Built From Her Bones: A Mayhem At Midnight Novel

by Zachery Clark

In the rain-soaked streets of Port Sentinel, Special Agent Damon Parker hunts a killer whose crimes echo the darkest moment of his the brutal murder of his mother. Each body left behind is a meticulously staged tableau, marked by a single lilac petal, a chilling signature that drags Damon back to the night his world shattered. As the body count rises, the killer, Anthony Vexler, a man of chilling precision and hidden scars, plays a deadly game, taunting Damon with cryptic messages and personal relics.

With his team, rookie Joe Ortega and sharp profiler Natalie Rivera, Damon chases leads through seedy bars, decaying apartments, and forgotten parks, unraveling a pattern that points to a mastermind orchestrating chaos from the shadows. But every step closer to Vexler pulls Damon deeper into his trauma, threatening to break him before he can stop the next kill. As the stakes escalate and allies fall, Damon must confront the ghosts of his past to end the game or become its final piece.

A gritty, heart-pounding noir thriller, Built from Her Bones weaves a tale of vengeance, redemption, and the cost of chasing monsters in a city that never sleeps.

269 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 16, 2025

About the author

Zachery Clark is a retired Army veteran and cross‑genre novelist whose twenty‑plus years of service instilled discipline, resilience, and a deep respect for the power of storytelling. A devoted father of three, he balances family life with a lifelong passion for creativity, whether fueling his Lego obsession or crafting narratives that blur the line between reality and imagination.
Clark's fascination with writing began in childhood, when he reworked novels into short stories he proudly shared with his mother. That early spark evolved into a signature style defined by psychological tension, meta‑fictional twists, and characters whose relationships pulse with authenticity, dark humor, and emotional depth. His fiction challenges readers to question perception, power, and truth, blending meticulous research with innovative narrative structures.

His work has recently drawn national attention through BrightKey PR's press campaigns, most notably the announcement of Built From Her Bones (December 2025), the latest installment in the Mayhem at Midnight series. Praised for its noir‑infused atmosphere and emotional resonance, the novel further cements Clark's reputation as a writer who fuses cinematic suspense with deep human storytelling.

Beyond fiction, Clark embraces his inner research geek. He holds three degrees, including Homeland Security and Human Resource Management, and brings that analytical rigor to every project. When he's not writing or staring into the abyss of a computer screen, he can often be found outdoors… unless the cold drives him back inside to gaze longingly out the window.
Who's he kidding? He’s playing video games.

Follow Zachery Clark online:
- TikTok: @clarkbar842
- Instagram: @wheresarchiecat
- Facebook: facebook.com/zachery.clark.935060

Reviews

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely consumed me. Damon Parker is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read in years, flawed, haunted, and relentless. The way Clark intertwines Damon’s past trauma with the present case is done so seamlessly. Every chapter had me on edge, and the tension never let up. Truly a masterclass in noir thriller writing.

Recommended by Rebbeca sarah

[Madison Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I was blown away by the complexity of the plot and the depth of the characters. Damon is a deeply human protagonist, struggling with his past while chasing a cold, calculated killer. The tension is relentless, and the ending is both satisfying and haunting. One of the best thrillers I’ve read this year

[Janvi Santwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Built From Her Bones, Zachery Clark drags you straight into the rain-drenched chaos of Port Sentinel . The plot follows Special Agent Damon Parker as he hunts a killer who mirrors the trauma of his mother’s murder, leaving behind staged crime scenes and a haunting lilac petal . The story unfolds like a dark puzzle—each clue tightening the tension and pulling Damon closer to both the truth and his past. It’s a gripping mix of mystery, fear, and emotional unraveling as the city itself becomes a character in this chilling noir.

The characters carry the emotional weight of the narrative. Damon’s connection to the case is deeply personal, and his inner conflict adds a heartbreaking depth. His dynamic with rookie Joe Ortega and profiler Natalie Rivera feels real—messy, supportive, and sometimes strained, which adds to the story’s emotional layering . Even the antagonist, Anthony Vexler, is crafted with chilling precision; he’s not just a villain but a psychological mirror who forces Damon to confront his own shadows. Their cat-and-mouse energy drives the story forward like a ticking time bomb .

Zachery Clark’s writing is sharp, atmospheric, and perfectly paced . The noir vibe is consistent throughout—moody streets, quiet dread, and emotionally charged moments that hit hard. Themes of vengeance, trauma, and redemption are woven seamlessly, giving the story both a cinematic feel and an emotional punch . I loved how every chapter tightened the suspense without ever losing heart. If you enjoy gritty thrillers with depth, this one won’t just keep you up at nightit’ll stay with you long after you turn the last.

[Victoria Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down. From the first page, the rainy streets of Port Sentinel came alive in my imagination, and I felt like I was right alongside Damon as he chased Vexler. The crime scenes were chillingly detailed, the suspense relentless, and the characters were so well-developed that I cared deeply about each of them. Highly recommend

what a lovely book

[Alice Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down. From the first page, the rainy streets of Port Sentinel came alive in my imagination, and I felt like I was right alongside Damon as he chased Vexler. The crime scenes were chillingly detailed, the suspense relentless, and the characters were so well-developed that I cared deeply about each of them. Highly recommend

i love the video a lot it looks like a movie

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The psychological depth of this thriller is remarkable. Anthony Vexler is terrifyingly brilliant, and I loved how the story explored the nature of trauma and obsession. The writing is so vivid that every scene, the rain-soaked streets, the decaying apartments, felt like I was there. A chilling, unforgettable read. i will surly explore more around the author brand

[Brynden · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first page, I was drawn into Port Sentinel. The atmosphere, the tension, the sense of danger lurking around every corner, it’s all brilliantly executed. Damon’s pursuit of Vexler is relentless, and the emotional stakes are high. This is one of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time.

[Reuben Felix · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how the novel combined action, suspense, and emotional depth. Damon’s journey is heart-wrenching, and Vexler is a villain you won’t forget anytime soon. Each clue, each twist, kept me guessing until the very end. I felt like I was unraveling the mystery right alongside the characters.

[Manda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is dark, gripping, and beautifully written. The way Clark portrays Damon’s inner turmoil adds layers to the narrative, making it more than just a standard thriller. Every chapter had me holding my breath, and the shocking reveals kept me hooked until the last word.

[Charlotte Daavies · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is intense, dark, and emotionally charged. Damon Parker’s character is so layered, and his past trauma adds depth to the high-stakes chase. Vexler is a terrifying antagonist, and every encounter with him made my heart race. Clark’s writing is immersive and masterful.

[Leonie Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

The way Zachery Clark builds suspense is nothing short of brilliant. The story is dark, gripping, and full of twists I never saw coming. Damon’s personal struggles add weight to the narrative, making every danger he faces feel real and urgent. I read it in two sittings it was that good.

[Charley James · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved every minute of this book. The story is fast-paced but also deeply emotional, with Damon’s past haunting him at every turn. The crime scenes are vividly described, the tension is constant, and Vexler is a villain who will creep into your nightmares. Truly gripping from start to finish.

[Angie Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book grabbed me from the first page and never let go. Clark’s depiction of Port Sentinel is atmospheric and dark, perfectly matching the tone of the story. Damon’s struggles with his past, combined with the deadly cat-and-mouse game with Vexler, made this an unforgettable read.

[Jessie Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is haunting and thrilling in equal measure. Damon Parker is a protagonist you can’t help but root for, and Vexler is the kind of villain that chills you to the bone. Clark’s attention to detail and the seamless blending of suspense and emotion make this book stand out

[Manda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I rarely feel so invested in a thriller, but this book completely drew me in. The tension, the twists, and the emotional stakes are all top-notch. Damon’s character is so real, and the way he confronts his past while chasing Vexler is compelling and heartbreaking. Incredible read.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Built From Her Bones is a dark, gripping, and emotionally charged thriller. The story had me turning pages late into the night. Damon Parker is one of the most memorable characters I’ve read, and the plot twists kept me guessing at every turn. Clark is a brilliant storyteller.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterpiece of suspense. Damon’s personal trauma adds depth to the high-stakes investigation, and Vexler is a chillingly clever antagonist. The pacing is perfect, the tension is constant, and the twists are shocking yet believable. I loved every moment.

[Flora · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was completely hooked from start to finish. The mix of suspense, psychological tension, and emotional depth makes this book unforgettable. Damon Parker is a protagonist you care about, and the way he faces his past while chasing Vexler adds real weight to the story. Brilliantly written.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The level of detail in this book is amazing. From the rainy streets to the meticulously staged crime scenes, I could picture every moment vividly. Damon Parker’s hunt for Vexler is heart-pounding, and the emotional depth makes the suspense even more gripping. Fantastic thriller

[Royalty Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is dark, suspenseful, and emotionally gripping. Damon’s journey to confront his past while hunting Vexler is both heartbreaking and thrilling. I felt every twist and turn alongside the characters, and the tension never let up. One of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time.

[Rose Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Built From Her Bones is a masterclass in thriller writing. The plot is clever, the suspense is relentless, and the characters are fully realized. Damon Parker is a protagonist who feels real, and Vexler is a villain you won’t forget. I devoured this book in one sitting.

[rose johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the combination of suspense, action, and emotional depth. Damon Parker is a complex and compelling character, and Vexler is a brilliantly sinister villain. The tension is constant, the plot is full of twists, and the story kept me on edge until the very end

[Hahno Liole · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first page, I was hooked. Clark’s writing is immersive and vivid, and the tension never lets up. Damon’s pursuit of Vexler is thrilling, and the psychological depth adds so much to the story. I couldn’t put this book down and am still thinking about it days late

[Lakmali Jayasinghe · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel is dark, gripping, and emotionally intense. Damon Parker is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read, and the story’s exploration of trauma and obsession makes it feel real and relatable. The suspense is relentless, and the twists are shocking and satisfying

[Haske · Rating 4 out of 5]

The level of suspense and tension in this book is incredible. Every chapter made my heart race, and I felt like I was right there with Damon in Port Sentinel. The plot is clever, the characters are well-developed, and the writing is immersive. A must-read for thriller fans

[Lisa Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Built From Her Bones kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Damon’s personal struggles make him a relatable and compelling hero, and Vexler is a chilling villain. The pacing, plot twists, and dark atmosphere make this book unforgettable

[Eminem Victor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Built From Her Bones is dark, suspenseful, and emotionally resonant. Damon Parker is a deeply human protagonist, and the villain, Vexler, is terrifyingly clever. The story kept me guessing at every turn, and the ending was both shocking and satisfying. A must-read thriller.

[Alice Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the first chapter. The tension, suspense, and character development are all excellent. Damon’s pursuit of Vexler is thrilling, and the exploration of trauma adds depth to the narrative. A dark, gripping thriller that I couldn’t put down

[Aveline Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Built From Her Bones is a masterful thriller. Damon Parker is a compelling protagonist, and the story’s pacing and tension are perfect. Clark’s writing is immersive, and the twists kept me guessing until the very end. Highly recommended for anyone who loves suspenseful crime fiction.

[Nalongo Achen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is dark, gripping, and emotionally intense. Damon’s struggle with his past while chasing Vexler adds layers to the story, making it more than just a thriller. The crime scenes are chillingly detailed, and the suspense is relentless. A fantastic read