Just Another Body

C C Neil presents a collection of linked narratives centered on ordinary individuals facing the onset of a viral zombie outbreak. Set in northeastern New Mexico, the stories follow disparate figures including a teenage truck stop clerk, a nurse, prison staff and inmates, a United States Army Major, a child care worker, and an inmate within an institution for the criminally insane. These characters share no common background or profession, yet their lives intersect through a shared timeline as they attempt to survive the initial collapse of society. The book organizes these accounts to show how everyday citizens react when civilization begins to crumble. Readers will witness different strategies for running and hiding as the virus spreads. The narrative structure relies on the chronological alignment of these separate experiences rather than a single protagonist. This approach highlights the randomness of survival in such a scenario. The work draws upon the horror tradition of examining human behavior under extreme duress, focusing on the immediate chaos rather than long-term post-apocalyptic rebuilding. This collection suits readers who prefer fragmented narratives that emphasize atmosphere and character diversity over a linear plot. It may not appeal to those seeking a traditional hero’s journey or extensive world-building details. The focus remains tightly on the initial stages of the crisis, offering a grounded look at fear and desperation through multiple perspectives.