Lies of Influence by Alfred Quinsay is a gripping contemporary novel that plunges into the murky waters of deadly real-world politics, vividly exploring power, integrity, and redemption amidst profound political turmoil and hidden agendas.
Published in 2025 by Olympia Publishers, Lies of Influence is the second novel of Alfred Quinsay. His debut book was ‘Love is War, War is Love‘
Book Review: Lies of Influence by Alfred Quinsay
This book is a wild ride through Indian politics, corporate greed, and one family’s fight to get their good name back. It’s fiction, sure, but the incidents, setting, and characters make the story feel like it’s happening in the real world.
Setting ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Most of the story unfolds in the vibrant and often tumultuous backdrop of India, in New Delhi and Mumbai. You can feel the power struggles and tension in those cities.
The protagonist also spends time in England, in the quiet countryside of Rochester, at Oxford and Cambridge, and in London. We also see glimpses of the Dominican Republic, Spain, and China, which demonstrate the extent of the powerful “cabal” and its reach. The story takes place over twenty years, from 1999 to the near future.
Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story of ‘Lies of Influence’ starts in 1999. Prime Minister Ramesh Patel is forced out of office when rebel troops storm the palace in New Delhi. His son, Abir, who’s only twelve, sees his father refuse to fight because he doesn’t want to hurt civilians.
A group of powerful people, led by Rishi Agarwal, an Indian business leader, is behind the coup. They place their puppet prime ministers so they can control India’s industries and economy. Years later, Abir’s family suffers another big loss.
Abir grows up in London. He excels academically at Oxford and Cambridge and trains hard in judo. He becomes a successful investment consultant and marries Harriet, who works at a bank. But a major corporation with ties to Rishi Agarwal buys Harriet’s bank, which causes problems for Abir and Harriet.
Later, Abir starts a new relationship that ties him even closer to the people he’s fighting against.
The story takes a critical turn when Abir finds out about a huge illegal operation. People are smuggling dangerous goods into India by hiding them in shipments of everyday items. This makes him want to do something for his country, even though he’s been avoiding it.
Even though Rishi and the powerful ‘cabal’ try to ruin his reputation with media campaigns and political tricks, Abir becomes more and more popular. When he decides to run for the Lok Sabha seat from Mumbai, he gets overwhelming support, positioning him as a formidable contender challenging the long-standing status quo.
‘Lies of Influence’ builds to a high-stakes showdown. Abir challenges the cabal’s decades-long dominion over the country. There are surprises as the cabal members turn on each other.
In the end, Abir uses his intelligence and skills to fight his enemies in a direct confrontation. The story ends with a new government based on honesty, where past injustices are confronted and a hopeful future is forged for India.
Themes ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lies of Influence deals with some interesting ideas. Power and corruption are front and center, with the cabal manipulating the entire nation. It also shows the difference between doing what’s right and taking any chance to get ahead, like when Ramesh and Abir stand up to the cabal.
The narrative also deeply delves into destiny and redemption, with Abir trying to restore his family’s honor and change his country for the better.
Writing Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Alfred Quinsay’s writing is straightforward and descriptive. The story moves quickly. The dialogue is often laced with sarcasm and wit, adding a sharp edge to the character interactions.
Quinsay also provides insightful glimpses into the characters’ inner thoughts and motivations, allowing readers to understand their complex choices, from Rishi’s Machiavellian schemes to Abir’s calm resolve amidst chaos. It’s a compelling read that blends personal drama with grand political machinations.
| Setting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Plot | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Writing Style | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Themes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Vowelor Review: A political saga of power, betrayal and redemption that uncovers the dark underbelly of corruption. |
4.5 |
Reasons to add this Book to your TBR
If you like political thrillers with corporate secrets, family problems, and exciting action, then check out Lies of Influence!
The complex, evolving characters like Abir and Rishi will keep you guessing, while the story’s unpredictable twists and turns ensure there’s never a dull moment. It’s a story about power, justice, and standing up for what’s right, with a satisfying ending for India. And with fighting and dramatic moments, it’s a book you won’t want to miss.
About the Author: Alfred Quinsay
Alfred Quinsay is a Filipino author, business strategist, and academic based in the Philippines. His first novel, “Love is War, War is Love”, was published in 2022, followed by ‘Lies of Influence’ in 2025.
Born in 1970, he discovered his passion for novel writing in his early twenties and completed his first manuscript, but delayed publishing due to peer apprehensions.
For over two decades, Quinsay focused on building a career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and earning an MBA, gaining valuable experience across industries such as mining, logistics, and business process outsourcing.
In 2012, he again started writing contemporary novels that explore ethical challenges in business and the complexities of human behavior. Deeply influenced by his Christian faith and interest in martial arts, Quinsay champions an integrated life that harmonizes professional ambitions, personal passions, and spiritual values.
