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An Arrowhead Thriller #1
The Caveman Conspiracy: An Arrowhead Thriller
“If you love a good spy yarn where past chases and liaisons haunt and help a pulse-racing hunt, you won’t want to put down this adventure...” –Jeffrey Ulin, author of The Lord’s Tusks
Eddie Mason is done with the CIA, and he thought he'd made it clear that he never wants to work with them again.
So, when his former boss, Craig Black, shows up out of nowhere with a story about Senator Sam Hawthorne's suspicious meeting with a shadowy underworld figure, he wants no part of it. It's only when he's told that the job involves Loren Malen, another former agent, that he reluctantly agrees to help.
After years of wondering where she'd ended up and if the spark between them was real or just the result of dangerous circumstances, he hopes this job just might give him the opportunity to find out. When Hawthorne suddenly plans a secretive sailing trip into the Caribbean, the Agency's suspicions are heightened, and Craig insists he take Eddie along for protection.
Meanwhile, Loren follows the senator's shady associate to the Dominican Republic in an attempt to unravel the mystery from that end. Neither mission turns out to be as simple as they anticipated, and Eddie and Loren are pulled into a dangerous conspiracy deeper than they could have ever imagined.
Eddie Mason is done with the CIA, and he thought he'd made it clear that he never wants to work with them again.
So, when his former boss, Craig Black, shows up out of nowhere with a story about Senator Sam Hawthorne's suspicious meeting with a shadowy underworld figure, he wants no part of it. It's only when he's told that the job involves Loren Malen, another former agent, that he reluctantly agrees to help.
After years of wondering where she'd ended up and if the spark between them was real or just the result of dangerous circumstances, he hopes this job just might give him the opportunity to find out. When Hawthorne suddenly plans a secretive sailing trip into the Caribbean, the Agency's suspicions are heightened, and Craig insists he take Eddie along for protection.
Meanwhile, Loren follows the senator's shady associate to the Dominican Republic in an attempt to unravel the mystery from that end. Neither mission turns out to be as simple as they anticipated, and Eddie and Loren are pulled into a dangerous conspiracy deeper than they could have ever imagined.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 22, 2024
It’s not easy to write a novel with multiple plot twists without confusing the reader or opening a hole in the plot. In this debut novel, Bret Hurst masterfully controls his narrative and creates great characters amid almost non-stop action. As a reader, I was hooked from page one, yet never lost the thread - Hurst feeds the reader just the right amount of information at just the right time. Even the flashback scenes were dynamic - and I hope that Eddie Mason’s time in France will eventually be its own novel. Tight writing, smart plot, interesting characters - five stars! I’m looking forward to reading more by this author!
June 20, 2024
Not sure what I expected, but this was a good read and a cliffhanger to dangle. There's an ex CIA guy with friends in the Agency who want a favor, an untrustworthy client, a fairly complex plot, and good character development. A fine lazy day read.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Black Rose Writing via NetGalley. Thanks
#ArrowheadBk1
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Black Rose Writing via NetGalley. Thanks
#ArrowheadBk1
February 15, 2026
Great read
Definitely kept my attention for the whole story. Looking forward to reading more of this author's works, good flow and interest in his writing style, seems well thought out plot . Bring on the next book!
Definitely kept my attention for the whole story. Looking forward to reading more of this author's works, good flow and interest in his writing style, seems well thought out plot . Bring on the next book!
February 19, 2026
What a great read. Refreshing and hard to put down. Love the way the author weaves the story from the various angles of the participants. I believe Frank & crew will be back again doing their dirty deeds.
May 24, 2026
exceptional story, well told
This book is different than most and why I enjoyed reading it. Interesting characters with great back stories, unusual predicaments and well written. It is book one of a series and is hard to put down. About to tackle book 2. Enjoy!
This book is different than most and why I enjoyed reading it. Interesting characters with great back stories, unusual predicaments and well written. It is book one of a series and is hard to put down. About to tackle book 2. Enjoy!
December 14, 2025
It took a bit for the story to hit its stride...still waiting to find out what Sam was expecting to find. Hopefully a sequel is coming!
March 23, 2026
Book was too short !!
Hard to put down. Lot's of action with a lot of great details. Will definitely be reading his follow-up book !!
Hard to put down. Lot's of action with a lot of great details. Will definitely be reading his follow-up book !!
July 24, 2024
Ever thought you'd left a job behind, only to get dragged back into the chaos? That’s Eddie Mason's life in “The Caveman Conspiracy!” He’s done with the CIA—or so he thinks—until his old boss, Craig, shows up with a sketchy story about a senator and a shady character. Eddie’s not interested, but when he hears his ex-flame Loren is involved, he can't resist.
From the get-go, this book grabs you. Eddie's struggle between staying out and diving back in is real, especially with Loren in the mix. Their chemistry is electric, and the spy games keep you flipping pages like mad. Hurst has a knack for mixing suspense and romance perfectly.
The dual missions are a blast: Eddie’s on a secret sailing trip with the senator, while Loren’s chasing clues in the Dominican Republic. Both are packed with twists and turns, making you guess what’s next. The action is intense, the stakes are high, and the surprises just keep coming.
What makes this book a standout is the character depth. Eddie’s internal battles and his fiery connection with Loren are spot on. You feel every moment of tension and every spark between them. And the ending? Let’s just say it’s a wild, satisfying ride.
If you’re into thrillers with a dash of romance and a whole lot of action, “The Caveman Conspiracy” is your next read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down!
From the get-go, this book grabs you. Eddie's struggle between staying out and diving back in is real, especially with Loren in the mix. Their chemistry is electric, and the spy games keep you flipping pages like mad. Hurst has a knack for mixing suspense and romance perfectly.
The dual missions are a blast: Eddie’s on a secret sailing trip with the senator, while Loren’s chasing clues in the Dominican Republic. Both are packed with twists and turns, making you guess what’s next. The action is intense, the stakes are high, and the surprises just keep coming.
What makes this book a standout is the character depth. Eddie’s internal battles and his fiery connection with Loren are spot on. You feel every moment of tension and every spark between them. And the ending? Let’s just say it’s a wild, satisfying ride.
If you’re into thrillers with a dash of romance and a whole lot of action, “The Caveman Conspiracy” is your next read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down!
December 11, 2025
Overall Rating = 5
Storyline & Concept = 5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 5
The Caveman Conspiracy is a high-octane thriller featuring Eddie Mason, a brilliant and talented protagonist who had hoped to stay away from his previous life with the CIA, but an equally talented woman, Loren Malen, had never forgotten him and their previous relationship, no matter how brief it had been. Needing to help a close friend of hers, she pulls Eddie back into the action along with his team of gifted and trustworthy friends. The Caribbean setting is lush and ideal for this cinematic adventure.
Hurst comes out of the gate fast and furious with this debut novel, filled with non-stop action from start to finish. At first, I was concerned about the number of characters and if I’d be able to keep them sorted, but I didn’t need to worry. They soon distinguished themselves and fell into groups of good versus evil, with some gray areas in between. Told from multiple points of view, the author used flashbacks to develop the backstory and characters, and even those sequences are action-filled and, in my opinion, intriguing fodder for at least one prequel. This is a terrific start to a series that is sure to be a hit with readers who love spy thrillers, political intrigue, and non-stop action.
Sublime Line: “Fans of international thrillers with sharp dialogue, layered characters, and non-stop action will find this an addictive read.”
Storyline & Concept = 5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 5
The Caveman Conspiracy is a high-octane thriller featuring Eddie Mason, a brilliant and talented protagonist who had hoped to stay away from his previous life with the CIA, but an equally talented woman, Loren Malen, had never forgotten him and their previous relationship, no matter how brief it had been. Needing to help a close friend of hers, she pulls Eddie back into the action along with his team of gifted and trustworthy friends. The Caribbean setting is lush and ideal for this cinematic adventure.
Hurst comes out of the gate fast and furious with this debut novel, filled with non-stop action from start to finish. At first, I was concerned about the number of characters and if I’d be able to keep them sorted, but I didn’t need to worry. They soon distinguished themselves and fell into groups of good versus evil, with some gray areas in between. Told from multiple points of view, the author used flashbacks to develop the backstory and characters, and even those sequences are action-filled and, in my opinion, intriguing fodder for at least one prequel. This is a terrific start to a series that is sure to be a hit with readers who love spy thrillers, political intrigue, and non-stop action.
Sublime Line: “Fans of international thrillers with sharp dialogue, layered characters, and non-stop action will find this an addictive read.”
January 30, 2025
Jason Bourne's got nothing on Eddie Mason!
Bret Hurst's blazing hot debut is a fast-paced thriller packed with espionage, and intrigue, sprinkled with a bit of unresolved romance. Former CIA operative Mason left the clandestine world behind him for good...or at least he thought he did. When a familiar name resurfaces in a high-stakes mission, he reluctantly returns to the fray. With bad dudes, political twists, and a perilous chase through the Caribbean, Hurst's gripping, ripping, non-stop action story keeps the tension taut and the pages turning.
Bret Hurst's blazing hot debut is a fast-paced thriller packed with espionage, and intrigue, sprinkled with a bit of unresolved romance. Former CIA operative Mason left the clandestine world behind him for good...or at least he thought he did. When a familiar name resurfaces in a high-stakes mission, he reluctantly returns to the fray. With bad dudes, political twists, and a perilous chase through the Caribbean, Hurst's gripping, ripping, non-stop action story keeps the tension taut and the pages turning.
March 1, 2026
The age-old struggle between those who are good and care about others, and those who are evil and in it only for self. The CIA is involved, as are former members of the CIA, pulled into a situation where their particular skills are needed. I liked the two main characters (on the good side), Eddie and Loren. There are main characters on the dark side, as well as supporting characters who have big parts too. This is an action-packed story, with heart and characterization. I won't say much so that you can figure it out for yourself!
April 3, 2026
Missing the Action.
This book is a great example of how those in government service want their little peace of solitude in their lives. However, there are some who just need the danger and action. The characters are very well developed. I was wondering about the Caveman title, well done! I also liked the Robin Hood reference and how you made it applicable.
Can’t wait to start the second book!
This book is a great example of how those in government service want their little peace of solitude in their lives. However, there are some who just need the danger and action. The characters are very well developed. I was wondering about the Caveman title, well done! I also liked the Robin Hood reference and how you made it applicable.
Can’t wait to start the second book!
June 30, 2026
exciting, fast paced and based on facts
Many things about the “Cold War” have been declassified and writers are turning that information into exciting, violent and twisted books with plots that take fact into imaginings….that make things exciting. Well written (except for the occasional misuse of the word; anyway) and well thought out. Looking forward to next installment of Eddies story. May the good guys always win!
Many things about the “Cold War” have been declassified and writers are turning that information into exciting, violent and twisted books with plots that take fact into imaginings….that make things exciting. Well written (except for the occasional misuse of the word; anyway) and well thought out. Looking forward to next installment of Eddies story. May the good guys always win!
October 27, 2025
Tension-Filled Thriller
This book is the first in a series. It is a clean book with no foul language, little violence, no gore, and no open-door intimacy. The majority of characters are former spooks for the US. They have great support networks and lots of spycraft at their disposal. This book was very good. I am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
This book is the first in a series. It is a clean book with no foul language, little violence, no gore, and no open-door intimacy. The majority of characters are former spooks for the US. They have great support networks and lots of spycraft at their disposal. This book was very good. I am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
January 20, 2026
I loved this book, the story is incredible and the team were what you would expect from a group of people willing to take on the challenge of protecting each other while continuing the deadly inter action with the bad guys!
Well done, I love the ending which is really ( it seems) the start of more team activity.
I can’t wait!
Well done, I love the ending which is really ( it seems) the start of more team activity.
I can’t wait!
May 13, 2024
Great story
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
May 19, 2024
Exciting, exhilariting page turner. Writing is so refreshing the reader cannot put the book down. Cannot wait for the next book since this story is far from over. Fascinating characters, vivid descriptions and plot that boggles the imagination. A VERY, VERY GOOD READ.
January 25, 2026
Not a bad story…..BUT
I thought the storyline was quite interesting. Good character development. However, while I enjoy a series, every story should have an ending. When you spend days/weeks reading a book, some closure is a must.
I thought the storyline was quite interesting. Good character development. However, while I enjoy a series, every story should have an ending. When you spend days/weeks reading a book, some closure is a must.
February 13, 2026
A great page turner..to the end
It gets you going and never stops. Yes a few pauses, but in the end good action and never ending.. but on the last page, you ask..should I follow the thread?
It gets you going and never stops. Yes a few pauses, but in the end good action and never ending.. but on the last page, you ask..should I follow the thread?
May 1, 2024
I enjoyed this page turner by a first time author! Great descriptive language, just right character development, an intriguing storyline and unexpected turns! Can’t wait to read Book 2 and 3 and…
November 8, 2024
If you like Clive Cussler, you'll love Bret Hurst's The Caveman Conspiracy. Eddie is my kind of hero, out to save the world in this fast-paced thriller. I can't wait for Book two in the series.
January 3, 2025
Fantastic read! Loved the characters and am looking forward to reading what’s next for the Miami crew.
December 21, 2025
A sold story and a pretty original one. If you like the spy genre, you will enjoy the book.
February 16, 2026
Intrigued
The story was interesting and moved at a good pace. I couldn't always put it down. Very plausible story too. If you like a mystery, you will like this!
The story was interesting and moved at a good pace. I couldn't always put it down. Very plausible story too. If you like a mystery, you will like this!
February 17, 2026
Exciting & exhilarating read - full of action & suspense.
March 11, 2026
Preposterous plot; lousy ending—just dropped without what really happened.
March 31, 2026
To be continued
I would have given this book a 4.4 rating if I didn’t have to buy the next book or the one after it to get the conclusion.
I would have given this book a 4.4 rating if I didn’t have to buy the next book or the one after it to get the conclusion.
April 22, 2026
on the edge
Great stuff . Had me on the edge of my seat .lots of action . All sorts of transport .could imagine it as a film
Great stuff . Had me on the edge of my seat .lots of action . All sorts of transport .could imagine it as a film
August 13, 2026
Action packed and fast paced
I couldn’t wait to finish it; but, it leaves you hanging wanting to get the next in the series ASAP!
I couldn’t wait to finish it; but, it leaves you hanging wanting to get the next in the series ASAP!
March 21, 2025
This was a well-written thriller as far as that went, but the central mystery is never solved, I guess to be revealed in a later book. A big turn-off for me. No thanks.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews