Shawn is a scientist developing the formula for a drug that may cure blindness by stimulating another area of the brain that controls perception. When he surreptitiously tests the drug on himself, he accidentally accesses a neural pathway that appears to allow him to communicate with a complete stranger through telepathy instead. When Shawn finally discovers the significance of their connection and of the drug’s true effects, it is too late to stop the damage their intimate friendship has set in motion to unfold.

“Merging bio-medical science-fiction with thrilling mystery and body horror, Optic Nerve approaches post-pandemic literature in a refreshing, unique way that is sure to leave you thinking long after you close the book.” (Holly Rae Garcia, author of Parachute)

"Rebecca Rowland masterfully crafts a tale of understated, psychological sci-fi horror that pulls you in with its realistic, relatable characters. When the horror rears its ghastly head, you'll feel
like you've been in a car accident." (Jon Steffens, author of the Splatterpunk Award-nominated The God in the Hills)

“An intriguing novella of the not-so-far future with an unexpected and clever ending.” (Frederick Pangbourne, author of Dreamers of the Tomb)