Picture a Southern storyteller who spun tales of vengeance, romance, and psychological suspense—meet S.T. Abby! Known for her gripping Mindf*ck series, this bestselling author captivated readers with her dark, twisty narratives. Writing under the pen names C.M. Owens and Kristy Cunning, she carved a unique niche in romance and suspense, leaving an unforgettable legacy despite her tragic passing in 2021.
Born into a family of musicians, S.T. Abby—whose real name was Christie Owens—traded dreams of singing for the power of the written word. Her ability to weave complex characters and heart-pounding plots made her a beloved figure in the romance community, and her stories continue to thrill readers worldwide.
The Making of S.T. Abby
Christie Owens was born on March 8, 1984, in a musically inclined family where her lack of instrumental or vocal talent was, by her own admission, a relief to all. Her dancing was equally cringe-worthy, but her creative spark found its outlet in writing. Before becoming a literary star, she worked in a plumbing distribution warehouse—a tough job that shaped her resilience. Encouraged by a relative and mentored at a writing seminar, she published her first book in 2014, launching a prolific career that spanned multiple genres and pen names.
S.T. Abby’s Unforgettable Stories
Under the S.T. Abby pseudonym, Christie unleashed the Mindf*ck series, a five-book saga that blends dark romance with psychological suspense. The series, starting with The Risk (2016), follows Lana, a vengeance-driven anti-heroine targeting those who wronged her family. Readers rave about its fast-paced plot, morally gray characters, and steamy romance, earning it a 4.42 average rating on Goodreads.
As C.M. Owens, she penned lighthearted romantic comedies and paranormal romances like the Sterling Shore series, showcasing her versatility. Under Kristy Cunning, she explored reverse harem fantasies, such as the Four Psychos series, infused with dark humor. Each pen name reflected a facet of her storytelling: stabby and intense as S.T. Abby, chaotic and fun as C.M. Owens, and bold as Kristy Cunning.
Her writing style—raw, emotional, and unapologetic—delved into themes of trauma, love, and retribution. Whether crafting a serial killer’s revenge or a quirky love story, she breathed life into her characters, making readers laugh, cry, and root for the underdog.
Why S.T. Abby Matters
S.T. Abby’s impact on dark romance and suspense is undeniable. Her Mindf*ck series redefined the genre, blending thriller-level suspense with heartfelt romance, inspiring readers and authors to embrace morally complex heroines. With over 1.4 million Goodreads ratings, her work resonates globally, touching fans who admire her fearless storytelling. Her passing in 2021 at age 37 was a profound loss, but her estate continues to share her stories, ensuring her voice endures.
Her legacy also lies in her connection with fans. Through her C.M. Owens Book Club on Facebook, with over 22,000 followers, she fostered a community that celebrates her chaotic, stabby, and romantic tales. Her books remain a testament to her ability to turn personal struggles into universal stories of strength.
- Born: March 8, 1984
- Key Works: Mindf*ck series, Sterling Shore series, Four Psychos series
- Pen Names: C.M. Owens, Kristy Cunning
- Passed Away: July 24, 2021
Snag The Risk and dive into S.T. Abby’s thrilling world of dark romance and suspense—you won’t put it down!