Are You Okay and Other Stories

Alan Rice’s Are You Okay? and Other Stories is a collection that explores themes of isolation, perception, and the line between reality and the unknown. The stories range from psychological suspense to quiet horror, with characters caught in moments of realization or uncertainty.

The collection opens with Eddie, a story that examines guilt and morality through an unexpected interaction between a businessman and a homeless man. The narrative unfolds in a seemingly straightforward manner, but a creeping sense of dread builds to an unsettling conclusion. The Seventh Wave explores memory and the inexorable pull of the past, set against the backdrop of a remote island. Rice captures the isolation of the landscape and its effect on the protagonist, blurring the line between what is real and what is imagined.

In No, Thank You, Rice demonstrates his ability to extract tension from everyday social exchanges. A simple refusal sets off a series of events that reveal how politeness and personal boundaries can be subtly tested. Meanwhile, Are You Okay?, the title story, delves into themes of emotional distance and unspoken pain, leaving the reader with a quiet but lasting impression.

Throughout the collection, Rice favors a subtle approach to storytelling. There are no grand twists or explicit horrors; instead, the unease creeps in through small, almost imperceptible shifts in tone and perspective. The prose is clear and unembellished, focusing on internal conflicts and understated moments of transformation.

The stories vary in pace and intensity, some leaning more toward introspective literary fiction while others incorporate elements of mystery or the supernatural. Rice’s style may appeal to readers who appreciate psychological depth and ambiguity, though those seeking high-action plots or traditional horror may find the stories more subdued.

Are You Okay? and Other Stories is a thoughtful and atmospheric collection that invites readers to reflect on the unseen forces—both external and internal—that shape our lives. Rice’s quiet, deliberate storytelling leaves much open to interpretation, making this a book that lingers in the mind long after it is finished.