What do you think?
Rate this book
Detective Harper Bennett
Surviving the Bringer of Death
A serial killer's lair. My living nightmare. My desperate bid for freedom.
I was trying to get away. The yelling. The drinking. The hands that wandered where they shouldn't.
The road that night was full of monsters. He seemed kind. Safe. His wife was at home. I believed him. I wanted to feel safe.
The basement door locked behind me. The darkness swallowed me whole.
His unspoken rules passed from victims taken before me. Stay quiet. Stay small. Don't fight back. Now, I count the days in the screams of the others.
When he's bored, he chooses someone new to hurt. No one survives him.
I saw something he didn't plan on. I can identify him. I memorized the tattoos on his arm.
I see cracks in his control. Moments where his careful world unravels. I'm not waiting for him to choose me.
I'm watching. Waiting. When my moment comes...
I'm getting out.
Trigger Warning: This book contains topics including but not limited to murder, torture, kidnapping, rape, claustrophobia, manipulation, and others.
I was trying to get away. The yelling. The drinking. The hands that wandered where they shouldn't.
The road that night was full of monsters. He seemed kind. Safe. His wife was at home. I believed him. I wanted to feel safe.
The basement door locked behind me. The darkness swallowed me whole.
His unspoken rules passed from victims taken before me. Stay quiet. Stay small. Don't fight back. Now, I count the days in the screams of the others.
When he's bored, he chooses someone new to hurt. No one survives him.
I saw something he didn't plan on. I can identify him. I memorized the tattoos on his arm.
I see cracks in his control. Moments where his careful world unravels. I'm not waiting for him to choose me.
I'm watching. Waiting. When my moment comes...
I'm getting out.
Trigger Warning: This book contains topics including but not limited to murder, torture, kidnapping, rape, claustrophobia, manipulation, and others.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2025
28 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 30, 2025
Surviving the Bringer of Death is the first book in the Detective Harper Bennett series by Kira Black. From the very first page, I was captivated by Harper Bennett's world. Surviving the Bringer of Death is a spine-tingling tale that kept me in suspense from start to finish.
Harper has had enough of her mother's drinking and the string of new boyfriends with wandering hands, so she decides to leave. After several hours on a long, dark road, with her snacks depleted and feeling drained and hungry, she makes the risky decision to accept a ride from a man who seems ordinary, claiming he has a wife and baby waiting for him at home.
Harper's life is flipped upside down the moment she steps into his house and descends into the dark basement below. She quickly discovers she is not alone in that eerie space; there are several others trapped there too, all waiting for their turn with the monster who has taken them.
However, Harper is not just waiting in despair; she is observing and plotting for the right moment to flee from this horrifying nightmare with the sinister creature. Will Harper manage to flee this wicked man, or will her fate be the same as those who came before her?
Get your copy of Surviving the Bringer of Death today!
Harper has had enough of her mother's drinking and the string of new boyfriends with wandering hands, so she decides to leave. After several hours on a long, dark road, with her snacks depleted and feeling drained and hungry, she makes the risky decision to accept a ride from a man who seems ordinary, claiming he has a wife and baby waiting for him at home.
Harper's life is flipped upside down the moment she steps into his house and descends into the dark basement below. She quickly discovers she is not alone in that eerie space; there are several others trapped there too, all waiting for their turn with the monster who has taken them.
However, Harper is not just waiting in despair; she is observing and plotting for the right moment to flee from this horrifying nightmare with the sinister creature. Will Harper manage to flee this wicked man, or will her fate be the same as those who came before her?
Get your copy of Surviving the Bringer of Death today!
January 4, 2026
This was very good, and I was captivated the whole time reading! I liked the different POV's and how it told the story from multiple angles. I'm excited to read part 2!
June 18, 2025
This novella delivers a gripping and brutal thriller that never lets go.
First in a serial with some physical and sexual abuse.
The plot is tense and immersive, charting a runaway teen’s descent into a predator’s lair and a fallen detective’s battle to uncover the truth.
The narrative structure, shifting between Harper’s claustrophobic captivity and Detective Callahan’s obsessive investigation, creates a relentless pace that pulls the reader through each chapter.
Harper emerges as a strong, believable lead. Her will to survive feels raw and real.
Callahan, broken but determined, adds weight to the narrative with his emotional depth and clear drive.
The killer’s chapters are chilling. His methodical control and twisted logic bring a disturbing edge that heightens the stakes.
The writing is crisp and clean. It shows rather than tells. Dialogue feels natural.
The world, the streets, the basement, the system that fails these kids, feels lived in and grounded.
If there’s a flaw, it lies in the ending. The climax builds intensity but offers limited closure. More insight into the killer’s backstory or a firmer final breakthrough would strengthen the conclusion. This should come in later books in a serial.
Still, this is a standout entry in the psychological thriller genre. It’s harrowing, emotional, and unforgettable.
A must-read for fans of dark, character-driven suspense.
First in a serial with some physical and sexual abuse.
The plot is tense and immersive, charting a runaway teen’s descent into a predator’s lair and a fallen detective’s battle to uncover the truth.
The narrative structure, shifting between Harper’s claustrophobic captivity and Detective Callahan’s obsessive investigation, creates a relentless pace that pulls the reader through each chapter.
Harper emerges as a strong, believable lead. Her will to survive feels raw and real.
Callahan, broken but determined, adds weight to the narrative with his emotional depth and clear drive.
The killer’s chapters are chilling. His methodical control and twisted logic bring a disturbing edge that heightens the stakes.
The writing is crisp and clean. It shows rather than tells. Dialogue feels natural.
The world, the streets, the basement, the system that fails these kids, feels lived in and grounded.
If there’s a flaw, it lies in the ending. The climax builds intensity but offers limited closure. More insight into the killer’s backstory or a firmer final breakthrough would strengthen the conclusion. This should come in later books in a serial.
Still, this is a standout entry in the psychological thriller genre. It’s harrowing, emotional, and unforgettable.
A must-read for fans of dark, character-driven suspense.
May 22, 2025
A twisted but ultimately worthwhile intro to a series!
Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2025
Surviving The Bringer Of Death is about a girl named Harper who runs away from a love less home only to find herself in a far worse situation. Throughout the book, Harper always rises to the challenge and tries to help the other victims. The book is twisted, no doubt about that, but its also thoughtful and worthwhile. If you're a particularly sensitive person, you might want to pass on this one, but if enjoy taut thrillers with excellent and flawed characters, Surviving The Bringer Of Death will be Right up your alley. My only complaint is that the book flew by too fast, trust me, you'll want to finish this one in one sitting. I'm thoroughly looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Harper! 4.5/5 stars!
Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2025
Surviving The Bringer Of Death is about a girl named Harper who runs away from a love less home only to find herself in a far worse situation. Throughout the book, Harper always rises to the challenge and tries to help the other victims. The book is twisted, no doubt about that, but its also thoughtful and worthwhile. If you're a particularly sensitive person, you might want to pass on this one, but if enjoy taut thrillers with excellent and flawed characters, Surviving The Bringer Of Death will be Right up your alley. My only complaint is that the book flew by too fast, trust me, you'll want to finish this one in one sitting. I'm thoroughly looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Harper! 4.5/5 stars!
December 16, 2025
You read horror, you get used to certain trends or topics. But then you read this nightmare from Kira Black, Surviving the Bringer of Death, and you don't want to shut off the light at night. For get that; you refuse to turn the lights off - because that's his territory. You pull on some headphones, try to find some soothing music. But music just reminds you of the horrors these characters face. Black has not only woven the threads of darkest fears into this tapestry, but then streamlined it, so you take it breath by breath - forget page by page. This intensity is throttled so high, you feel like you're going to suffocate. But then, you realize that's this sadist's M.O. He likes to see you gasp for breath. He likes to hear you whimper with fear. And he lives on every squeal you shriek in pain.
Remember to bring a defibrillator for this heart-stopping horror story!
Remember to bring a defibrillator for this heart-stopping horror story!
May 17, 2025
SURVIVING THE BRINGER OF DEATH, is the first installment in the Detective Harper Bennett series by Kira Black and my introduction to this author. This is a dark story of depravity, greed and sick pleasure of some human's. It is also a story of determination and survival.
Harper was fed up, her drunk mother cared more for her addiction and her newest boyfriend. She had no money so decided to hitchhike. She had no idea that a monster in sheeps clothing was on the prowl, until it was too late.
This was a chilling thriller that will keep you hoping the monsters is stopped. I received a copy of this book from the author, and the above is my voluntary and honest review.
Harper was fed up, her drunk mother cared more for her addiction and her newest boyfriend. She had no money so decided to hitchhike. She had no idea that a monster in sheeps clothing was on the prowl, until it was too late.
This was a chilling thriller that will keep you hoping the monsters is stopped. I received a copy of this book from the author, and the above is my voluntary and honest review.
June 13, 2025
When you have no choices
Detective Harper does everything possible to follow the clues. A person is taken, and no one is ever found alive... but one. Will she be able to live through the aftermath of all that has happened, all that is within her mind?
This was a scary book for many reasons, it is also very empowering. For those who have trigger points, this might not be for you. However, for those of you who live to explore the unknown, no matter the path, this is for you!
Thank you, Kira Black, for a story to truly make me think, and watch closer.
Detective Harper does everything possible to follow the clues. A person is taken, and no one is ever found alive... but one. Will she be able to live through the aftermath of all that has happened, all that is within her mind?
This was a scary book for many reasons, it is also very empowering. For those who have trigger points, this might not be for you. However, for those of you who live to explore the unknown, no matter the path, this is for you!
Thank you, Kira Black, for a story to truly make me think, and watch closer.
July 18, 2025
WOW! I could hardly stop reading this book as it was SO intriguing! My heart ached for Harper and every one of the victims and I wanted to beat the horrible name changing man but maybe give him a taste of his own medicine! He had to be a sick waco to carve, and torture children for money. I did not like Harper's mom one bit, and I would gladly tie her tubes so that she would never have another child.
November 26, 2025
This short thriller is an intense book. The suspense is well done. It’s also short – only 130 or so pages.
The writing is strong. I have two issues with the story. First, the attitude of the police captain and the police procedures that aren’t followed that would be. And second thing is the graphic detail of the bad guy with his victims, particularly one over-the-top scene. It’s an okay read if you don’t mind the violence.
The writing is strong. I have two issues with the story. First, the attitude of the police captain and the police procedures that aren’t followed that would be. And second thing is the graphic detail of the bad guy with his victims, particularly one over-the-top scene. It’s an okay read if you don’t mind the violence.
December 22, 2025
Oh, I ate this book up! I hadn't even finished it and was recommending it to people!
The book follows Harper, a young run away, who is abducted. It's told not only from Harpers' pov, but the detectives and the perpetrator.
The author touches on many dark topics throughout the book and does it in such an elegant way.
I am excited to continue with this series and look at other books from the author!
Highly recommend!
The book follows Harper, a young run away, who is abducted. It's told not only from Harpers' pov, but the detectives and the perpetrator.
The author touches on many dark topics throughout the book and does it in such an elegant way.
I am excited to continue with this series and look at other books from the author!
Highly recommend!
January 1, 2026
THriller? Oh yeah, that it is. Harper, a teenager packs a few things and is escaping a broken home. Hitchhiking, abnormal looking man picks her up, in the process he claims he needs to stop at home to get something, offers a meal, his pregnant wife would give her. Sounds safe, it sounds safe? What a twisted story, edge of your seat, hurtling you through the sins of a "normal" man. Well written, strong characters, and twists that are truly twisted!
April 19, 2025
great read!
A serial killer kidnaps & brutally tortures teens posting on the dark web for money. James, a policeman, is determined to find this killer. Harper is one of the latest kidnapped. Can James fund her in time to save her? A fast paced story that will keep you turning pages until the end, then wanting more!
A serial killer kidnaps & brutally tortures teens posting on the dark web for money. James, a policeman, is determined to find this killer. Harper is one of the latest kidnapped. Can James fund her in time to save her? A fast paced story that will keep you turning pages until the end, then wanting more!
April 20, 2025
Great introduction of a new detective. This young lady stars a rich narrative of her very early days and writes the story in your mind and memory. Very interesting plot, great characters and a very imaginative overall story.
This is book One! I can’t wait to get to 4 or5.
Maybe even six! Please do start with number 1. You will appreciate the journey!
Michael
This is book One! I can’t wait to get to 4 or5.
Maybe even six! Please do start with number 1. You will appreciate the journey!
Michael
July 10, 2025
This first book in the Harper Bennett series introduces us to Harper and sets the tone for that which is yet to come. A graphic, fast moving novel that kept me enthralled from the start. I can honestly say I finished it in one sitting and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. Well done!
August 20, 2025
Kira Black delivers a gripping, heart-pounding story in Surviving the Bringer of Death. The fear feels real, the suspense is relentless, and the narrator’s determination to fight back makes it impossible not to root for her. Dark, intense, and unforgettable! I’m ready for the second book in the series - releasing September 10, 2025.
September 28, 2025
𝗔 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿. 𝗠𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗲. 𝗠𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗼𝗺.
× × ×
This novella is the opening to the second book, '𝘏𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩'.
It is fast-paced, brutal and thrilling, it kept me engaged and now I'm left wanting more!
I recommend this to anyone who is looking for a quick thrilling and bloody detective read which leads onto a bigger story.
× × ×
This novella is the opening to the second book, '𝘏𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩'.
It is fast-paced, brutal and thrilling, it kept me engaged and now I'm left wanting more!
I recommend this to anyone who is looking for a quick thrilling and bloody detective read which leads onto a bigger story.
May 5, 2025
Runaway teens are missing and nobody seems to care. Detective Callahan never gave up. This book held my attention all the way through. The author did a great job with this book. I would remind everyone to check the trigger warnings though.
May 22, 2025
There were parts of this book that were very hard to read because of the subject. Very intense and it kept me up thinking about it after I read it. I had to keep telling myself that it was a work of Fiction although I have no doubt that these horrible things do happen.
June 15, 2025
a really intense read! I loved it! I was on the end of my seat and could not put this book down, I read it in one day! Will she be able to get away from this sadistic serial killer? Makes you really think! A real page turner and a must read!
April 11, 2025
Yeah, it's a short story but it had a good story. A serial killer with a difference.
June 5, 2025
Please read warnings before reading! It was very intense for me but overall I liked it.
July 8, 2025
Very intense and gripping.
July 10, 2025
An exciting & thrilling read. I plan on reading more in this series.
November 4, 2025
Fascinating read! The story held my attention from the very first page to the end. It is such a spine-tingling tale that you have to keep reminding yourself that it is a work of fiction.
December 15, 2025
Enjoyed this book. A couple of places, the story seemed to lose continuity. Overall, I would recommend this book. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews