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One Red Arrow, Part 1
In the fall of 1989, Jonny Langley, a hunter from Owlsbourne, Connecticut, vanished without a trace. Three days later, he returned—disoriented and with no memory of what had happened to him.
No one suspected that Jonny’s disappearance would be connected to the bodies discovered more than three decades later.
In 2024, burned-out artist Kay McQuinn returns to her decaying hometown. Owlsbourne is a shell of what it once was, its spirit gutted by the rise of BlackHole Pharmaceuticals—a corporation whose reach seems endless. With her life in freefall, Kay finds comfort in the woods and the McQuinn family tradition of bowhunting.
But one cold November morning, something finds her.
A surreal encounter leaves her with a strange, otherworldly power—and a glimpse into a darker reality just beneath the surface. As she struggles to understand what’s happening to her, she turns to Nick Knight, a steady childhood friend.
Together, they must unravel the legends of the woods, uncover the secrets of BlackHole, and confront a truth far more sinister than either of them could have imagined.
No one suspected that Jonny’s disappearance would be connected to the bodies discovered more than three decades later.
In 2024, burned-out artist Kay McQuinn returns to her decaying hometown. Owlsbourne is a shell of what it once was, its spirit gutted by the rise of BlackHole Pharmaceuticals—a corporation whose reach seems endless. With her life in freefall, Kay finds comfort in the woods and the McQuinn family tradition of bowhunting.
But one cold November morning, something finds her.
A surreal encounter leaves her with a strange, otherworldly power—and a glimpse into a darker reality just beneath the surface. As she struggles to understand what’s happening to her, she turns to Nick Knight, a steady childhood friend.
Together, they must unravel the legends of the woods, uncover the secrets of BlackHole, and confront a truth far more sinister than either of them could have imagined.
326 pages, Paperback
Published August 21, 2025
7 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 13, 2025
A fast-paced sci-fi mystery! I listened to the graphic audio of this book and it was so much fun! A unique tale where the FMC is a bit of an outcast, both in her family and in society. She is a bow hunter and an artist who found some success, but after a big corporation stole her art and she lost a lawsuit against them, it’s been downhill since then. Strange things start happening to her and as we traverse down the path of figuring out what is going on, Kay uncovers secrets and corruption. I don’t know too much about author Caitlin Grabenstein’s personal life, but my guess is that a lot of herself went into the character of Kay. You may know Caitlin’s incredible art from her page @cult.class on IG. I also personally related a bit to Kay myself, specifically some of the feelings with her mother. Lore of a forgotten people/species, family secrets, corporate cover up, a splash of romance, and mystery leaving you wanting to know what the heck is going on! Plus a killer cliffhanger. I would definitely recommend this for an entertaining sci-fi mystery, and the graphic audio was tons of fun! I’ll be looking forward to book two.
Thank you to the author for reaching out with an e-ARC and graphic ALC! Book releases 8/21/25. A strong debut! 👏🏼
Thank you to the author for reaching out with an e-ARC and graphic ALC! Book releases 8/21/25. A strong debut! 👏🏼
September 25, 2025
Thank you @cult.class for my gifted copy! Holy Sci Fi cliffhanger?! You all know I am new to the audiobook gang, and I chose to listen to this. Boy, am I glad I did. It was SO immersive. There was music, sounds, different voices…I felt completely and utterly absorbed into this. Are other audiobooks like this? I am hooked!
I love an underdog MC and Caitlyn was the perfect one. She was so brave, and I couldn’t help but root for her. Don’t even get me started on the twist. I literally dropped my jaw. It was such a huge reveal that I literally cannot wait for book 2. The concept is completely unique blending horror, folklore and science fiction. Whip smart, refreshing and literally needs a @netflix contract because ….WOW. @cult.class I hope you are writing because I need a part two STAT!
I love an underdog MC and Caitlyn was the perfect one. She was so brave, and I couldn’t help but root for her. Don’t even get me started on the twist. I literally dropped my jaw. It was such a huge reveal that I literally cannot wait for book 2. The concept is completely unique blending horror, folklore and science fiction. Whip smart, refreshing and literally needs a @netflix contract because ….WOW. @cult.class I hope you are writing because I need a part two STAT!
August 14, 2025
*4 1/2 ⭐️/5*
• Caitlyn personally outreached to ARC read this book and I want to first off say thank you!!!
• I decided to listen to this book instead of reading it and holy! I consumed this book in under a week. It is a fast paced sci-Fi book with some spooky nodes to it that will have you racing to the end! Not to mention the huge curve ball that is in this book!!
• This book ends on a cliff hanger so be prepared to buckle in and wait for the next one to come out. I cannot wait to see how this story concludes.
• If you are looking for your next sci-Fi obsession this is the one! Not to mention the FMC is easily likable. She’s the underdog.
• Caitlyn personally outreached to ARC read this book and I want to first off say thank you!!!
• I decided to listen to this book instead of reading it and holy! I consumed this book in under a week. It is a fast paced sci-Fi book with some spooky nodes to it that will have you racing to the end! Not to mention the huge curve ball that is in this book!!
• This book ends on a cliff hanger so be prepared to buckle in and wait for the next one to come out. I cannot wait to see how this story concludes.
• If you are looking for your next sci-Fi obsession this is the one! Not to mention the FMC is easily likable. She’s the underdog.
August 14, 2025
Very enjoyable, I got sucked right into the story. It had lots of mysteries and secrets. Great debut. Can't wait for part 2!
September 27, 2025
Loved it!!! Amazing storyline and the second half was so riveting I couldn’t put it down! 10/10 recommend, can’t wait for the next part!
August 6, 2025
This book will have you hooked quickly, fully immersed in its world and buddying up next time you go into the woods!
I received early (early, not free) access to both the physical book & audiobook as a Kickstarter backer.
I supported the project because a) the genre seemed like a good fit with my interests and b) I learned about the project via @cult.class and figured if the book was half as good as the art then it would be a great investment.
And WOW, my expectations were completely obliterated. I chose to experience Owlsbourne via the audiobook and I couldn't believe the production value. I've listened to ~150 audiobooks and I've never heard one quite like this one. The voice actress is one of the best I've heard and the music and soundscape that accompany the reading have you fully immersed in the world of the book. The story is tense and mysterious, the pace is rapid and engaging, and the sound production elevates the entire thing to a whole other level.
The book has everything you'd want from a debut novel, 1) much better than a debut should be and 2) makes you hungry for the sophomore effort. The story is a perfect combination of thriller, supernatural and mystery. It is clearly laid out and full of mysteries and twists whose resolutions are satisfying, but enough remains a mystery for you to long for more. Overall, an outstanding read - it will have you hooked in from the first chapter and hard to put down from there!
While I listened rather than read the physical book, a physical copy is well worth the experience as well. Given this book is coming from a popular digital artist, it was a real treat to see the care that went into designing the physical experience - from a map of the town to chapter art - more great production value in the physical book.
I received early (early, not free) access to both the physical book & audiobook as a Kickstarter backer.
I supported the project because a) the genre seemed like a good fit with my interests and b) I learned about the project via @cult.class and figured if the book was half as good as the art then it would be a great investment.
And WOW, my expectations were completely obliterated. I chose to experience Owlsbourne via the audiobook and I couldn't believe the production value. I've listened to ~150 audiobooks and I've never heard one quite like this one. The voice actress is one of the best I've heard and the music and soundscape that accompany the reading have you fully immersed in the world of the book. The story is tense and mysterious, the pace is rapid and engaging, and the sound production elevates the entire thing to a whole other level.
The book has everything you'd want from a debut novel, 1) much better than a debut should be and 2) makes you hungry for the sophomore effort. The story is a perfect combination of thriller, supernatural and mystery. It is clearly laid out and full of mysteries and twists whose resolutions are satisfying, but enough remains a mystery for you to long for more. Overall, an outstanding read - it will have you hooked in from the first chapter and hard to put down from there!
While I listened rather than read the physical book, a physical copy is well worth the experience as well. Given this book is coming from a popular digital artist, it was a real treat to see the care that went into designing the physical experience - from a map of the town to chapter art - more great production value in the physical book.
August 22, 2025
It is hard to find an original Thriller/Science Fiction work in these days of mass produced, "everybody follow the guidelines and rules set by editors that couldn't write their own stories so that it sells" books. But this is exactly what One Red Arrow by Caitlyn Grabenstein accomplishes - an original story that truly introduces us to a strong female character who doesn't follow the established "rules" of big published books. This is what Independent publishing is all about, especially when the story is fantastic, gripping, and keeps you wondering where the storyline is going throughout the entire book. The book is better than mass-printed novels, as it is edited professionally, has excellent character formation, and is beautifully printed, even down to the finest details of chapter headings. This book is the complete package and I cannot recommend it highly enough to all fans of the supernatural and mystery genres. Also, as a side note, treat yourself to the audio book version as well - it is so professionally produced that you will wonder what other publishing companies are actually doing for their author clients' audio books. In summary - this book is what reading is all about, and it is written by a real artist for lovers of the genre. I cannot wait for Part 2!
August 3, 2025
This was a horror thriller sci-fi readers heaven! A absolutely captivating novel from start finish!
ᵃˡᶜ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵉʷ
Debut Novel by @cult.class
🏹ᴏɴᴇ ʀᴇᴅ ᴀʀʀᴏᴡ ᴘᴀʀᴛ 1🏹
Releasing August 21st
Pre-Order Now 🦉
I got the privilege to ALC this novel and what a absolute honor to hear @cult.class debut come to life 🎧
A full, cinematic audiobook, complete with brilliant narration by @melissamedinavo masterful sound design by @campfireradiotheater
This book is absolutely incredible, audiobooking felt like I was listening to a full on movie, I couldn't stop listening!
The storyline hooked you right from the start!
A supernatural thriller meets creature feature with a sci-fi, conspiracy twist.
If you like creepy woods, corporate cover-ups, and badass female leads... you're going to want this on your shelf.
This is a must read you! You will not be able to put down or stop listening kind of read!
ᵃˡᶜ ʳᵉᵛⁱᵉʷ
Debut Novel by @cult.class
🏹ᴏɴᴇ ʀᴇᴅ ᴀʀʀᴏᴡ ᴘᴀʀᴛ 1🏹
Releasing August 21st
Pre-Order Now 🦉
I got the privilege to ALC this novel and what a absolute honor to hear @cult.class debut come to life 🎧
A full, cinematic audiobook, complete with brilliant narration by @melissamedinavo masterful sound design by @campfireradiotheater
This book is absolutely incredible, audiobooking felt like I was listening to a full on movie, I couldn't stop listening!
The storyline hooked you right from the start!
A supernatural thriller meets creature feature with a sci-fi, conspiracy twist.
If you like creepy woods, corporate cover-ups, and badass female leads... you're going to want this on your shelf.
This is a must read you! You will not be able to put down or stop listening kind of read!
August 30, 2025
A young woman, inspired by her grandmother, bow hunts as an escape to rethink her life, and has a supernatural encounter in the woods. She survives and runs back to her car seemingly the same, but soon finds she has a new power that frightens her at first, but she saves a little girl in danger, showing her how it can be used for good. But where did this come from, why does she have it and who else does?
And who can she tell? Her one confidant blossoms into a romance and they become a sleuthing team. But what they find out changes not only their future, but what she thought she knew about her family.
Highly recommend the audiobook format too. The narrator is superb and the sound effects will have you looking over your shoulder and feeling spooked. Perfect book for this time of year when you’re ready for a little scare.
And who can she tell? Her one confidant blossoms into a romance and they become a sleuthing team. But what they find out changes not only their future, but what she thought she knew about her family.
Highly recommend the audiobook format too. The narrator is superb and the sound effects will have you looking over your shoulder and feeling spooked. Perfect book for this time of year when you’re ready for a little scare.
October 14, 2025
4.25 ⭐️ I honestly didn’t know what to expect since sci-fi is not my typical genre, but I really wanted to give it a go having been a huge fan of Caitlyn’s art for years now, so I really wanted to support her !
Saying that I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. This book was AWESOME! I got hooked from the beginning and didn’t feel like any of it was over the top or overly unrealistic.
I also loved how it was partly autobiographical and we got to learn a bit more about Caitlyn’s struggles and her life as an artist. I did not think I would like this book that much.
A fast-paced page-turner with an unexpected twist at the end? COUNT ME IN. Can’t wait for part 2 now !
Saying that I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. This book was AWESOME! I got hooked from the beginning and didn’t feel like any of it was over the top or overly unrealistic.
I also loved how it was partly autobiographical and we got to learn a bit more about Caitlyn’s struggles and her life as an artist. I did not think I would like this book that much.
A fast-paced page-turner with an unexpected twist at the end? COUNT ME IN. Can’t wait for part 2 now !
September 27, 2025
This is such an amazing book that I highly recommend! I listened to the audiobook and the voice acting captured the characters so well, and the incredible music and sounds surrounding the story pulled you in even more. I couldn’t stop listening and was so excited to find out what came next with each chapter. The storyline was so incredible and unique with such unexpected turns! I especially loved the main character’s arrow vision and was always excited to see how it would come into play next. I didn’t want it to end and can’t wait for Part 2!
August 17, 2025
This was my first sci-fi novel, and I couldn’t have imagined a better introduction to the genre. The story was gripping—blending mystery, thrills, and romance—and it left me eager for more. I listened to it on audio, and Caitlyn’s writing brought the world vividly to life. I could picture every scene unfolding in my mind, and I can easily imagine this story translating into a captivating film. I can’t what for part 2!
August 19, 2025
One Red Arrow pulled me in from the very first chapter and never let go. The mix of small town mystery, supernatural suspense, and corporate conspiracy kept me turning the pages into the night. Kay was a relatable multi layered character, and her journey was as emotional as it was unsettling. The story unfolds at just the right pace with each revelation raising more questions than answers! The ending completely blind-sided me and now I can’t wait for Part Two. Such a fantastic debut novel!
September 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One Red Arrow pulled me in right away with its smooth pacing and well-developed characters. I truly enjoyed the Sci-Fi storyline, the little twists, the slight spooky vibe, and the way the characters felt both likable and relatable.
If I had one complaint, it’s that it went by too fast. I was left wishing it were just a bit longer… and now I’m stuck waiting for book #2!
Yes, I would definitely recommend this book.
One Red Arrow pulled me in right away with its smooth pacing and well-developed characters. I truly enjoyed the Sci-Fi storyline, the little twists, the slight spooky vibe, and the way the characters felt both likable and relatable.
If I had one complaint, it’s that it went by too fast. I was left wishing it were just a bit longer… and now I’m stuck waiting for book #2!
Yes, I would definitely recommend this book.
October 26, 2025
Thanks so much to the author for an arc of this book! Let me start by saying, I LOVE Caitlyn’s art. I’m also giving a little grace due to this being her debut novel. With that being said— this book just did not do it for me. The author does a LOT of TELLING and little SHOWING. The story-telling felt very robotic and one-dimensional. I do hope the second novel is better with the author gaining experience, but it felt like a high school short-story for an English lit class.
October 7, 2025
Another book I was pleasantly surprised by! I’m not usually one for this genre of book but I’ve been such a fan of the author’s art I knew I needed to read her debut novel. This was such a fun & fast read. Dark & twisty in the best way. I’m looking forward to seeing how this mystery unfolds further in Part 2.
August 6, 2025
This was an awesome book! I really enjoyed it from beginning to end. Great characters with excellent sci-fi vibes, surrealism, a bit of romance, surprising twists, and the ending left me wanting more. I highly recommend you give it read!
August 9, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book and WOW!! What a page turner! A crime drama / supernatural story that truly captivated me! This book is a home run!!
August 25, 2025
Absolutely loved reading this book. I was hooked from beginning to end! Such an interesting and compelling plot. Highly recommend.
August 27, 2025
So amazing!! What a beautiful debut novel. Listened to the audio book straight through in one day. Just got my hard copy and can’t wait to read it. Looking forward to Part 2 already.
September 1, 2025
4.5 ! It was so good and I can’t wait for part 2. Such a great quick read that sucks you in from the first chapter.
September 4, 2025
I listened on audible. It’s a very good read! Written very well and sucks you in! If you like sci fi fantasy this is a good book. I found myself shocked at the end! I’m ready for part 2!
September 10, 2025
Review to come!
September 11, 2025
A quick read that kept me entertained and wanting more! Cannot wait for part 2!
August 13, 2025
I received an ARC of this book and couldn’t have been more pleased with it. Everything I wanted: crime, supernatural, super hero - all wrapped in one. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews