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One Star
Every action has a consequence. But when Li posts a one-star review of a novel on her book blog, the results are far more frightening than she could ever have imagined.
Not every story was meant to have a happy ending.
ONE STAR is a previously unpublished horror short story, being released in The Behrg's upcoming short story collection--"The Passengers You Cannot See." It is the author's love letter to book bloggers and reviewers, and thus is being offered as a free download to any book reviewer in part to thank all those who have been a part of the author's journey. And if you haven't yet been a part, there's no better time than now to jump in that car and ride along. Oh, the vistas you will see.
Not every story was meant to have a happy ending.
ONE STAR is a previously unpublished horror short story, being released in The Behrg's upcoming short story collection--"The Passengers You Cannot See." It is the author's love letter to book bloggers and reviewers, and thus is being offered as a free download to any book reviewer in part to thank all those who have been a part of the author's journey. And if you haven't yet been a part, there's no better time than now to jump in that car and ride along. Oh, the vistas you will see.
17 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2019
15 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
The Behrg
13 books152 followersMy writing career began in the third grade when tasked with an assignment to write about rain. I opted to tell the story of a raindrop who decided life wasn't worth living and leapt to his death only to discover that really he was being reborn. (You know that whole life-cycle thing).
Yeah, I was a little twisted even back then. Thankfully my teacher encouraged my writing rather than send me for a psych evaluation... (that came later). Let's see...
I was a child actor and starred in recurring roles in Dynasty and Highway to Heaven, and was even in an episode of The Twilight Zone.
I dropped out of college to join a rockband.
I was kicked out of the Peter Pan ride at Disneyland for lobbing rocks onto toy houses.
I have a grave in my backya ...
Oh wait, this is a BIO not a CONFESSIONAL.
Bottom line: I love to write. Thankfully, my family puts up with it. The very act of creating something that might be slightly askew keeps me going. I'm drawn to dark fiction where I find an appreciation for the light. Horror, thrillers, suspense. Things that make you question your own reality or open your mind to look at the world a little differently than you might have before.
I'm grateful to all those who give an independent author like myself a chance.
Seriously. Thank you.
For more about me, my works, (my rants), and upcoming projects, please stop by: my website. I promise I don't bite.
(See, there's a reason they keep me muzzled).
Yeah, I was a little twisted even back then. Thankfully my teacher encouraged my writing rather than send me for a psych evaluation... (that came later). Let's see...
I was a child actor and starred in recurring roles in Dynasty and Highway to Heaven, and was even in an episode of The Twilight Zone.
I dropped out of college to join a rockband.
I was kicked out of the Peter Pan ride at Disneyland for lobbing rocks onto toy houses.
I have a grave in my backya ...
Oh wait, this is a BIO not a CONFESSIONAL.
Bottom line: I love to write. Thankfully, my family puts up with it. The very act of creating something that might be slightly askew keeps me going. I'm drawn to dark fiction where I find an appreciation for the light. Horror, thrillers, suspense. Things that make you question your own reality or open your mind to look at the world a little differently than you might have before.
I'm grateful to all those who give an independent author like myself a chance.
Seriously. Thank you.
For more about me, my works, (my rants), and upcoming projects, please stop by: my website. I promise I don't bite.
(See, there's a reason they keep me muzzled).
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
April 24, 2023
*3.5 stars *
As a book loving community here on Goodreads, we each create a platform in order to share our thoughts on various books, but of course, reading is a subjective matter, and our own background, life experiences, or culture can dictate how we view a particular story, but I doubt that any of us would intend to cause distress to an author. However, this is exactly what Li does when she posts a 1 star review for William Han’s ‘Lost Roll of Film’ little realising that it will be the final straw that will push him over the edge!
I can’t really say anything else because this is such a short story, but be assured it has a neat little twist!
As a book loving community here on Goodreads, we each create a platform in order to share our thoughts on various books, but of course, reading is a subjective matter, and our own background, life experiences, or culture can dictate how we view a particular story, but I doubt that any of us would intend to cause distress to an author. However, this is exactly what Li does when she posts a 1 star review for William Han’s ‘Lost Roll of Film’ little realising that it will be the final straw that will push him over the edge!
I can’t really say anything else because this is such a short story, but be assured it has a neat little twist!
December 17, 2019
Ohhhh I loved this! Read this!!!! Very clever 😍ending! Review to come when I am not so tired 🤣 Thanks Dita for this one 😘
December 15, 2019
I feel so manipulated and that's what it's all about. 😁
September 3, 2019
Yes - short, powerful and just a little bit perfect...
Read this, and you will think of it every time you give a one star review in the future -
just like you don't think about cows when you hear: "We need more cowbell!"
Read this, and you will think of it every time you give a one star review in the future -
just like you don't think about cows when you hear: "We need more cowbell!"
December 5, 2019
As book reviewers I think we have all experienced the dreaded one star reviews we have to write from time to time. Hey, it happens. Books are subjective. Some of my favorites have one star reviews and books that I have hated have other reviewers singing it's praises.
So this short little 17 page story is about one bloggers one star review and how this review pushed an author over the edge. Definitely some food for thought. 3 stars!
So this short little 17 page story is about one bloggers one star review and how this review pushed an author over the edge. Definitely some food for thought. 3 stars!
August 30, 2019
An okay but depressing little read. I kinda had a feeling where it was going.
August 23, 2019
Fiendishly clever! Never underestimate the workings of the creative mind.
August 21, 2019
THE DEDICATION from The Behrg - "To book reviewers everywhere. You are my heroes. (Regardless of how many stars you give)."
ONE STAR is a shocking and thought provoking read....in more ways than ONE.
Just a few words....
Li is a book reviewer/blogger who posted a ONE STAR book review that catastrophically impacted an author's life causing Li herself a great deal of stress and attention over the tragedy. You won't believe how it affected her......
Only 17 pages....and a freebie....that had me shaking my head at the end and wanting more from The Behrg! How clever and creative!
DON'T MISS this one or the Author's Notes!
August 6, 2019
I am not going to lie, I was scared to death to start this short story. The title is "One Star" and if you've been around the block as many times as I have, you already know how treacherous the world of the one star review can be for the reviewer. If the author is sensitive, having a bad day or simply cannot take any criticism about their book baby they and/or their fans could drop a world of hurt on you for ruining their career (when in reality their tantrum is likely the thing that'll do it). I'm not talking about shitty "you have atrocious taste and are a moron" comments left on your review. That's all part of this social media thing. I'm talking about real life danger. They might chase you down and hit you with a wine bottle, create a website and DOX you and spread falsehoods about you, attempt to sic a lawyer after you, call your place of work, create a petition in an attempt to make your name public knowledge on Amazon (thanks for boosting that one, Anne Rice), perhaps even do some snooping and locate your home address to pay you a little visit and give you a talking to. (NOTE: All of this shit has happened, if you want proof lemme know). But you can read some of it with linkage here .
So yeah, after all of this stuff, I am wary of the big, bad one star. I used to write light-hearted, silly one-star reviews like this one , this one , this one and this gem but I will now DNF if I hate something because it is never worth the time and potential hassle if someone is feeling slighted or may be slightly unstable and I have too many good books to read before some crazy person murders me.
Anyhow, I have some strong feelings on this matter as I was put on a "bad reviewer hit list" years ago for my open and big-mouthed book reviewing ways as were several well respected reviewer friends.
This story begins as a blogger is penning her final blog post. She has witnessed something so terrible that she is haunted enough to pull down her own blog because she feels her review sent an author off the deep end. I feared the worst, truly I did, but The Behrg promised this was a love letter to reviewers and I put my trust in his hands and he was not fooling around. There is a sinister turn and it surprised and pleased me very much. The things some people will do for money, for fame. . .
These are my quickie thoughts after a quickie read through but I plan to sit down and give it another read so I can chew on some of this stuff. It was super interesting and is worth a read. Thank you, The Behrg, for being one of the sane voices out here in the wilds!
And to all of you reviewer types who review day in, day out because you cannot stop YOU NEED TO READ THIS!
So yeah, after all of this stuff, I am wary of the big, bad one star. I used to write light-hearted, silly one-star reviews like this one , this one , this one and this gem but I will now DNF if I hate something because it is never worth the time and potential hassle if someone is feeling slighted or may be slightly unstable and I have too many good books to read before some crazy person murders me.
Anyhow, I have some strong feelings on this matter as I was put on a "bad reviewer hit list" years ago for my open and big-mouthed book reviewing ways as were several well respected reviewer friends.
This story begins as a blogger is penning her final blog post. She has witnessed something so terrible that she is haunted enough to pull down her own blog because she feels her review sent an author off the deep end. I feared the worst, truly I did, but The Behrg promised this was a love letter to reviewers and I put my trust in his hands and he was not fooling around. There is a sinister turn and it surprised and pleased me very much. The things some people will do for money, for fame. . .
These are my quickie thoughts after a quickie read through but I plan to sit down and give it another read so I can chew on some of this stuff. It was super interesting and is worth a read. Thank you, The Behrg, for being one of the sane voices out here in the wilds!
And to all of you reviewer types who review day in, day out because you cannot stop YOU NEED TO READ THIS!
December 8, 2019
Excerpt: “This will be the last blog entry here at Modern Maiden of Horror.
Li pauses from typing, and considers how best to approach her post. Opening paragraphs can turn a reader off as quickly as a 3 AM informercial.”
Another FUN short story, about a “One Star” review, this time from the blogger’s perspective!
I cannot say anymore...it’s only 17 pages!🤭
You will have to read it for yourself...
Li pauses from typing, and considers how best to approach her post. Opening paragraphs can turn a reader off as quickly as a 3 AM informercial.”
Another FUN short story, about a “One Star” review, this time from the blogger’s perspective!
I cannot say anymore...it’s only 17 pages!🤭
You will have to read it for yourself...
January 11, 2020
This was a good one! At only 17 pages, I can’t say much that won’t be a spoiler, but I’ll say that I love the homage paid to book bloggers here, and that I loved the way the story turned out. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but it wasn’t this, and I was pleasantly surprised! Definitely pick this one up for a quick, engaging, five minute read!
August 25, 2019
Very thought provoking
The narrator of the story Li, makes it clear that when you write a review you aren’t attacking the author but explaining why the book didn’t work for you. In my case, sometimes it’s mood but most likely because I didn’t care for the way it was written. ‘Reading is a subjective experience...’. The story is very clever, it’s short and to the point. I like what the author has to say at the end of the book. It won’t stop me being honest as someone will agree with me and as The Behrg says the most important thing is to have conversations about books!
The narrator of the story Li, makes it clear that when you write a review you aren’t attacking the author but explaining why the book didn’t work for you. In my case, sometimes it’s mood but most likely because I didn’t care for the way it was written. ‘Reading is a subjective experience...’. The story is very clever, it’s short and to the point. I like what the author has to say at the end of the book. It won’t stop me being honest as someone will agree with me and as The Behrg says the most important thing is to have conversations about books!
July 30, 2019
So, The Behrgs’ book, what can I say?
Firstly, I had to read it twice because it was one of those books. It was also very short, only 17 pages. But, OH MY DAYS, what a clever bloke you are Mr Behrg!
I’m not going to give anything away on the synopsis, you can get the lowdown here on Goodreads.
What I will say though is this;
If you’re a book blogger, reviewer, dark horror fan who doesn’t get too triggered by stuff, ‘ave a gander at this one.
To say this is a unique story is an UNDERSTATEMENT. I’ve never read anything like it. It is the most relevant read a book blogger will ever come across. I’ll tell you that now. It was a clever, thought provoking head mash which I awarded four stars.
When I finished it, I had to have a very large gin. And then I had to have another very large gin after the first large gin. Honestly. Thank god for gin.
I’ll finish by saying that I’m excited to read more from this author. I’m a big fan of horror, not usually short stories, but I’ve subscribed to The Behrg and have received three more FREE shorts which I look forward to reading. He has an unusual voice in horror, and it’s definitely caught my attention.
For my full review and other waffling about One Star/Low Rated books check out my blog post, there’s mentions of gin. And menopausal tendencies!
https://owlbesatreading.wordpress.com...
Firstly, I had to read it twice because it was one of those books. It was also very short, only 17 pages. But, OH MY DAYS, what a clever bloke you are Mr Behrg!
I’m not going to give anything away on the synopsis, you can get the lowdown here on Goodreads.
What I will say though is this;
If you’re a book blogger, reviewer, dark horror fan who doesn’t get too triggered by stuff, ‘ave a gander at this one.
To say this is a unique story is an UNDERSTATEMENT. I’ve never read anything like it. It is the most relevant read a book blogger will ever come across. I’ll tell you that now. It was a clever, thought provoking head mash which I awarded four stars.
When I finished it, I had to have a very large gin. And then I had to have another very large gin after the first large gin. Honestly. Thank god for gin.
I’ll finish by saying that I’m excited to read more from this author. I’m a big fan of horror, not usually short stories, but I’ve subscribed to The Behrg and have received three more FREE shorts which I look forward to reading. He has an unusual voice in horror, and it’s definitely caught my attention.
For my full review and other waffling about One Star/Low Rated books check out my blog post, there’s mentions of gin. And menopausal tendencies!
https://owlbesatreading.wordpress.com...
January 1, 2020
This was a great way to kick off 2020 for a committed reviewer - a free short story about the perils of writing negative book reviews! The author (who I had not heard of previously) makes it very clear that he is NOT trying to frighten people away from giving their honest opinions - but it is a good reminder to think about what you post and temper criticism with kindness. It’s only 17 pages long, but packs a clever punch.
Li sits at her laptop, composing her latest blog post in the aftermath of the online suicide of a horror writer who couldn’t handle the 1-star review of his latest book. She is trying to convey regret without accepting responsibility but is haunted by the man’s face...
I give very few 1-star reviews - only one in the last year - and that one definitely deserved it. I still felt a bit guilty about it though. I do also worry about the potential for blowback from authors who can’t handle criticism:
there’s a reason I review under a pseudonym... I would be devastated if I experienced what happens to Li. Fortunately no need to worry here - I thought this was brilliant, and have signed up to the author’s newsletter as while I don’t read much horror, I do enjoy twisted stories like this.
Do yourself a favour and download this while it’s free - it’s a five minute read - and make sure you leave a review!
Li sits at her laptop, composing her latest blog post in the aftermath of the online suicide of a horror writer who couldn’t handle the 1-star review of his latest book. She is trying to convey regret without accepting responsibility but is haunted by the man’s face...
I give very few 1-star reviews - only one in the last year - and that one definitely deserved it. I still felt a bit guilty about it though. I do also worry about the potential for blowback from authors who can’t handle criticism:
there’s a reason I review under a pseudonym... I would be devastated if I experienced what happens to Li. Fortunately no need to worry here - I thought this was brilliant, and have signed up to the author’s newsletter as while I don’t read much horror, I do enjoy twisted stories like this.
Do yourself a favour and download this while it’s free - it’s a five minute read - and make sure you leave a review!
October 4, 2019
A very short tale featuring circumstances that any long-time reviewers would recognize.
It didn't go where I expected and I love to be surprised!
I need to read more of this author's work.
Recommended!
It didn't go where I expected and I love to be surprised!
I need to read more of this author's work.
Recommended!
December 16, 2019
Very clever
Great writing!
And what a great way to show a passion for books.
The explanation for “experiencing” a reading is absolutely terrific.
I enjoyed the author’s note as well.
But I wanted more! This is way too short!
Great writing!
And what a great way to show a passion for books.
The explanation for “experiencing” a reading is absolutely terrific.
I enjoyed the author’s note as well.
But I wanted more! This is way too short!
August 28, 2019
This story ... wow. If you are a blogger, a dark horror fan or a writer, this will get you right where you live. This is a very creative way to do it also.
July 25, 2019
“Never let someone else silence your voice. Until you discover at least, that you must silence your own.”
This has been a completely unexpected story! Short but concise. Just when I got to terms with what Li was writing and experiencing, a huge turn and macabre twist appears! Lol. I loved it! To what lengths will an author go, how reviews affect the authors and emotional upheavals is the storyline. I’m looking forward to reading the soon to release anthology by The Behrg!
This has been a completely unexpected story! Short but concise. Just when I got to terms with what Li was writing and experiencing, a huge turn and macabre twist appears! Lol. I loved it! To what lengths will an author go, how reviews affect the authors and emotional upheavals is the storyline. I’m looking forward to reading the soon to release anthology by The Behrg!
August 2, 2019
My review of ONE STAR can be found at High Fever Books.
One Shot, a 17-page short story and the latest release from The Behrg, tells the brief story of a book blogger signing off for the final time. A short time prior, her critical one-star review of Jaxon Creed’s newest work tipped the author over the edge and he committed suicide live on Facebook. What follows is her response to her readers, her philosophies on reviewing, and her role in the author’s public demise.
As both an author and a reviewer, I wear a few different hats that don’t always sit well with others. I’ve written reviews that have upset other authors, as well as other readers, and hell, probably even other reviewer. I fondly recall one e-mail I received from a reader who excoriated me for daring to enjoy Joe Hill’s The Fireman, insisting that the publisher or Hill himself must have paid me off to post a positive review. In another instance, I reviewed a sci-fi book that included a fictional yet openly obvious depiction of Donald Trump. Readers of that site were so incensed by my positive review of a work very much critical of their Dear Leader that they succeeded in getting my review pulled. And, I can say with little doubt at all, I’ve written various books, novellas, and short stories that have been absolutely loathed by some readers (although, fortunately, the public record indicates my fiction has been enjoyed more often than not).
I’ve also been privy to some of the drama that exists within, and sometimes between, the book reviewing and author communities. There have been far too many stories of crazy authors stalking reviewers who deigned to one-star their books and failed to recognize their unbridled genius, or whose loved ones have taken it upon themselves to verbally assault reviewers for not enjoying dear one’s latest story. And rather than focusing on criticizing the work itself, there have been reviewers who have attacked authors openly and directly, or who get some perverse joy out of tagging authors in all their social media accounts to share negative reviews with them. I’ve seen authors claim some horror book reviewers aren’t real horror fans because they don’t want to read about child murder and rape. I’ve seen other authors preach that their fellow authors shouldn’t ever negatively review books for various reasons. I’ve worked for review outlets who didn’t want to post negative reviews and certainly wouldn’t pay for them, and I know several reviewers who will only post positive reviews because they quit books they don’t enjoy. Some of these are fair to some, and abhorrent to others. Opinions differ and your mileage may vary.
There exists a certain tension between authors and reviewers. It’s a symbiotic relationship that can turn deadly parasitic at the drop of a hat. Authors need reviewers, regardless of how much some writer may suggest otherwise. Reviews are the lifeblood of authors, and we live and die on word of mouth — but hopefully not literally. Reviewers, of course, need books, sometimes like they need air. Books exist as common ground, that passion for literature bridging those two groups in the face of other hot topics like politics or religion. We might not all agree on much, but we can agree that books are pretty awesome and give our lives meaning and dimension.
All this is to say, I get what The Behrg is going for here. He tells a quick, punchy story that moves quick and makes its point in rapid-fire fashion before closing out. We get to know a good bit about Li, the reviewer, as well as her motivations for becoming a blogger, which is easily one of the more fascinating aspects of the story. Sadly, the premise is sufficiently realistic — the idea that a depressed author might kill themselves over a poor review doesn’t strike me as unrealistic or improbable, or that a blogger would feel guilt in the aftermath and hang up their reviewing cred in response.
There’s not a single note in One Star that rings false to me, in either what we know about Li or Creed, and the specters that haunt them. The Behrg hits these notes with aplomb, as well as lived experience. Like me, The Behrg is both an author and an avid reviewer (in fact, he’s even positively reviewed a few of my works, although that has no bearing on my enjoyment of this story and does not influence this review), and I appreciate the honesty he brings to his reviews. In his afterword, he notes that we review in the hopes that it will help us connect to others, and to help them connect with the things we enjoy. We won’t always agree on what piece of art is good or bad, but “it opens something to them they wouldn’t have discovered without you.” It’s OK to disagree, but “The important thing is to have those conversations — spread your love of fiction, of horror, of the strange — because someone out there may just discover their new favorite author of something YOU share.”
That’s why we review. (I can assure you, it’s certainly not to get rich.)
Over the course of its brief page count, One Shot manages to raise a few important questions about mental health, responsibility, honesty, and the connections that exists between readers, writers, and reviewers, deliberately or otherwise. It’s an ode to reviewers and to the importance of reviews, but beyond that it’s a pretty compelling story in its own right. It even sticks the landing in a pretty damn satisfying way, raising an issue I hadn’t previously given much thought to but that will likely be at the forefront of my mind here on in.
One Shot is available for free, but will also be included in The Behrg’s forthcoming short story collection, The Passengers You Cannot See. Keep an eye out for that one soon.
One Shot, a 17-page short story and the latest release from The Behrg, tells the brief story of a book blogger signing off for the final time. A short time prior, her critical one-star review of Jaxon Creed’s newest work tipped the author over the edge and he committed suicide live on Facebook. What follows is her response to her readers, her philosophies on reviewing, and her role in the author’s public demise.
As both an author and a reviewer, I wear a few different hats that don’t always sit well with others. I’ve written reviews that have upset other authors, as well as other readers, and hell, probably even other reviewer. I fondly recall one e-mail I received from a reader who excoriated me for daring to enjoy Joe Hill’s The Fireman, insisting that the publisher or Hill himself must have paid me off to post a positive review. In another instance, I reviewed a sci-fi book that included a fictional yet openly obvious depiction of Donald Trump. Readers of that site were so incensed by my positive review of a work very much critical of their Dear Leader that they succeeded in getting my review pulled. And, I can say with little doubt at all, I’ve written various books, novellas, and short stories that have been absolutely loathed by some readers (although, fortunately, the public record indicates my fiction has been enjoyed more often than not).
I’ve also been privy to some of the drama that exists within, and sometimes between, the book reviewing and author communities. There have been far too many stories of crazy authors stalking reviewers who deigned to one-star their books and failed to recognize their unbridled genius, or whose loved ones have taken it upon themselves to verbally assault reviewers for not enjoying dear one’s latest story. And rather than focusing on criticizing the work itself, there have been reviewers who have attacked authors openly and directly, or who get some perverse joy out of tagging authors in all their social media accounts to share negative reviews with them. I’ve seen authors claim some horror book reviewers aren’t real horror fans because they don’t want to read about child murder and rape. I’ve seen other authors preach that their fellow authors shouldn’t ever negatively review books for various reasons. I’ve worked for review outlets who didn’t want to post negative reviews and certainly wouldn’t pay for them, and I know several reviewers who will only post positive reviews because they quit books they don’t enjoy. Some of these are fair to some, and abhorrent to others. Opinions differ and your mileage may vary.
There exists a certain tension between authors and reviewers. It’s a symbiotic relationship that can turn deadly parasitic at the drop of a hat. Authors need reviewers, regardless of how much some writer may suggest otherwise. Reviews are the lifeblood of authors, and we live and die on word of mouth — but hopefully not literally. Reviewers, of course, need books, sometimes like they need air. Books exist as common ground, that passion for literature bridging those two groups in the face of other hot topics like politics or religion. We might not all agree on much, but we can agree that books are pretty awesome and give our lives meaning and dimension.
All this is to say, I get what The Behrg is going for here. He tells a quick, punchy story that moves quick and makes its point in rapid-fire fashion before closing out. We get to know a good bit about Li, the reviewer, as well as her motivations for becoming a blogger, which is easily one of the more fascinating aspects of the story. Sadly, the premise is sufficiently realistic — the idea that a depressed author might kill themselves over a poor review doesn’t strike me as unrealistic or improbable, or that a blogger would feel guilt in the aftermath and hang up their reviewing cred in response.
There’s not a single note in One Star that rings false to me, in either what we know about Li or Creed, and the specters that haunt them. The Behrg hits these notes with aplomb, as well as lived experience. Like me, The Behrg is both an author and an avid reviewer (in fact, he’s even positively reviewed a few of my works, although that has no bearing on my enjoyment of this story and does not influence this review), and I appreciate the honesty he brings to his reviews. In his afterword, he notes that we review in the hopes that it will help us connect to others, and to help them connect with the things we enjoy. We won’t always agree on what piece of art is good or bad, but “it opens something to them they wouldn’t have discovered without you.” It’s OK to disagree, but “The important thing is to have those conversations — spread your love of fiction, of horror, of the strange — because someone out there may just discover their new favorite author of something YOU share.”
That’s why we review. (I can assure you, it’s certainly not to get rich.)
Over the course of its brief page count, One Shot manages to raise a few important questions about mental health, responsibility, honesty, and the connections that exists between readers, writers, and reviewers, deliberately or otherwise. It’s an ode to reviewers and to the importance of reviews, but beyond that it’s a pretty compelling story in its own right. It even sticks the landing in a pretty damn satisfying way, raising an issue I hadn’t previously given much thought to but that will likely be at the forefront of my mind here on in.
One Shot is available for free, but will also be included in The Behrg’s forthcoming short story collection, The Passengers You Cannot See. Keep an eye out for that one soon.
August 2, 2019
As always this review can also be found on my blog The Tattooed Book Geek: https://thetattooedbookgeek.wordpress...
One Star is only 17 pages in length and it is a story that anyone who has ever written a review needs to read. It will only take you around ten-to-fifteen minutes and it is well worth it. I have read the story three times now and each time I am left in awe at how clever it is.
Li is the blogger at Modern Maiden of Horror and after a recent tragedy, she is writing her last blog post.
William Han, a horror writer who writes under the pseudonym Jaxon Creed recently committed suicide. Streaming his death live on Facebook. The video spread like wildfire before being pulled from all social media sites. But, it is known throughout the blogging community and beyond that in his video, Jaxon Creed lays, at least part of the blame for his death at the feet of Li and her one-star review of his latest book, Lost Roll of Film.
Even though Li’s review isn’t the only reason for the suicide, it played a part, it was the tipping point, pushing someone who had been standing on the brink, on the edge finally over.
Everything that you write is out there, be it a review for a book or the book itself ready and waiting to be read and critiqued by the masses. Positive, negative, middling, you don’t know the response that you will get. The only thing for certain, your words, your creation, part of your heart, part of your soul are visible for all to see.
Reading is a personal experience and it is subjective. This is mentioned in both One Star by Li and in the author’s afterword (which is fascinating) by The Behrg and it is true. Our experiences, our life, our losses, our opinions and our views all cloud how we see things and what we take from them.
Li had loved Creed’s previous book, Brick by Brick but Lost Roll of Film just didn’t work for her. Her review of Lost Roll of Film was constructive, there was no hate towards the author, no melodramatic bashing of the book and she simply focused on what worked and what didn’t work for her in the book. There was nothing included in the review that should have pushed Creed over the edge, only her own honest opinion.
However, you don’t know what is going on with someone behind the screen and in real-life. The words you write have power, they can impact on others, they can lift someone up or, they can bring someone crashing down. Li’s words, with no malice intended, were the catalyst that brought Creed crashing down.
The toll that Creed’s suicide has had on Li, lingers, haunting her and that is why she is walking away from her blog and is writing her blogging goodbye.
With One Star The Behrg has written a cunning, concise and complete story, smart and succinct with a brilliant and unexpected ending. The writing flows well, there’s dark imagery, poetic sentences, plenty of emotion and the story features a shocking twist that is totally surprising and expertly implemented.
One Star is a little slice of sinister storytelling, a relevant story that is both thrilling and darkly entertaining.
One Star is only 17 pages in length and it is a story that anyone who has ever written a review needs to read. It will only take you around ten-to-fifteen minutes and it is well worth it. I have read the story three times now and each time I am left in awe at how clever it is.
Li is the blogger at Modern Maiden of Horror and after a recent tragedy, she is writing her last blog post.
William Han, a horror writer who writes under the pseudonym Jaxon Creed recently committed suicide. Streaming his death live on Facebook. The video spread like wildfire before being pulled from all social media sites. But, it is known throughout the blogging community and beyond that in his video, Jaxon Creed lays, at least part of the blame for his death at the feet of Li and her one-star review of his latest book, Lost Roll of Film.
Even though Li’s review isn’t the only reason for the suicide, it played a part, it was the tipping point, pushing someone who had been standing on the brink, on the edge finally over.
Everything that you write is out there, be it a review for a book or the book itself ready and waiting to be read and critiqued by the masses. Positive, negative, middling, you don’t know the response that you will get. The only thing for certain, your words, your creation, part of your heart, part of your soul are visible for all to see.
Reading is a personal experience and it is subjective. This is mentioned in both One Star by Li and in the author’s afterword (which is fascinating) by The Behrg and it is true. Our experiences, our life, our losses, our opinions and our views all cloud how we see things and what we take from them.
Li had loved Creed’s previous book, Brick by Brick but Lost Roll of Film just didn’t work for her. Her review of Lost Roll of Film was constructive, there was no hate towards the author, no melodramatic bashing of the book and she simply focused on what worked and what didn’t work for her in the book. There was nothing included in the review that should have pushed Creed over the edge, only her own honest opinion.
However, you don’t know what is going on with someone behind the screen and in real-life. The words you write have power, they can impact on others, they can lift someone up or, they can bring someone crashing down. Li’s words, with no malice intended, were the catalyst that brought Creed crashing down.
The toll that Creed’s suicide has had on Li, lingers, haunting her and that is why she is walking away from her blog and is writing her blogging goodbye.
With One Star The Behrg has written a cunning, concise and complete story, smart and succinct with a brilliant and unexpected ending. The writing flows well, there’s dark imagery, poetic sentences, plenty of emotion and the story features a shocking twist that is totally surprising and expertly implemented.
One Star is a little slice of sinister storytelling, a relevant story that is both thrilling and darkly entertaining.
February 12, 2020
Quite thought-provoking; but then I've always been a deep-thinker anyway. It does make you think about the effects a negative review might have on an author. After all; they're people who have poured their heart and soul into their work.
I found this to be rather clever for such a short read, and it's another one off my huge TBR mountain.
Thanks for reading.
I found this to be rather clever for such a short read, and it's another one off my huge TBR mountain.
Thanks for reading.
July 26, 2019
“Opening paragraphs can turn a reader off as quickly as a 3 am infomercial.”
How do you even write a review on a short story (about 20 pages) that is both an ode to reviewers but focuses on the absolutely darkest side of reviewing?
The Behrg messaged me and asked if I was at all checking out his short story and I said absolutely. I didn’t expect what was inside. He gave me the basic premise – what happens when a one-star review from a book blogger/reviewer causes the author so much grief that they kill themselves lives on Facebook?
The story follows book blogger Li making the last post on their review site. Li had given William Han who writes under the pseudonym Jaxson Creed’s latest book “Lost Roll of Film” a one-star review and following the review, William has committed suicide while streaming live. Throughout Berhg both gives us a contemplative look at how reading and writing are both magically individual but also publically visible.
“Reading is a subjective experience, one which we each bring our own backstory into, which inexplicably changes the words written into a narrative that can only be experienced once.”
As Behrg says later on in the afterword – how a book reads to each reader changes based on where the reader is currently in their life and in a few days, weeks, months or years that specific book can completely change. We’ve all read about the horror stories associated with an author overreacting to a review – to the point of some even stalking and threatening reviewers.
While I’ve never reacted to a bad review (I can’t control how a reader will respond to what I’ve released. Everyone likes things a little differently), I have had a review taken out of context and it wasn’t a good feeling. Luckily after some back and forth and time, cooler heads prevailed.
Throughout, Behrg subtly hints at the lingering emotional and mental scaring this incident has already created in Li’s mind. The ghostly allusions within were really well done and made me feel uneasy about what was to come.
Behrg packs a ton of emotional punch into such a short tale but the icing on the cake is absolutely the ending. I never saw it coming and when I got there, it was so solidly done that I almost felt foolish with how giddy it made me. I really can’t speak about the ending any more without spoiling it completely. I’ll just say kudos for that.
Overall this was a rare gem of perfectly paced story, the page count just right and the author builds in a ton of back story without having to excessively describe the characters upbringing.
An absolute thrill ride that is firmly based on an extreme case of what could happen with a one-star review.
How do you even write a review on a short story (about 20 pages) that is both an ode to reviewers but focuses on the absolutely darkest side of reviewing?
The Behrg messaged me and asked if I was at all checking out his short story and I said absolutely. I didn’t expect what was inside. He gave me the basic premise – what happens when a one-star review from a book blogger/reviewer causes the author so much grief that they kill themselves lives on Facebook?
The story follows book blogger Li making the last post on their review site. Li had given William Han who writes under the pseudonym Jaxson Creed’s latest book “Lost Roll of Film” a one-star review and following the review, William has committed suicide while streaming live. Throughout Berhg both gives us a contemplative look at how reading and writing are both magically individual but also publically visible.
“Reading is a subjective experience, one which we each bring our own backstory into, which inexplicably changes the words written into a narrative that can only be experienced once.”
As Behrg says later on in the afterword – how a book reads to each reader changes based on where the reader is currently in their life and in a few days, weeks, months or years that specific book can completely change. We’ve all read about the horror stories associated with an author overreacting to a review – to the point of some even stalking and threatening reviewers.
While I’ve never reacted to a bad review (I can’t control how a reader will respond to what I’ve released. Everyone likes things a little differently), I have had a review taken out of context and it wasn’t a good feeling. Luckily after some back and forth and time, cooler heads prevailed.
Throughout, Behrg subtly hints at the lingering emotional and mental scaring this incident has already created in Li’s mind. The ghostly allusions within were really well done and made me feel uneasy about what was to come.
Behrg packs a ton of emotional punch into such a short tale but the icing on the cake is absolutely the ending. I never saw it coming and when I got there, it was so solidly done that I almost felt foolish with how giddy it made me. I really can’t speak about the ending any more without spoiling it completely. I’ll just say kudos for that.
Overall this was a rare gem of perfectly paced story, the page count just right and the author builds in a ton of back story without having to excessively describe the characters upbringing.
An absolute thrill ride that is firmly based on an extreme case of what could happen with a one-star review.
July 29, 2019
All my reviews (including one star reviews) can be found at http://jessicasreadingroom.com
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This review will appear on my site on August 4, 2019.
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This short story packs quite the punch in its short 17 pages! It is also currently free on Amazon and serves as a thank you from the author The Behrg to book bloggers and book reviewers. I know my blog is not a huge one, but my reviews get seen and what happens if you don’t like a book? What if the author sees your lower starred review even though you did not tag them on social media? What if they take your review the wrong way or they take it personally? In our world where we are all connected through various social media, you really can’t get away from seeing something directed towards you. This is what Li discovers with her one star review of an author’s latest novel.
This is definitely a horror story that goes in an unexpected direction. I did enjoy this short story and it is definitely not a one star review! I have no fear of the author’s reaction to my review of his short story.
This short story that I read within 30 minutes; I have read it twice now. It is a part of The Behrg’s upcoming short story collection The Passengers You Cannot See. I enjoy short stories and have enjoyed One Star and also Happiness is a Commodity (my review is here) so I am looking forward to this upcoming collection. I even downloaded Stillborn, another of The Behrg’s short stories to read as it was free on Amazon. That one looks to tackle a difficult subject that I hope to read relatively soon.
One Star is recommended, and if you are a book blogger/ book reviewer, I say definitely read it!!
~~~~~
This review will appear on my site on August 4, 2019.
~~~~~
This short story packs quite the punch in its short 17 pages! It is also currently free on Amazon and serves as a thank you from the author The Behrg to book bloggers and book reviewers. I know my blog is not a huge one, but my reviews get seen and what happens if you don’t like a book? What if the author sees your lower starred review even though you did not tag them on social media? What if they take your review the wrong way or they take it personally? In our world where we are all connected through various social media, you really can’t get away from seeing something directed towards you. This is what Li discovers with her one star review of an author’s latest novel.
This is definitely a horror story that goes in an unexpected direction. I did enjoy this short story and it is definitely not a one star review! I have no fear of the author’s reaction to my review of his short story.
This short story that I read within 30 minutes; I have read it twice now. It is a part of The Behrg’s upcoming short story collection The Passengers You Cannot See. I enjoy short stories and have enjoyed One Star and also Happiness is a Commodity (my review is here) so I am looking forward to this upcoming collection. I even downloaded Stillborn, another of The Behrg’s short stories to read as it was free on Amazon. That one looks to tackle a difficult subject that I hope to read relatively soon.
One Star is recommended, and if you are a book blogger/ book reviewer, I say definitely read it!!
August 23, 2019
Very clever!
When I think of all the reviews I do, on books and restaurants and hotels, I have to admit that even when I'm angry I realize I'm criticizing someone's livelihood. Not too long ago a barbeque joint really skimped on a take-out order. A side was forgotten, there was only two bits of meat, I waited forever and insult to injury, I had tipped pretty well at the register just to "insure" my order was taken care of. Two weeks later the place was out of business. Obviously it wasn't my review that put them out, but did the employees know and could care less about cooking and serving when I was there?
But one big difference between restaurants and books are that you usually know what you're walking into for a restaurant. That's not always true of a book. Even an author I love can change gears and genres. It's a longer process reading than eating. But I won't get food poisoning from a book.
So more detail for my 4 star review--this was great for a short story, it was free and I'll look for more from the author. The content is close to my heart. There are times even when I look at my Goodreads friends' reviews and they're all over the place and I'll think, well, what did I do before Goodreads came? I took a chance!
When I think of all the reviews I do, on books and restaurants and hotels, I have to admit that even when I'm angry I realize I'm criticizing someone's livelihood. Not too long ago a barbeque joint really skimped on a take-out order. A side was forgotten, there was only two bits of meat, I waited forever and insult to injury, I had tipped pretty well at the register just to "insure" my order was taken care of. Two weeks later the place was out of business. Obviously it wasn't my review that put them out, but did the employees know and could care less about cooking and serving when I was there?
But one big difference between restaurants and books are that you usually know what you're walking into for a restaurant. That's not always true of a book. Even an author I love can change gears and genres. It's a longer process reading than eating. But I won't get food poisoning from a book.
So more detail for my 4 star review--this was great for a short story, it was free and I'll look for more from the author. The content is close to my heart. There are times even when I look at my Goodreads friends' reviews and they're all over the place and I'll think, well, what did I do before Goodreads came? I took a chance!
July 25, 2019
This was a great one from The Behrg. I have enjoyed his work in the past and if this story is any indication of the quality of his upcoming short story collection "The Passengers You Cannot See" then I am chomping at the bit to get to it.
Quick and entertaining with a very nice turn or two thrown in for good measure. This is how shorts should be done.
4.5 Stars rounded up to 5 because this story has stuck with me ever since I read it.
*I received a free copy of this work from the author in exchange for absolutely nothing. The review I am leaving is honest and completely voluntary.
Quick and entertaining with a very nice turn or two thrown in for good measure. This is how shorts should be done.
4.5 Stars rounded up to 5 because this story has stuck with me ever since I read it.
*I received a free copy of this work from the author in exchange for absolutely nothing. The review I am leaving is honest and completely voluntary.
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July 27, 2019I can now officially announce my newest release, available on all ebook platforms for FREE. This is a horror story dedicated to book bloggers and book reviewers. Thank you for all you do!
I hope you enjoy the dark side of reviewing. :)
I hope you enjoy the dark side of reviewing. :)
August 2, 2019
I’m going to read it a few more times 😂
December 28, 2019
Found this 17 pg short read to be written skillfully, witty, inventive. Could definitely open up dialogue on 1 star reviews. Appreciated author’s note at end.
March 1, 2020
Wow! A very short story that took me only about 6 minutes to read, but gave me all the emotions. The ending even shocked me! Definitely worth a read. Especially if you review books, as most of us here do.
October 23, 2020
Qn: 'You sure that my story is really only worth One Star?' - the writer.
An interesting, clever, well constructed little story that will make all book reviewers and voracious readers of all book reviews really sit up and take notice. Just a pity that it was so short.
If reading this short tale, then make sure that you also read the 'Author's Note' at the end.
Very informative and just as good and entertaining as the story itself.
Will definitely be reading more from this highly talented writer of cleverly twisted short tales.
Rating: The original 1 + 3 more well deserved little shiny stars - 4 stars all the way!
An interesting, clever, well constructed little story that will make all book reviewers and voracious readers of all book reviews really sit up and take notice. Just a pity that it was so short.
If reading this short tale, then make sure that you also read the 'Author's Note' at the end.
Very informative and just as good and entertaining as the story itself.
Will definitely be reading more from this highly talented writer of cleverly twisted short tales.
Rating: The original 1 + 3 more well deserved little shiny stars - 4 stars all the way!
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