RUOK?: A Horror Story in Texts

by Andy Futuro

Step into the unknown with RUOK? by Andy Futuro—a horror thriller that redefines suspense for the digital age.
Told entirely through text messages, RUOK? pulls you into the lives of two teens whose world unravels one message at a time.
Rori’s father is gone—and what looked like an accident was anything but. Her quest for the truth draws her into encrypted secrets, shadowy corporations, and an abandoned lab that hides more than just evidence. With every new thread uncovered, she’s pushed closer to a truth no one wants her to find.
But she’s never really alone. Thousands of miles away, Rori’s best friend James is her only lifeline. His messages offer comfort while he struggles to adjust to a new home, but even the warmest text can’t keep the darkness at bay. As Rori spirals deeper, cryptic messages begin to arrive—from sources both living and… not.
Perfect for fans of fast-paced horrors, psychological thrillers, and experimental fiction, RUOK? combines heart-pounding tension with the intimacy of real conversations. The result is a story that’s as emotionally raw as it is unputdownable.

Why Readers Love RUOK?Inventive Experience a thriller that feels uniquely authentic, told entirely through texts that capture the raw immediacy of teen communication.
A masterful blend of Equal parts horror, mystery, and emotional drama, this story is as unsettling as it is deeply human.
Eerie, immersive The minimalist format heightens suspense, letting readers fill in the terrifying blanks between each message.
Fast-paced yet Readers race through the pages, yet the questions it raises about grief, trust, and the unknown linger long after the last message is sent.
Perfect for fans modern horror, experimental fiction, and anyone who has ever wondered what secrets are hiding in a text thread.
Are you ready for the next message?
Order RUOK? by Andy Futuro today—and discover the secrets waiting beyond the next text.

Genres: Thriller, Horror

146 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 7, 2024

About the author

Dark futures. Twisted laughs. Stories you won't forget.

Andy Futuro is an acclaimed American author known for his bold, genre-bending storytelling that fuses elements of science fiction, cyberpunk, horror, noir, and absurdist fiction into something wholly unique. The creator of five riveting books—including "Rooting for the Apocalypse: A Dark Comedy" and the cult cyber-noir hit "No Dogs in Philly"—Futuro’s work is celebrated for its razor-sharp wit, immersive worlds, and unforgettable characters.

About the Author

Andy Futuro transports readers to dystopian futures and gritty cityscapes, unafraid to explore the strange, the darkly humorous, and the profoundly human.
With tales ranging from eerie mysteries told through modern text messages to epic detective sagas featuring tough protagonists and mind-bending tech, Futuro’s books are praised for their stylish prose and captivating ideas.
His writing has drawn comparisons to the likes of Phillip Marlowe, William Gibson, and even H.P. Lovecraft for his blend of noir, speculative fiction, and cosmic horror.
Whether conjuring feverish visions of future Philadelphia or crafting intimate, surreal dramas, Andy Futuro invites readers into worlds where nothing is quite as it seems—and every page holds a new surprise.

Reviews

[A Mac (on hiatus)]

Actual Rating 3.5

I was drawn to this one due to the format – a horror story told completely in texts? I had to see what it was about. And honestly, the author did a pretty good job creating an immersive story using a somewhat limiting medium. While you don’t get the typical character development found in books using a traditional format, there’s enough to make the characters feel real and keep you interested in what’s happening to them. I do think a few more details relating to the characters’ relationship to each other would have helped to ground the story at the beginning, but I still worked well as is.

It’s hard not to be a little disappointed by the ending – because it is told through texts, there’s no real way to get complete resolution. Despite the open-ended conclusion, it was still mostly satisfying. It did make me wonder if an epilogue or something along those lines would have been beneficial.

This horror tale is worth reading if you enjoy found-footage horror and don’t mind endings that aren’t fully detailed.

[Kyra Leigh]

I enjoyed the premise of the story told through text messages. It made this unique and quite intriguing. I wanted more out of the story and the way it ended. I'm a bit salty; I was aware it was going to be open-ended, but I've loads of questions that I believe would have made this better for me. Thank you to the publisher and booksirens for this ARC! 

[Crystal]

RUOK? had me tapping my kindle like I was snooping through someone’s private messages at 3 a.m., zero shame, full obsession.

This whole book is told entirely through texts, which means my nosy little gremlin brain was THRIVING. One minute I’m vibing with Rori and James being sweet and chaotic besties, and the next I’m clutching my phone like it’s going to start texting me back.

The tension? Unhinged.
The atmosphere? Creeping up my spine like a notification I absolutely wasn’t ready for.
And the twists? I swear I blinked and suddenly the story was dragging me down a rabbit hole full of secrets, ghosts, science, and absolutely no emotional stability.

Andy Futuro really said:
“What if I trap you inside a text thread and make you terrified of your own phone?”
And honestly… fair.

The way this book balances heart, horror, and pure tech-age dread is so addictive I didn’t even realize how fast I was devouring it. I finished it and immediately stared at my messages like, “If something replies to me that shouldn’t… no it didn’t.”

Chaotic, eerie, and unexpectedly emotional — the perfect digital-age nightmare.

Are you ready for the next message?
Because I wasn’t. And I loved every second.

thank you for the gifted e arc. All opinions are my own

[AgoraphoBook Reviews]

RUOK?  (a horror story in texts)
Andy Futuro 

4 / 5

This was really well done. It feels like a (really) creepy pasta. 

I read it in a single sitting, needing to see where the story went. 

I could compare it to a combination of a specific horror novel and horror movie, but that would spoil it, so I'll leave that up to you to discover. 

I didn't love how it ended ... but only because it felt a bit unfinished to me, personally. It certainly wasn't a bad ending, and it didn't really alter my enjoyment. I just wanted a bit more ...

Epistolary novels are some of my favorites ... I think it stems from the "found footage horror movie junkie" in me ... And I guess some of the best leave us wanting more.

This one, friends, is a real winner. Give it a shot. I think you'll enjoy.

4 / 5

[Shh I am Reading]

I was excited to read a novel written through texts, and then it just fell short for me. It was the stylistic choice the author made where we didn't really know who was talking at first, instead of specifying who the two were and just leaving it out for me to figure out, that was such a downer. It'd be nice to just know who is talking. Furthermore, it would have flowed a lot better.

Otherwise, the story was good. I wouldn't call it a horror but definitely a thriller.

I'd love to know more about the history of the abandoned place where her dad was working. What kind of power it had to pull his sanity apart in such a short amount of time.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lara]

RUOK?: A Horror Story in Texts is a chilling and uniquely crafted horror novel. Told entirely through text messages, it follows the story of Rori, a teenager unraveling a mysterious puzzle left by her father. As she pieces together the clues, she discovers sinister truths about her father and the shadowy place where he worked.

Why did I decide to read this novel?
I’ve been exploring more horror novels lately, and when I came across this ARC on BookSirens, I was immediately intrigued. The striking art style of the cover caught my eye, and the concept of a story told entirely through text messages felt fresh and different. I couldn’t resist seeing how the format would play out in a horror setting.

What did I love about the book?
The text-message format made this such a quick and immersive read. It felt as though I was peeking into a private conversation, which added an extra layer of tension and mystery. Since we only see what the characters choose to say to each other, there’s an air of uncertainty and suspense that keeps building as the story progresses.

I loved how the narrative escalates—starting slow and then plunging into something dark, eerie, and deeply unsettling. The ambiguity throughout the story works so well for a horror novel, leaving you questioning what’s real and what’s imagined. Even by the end, that sense of unease lingers, which is exactly what you’d want in this genre.

What could have been better?
I wish the book had been just a little longer to dive deeper into the characters, the world, and the backstory. The text-only format, while effective, does leave gaps in our understanding of who these characters really are and the world they inhabit.

Also, while I understand that open endings work well for horror stories, I personally prefer a bit more closure. There were lingering questions that left me wanting more, even though that lingering unease is part of what makes this book so unsettling.

Would I recommend this book?
Yes! Despite its brevity and open ending, this is a gripping, unconventional horror story that delivers plenty of suspense. If you’re looking for something quick, creative, and spine-chilling, RUOK? is definitely worth a read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Theresa Fasanelli]

R u ok" is a very heartfelt and relatable story. The book is written entirely in text messages between the main character, following her dad's untimely passing, and her best friend. The themes are raw and real, and the exchanges between the girl and her best friend feel like the kind of messages you'd only share with someone you trust completely.


I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

The storyline made it impossible for me to put the book down. As we follow the main character navigating the messy process of grief while sharing everything with her best friend, it draws us in, making us feel like we're experiencing events firsthand rather than reading from an outsider's perspective.

As the plot thickens and the elements of mystery and suspense build, I found myself reading faster and faster, holding my breath in anticipation.

Author: ANDY FUTURO
.

[Keith Long]

RUOK? is a creative thriller/horror story told entirely through texts. I was immediately intrigued by the idea and I think the execution here is excellent — amplified by the format visibly resembling texts. There is a lot of subtext that made me feel as though I were reading someone’s text history, not privy to the vast relationship between and behind the two. I think that fits the bill for real life. You get glimpses of things through what is unsaid. It’s a solid story told in a really neat format and I sped right though it because I liked it so much. The only personal critique I got — just something I felt would’ve made the ending pop-off more: SPOILER. I think the ending texts would’ve been more terrifying and effective if they were punctuated by the occasional message from… not-Rori (forgot the name, sorry lol). Even if there was a “Message Failed to Send” attached to it. But, the ending was still very satisfactory for me and I very much enjoyed this unique story.

[Makayla Jenkins]

This book is written in text messages. That intrigued me because I figured that’s a really interesting way to tell a story. It didn’t immersive me, however. The characters voices were strong, and I liked that. It was a super fast read, obviously, since it was in text messages. It was creepy for a minute when she was going to the shack, but at the end she was texting everything she did, as she did it. I think it would’ve been more impactful if she sent a couple of bigger texts saying what had just happened. Then maybe a text from him sent as a sort of epilogue filling in readers questions? I would’ve liked that better. The rating was 3.5, which I would’ve rounded up to a 4, but I knocked .5 off because the similarity between this story and a movie called Mirrors (2008) is extremely striking.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sarah Karasek]

So fucking good! Maybe it's all the eerie similarities to my life, but I couldn't stop reading (lost my dad a few years ago; he also worked at a security company where employees died similarly; the book starts on my birthday; I live in PA; etc.). Finished the whole book in one day. I thought I fell in love with No Dogs in Philly, but this is a whole other level of awesome.

Futuro's use of text messages to tell the story is flawless. As someone who enjoys lost phone games (and is currently trying to write one), I was immediately sucked in. I worried about the characters and their friendship. I wanted to solve the mystery, even if there wasn't one. My heart actually started racing!

Can we please have a sequel?! Idc if I have to empty my bank account to afford it. ...Okay, maybe not that far, but pretty please with a cherry on top? Or a flaming hot Cheeto?

[Chase N]

Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book offers a chilling and unique story told entirely through text messages. The format is fascinating yet unsettling, making you feel like you’re reading something you shouldn’t. Despite being short, it captures the sadness and brokenness of the characters, especially James, as he helplessly watches Rori spiral out of control.

The concept is brilliant, showing how much emotion can be conveyed through simple text bubbles. Horror fans will appreciate the eerie tension and the ending, which feels fitting even without a clear resolution. A quick, gripping read that stays with you.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Heather]

I remember when classic stories such as Romeo and Juliet were being reworked in Gen Z or text speak to appeal to a younger audience. I never read those because, as a fan of Shakespeare, books like that should be read in the original text, in my opinion.
Original stories, however, I could see it working.
This is a horror/ghost story that is told entirely in texts between two teens. The use of texting as a narrative style was a great way to capture the essence of contemporary communication, especially among teens. The way the author blends this modern format with a deeper, mysterious plot—complete with conspiracy, cryptic messages, and a ghostly element—creates an immersive reading experience.
The story revolves around two teens, Rori in Pennsylvania and her close friend James, who recently moved to Colorado. The death of Rori’s father and the isolation of James in a new school keeps the two teens texting their issues and problems to each other.
Through the texts, the story unfolds. Rori’s family was poor and her father would create games, codes and cryptic messages that she would have to decipher to win. Rori is convinced that her father left her one last message after his death. Between the text conversations between the two a conspiracy of military and corporate cover-ups that may have led to her father’s death emerge sending Rori down a rabbit hole all while James is struggling with being ostracized from his peers and trying to be there for his friend who seems to be spiraling. The choice to leave the ending ambiguous, with only the perspectives of Rori and James, keeps readers feeling as lost and confused as they are.
I gave this book a full five stars because it deserves it. The storytelling through text is inventive and unnerving, easy to follow along and the ending was expertly done.
This was a quick read but also a very good read. I was half- finished before I realized, that’s how well this story drags you in.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Megan Gibson]

Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was a fun little fast paced read right at Halloween time. The all text messaging format was something that I have not seen before in thriller novels and it made it a breeze to read through and kept my attention.

I think a little backstory and context on how James and Rory know each other and what their relationship is would have helped a bit, but overall all for a short story told totally through text messages I think it succeeded in telling an interesting story.

[Lori L.]

Wow! What a unique way to story tell, all in text messages. Rori's dad death becomes suspicious when she finds his diary. She begins to investigate and it really added to the suspense when there are days of James trying to get in touch with her and there's no answer. I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say that my heart was in my throat as Rori searches for answers at her dad's abandoned workplace. Great way to increase the creepy factor!! I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cici Perkins]

I fell in love with this cover, it's absolutely gorgeous. The summary got me intrigued. The way this book is written is one of the coolest concepts I've seen in forever. I loved it! I devoured it, literally within little over an hour. Rori's dad was in an "accident" leaving behind a puzzle for Rori to solve. Discovering the truth isn't all it's cracked up to be.

I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book, and it was an honor to read this. I could definitely use more books written like this! Phenomenal read! Definitely going to be following Andy Futuro's work.

[Cass Parrish]

I actually really liked this book. I was pleasantly surprised that I liked the format of the writing. At first I was unsure if my brain was going to be able to process it all but once the story kicked off and the suspense started to build it was brilliant. I actually finished this in like….3 hours. A great little story. I subscribed to the authors website and I can't wait to read more of his works.

[Danielle Meier]

Wow what a roller coaster ride! This novella starts out strong and keeps you sucked in. I read it in two sittings, I couldn't put it down. It was a quick and easy read that grabs you and doesn't let go. I love that the whole thing is written in text message form, it really made the story more intriguing. RU OK? had so many twists and turns I never knew what was coming next. If you're looking for your next quick horror read, look no further than RU OK?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Thomas Norford]

I enjoyed this a lot. The format - it's entirely told through texts - means the pages fly by, but the author still manages to craft believable characters and an engrossing plot with a satisfying pay off. A fine little treat for horror fans, this is the literary equivalent of the best of found footage horror.

[Alexis]

Okay , so this was really cool ! I love how everything was written in text format. It made me feel like I was texting Rori myself. I have so many questions though ?!?! Aghhh I wish it wouldn’t have ended how it did. Can we get a backstory on dad ? And another book with what they find out after reading Rori’s text ?! PLZZZZZ .

[Anja Peerdeman]

This is the first book I’ve ever read which is written in solely text messages,pretty
unique!

The conversation between Rory and James starts rather normal, but it increases in weirdness with every chapter, making you not want to stop reading.

And thanks, Andy, for the way you ended the story.
Making my imagination go all rampant.
Thanks.

[Kathy Enriquez]

Loved how this was written!! Reminds me of the moving Searching with John Cho. But now you're reading a whole story that's made up of text messages. I love the different ways one can use to tell a story.

[Laura Smith]

RU OK? BY ANDY FUTURO.
Well this was fun.
Cover is beautiful.
Fast paced horror story told all in text messages.
Creepy vibes and puzzle solving.
I've never read a book that's told in text message before and thought it was great .
I read this book within an hour.

[MAXINEMUSTREADD]

I FRICKEN LOVED THIS!!! I was in a slump and this took me out of it! I laughed and felt creeped out in the best ways!

Wow this one is not very long but she packs a punch and the text messages were so refreshing as a writing style!

I can’t wait to read more by Andy!!

[Sam Flagello]

Holy Ghost

I read this book in about 1 sitting total. So insane, the twist and turns really got me hooked. Reading in the form of text just has something about it for my nosey self.

[Emily]

I don’t usually like horror books but I finished this in one sitting. Seriously captivating.

[Jonathan Damato]

not great

The format does nothing to elevate the material. Feels like reading someone text to themself. The worst thing a horror novel can be is boring and that’s what we have here

[Deborah Smith]

A quick read told through texts. You never really find out what happened, but it creeps you out.

[Jeffery Smith]

A good quick read. I thought this was an imaginative way to tell a story. I highly recommend this book.

[Christina Pfeiffer]

RUOK?
by Andy Futuro
Release: 10/7/24
Page count: 153
KU: No. Hoopla: Yes

Synopsis: Rori’s dad died in a car accident … or did he? While Rory plays detective, her best friend, James, tries to start a new life in Colorado.

First line: “Hey Rori…”

Favorite line: “Dad loved me so damn much he spent his free time trying to make my life feel like an adventure.”

Thoughts: This entire book is in text messages and somehow it more than works. We relate to all the characters in some way. It just… it’s perfect.

Rating: 5/5

Other recommendations: NO DOGS IN PHILLY, CLOUD COUNTRY: AN EPIC SCI-FI FANTASY THRILLER