Master of Starlight Debuts Dark Comedy
DW Ardern's debut novella *Master of Starlight* is making waves for its darkly comic take on cosmic mystery and desert isolation. Set in the Sahara, the story weaves themes of jealousy, romance, and the search for meaning—recommended for fans of literary fiction that blends philosophical depth with humor.
The protagonist of *Master of Starlight*, Olivier, is a 56-year-old astronomer and self-described "hippie scientist" who has exiled himself to Morocco's Tinfu Dunes. He lives with his tabby cat, Tiku, after a career working at telescopes around the world. His exile is a result of his unorthodox theories about the possible sentience of stars, which led to him being pushed out of academia. The plot is set in motion by the arrival of Olivier's academic rival, Fritz. Their rivalry is not just professional but also personal, as Olivier believes Fritz stole the love of his life. This reunion forces Olivier to confront his past and the reasons for his isolation. Fritz invites Olivier on a caravan expedition deep into the Sahara with other famous astronomers. Among them is Vera, a brilliant astrophysicist, whose presence offers Olivier a potential shot at redemption and a rekindling of his passion. The journey becomes a charged exploration of unresolved tensions and buried resentments. Author DW Ardern is a Brooklyn-based fiction writer, humorist, and screenwriter. His shorter fiction has appeared in numerous literary magazines, including *The Fourth River* and *Jabberwock Review*. Ardern is also the founding editor of EXCERPT, a literary and arts magazine focused on emerging artists. The novella is published by Stalking Horse Press and was released on November 18, 2025. Early praise for the 170-page book comes from Elissa Schappell, co-founder of the literary magazine *Tin House*, who calls Ardern "clever, hilarious, and wise." Kirkus Reviews has labeled the book a "funny, poetic meditation on the points in life at which our orbits intersect."
