Special Guests
CJ Roberts
Attention, Dark Romance Fans! Special Guest Alert!
We’re thrilled to welcome C.J. Roberts—New York Times & USA Today Best-selling Author of the sultry, unforgettable The Dark Duet series—to MidWest FanFest!
After a hiatus, C.J. is making a dramatic return to the book scene, bringing her signature edge and allure back to readers everywhere.
And the best part? Her iconic Dark Duet series is getting the deluxe treatment with special edition hardcovers! Don’t miss your chance to meet this queen of dark romance at MidWest FanFest!
Nathan Lueth
Nathan Lueth came into existence with a pencil in his hand, a feat which continues to confound obstetricians to this day. No one knows for sure when he started drawing or where his love of comics came from, but most experts agree that his professional career began after graduating from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design as a caricaturist in the Mall of America.
Now an 18 year veteran freelance illustrator, and self-published graphic novelist, Nathan has pleased clients and publishers of all sizes. He's worked with Target, General Mills, Inverse Press, Wannabe Press, Writers of the Round Table, and drawn countless thousands of caricatures at fairs across the midwest.
He is the co-creator of Impure Blood, a Victorian-flavored epic fantasy graphic novel series, is editor/publisher of the urban fantasy comic anthology, Concrete Arcanum, and to date has raised over $75,000 on Kickstarter. His latest comic series, The Canon of Vangel, launched in 2022.
When life and limitations demand that he not draw for a bit, he enjoys reading, over-analyzing movies, martial arts, and goofing off with his two amazing daughters.
To check out his artwork go to his websites!
Tom Rasch
This Marvel Comics alum and creative powerhouse from the Black Hills isn’t just dreaming up new worlds—he’s building them! From comic book pages to concept art for video games and films, Tom’s imagination knows no bounds.
He’s currently crafting a universe of original characters, starting with Black Alpha, which soared into USA Today! And that’s just the beginning. Next up are Salem Tusk and The Bondsman, both making their way to the silver screen.
With art in his soul and stories waiting to be told, Tom Rasch is one creator you won’t want to miss!
Dark Mischief Cosplay
Dark Mischief Cosplay officially began her cosplay journey in 2013, but the spark was ignited years earlier with her love of Halloween. In 2002, she crafted her first homemade costume, setting the stage for a lifelong passion.
Her creativity blossomed after meeting her husband, a dedicated comic book fan, who introduced her to countless characters and inspired new costume ideas. When she discovered the vibrant cosplay community, it felt like finding her people—leading to friendships she’ll cherish forever.
Dark Mischief’s talent has earned her impressive recognition, including:
✨ Broadsword Girl for Broadsword Comics
✨ Featured in Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose
✨ 3-Time Cover Model for Retro Lovely
✨ 2017 Queen of the SoDak Masquerade Ball
Now, as a first-time cosplay judge, Dark Mischief Cosplay is beyond excited to witness the passion and creativity that fans pour into their costumes. She can’t wait to see the magic unfold!
Radiant Rage Cosplay
Radiant Rage Cosplay has been bringing characters to life for as long as she can remember! Any chance to dress up and transform was one she couldn’t pass up. She officially began fabricating costumes in 2016, but her passion for makeup goes even further—earning her esthetics license in 2012.
Cosplay has always felt like second nature to her. The thrill of becoming a character and infusing each cosplay with her own creativity provides an incredible outlet. She’s been featured in several cosplay magazines, but what truly fills her heart is using cosplay for charity. Volunteering and seeing the joy on children’s (and adults’) faces when they meet their favorite characters is the greatest reward.
Now, as a judge at MidWest FanFest, Radiant Rage Cosplay is excited to witness the passion, creativity, and love fans pour into their costumes. She can’t wait to see everyone shine!
Thor of SD
South Dakota Thor has been bringing his favorite characters to life since 2013. His cosplay journey began as the perfect blend of two passions: nearly 30 years of comic book collecting and his wife’s love for Halloween. With her encouragement and dedication, he got comfortable in costume—and a match made in cosplay heaven was born!
He’s a proud member of the Thor Corps, an international group of Thor cosplayers, and even appeared in the viral “Pass the Hammer” video, featuring Anthony Hopkins’ stunt double from Thor: Ragnarok.
In 2017, he was crowned King of the SoDak Masquerade Ball, and now, for the first time, he’s stepping into the role of cosplay judge. South Dakota Thor can’t wait to see the passion and creativity that cosplayers bring to the competition!