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Negative Images
Anita Walsh, still reeling from her husband's sudden death, finds herself haunted not only by grief, but his "Negative Image," a new phenomenon where the deceased prey on those they loved in life, turning intimate memories into nightmares. This spectral figure uses their shared past as a weapon, systematically dismantling her friendships, career, and self-worth. Desperate for escape, Anita plunges into a quest to sever the ghostly bonds that tie her to her tormentor.
As society grapples with the rising terror of NIs, a charismatic extremist proposes a radical solution to isolate the haunted from the unafflicted, gaining dangerous followers. Anita, alongside another victim of this spectral affliction, must navigate their personal hauntings and societal threats to prevent the breakdown of their community.
With its gripping narrative and eerie exploration of love and betrayal, Negative Images marks Rebecca Schier-Akamelu as a powerful new voice in horror. This novel delves deep into the psychological horrors of grief and the supernatural, making it a must-read for fans of horror and ghost stories alike.
As society grapples with the rising terror of NIs, a charismatic extremist proposes a radical solution to isolate the haunted from the unafflicted, gaining dangerous followers. Anita, alongside another victim of this spectral affliction, must navigate their personal hauntings and societal threats to prevent the breakdown of their community.
With its gripping narrative and eerie exploration of love and betrayal, Negative Images marks Rebecca Schier-Akamelu as a powerful new voice in horror. This novel delves deep into the psychological horrors of grief and the supernatural, making it a must-read for fans of horror and ghost stories alike.
- GenresHorror
360 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2025
3 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 25, 2025
"It was like looking into nothingness, and she’d opened her mouth wide to say something— and her mouth was cavernous and black, too, framed only by the lurid red of her lipstick."
Heavy on grief horror. Some of the characters are haunted by entities known as Negative Images. They have someone close to them who has passed and these entities mess with their head, ultimately, figures out what makes them tick and try to destroy them in the process. What these negative images ultimately want is for the characters to off themselves. Everyone with a Negative image is going to wind up killing themselves sooner or later. And that is probably the only way to get rid of them. BUTTTTT, someone with a Negative Image can become Negative themselves. They have to figure out a way to stop the cycle and fast.
I was intrigued by the premise and plot - plus the cover also drew me in since it is similar to the Intercepts novel cover which I have finished before this. It had creepy moments and a bleak atmosphere. What I like about it is that it reminds me of the movie 'Lights Out' and the entity named Diana. My only problem is that I find some parts dragged and it was hard to connect with some of the characters. The ambiguous ending was ok though I felt it was kinda rushed.
Big thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🖤
3.48✨
Heavy on grief horror. Some of the characters are haunted by entities known as Negative Images. They have someone close to them who has passed and these entities mess with their head, ultimately, figures out what makes them tick and try to destroy them in the process. What these negative images ultimately want is for the characters to off themselves. Everyone with a Negative image is going to wind up killing themselves sooner or later. And that is probably the only way to get rid of them. BUTTTTT, someone with a Negative Image can become Negative themselves. They have to figure out a way to stop the cycle and fast.
I was intrigued by the premise and plot - plus the cover also drew me in since it is similar to the Intercepts novel cover which I have finished before this. It had creepy moments and a bleak atmosphere. What I like about it is that it reminds me of the movie 'Lights Out' and the entity named Diana. My only problem is that I find some parts dragged and it was hard to connect with some of the characters. The ambiguous ending was ok though I felt it was kinda rushed.
Big thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🖤
3.48✨
July 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing for providing an ARC of Negative Images by Rebecca Schier-Alamelu in exchange for honest feedback.
This was definitely a unique ride. I’m still a little unsure how I feel about it, which I guess says something in itself. The writing style kept me turning pages - moody, atmospheric, and with just enough intrigue to hold my attention even during the slower stretches. It started off strong, giving off “Shutter”-like vibes (which I loved), but then took a turn I did not quite expect: the Negative Images themselves becoming active characters. Creepy? Yes. Surprising? Also yes.
That said, I was hoping for a little more. The ending seemed a bit chaotic and rushed, and honestly left me with more than a few unanswered questions. While that is not an issue for many people, I tend to like stories that leave no stone unturned.
Overall, it was a solid psychological horror with heavy grief undertones. While it did not blow me away, I would still recommend it and am definitely interested in reading more by this author.
This was definitely a unique ride. I’m still a little unsure how I feel about it, which I guess says something in itself. The writing style kept me turning pages - moody, atmospheric, and with just enough intrigue to hold my attention even during the slower stretches. It started off strong, giving off “Shutter”-like vibes (which I loved), but then took a turn I did not quite expect: the Negative Images themselves becoming active characters. Creepy? Yes. Surprising? Also yes.
That said, I was hoping for a little more. The ending seemed a bit chaotic and rushed, and honestly left me with more than a few unanswered questions. While that is not an issue for many people, I tend to like stories that leave no stone unturned.
Overall, it was a solid psychological horror with heavy grief undertones. While it did not blow me away, I would still recommend it and am definitely interested in reading more by this author.
May 7, 2025
I was locked in. I was glued to the Kindle. I started reading and didn't stop until I finished the book at 3am. I was scared to go to the bathroom in the dark. lol An EXCELLENT supernatural thriller.
After Anita loses her husband, Dan, she is devastated. Then Dan starts appearing to her. But it isn't the Dan that she knew in life. He is taunting, cruel, and seems bent on destroying her. The weird thing is, this is happening to people all over the world. News of these "ghosts", called Negative Images, or NIs, is all over television and the internet. Why should anyone who doesn't have one care? Because they can see their friends and family's Negative Images, although what they see and hear is distorted. People with NIs are ostracized as their NIs break them down emotionally and make work and community life impossible.
Anita teams up with Joshua, whose late fiancée passed about the same time as her husband, to try to determine why this is happening and if there is any way to rid themselves of their NIs. As their NIs become more and more aggressive, a charismatic man rallies the scared masses against people who have Negative Images. You know, to protect our children and communities.
There is definitely some heavy allegory here that was not lost on me. The story had me thinking about the pandemic and about groups in America that have been and/or are being "othered" by our government. It is timely and thought provoking.
My interpretations aside, this suspenseful ghost story is great at face value. It had me hooked from page one. I was emotionally connected to the characters and felt their grief, frustration, anger, outrage, sadness, and in happier moments, their hope. I needed to know why they had these Negative Images and what would ultimately happen to them.
I can confidently recommend this one. Do consider your emotional state, given that the book deals heavily with loss and grief.
Thank you Rising Action Publishing Co. and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my review.
After Anita loses her husband, Dan, she is devastated. Then Dan starts appearing to her. But it isn't the Dan that she knew in life. He is taunting, cruel, and seems bent on destroying her. The weird thing is, this is happening to people all over the world. News of these "ghosts", called Negative Images, or NIs, is all over television and the internet. Why should anyone who doesn't have one care? Because they can see their friends and family's Negative Images, although what they see and hear is distorted. People with NIs are ostracized as their NIs break them down emotionally and make work and community life impossible.
Anita teams up with Joshua, whose late fiancée passed about the same time as her husband, to try to determine why this is happening and if there is any way to rid themselves of their NIs. As their NIs become more and more aggressive, a charismatic man rallies the scared masses against people who have Negative Images. You know, to protect our children and communities.
There is definitely some heavy allegory here that was not lost on me. The story had me thinking about the pandemic and about groups in America that have been and/or are being "othered" by our government. It is timely and thought provoking.
My interpretations aside, this suspenseful ghost story is great at face value. It had me hooked from page one. I was emotionally connected to the characters and felt their grief, frustration, anger, outrage, sadness, and in happier moments, their hope. I needed to know why they had these Negative Images and what would ultimately happen to them.
I can confidently recommend this one. Do consider your emotional state, given that the book deals heavily with loss and grief.
Thank you Rising Action Publishing Co. and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my review.
May 30, 2025
Reading for review in the June 2025 issue of Library Journal
Three Words That Describe This Book: Realistically Terrifying, SF-Horror Blend, Thought-Provoking
Draft Review:
What if your loved one came back from the dead as a ghost? Sounds wonderful, right? Except, this is a Horror novel, so it most certainly is not. Anita’s husband returns as a Negative Image (NI), appearing solely to harass and torment her. She is not alone in living this nightmare, however. NIs are appearing all over the world. No one knows why or how, and terror and hysteria is quickly spreading far and wide. People with NIs are quickly ostracized from society. At the same time a movement to round up those with NIs emerges– for their safety. Teaming up with young widower Josh, Anita fights against both their NIs and the living who want to harm her. Can Anita free herself and others from their NIs before it is too late? This deeply unsettling example of grief horror will shake readers to their core, as the proximity and intensity of the hauntings will have them alternating between looking over their shoulders and turning the pages.
Verdict: A promising*and thought-provoking debut that blends Horror and Science Fiction in realistically terrifying ways reminiscent of Blake Crouch. For fans of the emotionally charged supernatural investigation of The Haunting if Room 904 by Wurth and those who want to revisit the immersive and relentless terror caused by “The Other Mommy” in Incidents Around the House by Malerman.
I want to start my proper, trade journal review with...."What if your loved one came back from the dead as a ghost? Sounds wonderful, right? Except, this is a Horror novel, so it most certainly is not."
But since I cannot, I am leaving it here to preserve it because THIS is the way to handsell this book-- just tell people that and they will get grabby hands.
Debut-- Original SF-Horror ala Blake Crouch.
Ghosts come back to harass and torment someone close to them, but not every ghost. They can be seen by others, but only the person who the Negative Image is connected to can hear them. Others see their terrifying image though and hear a terrible noise.
Told through Anita's perspective only as she is tormented by her dead husband's NI, who says terrible things to her. People with NIs start killing themselves. And then very political-- but not surprising-- groups want to round up those with NIs and put them in a safe place where they cannot hurt others-- jail really.
It begins as grief horror and turns into an investigative SF/Horror hybrid that like the best SF delves into very real political issues.
The descriptions of the harassment by the NIs is terrifying. You can feel someone behind you. Also the proximity of the hauntings feel real.
Lots of posting on social media and you tube referred to. The investigative elements take over in the end.
Reminded me of The Haunting of Room 904 by Wurth meets Incidents Around the House by Malerman, if Blake Crouch wrote the Malerman. The relentlessness of the NIs and how they act are reminiscent of Other Mommy in the Malerman.
A recent debut it also reminded me of (I reviewed it as well) is Listen to Your Sister by Viel
Three Words That Describe This Book: Realistically Terrifying, SF-Horror Blend, Thought-Provoking
Draft Review:
What if your loved one came back from the dead as a ghost? Sounds wonderful, right? Except, this is a Horror novel, so it most certainly is not. Anita’s husband returns as a Negative Image (NI), appearing solely to harass and torment her. She is not alone in living this nightmare, however. NIs are appearing all over the world. No one knows why or how, and terror and hysteria is quickly spreading far and wide. People with NIs are quickly ostracized from society. At the same time a movement to round up those with NIs emerges– for their safety. Teaming up with young widower Josh, Anita fights against both their NIs and the living who want to harm her. Can Anita free herself and others from their NIs before it is too late? This deeply unsettling example of grief horror will shake readers to their core, as the proximity and intensity of the hauntings will have them alternating between looking over their shoulders and turning the pages.
Verdict: A promising*and thought-provoking debut that blends Horror and Science Fiction in realistically terrifying ways reminiscent of Blake Crouch. For fans of the emotionally charged supernatural investigation of The Haunting if Room 904 by Wurth and those who want to revisit the immersive and relentless terror caused by “The Other Mommy” in Incidents Around the House by Malerman.
I want to start my proper, trade journal review with...."What if your loved one came back from the dead as a ghost? Sounds wonderful, right? Except, this is a Horror novel, so it most certainly is not."
But since I cannot, I am leaving it here to preserve it because THIS is the way to handsell this book-- just tell people that and they will get grabby hands.
Debut-- Original SF-Horror ala Blake Crouch.
Ghosts come back to harass and torment someone close to them, but not every ghost. They can be seen by others, but only the person who the Negative Image is connected to can hear them. Others see their terrifying image though and hear a terrible noise.
Told through Anita's perspective only as she is tormented by her dead husband's NI, who says terrible things to her. People with NIs start killing themselves. And then very political-- but not surprising-- groups want to round up those with NIs and put them in a safe place where they cannot hurt others-- jail really.
It begins as grief horror and turns into an investigative SF/Horror hybrid that like the best SF delves into very real political issues.
The descriptions of the harassment by the NIs is terrifying. You can feel someone behind you. Also the proximity of the hauntings feel real.
Lots of posting on social media and you tube referred to. The investigative elements take over in the end.
Reminded me of The Haunting of Room 904 by Wurth meets Incidents Around the House by Malerman, if Blake Crouch wrote the Malerman. The relentlessness of the NIs and how they act are reminiscent of Other Mommy in the Malerman.
A recent debut it also reminded me of (I reviewed it as well) is Listen to Your Sister by Viel
March 24, 2025
Negative Images is a one of a kind twist of a ghost story! It really made me feel anxious throughout most of the book. It captured my interest at the very beginning, because a lot happens! I wouldn’t necessarily put it in the horror category, more of like a paranormal ghost story. However, I can understand why it is in the horror genre. It played out like a movie in my head. It is dark, disturbing and eerie! It was very well written, clear and easy to read. The only thing that I was not fond of was the ending. Will there be a sequel to this book? I hope so!
Negative Images is a book about how a woman’s husband passed away, only to come back as a creepy “Negative Image” of him that follows her around. Not only is she dealing with her own grief, she has to look at her Negative Image husband; who has black eyes and looks distorted. She is not the only one that has a negative image, the society has them as well. I rate this a 4 out of 5 star rating. Be sure to read the content warnings before delving into this haunted ghost story.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, and Rising Action Publishing for this advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review!
This is expected to be released on July 22, 2025!
Negative Images is a book about how a woman’s husband passed away, only to come back as a creepy “Negative Image” of him that follows her around. Not only is she dealing with her own grief, she has to look at her Negative Image husband; who has black eyes and looks distorted. She is not the only one that has a negative image, the society has them as well. I rate this a 4 out of 5 star rating. Be sure to read the content warnings before delving into this haunted ghost story.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, and Rising Action Publishing for this advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review!
This is expected to be released on July 22, 2025!
February 23, 2025
Negative Images follows the story of Anita Walsh grieving through her husband's unexpected death. Soon after his funeral, Anita becomes haunted by the ghost of her husband. These ghosts, called Negative Images, feed off of tormenting their survived loved ones. They exist to destroy the lives of those that they loved. These Negative Images are becoming more and more prevalent within society, but even so, people will avoid those haunted by a Negative Image.
Anita, who is struggling against her husband's haunting, tries to find a way to rid herself of his Negative Image. Anita works together with another being haunted by a Negative Image to try to find a "cure."
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu found a way to differentiate her book from others by creating her own twist to a haunted ghost story. This is her debut novel and I thought it was a great start. I loved the concept. I thought the writing was concise and the story flowed well. This book was gripping from start to finish and I loved that this took on an investigative approach. The pacing was steady throughout and the characters were well written.
I only wish that this story had more atmosphere to it. I wasn't as immersed as I wanted to be and was hoping for a more ominous tone. Regardless, I still would recommend this book and if the author decides to write another book in the future, I would definitely pick it up.
Negative Images releases to the public on July 22nd.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
TW: blood, car accident, death, emotional abuse, gore, grief, gun violence, infidelity, injury detail, murder, self harm, stalking, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempt, violence
Anita, who is struggling against her husband's haunting, tries to find a way to rid herself of his Negative Image. Anita works together with another being haunted by a Negative Image to try to find a "cure."
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu found a way to differentiate her book from others by creating her own twist to a haunted ghost story. This is her debut novel and I thought it was a great start. I loved the concept. I thought the writing was concise and the story flowed well. This book was gripping from start to finish and I loved that this took on an investigative approach. The pacing was steady throughout and the characters were well written.
I only wish that this story had more atmosphere to it. I wasn't as immersed as I wanted to be and was hoping for a more ominous tone. Regardless, I still would recommend this book and if the author decides to write another book in the future, I would definitely pick it up.
Negative Images releases to the public on July 22nd.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
TW: blood, car accident, death, emotional abuse, gore, grief, gun violence, infidelity, injury detail, murder, self harm, stalking, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempt, violence
July 10, 2025
To be trapped with a Negative Image of another person for the foreseeable future?! 😱😭💔 Yeah, sleep with THAT thought for a night and you'll definitely have some feelings about this book...
Such a well written and gripping story that kept me enthralled with the plot until the very end 👀
What a debut Rebecca Schier-Akamelu 🤩👏🏻✨ and thank you to Rising Action Publishing Co. & NetGalley for the ARC 🖤
Such a well written and gripping story that kept me enthralled with the plot until the very end 👀
What a debut Rebecca Schier-Akamelu 🤩👏🏻✨ and thank you to Rising Action Publishing Co. & NetGalley for the ARC 🖤
July 28, 2025
"So there's these ghosts, right. Only, instead of trying to scare you and act spooky, they're, like, just giant assholes. Like, 100% A-grade haters. And, I dunno, they hang around talking a lot of shit. And stuff happens."
"Fine, I'm sold, I'll take one copy."
"Fine, I'm sold, I'll take one copy."
March 28, 2025
Negative images captured my attention from the very beginning and is one hell of a “ghost” story! I wouldn’t necessarily class this book as a horror, but if you love all things creepy and paranormal, you will LOVE this book!
Negative images follows the story of Anita, a women who’s husband was killed in a tragic accident, that has now come back as a “negative image” of himself to torment her - turning loving memories into nightmares. Only a few people are unlucky enough to have a negative image of a passed love one attached to them and it is unclear as to why. She quickly finds comfort and friendship in Joshua, who he himself is being tormented by the NI of his fiancé, as together they try to solve this mystery.
As society struggles with the rising horror and threat these NI’s may bring, a charismatic extremist pushes a radical solution to keep the afflicted separate from the rest of the world.
Anita and Joshua must work together to prevent the breakdown of themselves and their community.
This book had me hooked from start to finish and had me feeling creeped out in the best possible way. It is so different from anything I have read and brought an amazing twist to the concept of a “ghost story”.
I do wish the ending had slightly more resolve, but I could easily see potential for a sequel to come out of it. Despite that, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book at all, and even as a stand alone book, I thought it was remarkable.
I will definitely be recommending this book and can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
Negative images follows the story of Anita, a women who’s husband was killed in a tragic accident, that has now come back as a “negative image” of himself to torment her - turning loving memories into nightmares. Only a few people are unlucky enough to have a negative image of a passed love one attached to them and it is unclear as to why. She quickly finds comfort and friendship in Joshua, who he himself is being tormented by the NI of his fiancé, as together they try to solve this mystery.
As society struggles with the rising horror and threat these NI’s may bring, a charismatic extremist pushes a radical solution to keep the afflicted separate from the rest of the world.
Anita and Joshua must work together to prevent the breakdown of themselves and their community.
This book had me hooked from start to finish and had me feeling creeped out in the best possible way. It is so different from anything I have read and brought an amazing twist to the concept of a “ghost story”.
I do wish the ending had slightly more resolve, but I could easily see potential for a sequel to come out of it. Despite that, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book at all, and even as a stand alone book, I thought it was remarkable.
I will definitely be recommending this book and can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
June 1, 2025
Negative Images
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu
Publication Date: July 22, 2025
4.5 / 5
I had a great time with this creepy horror novel that approaches grief in a pretty interesting way:
After Anita's husband passes away, she begins being followed by an N.I. - a negative image, which is a darker version of your dead loved one that brings guilt and grief and negativity.
Many suddenly have them, but not everyone. Why do only some people have negative images following them around? What do they want?
People become suspicious and scared, and those with negatives begin to be ostracized by those without... And it's quickly getting worse as people become more afraid.
Oh, and also the negatives are suddenly able to make physical contact, and they also begin driving some to attempt suicide.
A creative, dark, uniquely designed story that I recommend to anyone looking for a spooky time.
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu
Publication Date: July 22, 2025
4.5 / 5
I had a great time with this creepy horror novel that approaches grief in a pretty interesting way:
After Anita's husband passes away, she begins being followed by an N.I. - a negative image, which is a darker version of your dead loved one that brings guilt and grief and negativity.
Many suddenly have them, but not everyone. Why do only some people have negative images following them around? What do they want?
People become suspicious and scared, and those with negatives begin to be ostracized by those without... And it's quickly getting worse as people become more afraid.
Oh, and also the negatives are suddenly able to make physical contact, and they also begin driving some to attempt suicide.
A creative, dark, uniquely designed story that I recommend to anyone looking for a spooky time.
October 31, 2025
3.5/5
While I found this incredibly interesting and bleak, I think this would have worked better as a novella.
While I found this incredibly interesting and bleak, I think this would have worked better as a novella.
October 22, 2025
Anita husband has tragically died. But now she has his “ghost” is attached to her. And this has been happening to random people all over. When these beings attach themselves to you they on say the most egregious things until the person eventually commits suicide. Anita wants to figure out a way to sever the ties with these (NI). So her and another victim of this phenomenon try to figure it out. But as they are working trying to find a solution an extremist wants to separate them all from the rest of the population. With this phenomenon rising the government will help fund this “camp” that’s supposed to be purely voluntary. Well it goes down hill for Anita and her friends until and unlikely source helps
July 18, 2025
ARC
I’d like to thank Rising Action Publishing Co., Rising Action, and NetGalley for the opportunity to give “Negative Images” an early read in return for an honest review.
To be blunt, I had a rough time getting through this novel. The premise itself was very interesting, and I saw a ton of potential for this to be a great read. But, the story unfolds at a glacial pace, and, unfortunately, isn’t terribly interesting.
Anita, our main character, feels pretty thinly written, which we see play out across the entire novel. The characters overall feel stilted and, in a way, childish? Motivations seem off, as if these were younger kids, rather than adults, making decisions. The dialogue throughout felt rushed and simply didn’t sound like things actual people would say in this situation. These coming together made for an awkward read that I wasn’t excited to continue reading.
As I said, the story itself was interesting, but I think the lore and world needed more building to make it feel fully fleshed out. I still found it to be entertaining at times, but overall, this was a rough novel to sit through. I know there’s an audience for this novel, which I think are audiences who are new to the genre, which is great! I was just looking for something different than what was presented here, and didn’t enjoy myself as much as I was hoping to.
Please give this novel a read when it gets published on July 22, 2025!
I’d like to thank Rising Action Publishing Co., Rising Action, and NetGalley for the opportunity to give “Negative Images” an early read in return for an honest review.
To be blunt, I had a rough time getting through this novel. The premise itself was very interesting, and I saw a ton of potential for this to be a great read. But, the story unfolds at a glacial pace, and, unfortunately, isn’t terribly interesting.
Anita, our main character, feels pretty thinly written, which we see play out across the entire novel. The characters overall feel stilted and, in a way, childish? Motivations seem off, as if these were younger kids, rather than adults, making decisions. The dialogue throughout felt rushed and simply didn’t sound like things actual people would say in this situation. These coming together made for an awkward read that I wasn’t excited to continue reading.
As I said, the story itself was interesting, but I think the lore and world needed more building to make it feel fully fleshed out. I still found it to be entertaining at times, but overall, this was a rough novel to sit through. I know there’s an audience for this novel, which I think are audiences who are new to the genre, which is great! I was just looking for something different than what was presented here, and didn’t enjoy myself as much as I was hoping to.
Please give this novel a read when it gets published on July 22, 2025!
August 27, 2025
When some people die, they leave behind a Negative Image. To everyone else, they look like a twisted version of the deceased--pure black eyes, uncanny features, and movements like an undercranked film--but to the person they were closest to, they're even worse. They are the only ones who can understand what their Negative Image says, and it's always cutting. Criticism, guilt trips, and dark confessions of what their beloved previously thought, and those who are afflicted have no way to get rid of these images. When Anita Walsh loses her husband, Dan, in a shooting, the last thing she expects is for him to come back to verbally assault her, but she finds comfort in a man named Joshua, whose fiancee is haunting him.
'Negative Images' has a promising premise. I love 'came back wrong' stories, and the thought of being haunted by a mean version of someone you're mourning is great. The effects the NIs (a cute abbreviation that gets coined a bit too soon after they're introduced) have both on their victim and those around them is an interesting thing to explore. Just seeing a messed-up version of the recently deceased floating behind their widow or child is scary, but their speech being rendered as unintelligible microphone feedback to everyone else? Spooky! Unfortunately, 'Negative Images' fails to deliver beyond its titular entities.
The biggest issue with 'Negative Images' is the confused metaphor of the titular entities. People who are haunted by Negative Images are treated as social pariahs--the NIs themselves are disturbing to look at, being gaunt renditions of former loved ones with entirely black eyes and physics-defying movements, and those who are haunted are randomly subjected to their recently deceased love one insulting them and being disruptive. The treatment of those with Negative Images is bad within the first week of them showing up--there's already a list documenting those who have them, along with deeply personal information.
The obvious metaphor is grief and guilt: the NIs are constant reminders not only of what their victims lost, but feelings of how they could have prevented the loss. What doesn't work for this is the disgust that the public feels towards those affected. Not that there aren't cruel people in the world, but I have a hard time believing that society at large would agree to so aggressively other people who are (visibly!) suffering from grief. It's already seen as a heartless thing to do to demand someone come to work after a loved one has died, and if everyone could see that they were being haunted by the twisted specter of that loved one, I don't think it'd take much collective bargaining for a union to argue that NI leave should be at least two weeks time.
Perhaps mental illness or other invisible illnesses like chronic pain would fit the metaphor better, because those are things that outsiders don't really understand looking in... but again, the NIs aren't invisible to others, and a big thing that motivates their fear and hatred towards those suffering is that it's disturbing and they don't want their kids to have to see it. Perhaps a more fitting comparison would be the current prejudices against gay couples or transgender people, or the 'Ugly Laws' that kept visibly disabled people from showing their faces in public? That could have been inspiration, but with a lily-white cast of able-bodied cisgender heterosexuals, it feels wrong.
And then the Negative Images are referred to as a pandemic, with quarantine being the cruelly suggested cure, and the metaphor became obnoxious.
It's been five years since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, and I know that more and more books are going to reference it over the years. This might be the most wrong-headed parallel I've seen, though, to the point where I had to put my e-reader down to gather my thoughts.
How is a super-contagious virus that doesn't show symptoms until a two-week incubation period like the twisted visage of your deceased love one saying cruel words that only you can hear? It's not. Or, maybe it's viscerally upsetting and makes you suffer, but for very different reasons! Framing these as being alike for reasons other than 'it can kill you' seems pretty disingenuous, especially with the quarantine for Negative Image sufferers being likened to prisons and concentration camps.
I'm not saying that quarantine wasn't hard, or that mental health during the pandemic was great--believe me, I'd been laid off and without insurance for my antidepressants!--but there's something so insidious about framing quarantine and health care professionals as the ultimate evil in your book. Health care professionals have collectively decided not to help people with NIs at all because having them in the waiting rooms disturbs everyone else, which is why emergency rooms never keep you waiting. I'm guessing this was just a way to avoid delving into the science fiction side of things, but I think it highlights another issue in 'Negative Images'--the scale is too big. If all of the doctors in this hospital in Omaha were against treating patients, that'd be one thing, but every single doctor in the country? Huge swaths of the country were okay with doxxing and harassing people, with no one questioning the legality? This is happening more and more each day and the general reaction of the public is 'burn them at the stakes'?
I'll give Schier-Akamelu the benefit of the doubt--she says in her acknowledgements that this book took seven years to write, and maybe the quarantine idea was there before becoming a part of our collective memory. However, I think avoiding the word 'pandemic' and channeling a certain politician's desire to place people with mental illnesses in work camps would have been a more fitting parallel. Those are also non-contagious illnesses that some people choose not to understand, and even if it would have been a heavy-handed comparison, it wouldn't leave as bad a taste in my mouth as 'let's quarantine against a non-transmutable illness, and quarantine is literally prison'.
'Negative Images' has a promising premise. I love 'came back wrong' stories, and the thought of being haunted by a mean version of someone you're mourning is great. The effects the NIs (a cute abbreviation that gets coined a bit too soon after they're introduced) have both on their victim and those around them is an interesting thing to explore. Just seeing a messed-up version of the recently deceased floating behind their widow or child is scary, but their speech being rendered as unintelligible microphone feedback to everyone else? Spooky! Unfortunately, 'Negative Images' fails to deliver beyond its titular entities.
The biggest issue with 'Negative Images' is the confused metaphor of the titular entities. People who are haunted by Negative Images are treated as social pariahs--the NIs themselves are disturbing to look at, being gaunt renditions of former loved ones with entirely black eyes and physics-defying movements, and those who are haunted are randomly subjected to their recently deceased love one insulting them and being disruptive. The treatment of those with Negative Images is bad within the first week of them showing up--there's already a list documenting those who have them, along with deeply personal information.
The obvious metaphor is grief and guilt: the NIs are constant reminders not only of what their victims lost, but feelings of how they could have prevented the loss. What doesn't work for this is the disgust that the public feels towards those affected. Not that there aren't cruel people in the world, but I have a hard time believing that society at large would agree to so aggressively other people who are (visibly!) suffering from grief. It's already seen as a heartless thing to do to demand someone come to work after a loved one has died, and if everyone could see that they were being haunted by the twisted specter of that loved one, I don't think it'd take much collective bargaining for a union to argue that NI leave should be at least two weeks time.
Perhaps mental illness or other invisible illnesses like chronic pain would fit the metaphor better, because those are things that outsiders don't really understand looking in... but again, the NIs aren't invisible to others, and a big thing that motivates their fear and hatred towards those suffering is that it's disturbing and they don't want their kids to have to see it. Perhaps a more fitting comparison would be the current prejudices against gay couples or transgender people, or the 'Ugly Laws' that kept visibly disabled people from showing their faces in public? That could have been inspiration, but with a lily-white cast of able-bodied cisgender heterosexuals, it feels wrong.
And then the Negative Images are referred to as a pandemic, with quarantine being the cruelly suggested cure, and the metaphor became obnoxious.
It's been five years since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, and I know that more and more books are going to reference it over the years. This might be the most wrong-headed parallel I've seen, though, to the point where I had to put my e-reader down to gather my thoughts.
How is a super-contagious virus that doesn't show symptoms until a two-week incubation period like the twisted visage of your deceased love one saying cruel words that only you can hear? It's not. Or, maybe it's viscerally upsetting and makes you suffer, but for very different reasons! Framing these as being alike for reasons other than 'it can kill you' seems pretty disingenuous, especially with the quarantine for Negative Image sufferers being likened to prisons and concentration camps.
I'm not saying that quarantine wasn't hard, or that mental health during the pandemic was great--believe me, I'd been laid off and without insurance for my antidepressants!--but there's something so insidious about framing quarantine and health care professionals as the ultimate evil in your book. Health care professionals have collectively decided not to help people with NIs at all because having them in the waiting rooms disturbs everyone else, which is why emergency rooms never keep you waiting. I'm guessing this was just a way to avoid delving into the science fiction side of things, but I think it highlights another issue in 'Negative Images'--the scale is too big. If all of the doctors in this hospital in Omaha were against treating patients, that'd be one thing, but every single doctor in the country? Huge swaths of the country were okay with doxxing and harassing people, with no one questioning the legality? This is happening more and more each day and the general reaction of the public is 'burn them at the stakes'?
I'll give Schier-Akamelu the benefit of the doubt--she says in her acknowledgements that this book took seven years to write, and maybe the quarantine idea was there before becoming a part of our collective memory. However, I think avoiding the word 'pandemic' and channeling a certain politician's desire to place people with mental illnesses in work camps would have been a more fitting parallel. Those are also non-contagious illnesses that some people choose not to understand, and even if it would have been a heavy-handed comparison, it wouldn't leave as bad a taste in my mouth as 'let's quarantine against a non-transmutable illness, and quarantine is literally prison'.
May 20, 2025
I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley. Thank you to Rebecca Schier-Akamelu and the publishers, Rising Action, for allowing me a copy.
Negative Images tells the story of Anita, a newly widowed woman who, whilst dealing with her grief of the sudden loss of her husband, also has to contend with the return of his Negative Image (NI). Negative Images are a new phenomenon sweeping the world where those who have recently passed away return to their loved one as a negative version of themselves in a ghost-like form, hell-bent on tormenting and destroying the one they have returned to.
As more and more people are "infected" with an NI, the world starts to panic. A charismatic figure takes the opportunity to tap into the public's fear and uses that to rally people against those who have an NI, ultimately leading to the proposal that all those who have one are isolated for the "safety" of everyone.
Anita, after joining up with Joshua, another person suffering with an NI, starts to investigate what might be causing the NIs. What then transpires is a race against time as Anita and Joshua search for answers whilst evading forced isolation or succumbing to the horror inflicted on them by their NI.
I thoroughly enjoyed Negative Images, although I wouldn't classify it as a horror, more a sci-fi/supernatural thriller. I wasn't sure I was going to like it initially as there was something about the writing style in the first few chapters that I just couldn't get on with, but I'm glad I persevered.
Schier-Akamelu's descriptions of the NIs were excellent, and the comparison to them moving in ways similar to a stop-motion movie was perfect, and I could easily see them in my mind's eye…and it was creepy!
The story deals with themes of loss, grief, betrayal, isolation, persecution, fear of the unknown and there's no way of not comparing it to real-life events and the unfair way in which certain groups of people are "othered" with seemingly no basis - it's heavy on the idea that we fear what we don't understand.
The book, a debut from Schier-Akamelu, is well written, flows very well, and is easy to read. I cared about the characters and what happened to them and whilst it wasn't scary, there were some good tense moments where you just knew the NI was about to do something horrible…and had you biting your nails waiting for it to happen!
All in all, a really solid debut - publishes 22nd July 2025. 3.75 stars.
Negative Images tells the story of Anita, a newly widowed woman who, whilst dealing with her grief of the sudden loss of her husband, also has to contend with the return of his Negative Image (NI). Negative Images are a new phenomenon sweeping the world where those who have recently passed away return to their loved one as a negative version of themselves in a ghost-like form, hell-bent on tormenting and destroying the one they have returned to.
As more and more people are "infected" with an NI, the world starts to panic. A charismatic figure takes the opportunity to tap into the public's fear and uses that to rally people against those who have an NI, ultimately leading to the proposal that all those who have one are isolated for the "safety" of everyone.
Anita, after joining up with Joshua, another person suffering with an NI, starts to investigate what might be causing the NIs. What then transpires is a race against time as Anita and Joshua search for answers whilst evading forced isolation or succumbing to the horror inflicted on them by their NI.
I thoroughly enjoyed Negative Images, although I wouldn't classify it as a horror, more a sci-fi/supernatural thriller. I wasn't sure I was going to like it initially as there was something about the writing style in the first few chapters that I just couldn't get on with, but I'm glad I persevered.
Schier-Akamelu's descriptions of the NIs were excellent, and the comparison to them moving in ways similar to a stop-motion movie was perfect, and I could easily see them in my mind's eye…and it was creepy!
The story deals with themes of loss, grief, betrayal, isolation, persecution, fear of the unknown and there's no way of not comparing it to real-life events and the unfair way in which certain groups of people are "othered" with seemingly no basis - it's heavy on the idea that we fear what we don't understand.
The book, a debut from Schier-Akamelu, is well written, flows very well, and is easy to read. I cared about the characters and what happened to them and whilst it wasn't scary, there were some good tense moments where you just knew the NI was about to do something horrible…and had you biting your nails waiting for it to happen!
All in all, a really solid debut - publishes 22nd July 2025. 3.75 stars.
April 24, 2025
4.5 Stars rounded up
Wow, what a ride! Negative Images wastes no time diving straight into the horror. By page 10, I was already double checking my locks and flipping on every light in the house. This is psychological horror at its finest. Deeply unsettling, incredibly creative, and completely immersive.
The premise is nothing short of brilliant: the dead return, visible to everyone, but only the person they "loved the most" can hear the cruel, grotesque things they say. That idea alone is chilling, but when paired with the global implications of society debating whether this is a pandemic, and should we be isolating those afflicted? This becomes a truly mind bending experience.
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu’s writing is sharp, emotionally resonant, and gripping. The pacing kept me glued to the page, and I tore through the entire book in just two sittings. It's the kind of story that stays with you long after it’s over.
Honestly, this would make an incredible film. It’s eerie, thought provoking, and haunting in all the right ways. An absolute must read for fans of psychological and speculative horror.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, and Rising Action Publishing Co. for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
Wow, what a ride! Negative Images wastes no time diving straight into the horror. By page 10, I was already double checking my locks and flipping on every light in the house. This is psychological horror at its finest. Deeply unsettling, incredibly creative, and completely immersive.
The premise is nothing short of brilliant: the dead return, visible to everyone, but only the person they "loved the most" can hear the cruel, grotesque things they say. That idea alone is chilling, but when paired with the global implications of society debating whether this is a pandemic, and should we be isolating those afflicted? This becomes a truly mind bending experience.
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu’s writing is sharp, emotionally resonant, and gripping. The pacing kept me glued to the page, and I tore through the entire book in just two sittings. It's the kind of story that stays with you long after it’s over.
Honestly, this would make an incredible film. It’s eerie, thought provoking, and haunting in all the right ways. An absolute must read for fans of psychological and speculative horror.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, and Rising Action Publishing Co. for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
July 26, 2025
Grief horror with supernatural elements that kept me turning the pages.
When someone you love dies, imagine if a Negative Image of them came back and attached itself to you for everyone to see and fear? You can’t escape and know of no way of getting rid of the NI. Then, it begins to do things, bad things. No two cases are exactly alike. While the NI resembles your loved one, something about them is very different. It’s more than enough to make the average person go mad.
Anita loses someone she loves. When the NI returns to haunt her, quickly things spiral out of control. The most dangerous element in this story, besides the NI which has an agenda of its own, is society’s response which for me was the most horrific and disturbing aspect of the book.
A very creepy, interesting premise which could have used some added depth and layering. This one did remind me of White Noise in several respects and is a spine-tingling albeit tame horror read that moves at a steady pace written with straightforward prose. It’s a worthwhile read, especially for readers who want some chills but can do without overly graphic or explosive horror and the descriptions are effective.
I would pick up this author’s next book without hesitation.
4.25/5
When someone you love dies, imagine if a Negative Image of them came back and attached itself to you for everyone to see and fear? You can’t escape and know of no way of getting rid of the NI. Then, it begins to do things, bad things. No two cases are exactly alike. While the NI resembles your loved one, something about them is very different. It’s more than enough to make the average person go mad.
Anita loses someone she loves. When the NI returns to haunt her, quickly things spiral out of control. The most dangerous element in this story, besides the NI which has an agenda of its own, is society’s response which for me was the most horrific and disturbing aspect of the book.
A very creepy, interesting premise which could have used some added depth and layering. This one did remind me of White Noise in several respects and is a spine-tingling albeit tame horror read that moves at a steady pace written with straightforward prose. It’s a worthwhile read, especially for readers who want some chills but can do without overly graphic or explosive horror and the descriptions are effective.
I would pick up this author’s next book without hesitation.
4.25/5
August 1, 2025
3.75 Stars
I'm mad. I know I don't need to be this upset, but I absolutely hate reading about spouse betrayal; I can't stand it. The combination of that and this book not being horrific just bummed me out. The only reason I can see this being considered horror is because of the experience of having someone you know die and yell terrible things at you, stalking you, and driving you insane with their vibes. It's funny when I say it, but it felt like total psychological warfare and was a bit relatable. When going through grief, it’s surprising how many negative thoughts people experience.
I loved the teamwork between Anita and Joshua, realizing that they could find a way to solve the mystery of Negative Images and rely on each other when everyone else turned against them. The slow development of their relationship was very sweet and made the book enjoyable for me. After proving myself right about what was going on with Dan, I didn’t care about him or Anita wanting to help him. Overall, I enjoyed the mystery of the story and the relationships between some of the characters, but there were a couple of things that just didn’t hit the spot for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Rising Act Publishing, I received an ARC for an honest review!
I'm mad. I know I don't need to be this upset, but I absolutely hate reading about spouse betrayal; I can't stand it. The combination of that and this book not being horrific just bummed me out. The only reason I can see this being considered horror is because of the experience of having someone you know die and yell terrible things at you, stalking you, and driving you insane with their vibes. It's funny when I say it, but it felt like total psychological warfare and was a bit relatable. When going through grief, it’s surprising how many negative thoughts people experience.
I loved the teamwork between Anita and Joshua, realizing that they could find a way to solve the mystery of Negative Images and rely on each other when everyone else turned against them. The slow development of their relationship was very sweet and made the book enjoyable for me. After proving myself right about what was going on with Dan, I didn’t care about him or Anita wanting to help him. Overall, I enjoyed the mystery of the story and the relationships between some of the characters, but there were a couple of things that just didn’t hit the spot for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Rising Act Publishing, I received an ARC for an honest review!
November 7, 2025
Negative Images is a brilliantly written horror story that grabs you from the first page. Rebecca Schier-Akamelu has a way of writing that feels like a movie is playing in your mind — vivid scenes, emotional tension, and characters that feel real and relatable. It’s a quick, easy read, but the story stays with you long after you finish.
The premise is chilling and incredibly original: when someone you love dies, a “Negative Image” of them returns and attaches itself to you — a distorted, unsettling version only you are burdened with, doing dark things you can’t control or escape. Each case is unique, unpredictable, and terrifying enough to drive anyone mad. The concept alone gave me chills.
I especially loved the dynamic between Anita and Joshua. Their teamwork, resilience, and slow-building bond created a sweet and human layer in contrast to the horror around them. Watching them rely on each other when the world turned against them made the story not just frightening, but deeply emotional and meaningful.
If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with imaginative plots, strong character development, and that “I can’t put this down” feeling — this book is a must-read. Rebecca is a fantastic writer and I can’t wait to see what she creates next.
The premise is chilling and incredibly original: when someone you love dies, a “Negative Image” of them returns and attaches itself to you — a distorted, unsettling version only you are burdened with, doing dark things you can’t control or escape. Each case is unique, unpredictable, and terrifying enough to drive anyone mad. The concept alone gave me chills.
I especially loved the dynamic between Anita and Joshua. Their teamwork, resilience, and slow-building bond created a sweet and human layer in contrast to the horror around them. Watching them rely on each other when the world turned against them made the story not just frightening, but deeply emotional and meaningful.
If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with imaginative plots, strong character development, and that “I can’t put this down” feeling — this book is a must-read. Rebecca is a fantastic writer and I can’t wait to see what she creates next.
May 29, 2025
This premise, a new take on haunting, really pulled me in!
A worldwide phenomenon begins in which people’s deceased loved ones seemingly return to them as a “Negative Image” (NI) entity that follows them around with dark holes for eyes and insults that only the afflicted can hear. Apparently, the NIs’ only goals are to tear down and destroy those to which they return.
Naturally, the public panics and spreads rumors and lies about the afflicted—even proposing imprisonment—under the guise of “safety.”
The narrator teams up with another person affected by the new pandemic of sorts to figure out why the NIs are there and what they can do to get rid of them.
Sometimes, I was annoyed by both the romantic subplot/tension and the cheesy dialogues/internal monologues.
In addition, I feel the ending was rushed and maybe even a bit too simple of a wrap up.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this. The events and investigation were intriguing, and the exploration of grief was well done.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique supernatural horror and I think it is a pretty good debut!
**Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for access to the ebook
A worldwide phenomenon begins in which people’s deceased loved ones seemingly return to them as a “Negative Image” (NI) entity that follows them around with dark holes for eyes and insults that only the afflicted can hear. Apparently, the NIs’ only goals are to tear down and destroy those to which they return.
Naturally, the public panics and spreads rumors and lies about the afflicted—even proposing imprisonment—under the guise of “safety.”
The narrator teams up with another person affected by the new pandemic of sorts to figure out why the NIs are there and what they can do to get rid of them.
Sometimes, I was annoyed by both the romantic subplot/tension and the cheesy dialogues/internal monologues.
In addition, I feel the ending was rushed and maybe even a bit too simple of a wrap up.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this. The events and investigation were intriguing, and the exploration of grief was well done.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique supernatural horror and I think it is a pretty good debut!
**Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for access to the ebook
August 15, 2025
What if you lost a loved one, only to be taunted by their 'negative image' after their death? A mean, cruel and dangerous ghostly version of who they were when they were alive. Everyone can see them, but only you can hear the terrible things they say to you. Shunned by society, those affected become isolated from everyone around them who are frightened by the spectral images that follow the victims.
This is what happens to Anita Walsh after her husband's sudden death. Alone with no one to help her, she connects with a client who is also being haunted by his deceased wife. Together, they are desperate to find the answers to why their loved ones have returned to torment them.
A frightening supernatural horror which explores the impact of grief and betrayal. The 'Negative Images' in this story and their continued harassment of their victims is exhausting and terrifying. While I felt the start of the story progressed a little too quickly, I'm glad I kept reading as the story drew me in and would recommend this book for those that enjoy this genre.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co for the opportunity to read and review this book..
This is what happens to Anita Walsh after her husband's sudden death. Alone with no one to help her, she connects with a client who is also being haunted by his deceased wife. Together, they are desperate to find the answers to why their loved ones have returned to torment them.
A frightening supernatural horror which explores the impact of grief and betrayal. The 'Negative Images' in this story and their continued harassment of their victims is exhausting and terrifying. While I felt the start of the story progressed a little too quickly, I'm glad I kept reading as the story drew me in and would recommend this book for those that enjoy this genre.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co for the opportunity to read and review this book..
July 16, 2025
There was a lot of potential in this book, but ultimately, I feel like there was a missed opportunity for something great.
Ghost like creatures come back to haunt the closest person of the recently deceased. They appear like the person who died but with black eyes. They can be seen by everyone, but only the loved one that they have attached to is able to understand what they're saying. To everyone else, when they speak, it just sounds like static.
It was a very interesting idea for a book. I loved how unique it was. It just felt like the resulting book was an unfinished concept. The ending felt rushed and didn't fully explore the interesting parts of the idea or flesh out the details. I feel like the last third of the book written differently could've made for something really good and different.
This is a debut, though, so I feel like I have to give the author some slack because their writing will only improve with time, and this was a create idea just lacking some execution.
Thank you, Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, NetGalley, and Rise Action Publishing Co. for the ARC of this book.
Ghost like creatures come back to haunt the closest person of the recently deceased. They appear like the person who died but with black eyes. They can be seen by everyone, but only the loved one that they have attached to is able to understand what they're saying. To everyone else, when they speak, it just sounds like static.
It was a very interesting idea for a book. I loved how unique it was. It just felt like the resulting book was an unfinished concept. The ending felt rushed and didn't fully explore the interesting parts of the idea or flesh out the details. I feel like the last third of the book written differently could've made for something really good and different.
This is a debut, though, so I feel like I have to give the author some slack because their writing will only improve with time, and this was a create idea just lacking some execution.
Thank you, Rebecca Schier-Akamelu, NetGalley, and Rise Action Publishing Co. for the ARC of this book.
April 13, 2025
I received an ARC for this book from NetGalley for free.
In this debut novel some people start to suffer from a phenomenon where they end up haunted by a apparition resembling their dead loved one. Other people can see them but only the person haunted by them, can hear all the abuse they hurl at them. Society starts calling them Negative Image.
I enjoyed the concept of the story and found the aspect of how society reacts to, and starts to deal with, this new kind of "pandemic" really interesting. I also found the authors writing style very straight forward and easy to read.
From a story perspective I felt that things progressed quite slow and revolved around similar scenes for too long. Towards the end there comes more twists and turns but the story conclusion felt little rushed and I wish we had started preparing for the climax earlier.
Still an overall enjoyable reading experience and I'm keeping my eye open for the authors future work as well.
In this debut novel some people start to suffer from a phenomenon where they end up haunted by a apparition resembling their dead loved one. Other people can see them but only the person haunted by them, can hear all the abuse they hurl at them. Society starts calling them Negative Image.
I enjoyed the concept of the story and found the aspect of how society reacts to, and starts to deal with, this new kind of "pandemic" really interesting. I also found the authors writing style very straight forward and easy to read.
From a story perspective I felt that things progressed quite slow and revolved around similar scenes for too long. Towards the end there comes more twists and turns but the story conclusion felt little rushed and I wish we had started preparing for the climax earlier.
Still an overall enjoyable reading experience and I'm keeping my eye open for the authors future work as well.
June 6, 2025
When Anita loses her husband, Dan, it is vicious and shocking to her system. While she is still experiencing that grief and settling into her new life, she discovers that Dan has come back to life- with a much darker twist. The news starts showcasing the Negative Image, which is a copy of the individual that passes away that persists in stalking their loved ones. The haunting image of the NI leaves behind nightmarish scenarios, not solely because it's impossible to grieve when the person you just physically buried shows back up to follow you around. I think the concept was very cool, but it didn't deliver for me mostly because I felt no connection to any of the characters. While stellar in theory, the execution fell flat for me. What was tangentially spooky could have really been upped with a touch more focus on the details and characters. Thanks to the publisher for allowing me the chance to read and review an Earc! All opinions are my own.
December 8, 2025
This was a great psychological horror with supernatural elements. The beginning was slightly slow and the story itself is not fast paced, but the steady build really worked. Once it settled into its rhythm, it kept me fully engaged. It reminded me of a supernatural Black Mirror episode with its eerie atmosphere and inventive concept.
Anita’s haunting by her husband’s Negative Image turns grief into something weaponized, twisting memories into psychological torment. Watching her relationships, career, and sense of self deteriorate created a creeping dread that felt incredibly realistic. The larger worldbuilding around NIs and the rising extremism added an unsettling layer that made the story even more compelling.
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu delivers a thoughtful, haunting debut that blends emotional depth with supernatural terror. A memorable read for anyone who loves psychological and grief-centered horror!
Anita’s haunting by her husband’s Negative Image turns grief into something weaponized, twisting memories into psychological torment. Watching her relationships, career, and sense of self deteriorate created a creeping dread that felt incredibly realistic. The larger worldbuilding around NIs and the rising extremism added an unsettling layer that made the story even more compelling.
Rebecca Schier-Akamelu delivers a thoughtful, haunting debut that blends emotional depth with supernatural terror. A memorable read for anyone who loves psychological and grief-centered horror!
May 23, 2025
Negative Images is one of those books that quietly creeps under your skin and stays there. It's part psychological horror, part grief-fueled drama, and it does a fantastic job of blending eerie supernatural elements with deeply personal emotional weight. The writing is sharp and unpretentious, which makes the more unsettling moments hit even harder.
What really stands out is how Schier-Akamelu explores the idea of grief not just as sadness, but as something that can warp perception and reality. The main character’s journey is both heartbreaking and gripping, and the world-building around the “Negative Images” concept is genuinely original.
If you like horror that’s more about atmosphere and psychological tension than gore, and if you’re into stories that dig into human emotion in a raw, unflinching way, this is definitely worth your time.
What really stands out is how Schier-Akamelu explores the idea of grief not just as sadness, but as something that can warp perception and reality. The main character’s journey is both heartbreaking and gripping, and the world-building around the “Negative Images” concept is genuinely original.
If you like horror that’s more about atmosphere and psychological tension than gore, and if you’re into stories that dig into human emotion in a raw, unflinching way, this is definitely worth your time.
June 14, 2025
I was able to get this ARC through NetGalley.
This book gave off creepy vibes the entire time while uncovering a different form of grief.
Starting off with a worldwide occurrence when someone’s loved one is deceased, and then returning as a Negative Image or NI. They follow the family member that’s still alive speaking only in a way they are able to understand. Not only are they appearing in gruesome ways the things they are speaking are incredibly unlike them.
As this phenomenon continues to grow throughout the world the worry and fear intensify. What happens when the NIs go too far? How can you properly grieve when you are in constant fear??
I enjoyed this book and the exploration of grief. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a creepy story revolving around what ifs that haven’t been explored before.
This book gave off creepy vibes the entire time while uncovering a different form of grief.
Starting off with a worldwide occurrence when someone’s loved one is deceased, and then returning as a Negative Image or NI. They follow the family member that’s still alive speaking only in a way they are able to understand. Not only are they appearing in gruesome ways the things they are speaking are incredibly unlike them.
As this phenomenon continues to grow throughout the world the worry and fear intensify. What happens when the NIs go too far? How can you properly grieve when you are in constant fear??
I enjoyed this book and the exploration of grief. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a creepy story revolving around what ifs that haven’t been explored before.
August 5, 2025
What a unique book to portray grief.
Negative Images is an engaging horror story that explores death and grief. The story follows Anita, who just lost her husband, Dan and while she is still processing the grief and settling into her new life, she discovers that Dan has come back to life, starting to haunt her. A negative image is a worldwide phenomenon in which the individual that passes away persists in stalking their loved ones; they could be affecting your mental health, guilt-tripping, and being aggressive. At first, it was not clear what the purpose of the negative image appearing and haunting their loved one was, but the concept was well done. However, I don't feel much connection to the character, and I feel like the story dragged out a little bit.
Overall, I enjoy my time reading this. Thank you, Netgalley for this ARC.
Negative Images is an engaging horror story that explores death and grief. The story follows Anita, who just lost her husband, Dan and while she is still processing the grief and settling into her new life, she discovers that Dan has come back to life, starting to haunt her. A negative image is a worldwide phenomenon in which the individual that passes away persists in stalking their loved ones; they could be affecting your mental health, guilt-tripping, and being aggressive. At first, it was not clear what the purpose of the negative image appearing and haunting their loved one was, but the concept was well done. However, I don't feel much connection to the character, and I feel like the story dragged out a little bit.
Overall, I enjoy my time reading this. Thank you, Netgalley for this ARC.
August 18, 2025
You know that nagging voice in your head that tells you you’re awful and everything you do doesn’t matter and you’ll never be good enough? What if that voice was externalized and materialized in the form of a dead loved one?
This becomes the reality for this world. This is what becomes the reality for Anita, Joshua, and many others. Living in a world that does not understand why people are being haunted by their dead loved ones, their “Negative Images”, creates a hostile environment for anyone who has one. This psychological horror was worth reading!
#ThxNetGalley #RebeccaSchier-Akamelu #NegativeImages
Merged review:
You know that nagging voice in your head that tells you you’re awful and everything you do doesn’t matter and you’ll never be good enough? What if that voice was externalized and materialized in the form of a dead loved one?
This becomes the reality for this world. This is what becomes the reality for Anita, Joshua, and many others. Living in a world that does not understand why people are being haunted by their dead loved ones, their “Negative Images”, creates a hostile environment for anyone who has one. This psychological horror was worth reading!
#ThxNetGalley #RebeccaSchier-Akamelu #NegativeImages
This becomes the reality for this world. This is what becomes the reality for Anita, Joshua, and many others. Living in a world that does not understand why people are being haunted by their dead loved ones, their “Negative Images”, creates a hostile environment for anyone who has one. This psychological horror was worth reading!
#ThxNetGalley #RebeccaSchier-Akamelu #NegativeImages
Merged review:
You know that nagging voice in your head that tells you you’re awful and everything you do doesn’t matter and you’ll never be good enough? What if that voice was externalized and materialized in the form of a dead loved one?
This becomes the reality for this world. This is what becomes the reality for Anita, Joshua, and many others. Living in a world that does not understand why people are being haunted by their dead loved ones, their “Negative Images”, creates a hostile environment for anyone who has one. This psychological horror was worth reading!
#ThxNetGalley #RebeccaSchier-Akamelu #NegativeImages
April 22, 2025
Schier-Akamelu masterfully blends psychological horror with social commentary, exploring themes of loss, memory, and the lengths to which people will go to escape their pasts. The narrative is both intimate and expansive, delving into Anita’s personal struggles while also painting a broader picture of a society on the brink..
It was a little slow at times for me and I lost my attention a few times but overall it was an interesting read!
Thank you NetGallery for the opportunity to read this book!
It was a little slow at times for me and I lost my attention a few times but overall it was an interesting read!
Thank you NetGallery for the opportunity to read this book!
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