Each word more enthralling than the next. The author’s prose is comparable to an uncle telling a captivating tale over a glass of brandy by the fire. While I’ve embarked upon many other endeavors with Campbell at the helm since then, I was beyond elated to tear into the pages of The Influence. A journey to only be taken sporadically, knowing full well, one would never return the same ever again. At the same time, I found this caliber of writing was one to charter the waters on special voyages. I remember the story rendering me spellbound and frankly provoked a lengthy bout of insomnia and sleeping with the lights on as a pre-adolescent boy. I distinctly recall when I had the pleasure of first encountering the efforts of this author through Hungry Moon circa 1986. From Stephen King, Dean Koontz, Clive Barker, Anne Rice, the list goes on and on. After all what could one possibly say about a master’s work that hasn’t already been said before? With over thirty novels and hundreds of short stories over his decorated career, Campbell has been a major influence on many commercial authors of today. I must confess when I was delegated the task of reviewing The Influence by Ramsey Campbell, I was a little more than intimidated. But is Vicky’s allegiance purely amicable or is there something far more sinister at play?

Not long after she’s laid to rest a mysterious stranger named Vicky befriends young Rowan. One of her final wishes was to be buried with a cherished locket containing a sample of her granddaughter Rowan’s hair. Three generations reside within the household while the eldest, Queenie lay upon her deathbed. They have their fare share of trials and tribulations as we all do. The Faraday’s aren’t entirely unlike any other contemporary family.

The influence by ramsey campbell