Magic and Majesty: A Midwestern Fantasy Sampler (The Midwest Fantasy Sampler)

Looking for a new fantasy series, but can't quite decide where to start?

We've got you covered!

“10 short stories. 10 authors. Every short story ties into a different series.”

That is the idea behind “The Midwest Fantasy Sampler.”

The 2026 edition pulls together 9 fantastic authors from across the Midwest and one special guest from beyond our region to offer you a sampling platter of stories certain to appeal to every taste, whether you prefer grimdark or noblebright, classic high fantasy or romantasy.

This year’s edition also features beautiful, decorative page designs, borders, chapter headers, and numerous full-page illustrations, as well as a map of the Midwest with our author locations.

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Like classic epic fantasy with immersive worlds and varied races? Try JDL Rosell or Justin Rose.

Like romantasy with heart-stirring rapture as well as heart-pounding adventure? Try D. E. Carlson or Starr Z. Davies.

Like your fantasy with a darker edge? Try R. M. Krogman.

Like your fantasy with emotion and pathos that will make you cry? Try Richard Sweitzer.

Like some gunpowder and tech along with your magic and dragons? Try K. R. Solberg or Christopher D. Schmitz.

Like your fantasy with magic front and center? Try L. James Rice or E. A. Burnett.

So, whatever direction your taste runs in fantasy, read these ten stories and follow up on the series you love.

Curated by Justin Rose with stories by:

Christopher D. Schmitz – featuring a story from “Curse of the Fey Duelist”
D. E. Carlson – featuring a story from “Empire of Ash and Song”
E. A. Burnett – Featuring a story from “Enchantress Rising”
JDL Rosell – Featuring a story from “Legend of Tal”
Justin Rose – Featuring a story from “Nations End.”
K. R. Solberg – Featuring a story from “The Palimar Saga”
L. James Rice – Featuring a story from “Sundering the Gods”
Richard Sweitzer Featuring a story from “ODE: The Scion of Nerikan”
R. M. Krogman – Featuring a story from “Keepers of Midgate”
Starr Z. Davies – Featuring a story from “The Stormborn Chronicles”