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Listen, Just Once
BASED ON A TRUE STORYThis is a story of a young girl who experiences things no child should ever experience. Lizzie tries and tries to get the attention of her mother to get it to stop, to get her to help. She is also left with the duty of protecting her sister, Rose from the monster. A man who makes both girls shiver when he comes to babysit them. If only the one person who SHOULD be there to listen, WOULD just be there for them. If only her mother would listen, just once…
- GenresYoung AdultShort Stories
35 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
102 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
A.R. Von
32 books1,177 followersA.R. is an animal lover who was born and raised in Bronx, NY and is the oldest daughter of two girls. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Computer Science and Information Technology, which was only briefly used. She’s a mother of two entertaining boys (as well as a large menagerie of pets, all of which she considers her babies.)
She’s also a wife to a delightfully handsome, amazingly supportive and outrageously funny man-beast who wants nothing more than to see her dreams thrive.
A.R. loves tattoos as well as anything dragon and fantasy related. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her babies, exercising, writing, listening to music, hiking, cooking, dancing and reading. She also loves a great adventure in and out of a book!
She writes to free her mind of its constant wandering and clutter. She thrives on the fact she can share it with readers that have the same passion for a great escape from everyday life.
She also loves to hear from her reader's and chat away, so feel free to reach out to her any time. https://www.facebook.com/ARVon2
She’s also a wife to a delightfully handsome, amazingly supportive and outrageously funny man-beast who wants nothing more than to see her dreams thrive.
A.R. loves tattoos as well as anything dragon and fantasy related. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her babies, exercising, writing, listening to music, hiking, cooking, dancing and reading. She also loves a great adventure in and out of a book!
She writes to free her mind of its constant wandering and clutter. She thrives on the fact she can share it with readers that have the same passion for a great escape from everyday life.
She also loves to hear from her reader's and chat away, so feel free to reach out to her any time. https://www.facebook.com/ARVon2
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 17, 2016
This is a very special story that will touch its readers deep. It's a reality we must face exists in our world. A reality that most keep hidden, or try to. A reality that many are ashamed of and wind up never seeking help. A reality, that sadly, is ignored.
Consider this me reaching out to YOU, letting you know it's all right, YOU can speak, there is someone out there that will listen. Just never, EVER give up!
Some will enjoy this short story, some will not. Regardless of how it's received. I'm happy to have been able to share it.
(This book SHOULD BE free everywhere)
January 20, 2015
I was given a copy for an honest opinion.
A story of a little girl who dared to speak, and over came her nightmare.
In a world less than perfect and unfortunate circumstances, children suffer from this act and go unheard. This story brought tears to my eye's and anger beacause of it's reality. No child should suffer such an unspeakable act, but the truth is, it is happenning and they are. Someone needs to be a voice, let it be known, make it stop one voice at a time. It may be an unbearable read to many, it may even hit home to other's, but it is a reality and not speaking about it wont make it stop or go away. A true emotional read.
A story of a little girl who dared to speak, and over came her nightmare.
In a world less than perfect and unfortunate circumstances, children suffer from this act and go unheard. This story brought tears to my eye's and anger beacause of it's reality. No child should suffer such an unspeakable act, but the truth is, it is happenning and they are. Someone needs to be a voice, let it be known, make it stop one voice at a time. It may be an unbearable read to many, it may even hit home to other's, but it is a reality and not speaking about it wont make it stop or go away. A true emotional read.
February 1, 2015
I saw this book and decided to read it because the child's story sounded similar to my own, and I suppose I had a sick desire to see how I'd be able to handle it. Normally I avoid stories like this, but I figured it wouldn't be bad if it was a short story.
In some ways, I'm glad I read it. Because I was able to do it, and I felt like I had gotten through a line I've been afraid of crossing for a while. In others, I wish stories like this didn't exist. But then, I wish this entire situation wasn't a real thing
All and all, I felt like it could have used a bit more work. It was a good story (in a manner of speaking), but it had some grammar/content issues.
The most important thing I got out of this story was the end. What happens after the fact. It was realistic, similar to my own experience. Helped me feel like I wasn't some freak.
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/l...
In some ways, I'm glad I read it. Because I was able to do it, and I felt like I had gotten through a line I've been afraid of crossing for a while. In others, I wish stories like this didn't exist. But then, I wish this entire situation wasn't a real thing
All and all, I felt like it could have used a bit more work. It was a good story (in a manner of speaking), but it had some grammar/content issues.
The most important thing I got out of this story was the end. What happens after the fact. It was realistic, similar to my own experience. Helped me feel like I wasn't some freak.
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/l...
January 20, 2015
Amazing story of a young girl's trials and survival
I got this based off of the recommendation of a friend. I am so glad that I listened. This story was written for every little boy and girl who has ever suffered any type of abuse or neglect from the hands of someone that they trusted and loved.
A.R. Von has done a great job of giving a voice to those little souls suffering in silence. She has told their tale in a gentle way.
This story speaks of horrific truths that we would all prefer didn't exist. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a reason to lend a helping hand to the millions of children suffering in silence.
Amazing, amazing book!!!
I got this based off of the recommendation of a friend. I am so glad that I listened. This story was written for every little boy and girl who has ever suffered any type of abuse or neglect from the hands of someone that they trusted and loved.
A.R. Von has done a great job of giving a voice to those little souls suffering in silence. She has told their tale in a gentle way.
This story speaks of horrific truths that we would all prefer didn't exist. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a reason to lend a helping hand to the millions of children suffering in silence.
Amazing, amazing book!!!
July 28, 2016
This story was so deep and touching. Lizzie just needed someone to listen to her. You as the reader just wanted to step in and be the hero for this girl and her sister. I found it heartbreaking for what it took happening for that POS John to get what he deserved but I'm glad he did. This story was short but yet it told a strong powerful tale of a major issue in society that is often shushed and overlooked. I'm still not sure how I feel about Lizzie's dad but I'm okay with his actions. I overall enjoyed this sad but good read!
January 21, 2015
I picked up this book free just this afternoon. Very emotional, realistic and endearing. The emotion that comes off the pages is unreal. I actually felt like I was there, but unable to help, or anything. When it comes to a story, reading it and feeling as if it's so real. Well that's an amazing thing.
I hope all that read this experience all that I have and help as A.R. has requested (that's another fantastic thing!)
I hope all that read this experience all that I have and help as A.R. has requested (that's another fantastic thing!)
January 21, 2015
Fast read. I read it during my lunch break and wound up not finishing my lunch. No big though. It was worth being hungry the remainder of the day. Such a touching, emotional read that will stick with me for a very, very long time!
January 30, 2015
For a short story, its very heart wrenching. This little girl doesn't know whats going on, but knows its not right. When she goes to "momma" she completely getting blown off and yelled at. If it wasn't for "daddy" coming home and putting an end to it, who knows how far it would have gone. The sad thing is this type of thing happens everyday, everywhere. Its the parent's job to keep the children safe, and there is so many parents that just don't care or work so much to make ends meet that they are not home to prevent things like this from happening. I love this author and she earned even more respect from me to put out a true story like this out. People need to read more about these things to become more aware of what can happen and that you can put a end to it by reporting. Thank you A.R. Von!
January 27, 2015
Wow... Do you dare say you like a book that touches on a subject like this?
I loved it though and let me tell you why....The book touches on a horrible subject but was so eloquently written. The innocence and desire to trust through the eyes of a child radiates in the pages of this sad tale. Children give love so selfless and unconditionally and to have that ripped from them during their formative years is abominable.The defense mechanisms of children who face this are heroic. I know those defenses eventually shut down and the repercussions are long lasting. Sexual abuse a terrible terrible thing and I have the utmost respect for the author for giving us this story and touching these nerves with such dignity and respect.
I loved it though and let me tell you why....The book touches on a horrible subject but was so eloquently written. The innocence and desire to trust through the eyes of a child radiates in the pages of this sad tale. Children give love so selfless and unconditionally and to have that ripped from them during their formative years is abominable.The defense mechanisms of children who face this are heroic. I know those defenses eventually shut down and the repercussions are long lasting. Sexual abuse a terrible terrible thing and I have the utmost respect for the author for giving us this story and touching these nerves with such dignity and respect.
April 2, 2015
I picked up this book for free and now that I have read it I would of paid for it. This story is about abuse of a little girl and how her mother never listened to her about what happened. I personally found this difficult to read as it hit close to home on so many levels. I highly recommend this book to everyone even though subject isn't one that is normally brought up in society this is a must read. To see this story thru a child's eyes and how it effected her and how she came to be. I won't go into details but this is a very heartbreaking story based on truth. AR Von has major courage to put this story to paper and I hope everyone will take a change and read this story as to much of society turns a blind eye to the truth that happens to young children.
February 25, 2015
I have read many books by this author, but not one as emotional as this one.
She put her heart and soul into this short story. No one should have to live in fear.
As an innocent child a mother is to protect her children. Her mother was not capable to do that.
They say everything happens for a reason. A victim should never here those words. I know, AR Von (author of this story) came out stronger and more focused on how to live her life. And protect the ones around her.
She put her heart and soul into this short story. No one should have to live in fear.
As an innocent child a mother is to protect her children. Her mother was not capable to do that.
They say everything happens for a reason. A victim should never here those words. I know, AR Von (author of this story) came out stronger and more focused on how to live her life. And protect the ones around her.
March 26, 2015
great short read
This was a good read. To the point and still detailed in the personal triumphant ways. I loved how Lizzy stood her ground and her father stood by her in his own way. This is a very real emotional view into this type of abuse that is often written with a lot of other fluff and page fillers. This was straight and to the point with raw emotion. Great job and will recommend.
This was a good read. To the point and still detailed in the personal triumphant ways. I loved how Lizzy stood her ground and her father stood by her in his own way. This is a very real emotional view into this type of abuse that is often written with a lot of other fluff and page fillers. This was straight and to the point with raw emotion. Great job and will recommend.
April 10, 2016
Reading this made my stomach turn and brought tears to my eyes..
Unfortunately it's sad but true and I'm sure so many could relate. Though not everyone had a hero at the end. The good thing is our children have teachers, counselors and others they're able to talk to these days. Who will listen
Unfortunately it's sad but true and I'm sure so many could relate. Though not everyone had a hero at the end. The good thing is our children have teachers, counselors and others they're able to talk to these days. Who will listen
February 11, 2015
It's really sad to hear about a child being abused. It's even worse when the parent doesn't listen and blames the child.
April 5, 2015
Wow! Deep, mind-blowing read. Through the eyes of a child. This book really makes you aware of what could be happening right next door, or in your own home. Listen to your children.
March 31, 2015
This story unfortunately hits really close to home for me. I was a "victim" of molestation by a family "friend" for seven years of my life. And like our main character, Lizzie, my mother just wouldn't listen either.
Child abuse is a very real epidemic in the world, which sexual abuse being the second leading cause of children developing mental disorders such as PTSD and Clinical Depression at very young ages (My own daughter was diagnosed with PTSD due to abuse from her father at the age of 4). It's only second to physical abuse. It is imperative that parents listen to their children. 9 out 10 ignored cries of sexual abuse are NOT lies. Don't let your child become a statistic.
I don't know who the actual victim of Ms. Von's story is, I can only assume it's someone very close to her; if not herself. But I, for one, applaud her bravery in writing this, even if the names were changed to prevent unwanted backlash.
This story is powerful and anyone that's been a victim of this crime is going to fear the fear and the uncertainty right along with Lizzie. So the reader must prepare themselves for that.
There was a single error that I found in this work. a period misplaced, it may hiccup the reading flow just a bit, but it's the only one I found worth mentioning.
The only problem I had with the story was how quickly Lizzie recovered from her trauma. It normally takes years (and quite a bit of therapy) for a child to recover from something like that and not be afraid of every male that looks in her direction. That fear never fully goes away.
This book should definitely be in every parenting class, and every parent should read it.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws.
Child abuse is a very real epidemic in the world, which sexual abuse being the second leading cause of children developing mental disorders such as PTSD and Clinical Depression at very young ages (My own daughter was diagnosed with PTSD due to abuse from her father at the age of 4). It's only second to physical abuse. It is imperative that parents listen to their children. 9 out 10 ignored cries of sexual abuse are NOT lies. Don't let your child become a statistic.
I don't know who the actual victim of Ms. Von's story is, I can only assume it's someone very close to her; if not herself. But I, for one, applaud her bravery in writing this, even if the names were changed to prevent unwanted backlash.
This story is powerful and anyone that's been a victim of this crime is going to fear the fear and the uncertainty right along with Lizzie. So the reader must prepare themselves for that.
There was a single error that I found in this work. a period misplaced, it may hiccup the reading flow just a bit, but it's the only one I found worth mentioning.
The only problem I had with the story was how quickly Lizzie recovered from her trauma. It normally takes years (and quite a bit of therapy) for a child to recover from something like that and not be afraid of every male that looks in her direction. That fear never fully goes away.
This book should definitely be in every parenting class, and every parent should read it.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws.
December 23, 2015
I'm not sure how to rate this story, I choose to give it a four, but not because of its contents. This story was based on real-life events. I was sickened - physically ill as I read this; I still am. I'm not a violent person, but I wanted so badly to slap this mother about her head and face and few times. Little Lizzie is being abused by her male baby-sitter (John). She is scared and traumatized and tries multiple times to tell her mother, but her mother chooses to yell at her, berate, and ignore the cries for help.
Thank God for Lizzie's father sensing something was wrong and intervening. I've never been violated or a victim of a violent crime, but this story was difficult to read. I just simply couldn't and still can't quite get my head around the mother - she should be in prision too as far as my opinion goes.
I'm glad this story is in print, for all those who want to be heard and aren't or may be afraid to speak; I'm just sorry that so many children experience such trauma. However, it's heartbreaking that, not just one child, but several suffered trauma at this hands of this monster. No one should ever feel afraid or violated - ESPECIALLY a child.
The sad and scary thought is that there are many "Johns" out there in our world; some even walking free. People, please listen to children and youngsters when their behaviors change or when they try to tell you something. Please.
Thank God for Lizzie's father sensing something was wrong and intervening. I've never been violated or a victim of a violent crime, but this story was difficult to read. I just simply couldn't and still can't quite get my head around the mother - she should be in prision too as far as my opinion goes.
I'm glad this story is in print, for all those who want to be heard and aren't or may be afraid to speak; I'm just sorry that so many children experience such trauma. However, it's heartbreaking that, not just one child, but several suffered trauma at this hands of this monster. No one should ever feel afraid or violated - ESPECIALLY a child.
The sad and scary thought is that there are many "Johns" out there in our world; some even walking free. People, please listen to children and youngsters when their behaviors change or when they try to tell you something. Please.
May 19, 2016
This book was based on a true story that will rock anyone's world especially a child. The subject matter difficult to digest and at times hard to receive but well written. I experienced a lot of things in my life that I hate so some of this touched me on a deeper level. The HEA gave me peace.
In the book It deals with alcoholism, sexual abuse, and neglect. The story is so vivid and the characters are well developed. It made you feel such compassion for this child. It's sad that things like this really happen but necessary that their is a voice among people that reach out and tells this heart wrenching story.
This author took a horrible story and brought it to life. The writing is impeccable. The descriptions are dead on. The flow of the book was outstanding. Great read! It will keep you on edge for sure.
In the book It deals with alcoholism, sexual abuse, and neglect. The story is so vivid and the characters are well developed. It made you feel such compassion for this child. It's sad that things like this really happen but necessary that their is a voice among people that reach out and tells this heart wrenching story.
This author took a horrible story and brought it to life. The writing is impeccable. The descriptions are dead on. The flow of the book was outstanding. Great read! It will keep you on edge for sure.
April 19, 2015
Listen, Just Once by A.R. Von
3 1/2 stars
This was such a sad story, understandable as it was based on a true story. This was a very realistic telling of a young girl that experienced abuse first hand, and told from the perspective of the girl at that age. It was well written, and yet felt to me more like it was written similar to how a person would write in their journal in a story-telling fashion.
I imagine that this was very healing for the author, or the person it was written about, and applaud the purpose. I only had a hard time getting into it because of how I felt like I was reading a friend's diary, and it was so sad, and horrible that any child should have to experience this or worse.
3 1/2 stars
This was such a sad story, understandable as it was based on a true story. This was a very realistic telling of a young girl that experienced abuse first hand, and told from the perspective of the girl at that age. It was well written, and yet felt to me more like it was written similar to how a person would write in their journal in a story-telling fashion.
I imagine that this was very healing for the author, or the person it was written about, and applaud the purpose. I only had a hard time getting into it because of how I felt like I was reading a friend's diary, and it was so sad, and horrible that any child should have to experience this or worse.
May 15, 2016
Listen, Just Once by A.R. Von was a good quick read. Some of it was hard to read due to the topic but it was very well written. Lizzie went through things that no child should ever have to go through. The girls have people in their lives who should listen but they don't listen to the girls. This was a good book, I would definitely recommend it.
February 7, 2015
** Books 42 - 2015 **
2,3 of 5 stars!
It is about a mother who doesn't have any trust to her children and about a man who molested young children..
too short and not quite comprehensive story.. >__<
2,3 of 5 stars!
It is about a mother who doesn't have any trust to her children and about a man who molested young children..
too short and not quite comprehensive story.. >__<
March 11, 2015
True life story at many countries but too short and need more detail about this girl after accident. Big gap from childhood to be a mother for a boy more detail!
March 29, 2015
This does happen
A book everyone should read, to be aware. Too much of this happens on a daily bases. Knowledge is power.
A book everyone should read, to be aware. Too much of this happens on a daily bases. Knowledge is power.
March 4, 2016
Listen, Just Once is a sad, but true, story that happens way too often. It is a beautiful retelling of a young girl's painful experience. I enjoyed it.
March 13, 2016
HeartwArming
Truly unbelievable story of truth injustice and moving forwArd furthermore not giving up and repeating history just continuing t o make sure you a always feel safe
Truly unbelievable story of truth injustice and moving forwArd furthermore not giving up and repeating history just continuing t o make sure you a always feel safe
March 31, 2016
Heartbreaking
This was a good short read. Disturbing and sad because it's based on a true story and that these things happen constantly in this world..
This was a good short read. Disturbing and sad because it's based on a true story and that these things happen constantly in this world..
June 1, 2016
Amazing and great insight
The fact it was based on a true story and it reminds me of the truth of what happened in my life and how I've moved on just like 'lizzie'.
The fact it was based on a true story and it reminds me of the truth of what happened in my life and how I've moved on just like 'lizzie'.
July 29, 2016
Touchy subject!
Things like this happen to innocent people everyday. It is our job to protect the innocent children as parents! If you can't stand up for them, no one will!
Things like this happen to innocent people everyday. It is our job to protect the innocent children as parents! If you can't stand up for them, no one will!
October 7, 2016
Great
Great. This book is a true reminder of what happens in our world every day. Very sad for our young children.
Great. This book is a true reminder of what happens in our world every day. Very sad for our young children.
July 7, 2018
Sad but so true
A.R. Von hits home on how hard it can be to actually tell someone or anyone what has happened or may be happening to you as a child. If only we could make this world a safer place for all children. Lizzie has suffered through more than what John has put her through, she also was put through the emotional abuse of her mother that should be there for you no matter what. This story brought tears to my eyes because so many of us went through similar situations as children. Great job!
A.R. Von hits home on how hard it can be to actually tell someone or anyone what has happened or may be happening to you as a child. If only we could make this world a safer place for all children. Lizzie has suffered through more than what John has put her through, she also was put through the emotional abuse of her mother that should be there for you no matter what. This story brought tears to my eyes because so many of us went through similar situations as children. Great job!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews