The Absence of Starlight is a about two ordinary boys who, over the course of five years, grow their acquaintanceship into a strong friendship. The chapters just through those years, featuring conversations and events between them as their learn more about not only each other, but about themselves.

This is a book I wouldn’t recommend to anyone who is looking for something with action - it’s a narrative in the most basic sense of the word. I was inspired to write this by two things. Firstly, and less recently, my own path through life. I was born in Berlin, but moved to Connecticut when I was very young, and only recently moved back to Berlin. Secondly, my experience with those around me, myself included, who choose to hide themselves - their emotions, motivations, and thoughts - behind masks. I’m captured by the thought that every person is hiding something, that every person keeps at least some part of themselves hidden to all but themselves, and I want to capture that in writing as best I can.

Thank you for reading, and I hope to gain your support as we learn more about Matt and Nolan together.