American Rapture by C.J. Leede

The novel American Rapture by C.J. Leede is a dystopian, apocalyptic horror story with strong thematic focuses on religious repression, sexuality, and societal collapse. The story follows Sophie, a young woman raised in a strict Catholic household, who embarks on a journey through a Midwest devastated by a virus that amplifies sexual desire in those infected. As Sophie searches for her family, she navigates a chaotic and dangerous landscape that touches on issues of faith, shame, and survival.

Key themes and keywords include:

• Apocalyptic Horror: The setting is a post-apocalyptic America plagued by a virus that brings chaos.
• Religious Repression: Explores how religious extremism and puritanical views affect personal identity, especially sexual expression.
• Survival and Sexuality: Sophie’s journey is not only about physical survival but also about grappling with her sexual repression and self-discovery.
• Body Horror and Transformation: The virus causes physical and mental transformations that echo the horrors of losing control of one's body and desires.

The book is intense, violent, and layered with commentary on faith, repression, and human nature​