Andrew Koval on Tech Dystopia, Artistic Rebirth, and His Debut Novel Digital Rapture

What happens when our corporate-driven technological ambitions overtake our shared humanity? In his compelling debut novel, Digital Rapture, Washington, D.C.-area author Andrew Koval tackles this exact question—delivering a darkly realistic, gripping vision of sci-fi realism that hits dangerously close to home.

Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight Andrew, explore the creative journey behind his book, and dive into the haunting world he’s constructed.

Meet the Author: From Childhood Storyteller to Sci-Fi Voice

For Andrew Koval, creative writing was an early spark. As a kid, he spent Friday mornings in seventh-grade English class entertaining his classmates with stories, later fueling his passion in a high school creative writing elective. But like many writers, life took a detour: Andrew initially put his artistic ambitions on hold to pursue a practical degree and career path.

That all changed during the quiet, unpredictable weeks at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Picking up journaling and creative writing as a hobby to navigate the times, Andrew rediscovered his voice—and hasn't stopped writing since. Over nearly two years of writing, revising, and editing, that spark evolved into his impressive debut novel, Digital Rapture.

When he isn’t crafting immersive fiction, Andrew embraces the balance of life in the Washington, D.C. area. You can find him running, gardening, and enjoying time outdoors—whether hiking through local parks and Eastern Appalachia or crabbing along tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay. He loves exploring new neighborhood events and restaurants alongside his wife, daughter, dog, family, and friends.

About the Book: Digital Rapture

"Find out what happens after an advertising-driven mind upload and coerced mass-suicide event, as told by the workers left behind."

Set against the backdrop of a crippled economy and global unrest, Digital Rapture follows Zoey and Stephen—two essential workers in a perimeter-secured town dominated by FederalTech JV, a tech conglomerate constructing a massive, mysterious data center.

As young people are drafted and captured in an out-of-control overseas conflict, targeted advertisements begin offering a solution to the community's overwhelming despair: Uplink, a promised digital afterlife that guarantees harmony—at the cost of the physical body.

When "Uplink Day" arrives, taking loved ones away forever, Zoey and Stephen are left behind in a wake of grief and regret. But another technology looms over them: Interface, a brain-AI connection touted as the ultimate workplace aid and mental health fix. As job security vanishes and dependency peaks, Zoey and Stephen face an agonizing choice in an increasingly coercive world.

Why You Should Read It

"Digital Rapture" bridges the gap between dark speculative fiction and contemporary realism. With its sharp reflection of our modern tech landscape, corporate overreach, and existential anxiety, it’s a story guaranteed to disturb, enthrall, and activate readers across all genres.

Get Your Copy of "Digital Rapture" Today!

Digital Rapture is available now in print (by SelfPublishingUs) on Amazon and other digital platforms, with an audiobook adaptation coming soon! www.andrew-koval.com

Join us in celebrating Andrew Koval's remarkable debut, and dive into one of 2026’s most provocative dark sci-fi releases.