INTRODUCTIONThe Power of ThreeI had no idea what the future would hold when I planned Unfettered in 2011.In truth, how could I? The present took precedence over that future. I spent every day recovering from two surgeries and six months of chemotherapy--necessary evils to combat the greater evil of cancer. Knowing I must, I fought to create Unfettered from nothing. I gave little thought to a future in publishing, of writing, or even what the next day could bring.Now, seven years later, I look back fondly at that time, remembering how my author friends rallied to my banner. They did so again with Unfettered II, to raise money for others in similar dire straits. Now the publication of Unfettered III continues that mission.

These authors contribute works of the fantastic because they believe in the power of our geek community making a difference. In short, they believe in you, the reader. It warms my heart to no end.But as I sit here writing this introduction, I am reminded that the true power of these anthologies resides within their pages--great stories written by authors at the top of their game. And Unfettered III has both, no doubt. I never thought one day I'd publish a Shannara tale. Or a Dune entry. Or any part of the Wheel of Time, let alone a novella-sized Perrin story.

Or powerful new contributions featuring gorgeously wrought prose from writers like Seanan McGuire, Callie Bates, and Naomi Novik. Or grimdark by Anna Smith Spark, Anna Stephens, and Mark Lawrence. The list goes on and on. I am humbled by Unfettered III. I think you are in for one helluva read!That is not all though. Unfettered III is why I keep publishing and hope to do so for many years to come. I can see that future now. These anthologies are a testament to great storytelling but more than that.

It shows the character and strength of our reading community--and our humanity. We rise to help others when they are down; we fight for those in need when our needs have been met.And magic is within the words and hearts of us all.Shawn SpeakmanEditor and PublisherDecember 2018.