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As the Starlings Fly #1
Under a Waning Moon
In 1850, a rising tide of evil plagues a small Indiana town.
Only one woman’s long-buried secrets can stop it.
But revealing them will spell her doom.
In the years since her father disappeared and her mother perished under suspicious circumstances, Emily Hampshire has endured relentless scrutiny in New Harmony. Yearning to simply blend in and finally escape the gossip and glances, she strives for the expected—get married and live an uneventful life.
But when Emily finally falls in love, everything falls apart.
A brutal murder thrusts her once again into the center of scandal and terror. The townspeople blame a monstrous beast, but Emily has hidden the truth for years in her quest for stability.
The real demon is human, power-hungry, and allied with dark forces.
Though devastated by grief and terror, she must confront this true villain, or the rampage will devour more innocent lives.
As Emily gathers the courage to pit herself against ancient sorcery, one thing is certain. She’ll finally break free of her tragic past—either in truth or in death.
Fans of Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell and the imaginative realms of C.S. Lewis will relish in this captivating American blend of mystery, magic, and machinations.
Only one woman’s long-buried secrets can stop it.
But revealing them will spell her doom.
In the years since her father disappeared and her mother perished under suspicious circumstances, Emily Hampshire has endured relentless scrutiny in New Harmony. Yearning to simply blend in and finally escape the gossip and glances, she strives for the expected—get married and live an uneventful life.
But when Emily finally falls in love, everything falls apart.
A brutal murder thrusts her once again into the center of scandal and terror. The townspeople blame a monstrous beast, but Emily has hidden the truth for years in her quest for stability.
The real demon is human, power-hungry, and allied with dark forces.
Though devastated by grief and terror, she must confront this true villain, or the rampage will devour more innocent lives.
As Emily gathers the courage to pit herself against ancient sorcery, one thing is certain. She’ll finally break free of her tragic past—either in truth or in death.
Fans of Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell and the imaginative realms of C.S. Lewis will relish in this captivating American blend of mystery, magic, and machinations.
305 pages, Paperback
Published March 6, 2025
About the author
Steven L. Ririe
2 books5 followersI'm a passionate storyteller and historian who likes to bring forgotten tales to light. I enjoy writing both non-fiction and historical fantasy fiction.
I'm the founder of the Silent Heroes of the Cold War National Memorial Committee, where I teach facts I uncovered about a classified 1955 plane crash near Mount Charleston, Nevada, leading to long-overdue recognition for the fallen.
My written works blend history, imagination, and deep moral questions, and I hope to draw readers into stories of courage and resilience. When I'm not writing, I volunteer in a prison ministry and advocate for historical preservation.
I'm the founder of the Silent Heroes of the Cold War National Memorial Committee, where I teach facts I uncovered about a classified 1955 plane crash near Mount Charleston, Nevada, leading to long-overdue recognition for the fallen.
My written works blend history, imagination, and deep moral questions, and I hope to draw readers into stories of courage and resilience. When I'm not writing, I volunteer in a prison ministry and advocate for historical preservation.
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March 2, 2025Not rated because this book can be read via Netgalley without needing approval, and it definitely wasn't a book for me. Lesson learned.
I've never seen a more misleading cover than this one. I wouldn't consider this a fantasy novel, despite its fantastical elements. It's mostly historical fiction with some Greek mythology aspects that reads at times more like a fairytale. And because the center of the story is a small town in the 19th century US, I feel the main part is played by faith and religion. Unfortunately, I'm an atheist, which means most of it didn't catch my interest, to say the least. Just a sample during which I zoned out:
"Dear child. You must choose whether to trust God. It is God's will how this ends, not ours, though we undoubtedly play a role. If we follow our conscience and do what we feel is right, His will prevails, and His will is far greater than ours, but He leaves it to us to decide whether we believe it.
The blurb led me to believe that Emily, a young woman trying to fight against the evil that rules over the town in the form of a corrupt mayor, would be the main character. However, I don't feel that's true. The third-person omniscient narration lets us know bits about a wide cast of characters in the town, and Emily doesn't stand out in any way. Frankly, no one stands out in any way, possibly except the corrupt individuals.
The writing is nice and descriptive, I could see every scene in my mind very clearly. Nevertheless, it was more like reading nonfiction with lots of dialogue - not once did the writing elicit any kind of emotional reaction in me, not even the tragedy that occurred at the very end. The pacing was good, and I appreciated the short chapters that kept the story going.
There's nothing inherently wrong with the book; just not many aspects that would stand out and make the story memorable. I won't read the sequel, but I'm sure the duology will find its intended audience.
I've never seen a more misleading cover than this one. I wouldn't consider this a fantasy novel, despite its fantastical elements. It's mostly historical fiction with some Greek mythology aspects that reads at times more like a fairytale. And because the center of the story is a small town in the 19th century US, I feel the main part is played by faith and religion. Unfortunately, I'm an atheist, which means most of it didn't catch my interest, to say the least. Just a sample during which I zoned out:
"Dear child. You must choose whether to trust God. It is God's will how this ends, not ours, though we undoubtedly play a role. If we follow our conscience and do what we feel is right, His will prevails, and His will is far greater than ours, but He leaves it to us to decide whether we believe it.
The blurb led me to believe that Emily, a young woman trying to fight against the evil that rules over the town in the form of a corrupt mayor, would be the main character. However, I don't feel that's true. The third-person omniscient narration lets us know bits about a wide cast of characters in the town, and Emily doesn't stand out in any way. Frankly, no one stands out in any way, possibly except the corrupt individuals.
The writing is nice and descriptive, I could see every scene in my mind very clearly. Nevertheless, it was more like reading nonfiction with lots of dialogue - not once did the writing elicit any kind of emotional reaction in me, not even the tragedy that occurred at the very end. The pacing was good, and I appreciated the short chapters that kept the story going.
There's nothing inherently wrong with the book; just not many aspects that would stand out and make the story memorable. I won't read the sequel, but I'm sure the duology will find its intended audience.
March 21, 2025
If you like Christian historical fantasy books, then you’ll like “Under a Wanning Moon.” This book takes place in a small (fictitious) Indiana town in the early 1850s. There are three mythological women (like the fates)/witches that interfere in the ongoings of this town, while there is a controlling/murderous Mayor, a fantastical beast, and a strong Christian community just trying to get by. This book has some interesting allegories, mysteries, and light romance. There are also inspirational messages in this book as well. I enjoyed it and recommend it to those who like these types of elements. Be prepared to want to go straight from this first book into the second book to finish learning how everything ends. The good news is that the second book is already out, so you won’t have to wait.
September 2, 2025
The book is dark and mysterious, where the human-induced darkness is more intense than any otherworldly darkness. The story revolves around a girl who loses her parents to jealousy, cruelty, and dark forces in her childhood, only to lose her love in her youth. As the darkness brews around her, one mysterious creature with hazy human memory lurks in the corner, ready to avenge her even while it itself is at the target of the misled village people.
Although the story is dark in theme, it has many lingering positive elements, such as the protagonist's kind uncle and aunt and a creature who refuses to fully transform into it's cursed self, bound by its human goodness.
Although the story is dark in theme, it has many lingering positive elements, such as the protagonist's kind uncle and aunt and a creature who refuses to fully transform into it's cursed self, bound by its human goodness.
September 2, 2025
Enjoyable
It’s gothic, haunting, and surprisingly emotional. If you enjoy historical fiction that isn’t afraid to delve into magic, sorcery, and the darker corners of human nature, this is a book you shouldn’t miss.
It’s gothic, haunting, and surprisingly emotional. If you enjoy historical fiction that isn’t afraid to delve into magic, sorcery, and the darker corners of human nature, this is a book you shouldn’t miss.
August 30, 2025
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L Ririe follows Emily Hampshire as she attempts to navigate the dangerous and scary events taking place in a small Indiana town over 150 years ago. Horrific events in Emily's life have left her wanting to just feel normal. She doesn't try to stand out, she tries to blend in and just be one with the community around her. But all that falls apart when there is a horrific murder in town and the people begin to ask what happened. Was this a person, or an animal? Even worse, was it some sort of monster come to punish the town? The author does a great job of offering us a new and very modern approach to Greek mythology and the unique characters and creatures it contains. The narrative is tense at times while at others it moves very quickly in action scenes. I can see this becoming a successful series, and I look forward to the next installments.
August 28, 2025
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L Ririe is a historical fantasy that blends mystery and elements of dark magic into a captivating tale. The author’s writing is vivid and atmospheric, immersing readers in a world of tension, secrets, and quiet unease. Themes of resilience, hidden truths, and the battle against inner and outer darkness with subtlety and depth. The pacing unfolds steadily, leading to a satisfying climax. Perfect for readers of gothic historical fiction. Overall, it is an engaging and memorable read.
August 29, 2025
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L. Ririe is a historical fantasy that integrates elements of mystery, suspense, and dark magic. Reading it felt like stepping back in time while still experiencing the tension and intrigue of a gripping modern tale.
This book will likely appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction woven with fantasy and gothic undertones. It’s a cozy yet thrilling read for anyone who likes stories filled with secrets, atmosphere, and a touch of the supernatural.
This book will likely appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction woven with fantasy and gothic undertones. It’s a cozy yet thrilling read for anyone who likes stories filled with secrets, atmosphere, and a touch of the supernatural.
September 3, 2025
Good story
It’s a story about fear, secrets, and survival, but also about the strength it takes to face the darkness within and around us. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and deeply moving, this novel is a standout for fans of gothic tales with heart.
It’s a story about fear, secrets, and survival, but also about the strength it takes to face the darkness within and around us. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and deeply moving, this novel is a standout for fans of gothic tales with heart.
August 27, 2025
This book's cover art is basically the literary equivalent of catfishing. You swipe right expecting a mystical fantasy romp, but what you get is a 19th-century American small-town drama that moonlights as Sunday school curriculum. Sure, there are some Greek gods lurking around like confused extras who wandered onto the wrong movie set, but the real star of this show is Jesus Christ (literally).
Unfortunately, I'm about as Christian as a vampire at a garlic festival, which means most of the religious content had me checking my watch like I was trapped in the world's most elaborate church service. Here's a delightful sample that made my soul leave my body from sheer boredom: "Dear child. You must choose whether to trust God. It is God's will how this ends, not ours, though we undoubtedly play a role. If we follow our conscience and do what we feel is right, His will prevails, and His will is far greater than ours, but He leaves it to us to decide whether we believe it."
I'm sorry, but did I accidentally pick up a theology textbook? Because this riveting passage had about as much connection to the opening action as pineapple has to pizza (fight me). I mean the first line grabbed my attention: "The door slammed behind Ruth as she burst from the house." I mean that's an attention grabber for sure. And my heart was in the story as she found her daughter Emmy. But with what happens next with Emmy's father I was sure I was in for a strange and wonderful tale. That sadly did not happen. I was left adrift in an ocean much like Jonah wondering when the whale was going to swallow me. See, I know Christian stories too.
Look, I'm not here to roast anyone's religious beliefs—I'm sure they're very nice and they probably make excellent casseroles—but when your book cover screams "mystical fantasy adventure" and your opening delivers genuine pulse-pounding drama, don't suddenly swerve into a spiritual TED talk. It's like ordering a bacon cheeseburger and receiving a communion wafer with a side of moral introspection. Sir, this is a Wendy's.
The writing isn't completely terrible—Ririe can string together a sentence when he's not busy channeling his inner youth pastor. The historical bits feel legit, and occasionally the Greek mythology actually shows up to work instead of just standing around looking confused. But every time things get spicy, we're yanked back into a discussion about divine will that moves slower than dial-up internet.
Three stars because this book is like that friend who invites you to a "casual get-together" that turns out to be a multilevel marketing presentation. It technically delivers what it promised to someone (devout Christians who enjoy historical fiction with mythological garnish), completely blindsided the fantasy crowd (who came expecting wizards and got sermons), and left the rest of us wondering if we should ask for our money back or just accept that we've been punk'd by a book cover.
Would I recommend it? If you're looking for a faith-based historical novel and don't mind your Greek gods serving as background dancers to biblical themes, knock yourself out. If you're here for the fantasy the cover promised, maybe invest in a good lawyer because you've been the victim of literary false advertising.
Unfortunately, I'm about as Christian as a vampire at a garlic festival, which means most of the religious content had me checking my watch like I was trapped in the world's most elaborate church service. Here's a delightful sample that made my soul leave my body from sheer boredom: "Dear child. You must choose whether to trust God. It is God's will how this ends, not ours, though we undoubtedly play a role. If we follow our conscience and do what we feel is right, His will prevails, and His will is far greater than ours, but He leaves it to us to decide whether we believe it."
I'm sorry, but did I accidentally pick up a theology textbook? Because this riveting passage had about as much connection to the opening action as pineapple has to pizza (fight me). I mean the first line grabbed my attention: "The door slammed behind Ruth as she burst from the house." I mean that's an attention grabber for sure. And my heart was in the story as she found her daughter Emmy. But with what happens next with Emmy's father I was sure I was in for a strange and wonderful tale. That sadly did not happen. I was left adrift in an ocean much like Jonah wondering when the whale was going to swallow me. See, I know Christian stories too.
Look, I'm not here to roast anyone's religious beliefs—I'm sure they're very nice and they probably make excellent casseroles—but when your book cover screams "mystical fantasy adventure" and your opening delivers genuine pulse-pounding drama, don't suddenly swerve into a spiritual TED talk. It's like ordering a bacon cheeseburger and receiving a communion wafer with a side of moral introspection. Sir, this is a Wendy's.
The writing isn't completely terrible—Ririe can string together a sentence when he's not busy channeling his inner youth pastor. The historical bits feel legit, and occasionally the Greek mythology actually shows up to work instead of just standing around looking confused. But every time things get spicy, we're yanked back into a discussion about divine will that moves slower than dial-up internet.
Three stars because this book is like that friend who invites you to a "casual get-together" that turns out to be a multilevel marketing presentation. It technically delivers what it promised to someone (devout Christians who enjoy historical fiction with mythological garnish), completely blindsided the fantasy crowd (who came expecting wizards and got sermons), and left the rest of us wondering if we should ask for our money back or just accept that we've been punk'd by a book cover.
Would I recommend it? If you're looking for a faith-based historical novel and don't mind your Greek gods serving as background dancers to biblical themes, knock yourself out. If you're here for the fantasy the cover promised, maybe invest in a good lawyer because you've been the victim of literary false advertising.
July 5, 2025
This book was a little hard to get into. I'm not sure if it just wasn't the right book for me or it just wasn't the right timing. That being said, I still wanted to finish reading it and give a fair review for the author.
This book is about a small town somewhere in Indiana and the townspeople think that something sinister is at foot. They all hear voices at night. Theres a monster that wants to attack the townspeople. And the mayor and sheriff are up to no good. There are some ties to Greek Mythology with the storyline. The townspeople are afraid that something bad is going to happen and that the monster will murder everyone. And the ending was kinda sad. I wasn't anticipating it.
This book was provided to me through NetGalley by the publisher.
This book is about a small town somewhere in Indiana and the townspeople think that something sinister is at foot. They all hear voices at night. Theres a monster that wants to attack the townspeople. And the mayor and sheriff are up to no good. There are some ties to Greek Mythology with the storyline. The townspeople are afraid that something bad is going to happen and that the monster will murder everyone. And the ending was kinda sad. I wasn't anticipating it.
This book was provided to me through NetGalley by the publisher.
September 1, 2025
"Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1)" written by Steven L. Ririe is unique historical fiction, fantasy, and mystery book. This book is about a small town somewhere in Indiana and the townspeople think that something sinister is at foot. They all hear voices at night. The book carries lessons on will power and integrity. Young Emily finds herself caught between a beast and a real monster. It has plenty of twists and turns and a little romance. It is the story of life, love discovered, love lost, resilience, and classic good vs evil. It is full of surprises, mystery, suspense and captivating narrative.
April 30, 2025
This intriguing book! I found parallels to what is happening in real life and how I navigate my own life. The forces of good and evil keep popping up and winding you around a path that you must follow in order to find out the truth. I’m so glad that there’s a book two so that I can find out what happening further! Great book!!
Laura C
Laura C
September 3, 2025
Under a Waning Moon by Steven is a historic tale and the first book in the Starlings series. It is a blend of mystery, horror, and dark magical elements. The novel takes place in the small town of New Harmony, which is overwhelmed by superstitious beliefs and monstrous creatures. The main character of the story, Emily, whose family has undergone suspicious events, has lost her mother, who has died, and her father has disappeared. When a murder took place in the town, people blamed a monstrous creature, but Emily knows the secrets buried and the evil forces behind it. She has to risk everything to speak the truth about these evil humans using dark magic and being responsible for the brutal murder. The book is well-written with hidden truths and suspenseful events that keep the readers hooked. A must-read full of twists and turns, fans of historical fantasy novels will love to read.
August 26, 2025
Historical Mystery with a Dark Twist...
Under a Waning Moon pulls you straight into the eerie stillness of a small Indiana town where whispers of darkness seem to move faster than truth. At the center is Emily Hampshire, a woman burdened by old wounds and forced to face new terrors. What begins as a tale of quiet longing unravels into a storm of betrayal, hidden magic, and the raw fight between good and evil.
Steven L. Ririe's Under a Waning Moon captures you from the first page. He creates a vibrant gothic universe that feels like slipping into a shadow you half-recognize from your life. This narrative will haunt you in the best way if you like dark historical fantasy. Thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
Under a Waning Moon pulls you straight into the eerie stillness of a small Indiana town where whispers of darkness seem to move faster than truth. At the center is Emily Hampshire, a woman burdened by old wounds and forced to face new terrors. What begins as a tale of quiet longing unravels into a storm of betrayal, hidden magic, and the raw fight between good and evil.
Steven L. Ririe's Under a Waning Moon captures you from the first page. He creates a vibrant gothic universe that feels like slipping into a shadow you half-recognize from your life. This narrative will haunt you in the best way if you like dark historical fantasy. Thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
August 28, 2025
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L. Ririe is a historical fantasy that blends mystery, suspense, and elements of the supernatural. The novel transports readers into a world of intrigue, layered with emotional depth and moral conflict.
Ririe’s writing is evocative yet approachable, balancing descriptive passages with well-paced storytelling. Themes of resilience, secrecy, and the battle between good and evil are explored through compelling characters and a richly crafted setting that feels both immersive and unsettling.
Overall, this book is a compelling read for those who enjoy gothic-inspired tales with a touch of historical fantasy. It offers tension, drama, and thought-provoking themes that linger beyond the final page.
Ririe’s writing is evocative yet approachable, balancing descriptive passages with well-paced storytelling. Themes of resilience, secrecy, and the battle between good and evil are explored through compelling characters and a richly crafted setting that feels both immersive and unsettling.
Overall, this book is a compelling read for those who enjoy gothic-inspired tales with a touch of historical fantasy. It offers tension, drama, and thought-provoking themes that linger beyond the final page.
August 30, 2025
The story pulls you in with its eerie atmosphere and layered characters, mixing suspense, fantasy, and moral tension in a way that feels both unsettling and engaging. It doesn’t just focus on the mystery but also explores resilience and the choices people make when faced with darkness. The pacing keeps you hooked, and the gothic undertones give it a lasting edge.
Under a Waning Moon stands out because it blends emotional depth with historical fantasy, all while weaving in supernatural elements that feel natural to the story. It’s moody, thought-provoking, and full of tension, the kind of book that lingers after you close it. If you enjoy gothic-inspired tales with heart, this one is worth your time.
Under a Waning Moon stands out because it blends emotional depth with historical fantasy, all while weaving in supernatural elements that feel natural to the story. It’s moody, thought-provoking, and full of tension, the kind of book that lingers after you close it. If you enjoy gothic-inspired tales with heart, this one is worth your time.
September 10, 2025
Under a Waning Moon had an interesting premise with its mix of small-town secrets, gothic atmosphere, and hints of magic. I really liked the setting of 1850s New Harmony and the way it blended historical detail with supernatural elements. Emily’s story had potential, and the mystery of the murders kept me curious.
That said, the pacing felt a bit slow in places, and I found myself struggling to stay fully invested at times. While the writing is thoughtful, it didn’t always hook me the way I hoped. Still, it’s a unique take on historical fantasy with some strong moments, and I think readers who enjoy slower, atmospheric storytelling may really connect with it more than I did.
Thank you to Netgalley and publishers for the opportunity to read and review
That said, the pacing felt a bit slow in places, and I found myself struggling to stay fully invested at times. While the writing is thoughtful, it didn’t always hook me the way I hoped. Still, it’s a unique take on historical fantasy with some strong moments, and I think readers who enjoy slower, atmospheric storytelling may really connect with it more than I did.
Thank you to Netgalley and publishers for the opportunity to read and review
November 9, 2025
Set against the backdrop of mid-19th-century Indiana, this novel is a blend of gothic atmosphere, historical intrigue, and supernatural menace. Emily Hampshire is a compelling heroine, I loved her character. Also, the author captures the oppressive small-town environment with remarkable detail. When the murders begin, the tension escalates naturally, and the pacing is spot-on. The story delivers both atmosphere and emotional depth, that is something I really liked while reading. The blend of gothic romance and folklore works really, really well, I can’t stress that enough. If you’re in the mood for something dark and chilling, but with some heart also, give this novel a go.
March 27, 2025
“Under a Wanning Moon” is a unique, historical fiction, fantasy, and mystery book. I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys any of these genres. There are evil “witches”, some kind of beast creature (we’re still learning more about him), a murder mystery, a little romance, and a crazy mayor that has a “do what I say or else” attitude. It is a highly entertaining read. I’m happy the author released book two at the same time, because I finished this book quickly and am about to jump in to book two.
August 28, 2025
“A Journey Through Myth and Courage”
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L Ririe opens with quiet intrigue and builds into a compelling journey of strength and belief. Steven L Ririe crafts a story where ancient myths meet personal trials, weaving suspense, emotion, and a hint of romance into every chapter. The characters evolve through pain and courage, facing moral struggles and haunting truths. It’s a thoughtful, layered read that explores resilience and the human spirit in the face of rising darkness.
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L Ririe opens with quiet intrigue and builds into a compelling journey of strength and belief. Steven L Ririe crafts a story where ancient myths meet personal trials, weaving suspense, emotion, and a hint of romance into every chapter. The characters evolve through pain and courage, facing moral struggles and haunting truths. It’s a thoughtful, layered read that explores resilience and the human spirit in the face of rising darkness.
August 28, 2025
"Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1)" by Steven L Ririe is an engaging tale blending mystery and hope. The novel carries lessons on will power and integrity. The mix of myth, suspense and a touch of romance creates a layered narrative that keeps the reader invested.
The characters grow through hardship, confronting fear, loss and the timeless clash of good and evil. As dangers and tension build steadily while Greek mythology adds further depth. Overall, this book is filled with surprises and resilience and a richly captivating narrative.
The characters grow through hardship, confronting fear, loss and the timeless clash of good and evil. As dangers and tension build steadily while Greek mythology adds further depth. Overall, this book is filled with surprises and resilience and a richly captivating narrative.
August 31, 2025
Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1) by Steven L Ririe is a haunting blend of historical fiction, mystery, and dark fantasy that pulls you into a world where secrets, superstition, and sorcery intertwine. The writing is richly atmospheric, painting vivid scenes that capture both the beauty and the menace of the era. The themes of love, loss, and resilience are handled with emotional depth, giving the story both tension and heart. Perfect for readers who enjoy gothic tales with a touch of magic, it offers an immersive and thought-provoking reading experience.
September 7, 2025
“Under a Waning Moon” pulled me in right away with its creepy small-town vibes and the mystery surrounding those strange voices in the night. Totally right up my alley! Emily quickly became a favorite character for me; she’s strong, relatable, and her journey through love, loss, and danger gave the story real heart. For me, this wasn’t only a suspenseful, gothic-inspired read, rather a story about courage, resilience, and integrity wrapped inside a dark, intriguing tale. I’m really glad I read it, and I’m already excited for the next book in the series.
September 24, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
A historic, fantasy, romance / tragedy that kicks off a series I will definitely be continuing.
We are introduced to many different characters, good and bad, and get to see their thoughts and perspectives as they navigate life in New Harmony.
Corruption, lies, murder deceit and a monster that stalks the night.
A really really good opener to this series!
My only points is that this is really heavy on the religion front, and if you practice a different religion or none at all then you might notice this too.
A historic, fantasy, romance / tragedy that kicks off a series I will definitely be continuing.
We are introduced to many different characters, good and bad, and get to see their thoughts and perspectives as they navigate life in New Harmony.
Corruption, lies, murder deceit and a monster that stalks the night.
A really really good opener to this series!
My only points is that this is really heavy on the religion front, and if you practice a different religion or none at all then you might notice this too.
March 9, 2025
The cover depicted a different type of story then what the book is about. I guess this can be seen as a "Don't judge a book by its cover" moment. This book is about a small town that has experienced evil. There are Christian aspects of the book along woth influences from Greek mythology. There is no main character. This was difficult to get started but it does pick up around the middle of the book.
August 28, 2025
Steven L. Ririe delivers a compelling blend of historical fiction, mystery and fantasy that captures both heart and imagination. The story weaves themes of good versus evil while tying in elements of faith and mythology. The atmosphere of a small Indiana town plagued by secrets and fear creates an engaging backdrop filled with symbolism and depth. "Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1)" leaves a lasting impression with strong and meaningful character development.
August 31, 2025
"Under a Waning Moon (As the Starlings Fly Book 1)" by Steven L Ririe is a gripping tale set in a quiet Indiana town overshadowed by secrets and fear. The story explores the struggle between good and evil while weaving in elements of faith and Greek mythology. The characters face hardship, loss and inner battles that test their strength and beliefs. With an atmosphere rich in symbolism and depth, this novel delivers a moving journey of courage, resilience and the timeless power of hope.
September 2, 2025
Under a Waning Moon is a dark, atmospheric tale that pulls you straight into 1850s Indiana with its chilling sense of dread and suspense. What really impressed me was the balance between historical detail and supernatural menace. The murder mystery keeps the tension sharp, but the deeper theme of hidden evil (human ambition twisted with dark forces) makes the story resonate long after you finish reading.
August 29, 2025
A story that leaves its mark
In this novel, we find a resilient woman who has emerged from one scandal only to start another one once that stage is over. This is because there's a secret: the monster is human, which changes everything. We find magic and mystery well-mixed, giving us a story that becomes increasingly interesting.
In this novel, we find a resilient woman who has emerged from one scandal only to start another one once that stage is over. This is because there's a secret: the monster is human, which changes everything. We find magic and mystery well-mixed, giving us a story that becomes increasingly interesting.
August 30, 2025
In this atmospheric 1850s gothic mystery, Emily Hampshire must confront dark magic and buried secrets to stop a human evil threatening her town. As love and tragedy collide, her courage becomes the key to survival.
What I liked most was the rich blend of historical suspense and supernatural intrigue—Emily’s quiet strength makes her a heroine worth rooting for.
What I liked most was the rich blend of historical suspense and supernatural intrigue—Emily’s quiet strength makes her a heroine worth rooting for.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews