Discover the top-rated and most captivating fantasy short stories and novelettes published in 2026. Explore a curated selection of new releases in the fantasy genre, perfect for readers seeking imaginative tales, magical worlds, and compelling characters in concise formats. Find award-worthy narratives and exciting new voices in speculative fiction.
Biting indictment of cultural appropriation
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This story is a critically acclaimed piece by Rebecca Roanhorse, now featured in her 2026 collection 'River of Bones and Other Stories'. Its inclusion makes it a standout fantasy short story for the year, offering a unique blend of urban fantasy and social commentary.
Features original short fiction
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Marisca Pichette's story, featured in *Nightmare Magazine* in February 2026, stands out for its distinctive title and potentially unsettling exploration of a natural subject. It exemplifies the unique and imaginative qualities of speculative fiction.
Features in 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize shortlist
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Anna Khan's 'Carina' is a highly anticipated fantasy short story for 2026, praised for its unique and compelling premise. It explores profound themes of bodily autonomy and control within a fascinating, disconnected world.
Second-person tale
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Ewen Ma's novelette 'Precipice Sun' stands out for its unique second-person narrative and compelling blend of adventure and introspection. Its release in 2026 makes it a notable entry in the year's fantasy short fiction.
Powerful story of oppression
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A.W. Prihandita's novelette offers a compelling story of resistance in a dystopian setting where memories are wiped. Its intriguing plot and slow reveal of backstory make it a standout fantasy short story of 2026.
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Takes fantasy elements to another level
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Published in *Clarkesworld* magazine in February 2026, Claire Jia-Wen's story has been highlighted for its excellence. Its strong impression and quality mark it as a significant fantasy short story of the year.
Thrilling story
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Everdeen Mason's 'The Ghost in Apartment 5K', published in *Nightmare Magazine* in February 2026, offers a unique and contemporary take on ghost stories. Its original premise makes it a compelling read in the fantasy genre.
Poignant and very funny
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This Hugo-award winning story by Alix E. Harrow is now collected in 'Slantwise Histories and Other Stories' in 2026. Its acclaimed status and imaginative take on portal fantasies make it a top choice for the year.
Beautiful short story
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Alix E. Harrow's 'The Six Deaths of the Saint' makes its print debut in her 2026 collection 'Slantwise Histories and Other Stories'. This previously Amazon original title offers a new opportunity to experience her distinctive short fiction.