Authors who refuse to give content warnings are assholes, plain and simple. They don't have to be down to the detail, but there are things that are universally triggering. Things your readers have been through, and should know about before going into your story.
These authors seem to think that they're no longer allowed to write how or what they want, but the truth is, a lot of people would still read your book with those warnings. They're consenting to reading these things, and they can prepare for it.
If I was walking down the street and saw a masked man slicing up a bunch of teens, I'd be pretty upset. Traumatized. I didn't wanna see that. Now, when I watch Scream, I'm not bothered because I was warned that these witty teens are getting gutted.
I don't wanna see women be trafficked and abused without a warning, and if a book let's me know that this romance is gonna be DARK dark, then I can put up my guard. I'm not gonna not read it, but I know that some fucked up things are gonna happen, and I can prepare.
If you'll take their money but not consideration for their well-being, you're an asshole. If you think their safety isn't as important as their surprise when you throw in traumatic scenes, you're an asshole.
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