In 2021, author Lani Forbes discovered that she had an aggressive form of cancer. Her community poured out compassion and care as she navigated her altered world, up until her death in 2022. Before her passing, her friends formed an idea to help their family. And now this amazing, tenacious, talented community has collaborated—twenty authors in all—to keep the legacy of Lani Forbes alive.
We’ve banded together, volunteers giving countless hours of writing, editing, and creative work to design this gift for her young children in tribute to Lani. Each author captured a small thread of the spirit that Lani gave us in this compilation of young adult fantasy stories, aptly named The Sun Still Rises. Inside are stories about breaking curses, healing wounds, and making painful decisions with heavy costs, all set in worlds with dragons, magical jewels, and fantastical powers. Just as she gave her time and energy to encourage and help others, all profits from this book will go to her family.
As editor-in-chief for this special project, I hope that these stories show you a glimpse of the amazing woman I knew and loved.
“The legacy of courage, sacrifice and beauty through pain is only a sundrop of the impact Lani Forbes’ life has had, and this heartbreakingly-gorgeous anthology reminds us of Lani in the way she would have loved best: story. Filled with masterfully crafted tales of longing, hope, endurance and redemption, THE SUN STILL RISES is a triumph.
Like a flare shot out into the dark, turning even the night to glory, this anthology steps into the rich worlds Lani created, a torch carried by award-winning storytellers and friends, and reminds us what it is to be human. To wish, to feel, to dream, to break, to heal — and to rise again. So let’s rise with the same kind of light and hope that poured out of Lani’s every word — and step into the sun together.”
~ Kara Swanson, author of the Heirs of Neverland duology and Ignite
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Featured piece: “The Evenglow”
Trigger warning: depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation
Light shines brightest in dark places…
A selfish empress slowly turns to gold. A highschooler's hallucinations reveal a dangerous new world of Faerie. An outcast battles shadow demons to save her people from the plague.
This charity collection of YA fantasy stories celebrates the light found in dark places, just as Lani Forbes once embodied having hope in difficult times. Her spirit shines on through these beautiful, bittersweet tales full of fallen stars and fae princes, werewolves and magic wielders, samurai and smoky skies.
Featuring stories from Ronie Kendig, Jill Williamson, Julie Hall, Carrie Anne Noble, S.D. Grimm, and more!
I had the honor of running this anthology. It was a labor of love. All proceeds go to Lani’s family.
“THE SUN STILL RISES is a magical collection of stories full of adventure, light, and hope. I enjoyed the variety and the way each story offered inspiration and joy. This anthology is a wonderful tribute to author Lani Forbes.”
~ Becky Dean, author of Love & Other Great Expectations
“These compelling stories full of hope and heroism will inspire and entertain in equal measures. I was completely captivated by each dazzling tale full of well-crafted worlds and valiant characters. THE SUN STILL RISES is a perfect tribute to a brilliant author who lived a brave, bold life full of fearless love!”
~ Lorie Langdon, author of the Disney Happily Never After series
The Sun Still Rises Art
Lyla and Cal from “A Piece of Sky,” written by Tanager Haemmerle. Art also by Tanager Haemmerle.
