Behaving Badly: 5 Deliciously Dark Short Stories

by M. Henningham

Dark, crime thriller stories not for the faint-hearted

A woman flips the tables on a stalker.

A luckless man discovers Venus of another kind.

A privileged teen battles with a conflict of moral obligation.

A mother undergoes a disastrous operation.

A loved one’s tragic special day.

Praise for Behaving Badly

Wild at Heart
‘This is a punch in the stomach sort of read. Dynamic, staccato sentences lead the reader into an anxiety induced state. The characters in this collection are not poignant people musing existential woes. They are people at the edge fighting for their lives!’

Devil’s Food Cake
‘Not my usual read but I am glad I did. This is a collection of short stories with dark and difficult themes. Henningham will draw you into worlds of drugs, violence and abuse in this study of human psychology and the depths of depravity, with a unique style of visceral and harrowing descriptions at times at odds with humorous insights.’

Five power-packed short stories
‘Five stories that are all very short, but very refreshing. The author’s style is to the point and clinical whilst some very uncomfortable topics are tackled, this is the strength of the writing skills. Nothing is flowered up it is straight to the point on topics others avoid, like violence from ex relationships and drugs.’

The title sums it up
‘Deliciously dark indeed. If you are looking for a quick read that will leave you enthralled then look no further. This is a collection of atmospheric tales that are definitely dark and certainly delicious.’

Articulated in a thought-provoking manner
‘"Behaving Badly" turned out to be in a stark contrast from most stories revolving around the horror genre. The compositions were developed thoroughly and consistent attention was paid towards highlighting the subtext of all ideas.’

Engaging
Punchy, raw and gritty - I loved these stories. These five cleverly crafted stories left me wanting more. Strictly for adults, these contain dark themes and have been written in such a way that the writing complements each story.

Alarmingly entertaining
‘A superb collection of short stories with a message hidden within each one. The writing style is exquisite, the themes dark and raw.’

BEHAVING Five stories of love, death, good vs. evil, survival, and courage and heroism.

If you love thrills and spills, then you’ll love this collection. Pick up this page-turner today!

Kindle Edition

First published August 7, 2020

About the author

M. Henningham is a published author who won the 2014 Bonnie Greer OBE Stories to Read Aloud Competition. Her work has been featured in 'What Lies Beneath — A Collection of Short Stories from the Kingston Writing School,' a selection curated by Hilary Mantel and Bonnie Greer, OBE. Notably, Kingston University produced 'Off the Page,' which includes her story titled 'Unscrupulous Pigs.' She has participated in workshops at the Kingston Writing School and has performed readings at Kingston University, the Rose Theatre, and Ram Jam in Kingston. Henningham's talent has been recognised with a highly commended award for a short story in Writers' Forum and a listing for the Fish Short Story Prize in 2015. Michele is a visionary wordsmith in the realm of edgy thrillers that explores the shadows where suspense and intrigue dance. She creates stories that linger, leaving a mark on the psyche—a cinematic rollercoaster that refuses to slow down until the final, heart-stopping frame.
www.lethalliterati.com

Reviews

[Anita Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark amazing short stories that you will not be able to stop reading until the end, it is one of the best books that I have read, I am well impressed, it is well written and very enjoyable. It is a must read. Thank you Author Anita Kirk.

[James Huck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep, dark tastes of lives that you don't want to live...

Short, intense, stiletto sharp bursts of rich, wicked narrative with glimpses of relatable characters who I wanted more of. An author who can bridge a variety of thrilling and horrifying tales. There is a possibility and potential for five full novels here. If you are in a rush to send a shiver down your spine - this collection is for you. Highly talented and highly recommended.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of short dark, deep, and interesting stories. More literature like this should be written and promoted! Something different, Recommended!

[Damian Cy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, scary, and psychological. My kind of stories! This book was thrilling and tantalizingly frightening to read, and that was the best part. Delve into the darkness of humanity with these 5 dark stories that are not for the faint of heart. What else should you be reading in October!

[Luce Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behaving Badly is a collection of 5 separate thrillers. Each tale is a stand-alone work of dark theatre. The Author dives into the darkest of human behavior. She is able to bring out the very real aspects of those who prey on other humans and seem to have a psychological need to inflict harm onto others. From crimes to drug use, this collection of well written stories delves into real-life predators and educates the readers about the dark souls that mingle amongst us. The stories should give life to the readers fears that monsters actually do exsist and do seek out their victims from the crowd around them. Be prepared to walk away from this book with a better understanding of the evil that exsist in our world. The Author did a wonderful job of creating stories that are descriptive enough to allow the reader to picture each scene while she made the chapters flow smoothly for an easy short read. Her masterful writing style allows the reader to sample a short story while feeling like they have read a full-length novel.

[Darla Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

30 August 2020
10:28

MASTERFUL SHORT STORIES

This is one of the best short story collections I've ever read. I can say with all honesty that no what genre of work you prefer, you will miss out on some of the edgiest and best writing a reader can devour. There are five (would have eaten far more) tales of victims and perpetrators that are delivered from first person point of view. Normally, this might, in a short story, result in a thinly painted descriptive monologue, but the authors commanding style of writing delivers. You will enter the dark and often seedy world of the protagonists, you will feel their pain, frustration and fear. There are deeper messages in each of the stories, thought provoking understanding of the circumstances that cause us or the characters to behave badly, even an innocent child manifesting fears by reading the emotional undercurrents between loving and caring parents. This is definitely a must read. I am now going to work my way through the other books published by this author.

[Sam Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stories that are all very short, but very refreshing. The author’s style is to the point and clinical whilst some very uncomfortable topics are tackled, this is the strength of the writing skills. Nothing is flowered up it is straight to the point on topics others avoid, like violence from ex relationships and drugs. The stories are very well written and whilst not over descriptive on the surroundings you can picture the scenes clearly in your mind. I usually give a brief outline of stories but these are so short sharp and snappy, I would feel I may give too much away, all I can say is download and enjoy.

[Amy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprising but Good

I don’t know what I expected, but this was so much better. When Henningham says “deliciously dark,” she means it! This collection of short stories really strikes fear and intrigue into the heart of any reader. Plus, it’s short! I finished this in record time.

The writing is exquisite. I was on the edge of my seat throughout each story, clinging to every detail. I’m a talker when I’m reading, and this book had me saying aloud, “They didn’t do what I think they did, right?!” And “Oh, that’s disgusting.” But it didn’t stop me from continuing.

Pick this up. You really won’t regret it.

[K.J. Simmill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of five dark tales is bound to grab your attention as it plunges the reader into bitesize tales of darkness, horror, and difficult choices. I loved the rawness of the narrative, and how each tale was written in a completely different manner, allowing you insight into the story’s main character and front row seats to their fear, turmoil, and desperation. Disturbing and emotional these tales of fatal encounters will cause your heart to skip as you’re sucked into the harrowing tales.

[H. Hiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing collection of short stories. I would re-title this as "False Starts," as each of the stories reads like the opening chapter to an absolute page-turner of a novel. Michele's handiwork with jargon and vernacular breathes life into this handful of characters we get far too little time with before being swept to the next adventure. This is craftsmanship of a high order and I especially recommend it to those who aspire to be writers as much as I recommend it to those who simply enjoy reading truly fine writing.

[Jim Turnbo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm Hooked!

"I must not do lines in the toilets," is by far one of my top 5 favorite openings in a story.

The broad strokes of the author's imagination made the book next to impossible to put down. Each story keeps you guessing to the last word. My only complaint... is that I didn't have more to feed my appetite.

It's obvious the author has guts. Far too many story tellers veer away from such controversial/Tabu topics. Not the case here. I'm definitely a fan and plan on reading whatever she publishes.

[Jennifer Shepard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I read from this author and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. The ending of this book.. come on! I just didn´t expect it! Can´t wait to read other books from this great writer! Amazing job! a must-read! A fantastic book that has it all! I happily endorse these short stories to any and all who are looking for a fiction enjoyable read and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. ¡Great book!

[Crystal Napolitano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scary realistic mix of dark tales rolled into one lovely smooth short novella! 5 exciting stories will keep you turning the pages and all stories have a very deep intense well designed plot. Monsters are among us, and this read helps to expose them and see things in a different light. If your looking for a dark twisted read sure to keep your heart pumping then this is perfect for you!!! I personally really enjoyed this as I love all things HORROR!!

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bite sized short stories

This was an interesting read, refreshingly different from what I normally read. These are five unrelated bite sized short stories. They vary in length and timeline from 12 hours to several years. Common theme is desperation and that bad acts are carried out. The use of slang and local expressions in the first two stories is refreshing.

[Sonia Discher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book in 2 hours. I couldn't put it aside. Each story kept me captivated and wanting the story to go on. I'd love to see a part 2 of each of these stories in another book. I will definitely read more from this author. With the descriptive writing I could visualize everything quite clearly.

[Andrew Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This selection of stories are great for people who have shorter attention spans like me! The dark themes of these stories really fascinate me as a reader, the author brings you into the world of drugs and abuse really well. I like how realistic this book is and it makes me question many deep topics. A book that makes you think is a great book. I recommend to everyone!

[Bob Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deliciously dark indeed. If you are looking for a quick read that will leave you enthralled then look no further. This is a collection of atmospheric tales that are definitely dark and certainly delicious. The author has a vivid imagination and a way with words that bring these stories to life.
All in all a series of bit sized stories that will bite you back. Highly recommended

[Heidi Gallacher · Rating 4 out of 5]

With her intense, edgy writing, Henningham catapults the reader into some darkly desperate worlds and riveting scenarios. Each of her stories delivers a stark message.
The five short stories are written from a first-person point of view which really enables the reader to see inside the heads of the protagonists.
The writer excels at creating atmosphere - I felt really uneasy at times.

[Michael Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEHAVING BADLY by MICHELE HENNINGHAM is a thought-provoking quick read and one of the best collections of short stories I’ve come across in recent times. There are five different stories that the author wrote with style and great imagination, and I loved them all. 5 Stars all the way. Review posted by Elijah, son of Michael S.

[Dakota Voss · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is exactly as the title says, deliciously dark. As the other work that I’ve read from this author, the writing was inventive and varied from story to story. It did great in bringing about the intended atmosphere. Spin-tingling, psychologically twisted tails. I won’t soon forget these stories. Yet again, good job!

[Neal Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

These short stories fit the title. Very well-written with vivid imagery. Each story ends as a Chapter and in my opinion, leaves the reader feeling the moment that might require re-reading the last paragraph. The author's writing style might not be for everyone, but it is solid, vivid, defining, and very entertaining.

[Samantha Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short stories are something I have been a major fan of reading lately. All of the stories were different in their own ways. The formatting and wording were well done. It was interesting, and loved it! All of these short stories had a powerful message, and always very interesting.

[Prince Alade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the suspense

I really enjoyed reading these suspenseful short stories. Honestly, on some of them I wanted more! I found it to be very descriptive and the it really draws you in. Captivated the whole time!

[STM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked!!

Holy freak crap! This book, though short, will really mess with your head in the best way. It's a collection of shorts that are dark and twisted. No real happily ever afters here. Nope you're left wondering, and it is an insane trip.

[P.G.R. G. R. Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed reading these five short stories. Every single one draws you in, with some fantastic characters. These stories are not for the fate hearted, pure darkness at its best, I can't recommend them enough. Fantastic from the author.

[Julia Cowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Punchy, raw and gritty - I loved these stories. These five cleverly crafted stories left me wanting more. Strictly for adults, these contain dark themes and have been written in such a way that the writing complements each story.

A superb read - is definitely read more from this author.

[mr jonathan ashman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packs a punch

Michelle Henningham's collection of stories are short and anything but sweet.
Each story is relentless and holds your attention in a way that's almost uncomfortable before leaving the reader wanting to know what happened next.
I'm so glad I read this book.

[Vicky Peplow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Power packed!

Even though these were short stories, I wanted them to go on longer. Five Short stories with a dark twisted theme will always get my vote. Each one is different from the other and keeps you wanting for me. I'll definitely be watching for more from this author in the future.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark and chilling collection of stories, excellently crafted by Michele Henningham. Perfectly sized for a commute or if you just fancy a quick hit of spinal chill. Will certainly be keeping an eye on this author.

[Elizabeth Hamilton-Smyth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb collection of short stories with a message hidden within each one. The writing style is exquisite, the themes dark and raw. The author touches on matters often kept under wraps, and delivers the narrative boldly yet with a charming dose of flair. A great read sincerely recommended.