Bliss — James White

Youth and beauty are the color of blood. This youth, this beauty, has a name. That name is Bliss...

When a compassionate psychiatrist tries to help a self-mutilating young woman, he discovers that some maladies exist beyond the realm of science, and that some solutions are their own special horror.

Short Story: 5,467 words

Praise for the short story, Bliss:

...this was probably the best short story I've read this year. White delves into the psychosis of a self-mutilator and creates a disturbing murder story out of it. The detail, emotion, and clarity are chilling. Great job.
-- CV Rick's Reviews

White pairs disturbing idea with excellent characterization to make a dark and creepy story filled with extremes -- wanton extremes that make you shudder... Sensitive readers might find it a little more than they can handle, but for those who can take it, “Bliss” is a compelling ride.
-- Tangent Online

Fantastic story… My fiancee and I listened to it on a plane flight and we are still talking about it a week later! Loved it!
-- Stephen Heath