likely persuade people to put down their phones and pick up a book.

We all know them....influencers. They tell us what to wear, what's the new trend in music and what to absolutely NOT to look for in a partner - EVER. I would recommend the book to all the younger readers, to get a behind-the-scenes look on how it feels to be popular. To love with the constant pressure to be the first with everything, even the things you might not like.

i tried to enjoy this book but i just didn't like it overall. Thge writing was fine but it just underwhlemed me entirely. The story could've done so much more than it did and the characters seemed a bit 2d and flat at times. I got what it was trying to do but it didn't do it for me.