Influence (Marcus Kline) - Softcover

Overall, very current and gripping stuff. Anyone who has seen a hypnotist persuade his prey that their arm is so heavy they cannot move it or the magician make the impossible happen will love this - Steno Chick Chris Parker has created a strong character in Marcus Kline. We may find the central character arrogant or hateful at times, but the author has woven in elements of vulnerability and tenderness to give Kline extra dimensions. The characters in the supporting cast are well depicted and do their job effectively. The plotting is good, with major and minor strands running through the novel, and its pace is very effective. The denouement is particularly well handled - I'm not a fan of the term 'page-turner', but the final section did have me on the edge of my seat. Within the narrative, there is a lot of technical detail about the inner workings of the human brain. This is useful to support and explain Kline's insights and techniques (and, at times, those of other characters), and is part of the 'voice' the author has given his character, but it may not be to every reader's liking as it can interrupt the flow to an extent. Overall, I very much enjoyed the book, and look forward to the next episode in the trilogy - Jim Richards I love the originality of this unique crime thriller. It is so now! The fast paced chapters race by like the scenes from a film. The characters are well written and well rounded. The story is interlaced with grief, tragedy, love and a sickeningly evil murderer who stops at nothing to find the answers he seeks. Can someone really get inside you mind and influence you so powerfully? Can you really talk someone to death? Highly recommended.

Influence is a thought-provoking thriller that dares the reader to question just how much we know about ourselves and the people we share our lives with. Marcus Kline is the world's leading authority on communication and influence. He can tell what you are thinking. He can see inside you. He can step inside your mind. In global demand as a consultant, Marcus Kline shares his expertise with world leaders, corporate giants and global media stars. Confident, self- assured and controlling, Marcus revels in his unparalleled skill. Yet when a series of murder victims bear the horrific hallmarks of an intelligent and remorseless serial killer, Detective Inspector Peter Jones turns to Marcus for help - and everything changes. Somewhere between Derren Brown in full control mode, and Tim Roth's Dr Cal Lightman in Lie to Me, is Marcus Kline a potential victim - or a sadistic and clever killer? Will you like Marcus? Will you hate him? You'll very likely do both, and you'll be influenced every step of the way, just like those in Marcus's life. At a time when we are increasingly driven by the power of communication, and the implications of persuasiveness, this is a timely, topical and frightening journey through the evil that influence can truly do. The book is supported by a unique and exciting website at http://marcuskline.co.uk which is already garnering a very positive and intrigued response.