September's theme is Heroes - what really makes a hero? Only brawn and bravery? Or is it something more?

'All or Nothing' by Tara 'Amber' Palmer
Series, complete: sci-fi/fantasy
In the year 2150, the world is threatened by an alien race. Six are called forth as champions to battle for the future of Earth.

'Endless Dance' by Jonathon T. Parker
Series, unfinished: modern fantasy
There are some who are fated to be heroes, whether they will or no. Alex is one such person, who must leave what he loves to seek his destiny.

'Bold, Unsung' by Tom Anspach
Stand Alone: fantasy
Who tells the tale of the hero who has lost?

'Warrior's Epiphany' by Jessica Miraj Collins
Stand Alone: fantasy
Who is the true hero? She who defends her home with her life's blood, or she who has conquered?

'The Passion of Thorns' by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law
Poem: fantasy
Sometimes an impossible quest is not as hopeless as it first appears...

'The Chinese Mask' by Gary Vowles
Stand Alone: modern fantasy
What is the secret of the mask that sends David into a dream world? Can he save beautiful Tienin from death?

Telfaliss by Georgette Tan
Series, unfinished: high fantasy
The kingdom of Telfaliss is once again in danger, The Champions have been brought forth once more...

'The Hero of Andalar by Sean Micheals
Stand Alone: fantasy
A hero is not a hero just because he says he is, and a hero is no less a hero just because he says he's not.

'Whose Quest Is It, Anyway? - Chapter One by Jeremy R. Rood and Jessica 'Tabby' Mulleneaux
Series, ongoing: fantasy
A young mage must embark on a quest to defeat a dark enemy, but first he must find a hero to accompany him.

'Last Child of the Ancients: Chapter One by Lenore L. Towne
Series, unfinished: fantasy
A boy remembers his brother's last heroic act.

Thanks to Jonathon T. Parker and Jon M. Elkins for their recommendations this month.

Thank you to everyone who recommended stories this month, even those that didn't make the final cut. We thoroughly enjoyed reading them and we just wish we'd had room to include them all.

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Brandie Minchew is a starry-eyed believer in fairy tales, world peace, and justice for all.

Submission Information Grab a stake, a crucifix and if it makes you feel better, a baseball bat. This October, we will be venturing into the world of spooks, ghouls and vampires. That's right. Send in your favourite story featuring the denizens of the night. We especially like vampires, but we'll look at other things that go bump (or bite) at night. We have certain guidelines for recommending. Be sure what you recommend not only follows the rules of Elfwood, but that it has also been spell-checked, and the writer shows a basic understanding of grammar. We're looking for the best of the best, so spelling and grammar are important. That said, just fill out the form below, and answer all of the questions. If a field is left blank, we're just as likely to ignore your rec. Your Name: Your Email Addy: Story Title: Author's Name: Wyverns' Url: Genre: Sci-fi/Horror/Fantasy/Other Type: Poem/Stand Alone/Series/Unfinished Reason for Recommendation: Send the email to , and please, put 'recommendations' or 'recs' somewhere in the subject. Questions can also be sent to that address, if you put 'recs question' or 'recs questions' somewhere in the subject line.