Are You in the House Alone? unfolds a vivid and unembellished portrayal of the terror and isolation often endured by survivors of rape. Through the voice of Gail Osburne, readers journey through her harrowing ordeal—being marked as a target for sexual assault, enduring the dehumanizing violation, and weathering the cold gaze of public judgment. The narrative unveils the skewed lenses through which Americans often view rape victims, delving into the multifaceted dimensions of the crime: its sexual, medical, legal, and societal impacts. Gail confronts the harsh reality that some assume she is to blame for her attack, while old friends falter in their support, unable to bridge the chasm her trauma has wrought. In her distress, she retreats into a solitary prison of her own making, isolating herself from those who once stood beside her.

The novel does not merely recount the standard protocols followed by police, healthcare providers, and attorneys when handling reported rape cases. Peck's work transcends the bounds of a mere fictionalized documentary. The narrative stirs the reader's emotions, weaving in captivating characters and painting a picture of life where the rape is central, yet not the solitary challenge. It reflects a microcosm of real life, populated by credible individuals, each grappling with their own complex issues that defy simple resolutions.