STUDENT WRITER HOLDEN BOYER RECOMMENDS INFLUENCER
Influencer, by Adam Cesare, is a horror/thriller novel that lets you inside the mind of a killer and the people around him. It has the classic high school friend group dynamic, with some added drama and suspense that makes for nothing less than a very fun read.
The story follows the two main characters. Aaron is the new kid at school who is trying to blend in but has a head full of demented thoughts and a murderous past. He also has an anonymous online, cultlike following, where he is known as the mysterious “Speaker” which he keeps secret from his new school friends. We also have Crystal, a teenage girl living in a low-income household, with some serious self-esteem issues. Quiet, but more intelligent than she may present herself, Crystal seems to be the only one who doesn’t quite buy into Aaron’s act.
What made Influencer stand out in my opinion, was the alternating perspectives. Chapter by chapter, the book alternates first person perspectives from the two main characters, letting you experience both sides of the story. I found this worked especially well with the complex characters, letting you see their thoughts and opinions, instead of having to rely on only one character or a narrator’s biases.
Overall, Influencer was a fun read that kept me engaged, with a classic thriller ending. I thought it was a great example of how unique characters can really improve a book. I would recommend the book for older teenagers who like a dramatic journey and a thrill. If you want to uncover Aaron’s sinister plans alongside Crystal, you will have a good time reading Influencer
Holden Boyer was born and raised in Fredericton, New Brunswick where he grew up in a house full of brothers, dogs, and lots of books too. He enjoys writing in school and has put effort into his work since a young age. He spends most of his time playing music, any instrument he can get his hands on. This usually takes place in his room, his creative getaway spot where he can watch his pet fish and get inspired by his favourite musicians, who are hung as posters on his wall. He loves sunset walks with his dog, and sharing philosophical thoughts with friends. And Costco hotdogs.