Consider asking yourself these questions before leaving a negative comment on a fic:
1. Could I have avoided reading the story in the first place because the author adequately summarized/tagged/added any necessary warnings to it?
If yes, then leaving a negative review is worthless. You alone are responsible for your reading experiences.
2. Do I recognize that fiction =/= reality, that it's a safe place to explore situations and themes that I might find uncomfortable? By extension, do I understand that an author's exploration of said uncomfortable things does not necessarily reflect their personal values?
Yes or no, putting an ad hominem attack in your review is bad form. It shows your inability to differentiate between fantasy and reality, not the author's. Furthermore, the author is not obligated to prove to you that they should be allowed to explore disturbing themes by baring their own past traumas.
3. Do I understand that my preferences are not the same as the author's, and those differences of opinions on characterizations, settings, and kinks are perfectly acceptable?
Yes or no, tread lightly with your negative comment. An author isn't responsible for writing the story to your personal tastes. Badgering them will not inspire them to see things your way.
4. Do I recognize that I could have quit reading at any time in the story, that the author didn't force me to finish it?
Yes or no, don't forget that, again, you alone are responsible for your reading experiences.
5. Do I remember that the author is not a faceless online entity, but a living, breathing human being with their own hopes and anxieties? Would I be willing to say my negative review if I were face-to-face with them?
Yes or no, politeness goes a long way when leaving a less-than-enthusiastic comment.
I am not saying that you should never leave a negative review. I'm asking you to consider being more thoughtful if you do. I have had enlightening discussions with readers who left polite criticisms of my work. I have also had my character attacked by unkind readers. The latter have gotten deleted/blocked. The former broadened my understanding. Which kind of reviewer do you want to be?
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