Flashing Swords (magazine)
Flashing Swords magazine, is a quarterly zine publishing short works of Heroic Adventure fiction, poetry and art. Each issue carries six or more stories by both established and novice writers, as well as occasional reprints. In addition, it regularly features art, articles and InterViews related to these genres.
Started in Winter of 2004 by Managing Editor Howard Andrew Jones (now Managing Editor at Black Gate magazine), the magazine was first published by Pitch-Black Press, which was also responsible for publishing the S&S anthologies Lords of Swords and Sages of Swords. In Summer of 2007, new management assumed control, and Flashing Swords magazine became part of Cyberwizard Productionsowned by then Managing Editor Crystalwizard. In Summer of 2008, Crystalwizard returned to the helm of Cyberwizard Productions and handed control of the magazine over to long-time Sword & Sorcery author Janrae Frank.
In February 2006, Flashing Swords magazine was ranked in the Preditors and Editors Reader's Poll Top 10, with featured piece, "The Marsh God" by Bruce Durham, winning first place in the "Science Fiction Short Story" category. Flashing Swords magazine again ranked as a Top 10 finalist in the 2007 Preditors and Editors Reader's Poll, with featured story "Stand, Stand Shall They Cry!" by Michael Ehart also placing in the Top 10 of the "Science Fiction Short Story" category.
Flashing Swords magazine is a proponent of the "New Edge" movement, and actively campaigns for the return of classic adventure tales with an emphasis upon S&S.
Managing Editors
- 2008-present Janrae Frank
- 2007-2008 Crystalwizard
- 2006-2007 Daniel Blackston
- 2004-2006 Howard Andrew Jones