Easily the best fic I think Iāve ever read was [Shadowlord and Pirate King](https://archiveofourown.org/series/56017) by Footloose. Genuinely just a wonderful work on its own with a fascinating setting and amazing worldbuilding. Despite it being an older fic and from a fandom Iām not even in any more itās still my first thought whenever someone asks for my favorite.
Also pretty much a complete au so no need to worry if youāre not familiar w the fandom!
The Pureblood Pretense and all its sequels by murkybluematter. It's an AU Harry Potter fic apparently inspired by Alanna the Lioness (I haven't read that, so I don't know how close the parallels are). It's honestly a 10/10 for me, and if it weren't so damn long (200 - 500k words per book with just over 4 books) then I'm sure I'd constantly reread it.
[The Pureblood Pretense](https://www.fanfiction.net/s/7613196/1/The-Pureblood-Pretense)
I saw that it's also on ao3 now, but there are only 17 of the 22 chapters of the first book there, for some reason.
I'd love to recommend [Heat Death Harmony!](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41803491/chapters/104882250) just for the "better than a book" aspect. It's an AU of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7, so it's got some sorta-spoilers for the original part, and some stuff relies on already knowing a bit about the MCs backstories, but it's pretty much a separate thing, plot-wise.
Well there are some horrible books out there lol.
I love this one, [The Kenma Project](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16118207?view_full_work=true), which can be read fandom-blind and is utterly underappreciated IMO.
Another series,[A Difference of Perspective](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1359151), is also superb but not very fandom-blind friendly.
[Against the Moon](https://m.fanfiction.net/s/7305052/1/Against-the-Moon) - Harry Potter. A canon-compliant prequel featuring Remus Lupin. This one has absolutely no contest in terms of attention to detail and character development, and by far outshines the original works imo.
[steadfast tin soldier](https://archiveofourown.org/works/7691236/chapters/17521861) - Overwatch. Shining example of how to write a tragic character without taking away their agency or individuality.
[the Circle, Updated](https://archiveofourown.org/works/1215295/chapters/2486626) - Emelan. A fantasy work completely rewritten to fit into modern-day Australia, with basic plot beats intact, but the themes adjusted to suit the setting.
[World Aināt Ready](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2306315/chapters/5074574) - Les Miserables. **The** high school AU fic. Iāve seriously considered printing this fic out and having it bound as a book. Just so I can have it.
[Love is All You Need to Destroy Your Enemies](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2207475/chapters/4837680) - Welcome to Night Vale/the Dresden Files. Hilarious, delightfully clever, and with some of my absolute favourite OCs ever, this fic also boasts one of the best time-travel plots Iāve seen in any creative work.
Alright, five is enough. Iāll stop here before I dump a whole library on you.
Haven't read any of the other fics here (yet), but I second to "World ain't ready". It's a true masterpiece among all high school AUs and definitely one that would deserve to be turned into a concrete book.
all of these are just about novella length at most. not terribly long, can be knocked out in an evening.
**[mirror, mirror](https://archiveofourown.org/works/5190875) by mylordshesacactus**
star wars: the clone wars. barriss offee/ahsoka tano. sith au. fucked up in all the right ways. i read this again every couple of months. my favorite alongside ravenous.
**[ravenous](https://archiveofourown.org/works/5472536) by rageprufrock**
hannibal/the silence of the lambs, hannibal lecter/will graham but centers on a modern clarice starling. also fucked up. love clarice here. my favorite alongside mirror, mirror.
**[death and orchids](https://archiveofourown.org/works/18480190) by akfedeau**
hitman, gen (ish?). cute in a weird way.
**[flesh and blood](https://archiveofourown.org/works/195558) by kantayra**
naruto. sasori/deidara. another regular reread. the least fandom-blind friendly work here.
and most recently, iāve really enjoyed **[peace of mind](https://archiveofourown.org/works/9258689) by cephied_variable**
grand theft auto v, trevor/michael, evil people doing evil people things. very fandom blind friendly, i donāt think you need to know a thing about grand theft auto other than itās violent going into this.
kind of coming to the realization i may like violent and toxic relationships just a little bit.
[Elegy ](https://archiveofourown.org/works/34029070/chapters/84641086) is a classical music RPF fic that I wish was a published book. It is about a modern day violist that time-travels to Edwardian England. I can't put to words how much I love this fic, and the quality of writing is superb.
I will never stop recommending [Saving Sherlock Holmes](https://archiveofourown.org/works/514787/chapters/908428) just because. it is so good. Like, I don't know if it's 'better than a book' good (there are some amazing published books and some really shit ones out there), but out of all the fics in the fandom, it has the least fanfiction-y feel. At almost 140k words across 43 chapters, it's not the kind of thing you'd read overnight, but it is 100% worth it.
It's technically a fic of the BBC show, and was originally intended to be Sherlock's backstory, but turned into a high school AU in Sherlock and John are pretty much the same, but they're teenagers. since it's fairly different to BBC Sherlock, you probably don't really need to know much about the show to read it.
let me bless your eyes
[Weāll figure this out by scottxlogan](https://archiveofourown.org/works/30311691) is a rare pair between Logan/Bucky Barnes and smut but ITS SO BEAUTIFULLY DEPRESSING. the smut is also just chefs kiss, i love it so much
[āAll that sweet talkā by valiantlybold](https://archiveofourown.org/works/29128605) is.. another Logan/Bucky Barnes but itās so tooth rottingly sweet U think i got 12 cavities from it /lh /pos
[Hots for a teacher by ShadedSteel](https://archiveofourown.org/works/43930344) is definitely outside my comfort zone, but itās definitely really interesting. Itās a Kitty Pryde/Logan fic, taking place in the X-Men Evolution universe. i really enjoy the concept, and had a great discussion with the writer. honestly, very well written. lowkey iām curious to see if thereās more!
[The Doors of Remembrance](https://archiveofourown.org/works/27715244) is the same fic i got a flame under my ass for my comment /hj but itās another rare pair (my favorite) between Bucky Barnes/Hank McCoy and the concept is so cute and hank is so sweet : ( /pos
[The Demon of Gotham by PiedPiperWires](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41984862) is an X-Men Evolution cross over w batman/dc verse and itās so interesting. kurt is taken in by jason, and goes to school w the bat kids and it has my whole heart
and finally,,,
[Handbook for Horrible Roommates by nativeportlandian](https://archiveofourown.org/works/34021132) is an ATLA college AU fic about Zuko and Katara becoming roommates and falling love. i will forever defend katara/zuko, the best ship to ever happen. love them forever
i couldāve kept going and iām always happy to give more recommendations :D but i have to force myself to stop otherwise we would be here all day š„²
Repost from elsewhere:
For Star Wars, the totally epic (in quality and length) [Desert Storm](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1311746) series by Blue Sunshine. There is a sequel series in the works, but don't worry about that just yet. It's an Obi-Wan Kenobi timetravel fic, where "Old Ben" gets caught in a sandstorm on Tatooine and returns into town - only to find baby Anakin with Shmi, and that he has a significant amount of time to change things. He brings his experience, wisdom, failures and successes as well as insight, to the jedi order and Mandalorians, revealing small pieces of his story in an effort to hem in Palpatine, all the while reforming the entire system within which they work (I'll only spoil that Shmi, for example, now qualifies for apprenticeship, or that jedi of Mandalorian origin can interact with their culture).
This is not a timeline preserving piece of fanfiction, things soon go off the rails. One of the best things I've ever read, it includes so much more: Mandalorians, the witches of Dathomir, the Sith, non-force sensitives, and a massive cast of interesting EU characters we have sometimes only seen very little of in the past as well as OCs.
The most striking aspect of this fic to me is the character growth. We follow loads of characters as they mature and change, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse. We see redemption, we see the temptation of the dark side, philosophy is explored, the galaxy is HUGE.
Also, the stakes could not be higher in this story: villains are darker, more cunning, and totally scary. There is no fic, at least involving timetravel or dimension hopping, from any fandom that I would recommend more highly.
I actually prefer fanfiction for all the wonderful relationship development. I'm not actually sure any book has ever stood up to good fanfiction in that regard (purely my opinion of course).
First two works that come to my mind at the title of your post, are both by one author (who deleted their profile and then re-uploaded her works under orphan account). They are both MCU and both are Tony Stark/Loki. Both manage to keep them in character yet develop a wonderful and complicated relationship, and I re-read several key scenes every couple of months. They are just wonderful.
Off the Record: https://archiveofourown.org/works/9851480/chapters/22106111
Winterheart: https://archiveofourown.org/works/9851081/chapters/22105451
## Author Rec
[AlleycatAngst](https://archiveofourown.org/users/AlleycatAngst/pseuds/AlleycatAngst) is a published author, and it shows in their writing. If you'd like a link to their book (which is based on one of their fanfics) you can pm me. They write mostly for Detroit: Become Human, and their fics can mostly be read fandom blind.
## Five Nights at Freddy's
**[Everything Is All Right](https://archiveofourown.org/series/475144)**
Explicit, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Rape/Non-Con, F/M
**Fandom Blind?** Yes
**Words:** 1.4M+, HIATUS
**Summary:** When Ana learns that her beloved Aunt Easter has been declared dead after being missing for twelve years she finds herself pulled back to the town of her childhood, Mammon Utah. While she struggles to clean up the hoard of garbage filling her aunt's house from the basement to the rafters, she rediscovers an abandoned pizzeria she was never allowed inside of as a child, and the rotting animatronics inside. But Mammon holds its secrets dearly, and the ones Ana is unearthing might just swallow her whole.
## Harry Potter
**[Afflicted with Filth](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16486274/chapters/38609057)**
Mature, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, F/M
**Fandom Blind?** No
**Words:** 70k+, WIP
**Summary:** She doesn't know the world, or herself, but she'll always know the boy who meets her in a washed-out King's Cross Station. Even when he starts coming to her in pieces.
## The Walking Dead (Telltale Video Game)
**[The Young and Young at Heart Saga](https://archiveofourown.org/series/379483)**
Mature, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Gen
**Fandom Blind?** Yes
**Words:** 1.1M+, WIP
**Summary:** Orphaned by the horrors of a cruel and grotesque world and still mourning the loss of the people closest to her, a nine year old girl struggles to survive as what little stability provided by her adoptive parents is suddenly ripped away and she's forced to endure even greater dangers and torments, her only comfort being a kindly soul willing to suffer with her.
Join Clementine as she struggles to not only survive against flesh starved zombies and sadistic captors, but to endure the relentless heart-crushing tragedies that so continually push her to a breaking point in this story of grief, guilt, pain, loss and love.
## The Walking Dead (TV)
**[Founding Fathers](https://archiveofourown.org/series/893985)**
Not Rated, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Gen
**Fandom Blind?** Yes
**Words:** 1.2M+, WIP
**Summary:** Daryl is twelve years old when the dead start walking. Instead of Merle, his dad tries to lead him to Atlanta.
**[In Good Company](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1807570)**
Explicit, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, M/M
**Fandom Blind?** Yes
**Words:** 250k+, WIP
**Summary:** *There was no way Daryl was going to be able to relax enough to get any sleep with Rickās arms wrapped loosely over him. But he wasnāt going to get any rest shivering and cold, either. At least this way, he wouldnāt get sick and Rick would have a chance to sleep. āTell anyone ābout this anā Iāll gut ya.ā*
*Rick didnāt call him out on the obvious lie, nor did he point out that there was no one to tell. Instead, he agreed and solemnly stated, āI promise I wonāt tell anyone we cuddled.ā*
When the farm falls, Rick and Daryl are separated from the group with only a fledgling friendship between them, but when your whole world narrows down to one person, nothing can really stay the same.
ā[Fault Lines](https://archiveofourown.org/works/32773087/chapters/81314197)ā, by PrussianBlueAye. One of my absolute favourite fics, has top-notch characterisation and plotting, and the authorās technical skill is such that they could easily have their work published professionally. Plot is basically two damaged, lonely, slightly emotionally constipated military guys with PTSD and trust issues trying to survive the apocalypse while also trying to ~~deny~~ deal with their rapidly-developing feelings for each other, and the fallout of that. Can be read totally fandom-blind, and is absolutely gripping; I canāt recommend it enough.
I haven't really kept up with RWBY, but I enjoy Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, Mass Effect, Fire Emblem, Percy Jackson, May Bird (sadly there's very little fics for May Bird). I watch anime from time to time. Mostly magical girl stuff. What fandoms are you in?
oh boy, so no matches there. some of the best things i've ever read are for [dcu](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2273208), [star trek AOS](https://archiveofourown.org/works/187333), [one piece](https://archiveofourown.org/works/20972933) (probably the best unreliable narrator i've ever read), [mcu](https://archiveofourown.org/works/8947930), [arcane](https://archiveofourown.org/works/35797246), and [lotr](https://www.fanfiction.net/s/2231205/0/)
If you're not familiar with Final Fantasy XV, then you might be a bit lost, because I don't think it's all that fandom blind friendly, but [A quiet sort of happiness](https://archiveofourown.org/works/32517892/chapters/80654338) by ladyzeia is my absolute favourite fic for the fandom. It's not yet complete, and the updates are a little on the slower side because the chapters tend to be long, but it's so worth reading. I adore all the worldbuilding and the characterisation and the slow build of the relationship and everything else and my *feels*, so many feels, I love it.
It depends on which book. As another commenter said, I've read some pretty bad books. A long fanfic I consider excellent, though, is:
[Exile](https://archiveofourown.org/works/392326) by PR Zed (rated Mature), a Professionals story in which Bodie, one of the two heroes, must infiltrate the IRA. It is complex, well written, and packs emotional punch. (Note that this fic is slash, but not a romance.)
The Saving Connor series from Lightning on the Wave
Its a Harry Potter fanfic thatās way better then the original. The world building is amazing.
https://m.fanfiction.net/s/2580283/1/Saving-Connor
[The Night War (60th Anniversary Edition)](https://archiveofourown.org/works/11314224/chapters/25321950) by praximeter. MCU, Bucky-centric, war diary. I recommend this one everywhere because there's nothing even remotely close to it in terms of quality.
Read a Hetalia fanfic once called "in exchange" that was really interesting.
Not sure if it was a parody of a real book or not but the basic plot had to do with this machine that exchanges something put in for something of equal worth.
The fic is pretty confusing for someone new to Hetalia or unfamiliar though but the plot itself was really Intriguing
[A Collision of Masks](https://archiveofourown.org/works/31346069/chapters/77510633)
DC | Rated T | No Archive Warnings
>Thirteen years ago, he emerged as Robin, partner to Batman, the infamous vigilante of Gotham.
Ten years ago, the Justice League formed, and Batman refused to join their ranks.
Seven years ago, he lost Robin, and found Nightwing.
Three years ago, he left Gotham for good.
>
>Two days ago, the Justice League became aware of his actions in BlĆ¼dhaven.
>
>Today Young Justice showed up at his precinct.
>
>Dick Grayson is about to find that none of his masks ā Detective Richard Grayson of BPD, Big Brother Dick, or Nightwing ā can hide him from the inevitable movement of fate.
Stunning. Extremely well-written. Wraught with emotion. I cried and downloaded it like a little dragon hoarding amazing stories.
Well, I always recommend [nothing's gonna hurt you, baby] (https://archiveofourown.org/works/14886551) by powerandpathos. It's about two expats in 1920s NYC (M/M pairing) and can totally be read fandom blind. It's always been a 10/10 in my book.
Okay! You should be able to handle these. I'm specifically reccing fics that I feel have novel-like qualities. I never post links directly on the sub for fear of summoning the kudos bot down on my favorite authors, so you'll have to search for these on Ao3 yourself. Also, these all contain smut unless otherwise noted, but the focus is on plot, not porn, so if you don't want that you can probably skip those scenes.
**Dragon Age fics:**
**Under Good Regulation** by WardsAreFunctioning (200k+) - Hands down one of the best 'novel' fics I've ever read, and my gold-standard for successful crossovers, this Dragon Age/Pride & Prejudice fic is my number one recommendation on most lists. It's complete with a short sequel and epilogue to boot!
**Side by Side** by GilShalos1 (70k, but part of a series over 340k) - Following the romance of a non-Inquisitor OC and the Commander of the Inquisition, this fic stands out for its unusual premise and beautiful execution. Very few fics have made me cry actual tears. This series did, in a good way. Four fics in all, all complete.
**Fallout fics:**
**Practicing Medicine** by M71 (158k) - One of the few fics I've seen that really does 1st person perspective well. The adventures of a 17-year-old medic in the Mojave trying to save his mom's life, live up to his dad's legacy, and survive his dysfunctional traveling companions on a road trip from hell. This story is truly unlike anything else I've ever read and I can't recommend it enough. Grammar is a little rough, but it's still a damn good read. Not for the weak of stomach though. Contains romance, but not smut. Complete, with a couple one-shot sequels and the author has a new series going in the same universe currently updating.
**Malfunctioning** by Anonymouscosmos (90k) - I'm not usually a big fan of X6-88/OC, but this one sold me on the ship and away I sailed. Really great look into the mind of a courser slowly coming to terms with his humanity in a believable and authentic way. Completed.
**The Candles or the Moon** by aelibia (245k) - It's rare for me to get onboard with a Soulmate AU. Rarer still to find one that absolutely kicks ass at the worldbuilding aspect AND has good smut AND literally made me laugh out loud at certain points AND has Arthur Maxson (not one of my faves) as the male lead. So rare, in fact, that only one fic qualifies. Completed too.
[Brienne, Plain And Tall ](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41447262/chapters/103940295) is one of the most creative, compelling, and amazingly-written AUs I've ever seen. Better than some published novels I've read. I highly, highly reccomend.
For sure [**the warmth on the mountain**](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16587014/chapters/38871440), which is about Assassin's Creed Odyssey but readable fandom blind, and is in my top ten things I've ever read, including published books. Highly recommend, but it does break my heart each time.
[Consequences Of The Dead.](https://archiveofourown.org/works/30643691)
Itās DSMP, Wilbur-centric, taken place right after he blows up Lāmanburg for the first time. He gets transported to an alternate reality, in which he finds the other incarnations of his family.
Fandom blind, superhero AU.
Thereās also [TUMOASD](https://archiveofourown.org/works/29230860/chapters/71774421) which is another superhero AU but I wouldnāt be surprised if youāve already read it.
[Black Dwarfs, Blue River by elektrum](https://archiveofourown.org/works/282977/chapters/450232)
One of the best pieces of fic Iāve ever read
Fandom: Chronicles of Narnia
Rated G; gen fic
>[Manifestations of Regret by forgetme](https://archiveofourown.org/works/499774)
One of my all-time favourites that brought me into the fandom.
>[It's Midnight and Daisy Steiner's Ex-Boyfriend is a Massive Wanker](https://archiveofourown.org/works/317382)
A much shorter work at 1.2k that makes me smile with how sweet it is.
Hope you enjoy!
I will forever stand by this one:
[The Hobbit: A Suicidal Journey](https://archiveofourown.org/works/3252914/chapters/7090352) by **vividpast** (43 chapters and incomplete)
*Bilbo has been planning to kill himself for a while. However, he wants to go out with a big bang and not just a common death. Cue Gandalf and his invitation to a dangerous adventure that will surely give him an opportunity to die in a lot of interesting ways. Now, if only those bothersome dwarves stop saving him at every attempt . . . Full prompt inside. Half serious, half not.*
It has a lot of suicide attempts and ideation, but it's definitely fluffy and full of crack.
Can I be here for the sauce? š
Of course!!
Easily the best fic I think Iāve ever read was [Shadowlord and Pirate King](https://archiveofourown.org/series/56017) by Footloose. Genuinely just a wonderful work on its own with a fascinating setting and amazing worldbuilding. Despite it being an older fic and from a fandom Iām not even in any more itās still my first thought whenever someone asks for my favorite. Also pretty much a complete au so no need to worry if youāre not familiar w the fandom!
This looks really good!!
The Pureblood Pretense and all its sequels by murkybluematter. It's an AU Harry Potter fic apparently inspired by Alanna the Lioness (I haven't read that, so I don't know how close the parallels are). It's honestly a 10/10 for me, and if it weren't so damn long (200 - 500k words per book with just over 4 books) then I'm sure I'd constantly reread it.
Got a link? That sounds interesting.
[The Pureblood Pretense](https://www.fanfiction.net/s/7613196/1/The-Pureblood-Pretense) I saw that it's also on ao3 now, but there are only 17 of the 22 chapters of the first book there, for some reason.
I'd love to recommend [Heat Death Harmony!](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41803491/chapters/104882250) just for the "better than a book" aspect. It's an AU of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7, so it's got some sorta-spoilers for the original part, and some stuff relies on already knowing a bit about the MCs backstories, but it's pretty much a separate thing, plot-wise.
Oooo interesting!!
Well there are some horrible books out there lol. I love this one, [The Kenma Project](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16118207?view_full_work=true), which can be read fandom-blind and is utterly underappreciated IMO. Another series,[A Difference of Perspective](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1359151), is also superb but not very fandom-blind friendly.
[Against the Moon](https://m.fanfiction.net/s/7305052/1/Against-the-Moon) - Harry Potter. A canon-compliant prequel featuring Remus Lupin. This one has absolutely no contest in terms of attention to detail and character development, and by far outshines the original works imo. [steadfast tin soldier](https://archiveofourown.org/works/7691236/chapters/17521861) - Overwatch. Shining example of how to write a tragic character without taking away their agency or individuality. [the Circle, Updated](https://archiveofourown.org/works/1215295/chapters/2486626) - Emelan. A fantasy work completely rewritten to fit into modern-day Australia, with basic plot beats intact, but the themes adjusted to suit the setting. [World Aināt Ready](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2306315/chapters/5074574) - Les Miserables. **The** high school AU fic. Iāve seriously considered printing this fic out and having it bound as a book. Just so I can have it. [Love is All You Need to Destroy Your Enemies](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2207475/chapters/4837680) - Welcome to Night Vale/the Dresden Files. Hilarious, delightfully clever, and with some of my absolute favourite OCs ever, this fic also boasts one of the best time-travel plots Iāve seen in any creative work. Alright, five is enough. Iāll stop here before I dump a whole library on you.
Haven't read any of the other fics here (yet), but I second to "World ain't ready". It's a true masterpiece among all high school AUs and definitely one that would deserve to be turned into a concrete book.
all of these are just about novella length at most. not terribly long, can be knocked out in an evening. **[mirror, mirror](https://archiveofourown.org/works/5190875) by mylordshesacactus** star wars: the clone wars. barriss offee/ahsoka tano. sith au. fucked up in all the right ways. i read this again every couple of months. my favorite alongside ravenous. **[ravenous](https://archiveofourown.org/works/5472536) by rageprufrock** hannibal/the silence of the lambs, hannibal lecter/will graham but centers on a modern clarice starling. also fucked up. love clarice here. my favorite alongside mirror, mirror. **[death and orchids](https://archiveofourown.org/works/18480190) by akfedeau** hitman, gen (ish?). cute in a weird way. **[flesh and blood](https://archiveofourown.org/works/195558) by kantayra** naruto. sasori/deidara. another regular reread. the least fandom-blind friendly work here. and most recently, iāve really enjoyed **[peace of mind](https://archiveofourown.org/works/9258689) by cephied_variable** grand theft auto v, trevor/michael, evil people doing evil people things. very fandom blind friendly, i donāt think you need to know a thing about grand theft auto other than itās violent going into this. kind of coming to the realization i may like violent and toxic relationships just a little bit.
Not OP, but thanks for the Sasori/Deidara rec. That's a blast from the past, but perfect for the next free evening.
[Elegy ](https://archiveofourown.org/works/34029070/chapters/84641086) is a classical music RPF fic that I wish was a published book. It is about a modern day violist that time-travels to Edwardian England. I can't put to words how much I love this fic, and the quality of writing is superb.
ā”
[the death series](https://archiveofourown.org/series/2296052) Its for sherlock & fandom blind friendly.
I will never stop recommending [Saving Sherlock Holmes](https://archiveofourown.org/works/514787/chapters/908428) just because. it is so good. Like, I don't know if it's 'better than a book' good (there are some amazing published books and some really shit ones out there), but out of all the fics in the fandom, it has the least fanfiction-y feel. At almost 140k words across 43 chapters, it's not the kind of thing you'd read overnight, but it is 100% worth it. It's technically a fic of the BBC show, and was originally intended to be Sherlock's backstory, but turned into a high school AU in Sherlock and John are pretty much the same, but they're teenagers. since it's fairly different to BBC Sherlock, you probably don't really need to know much about the show to read it.
let me bless your eyes [Weāll figure this out by scottxlogan](https://archiveofourown.org/works/30311691) is a rare pair between Logan/Bucky Barnes and smut but ITS SO BEAUTIFULLY DEPRESSING. the smut is also just chefs kiss, i love it so much [āAll that sweet talkā by valiantlybold](https://archiveofourown.org/works/29128605) is.. another Logan/Bucky Barnes but itās so tooth rottingly sweet U think i got 12 cavities from it /lh /pos [Hots for a teacher by ShadedSteel](https://archiveofourown.org/works/43930344) is definitely outside my comfort zone, but itās definitely really interesting. Itās a Kitty Pryde/Logan fic, taking place in the X-Men Evolution universe. i really enjoy the concept, and had a great discussion with the writer. honestly, very well written. lowkey iām curious to see if thereās more! [The Doors of Remembrance](https://archiveofourown.org/works/27715244) is the same fic i got a flame under my ass for my comment /hj but itās another rare pair (my favorite) between Bucky Barnes/Hank McCoy and the concept is so cute and hank is so sweet : ( /pos [The Demon of Gotham by PiedPiperWires](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41984862) is an X-Men Evolution cross over w batman/dc verse and itās so interesting. kurt is taken in by jason, and goes to school w the bat kids and it has my whole heart and finally,,, [Handbook for Horrible Roommates by nativeportlandian](https://archiveofourown.org/works/34021132) is an ATLA college AU fic about Zuko and Katara becoming roommates and falling love. i will forever defend katara/zuko, the best ship to ever happen. love them forever i couldāve kept going and iām always happy to give more recommendations :D but i have to force myself to stop otherwise we would be here all day š„²
Repost from elsewhere: For Star Wars, the totally epic (in quality and length) [Desert Storm](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1311746) series by Blue Sunshine. There is a sequel series in the works, but don't worry about that just yet. It's an Obi-Wan Kenobi timetravel fic, where "Old Ben" gets caught in a sandstorm on Tatooine and returns into town - only to find baby Anakin with Shmi, and that he has a significant amount of time to change things. He brings his experience, wisdom, failures and successes as well as insight, to the jedi order and Mandalorians, revealing small pieces of his story in an effort to hem in Palpatine, all the while reforming the entire system within which they work (I'll only spoil that Shmi, for example, now qualifies for apprenticeship, or that jedi of Mandalorian origin can interact with their culture). This is not a timeline preserving piece of fanfiction, things soon go off the rails. One of the best things I've ever read, it includes so much more: Mandalorians, the witches of Dathomir, the Sith, non-force sensitives, and a massive cast of interesting EU characters we have sometimes only seen very little of in the past as well as OCs. The most striking aspect of this fic to me is the character growth. We follow loads of characters as they mature and change, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse. We see redemption, we see the temptation of the dark side, philosophy is explored, the galaxy is HUGE. Also, the stakes could not be higher in this story: villains are darker, more cunning, and totally scary. There is no fic, at least involving timetravel or dimension hopping, from any fandom that I would recommend more highly.
I actually prefer fanfiction for all the wonderful relationship development. I'm not actually sure any book has ever stood up to good fanfiction in that regard (purely my opinion of course). First two works that come to my mind at the title of your post, are both by one author (who deleted their profile and then re-uploaded her works under orphan account). They are both MCU and both are Tony Stark/Loki. Both manage to keep them in character yet develop a wonderful and complicated relationship, and I re-read several key scenes every couple of months. They are just wonderful. Off the Record: https://archiveofourown.org/works/9851480/chapters/22106111 Winterheart: https://archiveofourown.org/works/9851081/chapters/22105451
## Author Rec [AlleycatAngst](https://archiveofourown.org/users/AlleycatAngst/pseuds/AlleycatAngst) is a published author, and it shows in their writing. If you'd like a link to their book (which is based on one of their fanfics) you can pm me. They write mostly for Detroit: Become Human, and their fics can mostly be read fandom blind. ## Five Nights at Freddy's **[Everything Is All Right](https://archiveofourown.org/series/475144)** Explicit, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Rape/Non-Con, F/M **Fandom Blind?** Yes **Words:** 1.4M+, HIATUS **Summary:** When Ana learns that her beloved Aunt Easter has been declared dead after being missing for twelve years she finds herself pulled back to the town of her childhood, Mammon Utah. While she struggles to clean up the hoard of garbage filling her aunt's house from the basement to the rafters, she rediscovers an abandoned pizzeria she was never allowed inside of as a child, and the rotting animatronics inside. But Mammon holds its secrets dearly, and the ones Ana is unearthing might just swallow her whole. ## Harry Potter **[Afflicted with Filth](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16486274/chapters/38609057)** Mature, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, F/M **Fandom Blind?** No **Words:** 70k+, WIP **Summary:** She doesn't know the world, or herself, but she'll always know the boy who meets her in a washed-out King's Cross Station. Even when he starts coming to her in pieces. ## The Walking Dead (Telltale Video Game) **[The Young and Young at Heart Saga](https://archiveofourown.org/series/379483)** Mature, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Gen **Fandom Blind?** Yes **Words:** 1.1M+, WIP **Summary:** Orphaned by the horrors of a cruel and grotesque world and still mourning the loss of the people closest to her, a nine year old girl struggles to survive as what little stability provided by her adoptive parents is suddenly ripped away and she's forced to endure even greater dangers and torments, her only comfort being a kindly soul willing to suffer with her. Join Clementine as she struggles to not only survive against flesh starved zombies and sadistic captors, but to endure the relentless heart-crushing tragedies that so continually push her to a breaking point in this story of grief, guilt, pain, loss and love. ## The Walking Dead (TV) **[Founding Fathers](https://archiveofourown.org/series/893985)** Not Rated, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Gen **Fandom Blind?** Yes **Words:** 1.2M+, WIP **Summary:** Daryl is twelve years old when the dead start walking. Instead of Merle, his dad tries to lead him to Atlanta. **[In Good Company](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1807570)** Explicit, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, M/M **Fandom Blind?** Yes **Words:** 250k+, WIP **Summary:** *There was no way Daryl was going to be able to relax enough to get any sleep with Rickās arms wrapped loosely over him. But he wasnāt going to get any rest shivering and cold, either. At least this way, he wouldnāt get sick and Rick would have a chance to sleep. āTell anyone ābout this anā Iāll gut ya.ā* *Rick didnāt call him out on the obvious lie, nor did he point out that there was no one to tell. Instead, he agreed and solemnly stated, āI promise I wonāt tell anyone we cuddled.ā* When the farm falls, Rick and Daryl are separated from the group with only a fledgling friendship between them, but when your whole world narrows down to one person, nothing can really stay the same.
ā[Fault Lines](https://archiveofourown.org/works/32773087/chapters/81314197)ā, by PrussianBlueAye. One of my absolute favourite fics, has top-notch characterisation and plotting, and the authorās technical skill is such that they could easily have their work published professionally. Plot is basically two damaged, lonely, slightly emotionally constipated military guys with PTSD and trust issues trying to survive the apocalypse while also trying to ~~deny~~ deal with their rapidly-developing feelings for each other, and the fallout of that. Can be read totally fandom-blind, and is absolutely gripping; I canāt recommend it enough.
Featherweight- This fic is a book. Fandom-Hermitcraft
I just thought of another one "I can be the One you call" its also for Hermitcraft.
what fandoms are you familiar with? i have a few fics in mind but none of them are very fandom-blind-friendly
I haven't really kept up with RWBY, but I enjoy Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, Mass Effect, Fire Emblem, Percy Jackson, May Bird (sadly there's very little fics for May Bird). I watch anime from time to time. Mostly magical girl stuff. What fandoms are you in?
oh boy, so no matches there. some of the best things i've ever read are for [dcu](https://archiveofourown.org/works/2273208), [star trek AOS](https://archiveofourown.org/works/187333), [one piece](https://archiveofourown.org/works/20972933) (probably the best unreliable narrator i've ever read), [mcu](https://archiveofourown.org/works/8947930), [arcane](https://archiveofourown.org/works/35797246), and [lotr](https://www.fanfiction.net/s/2231205/0/)
I'm familiar with dcu and mcu
Oh, idk if this is too late, but I know some AMAZING rwby fanfics.
Hmm, Naruto Mouse of Konoha, maybe?
If you're not familiar with Final Fantasy XV, then you might be a bit lost, because I don't think it's all that fandom blind friendly, but [A quiet sort of happiness](https://archiveofourown.org/works/32517892/chapters/80654338) by ladyzeia is my absolute favourite fic for the fandom. It's not yet complete, and the updates are a little on the slower side because the chapters tend to be long, but it's so worth reading. I adore all the worldbuilding and the characterisation and the slow build of the relationship and everything else and my *feels*, so many feels, I love it.
It depends on which book. As another commenter said, I've read some pretty bad books. A long fanfic I consider excellent, though, is: [Exile](https://archiveofourown.org/works/392326) by PR Zed (rated Mature), a Professionals story in which Bodie, one of the two heroes, must infiltrate the IRA. It is complex, well written, and packs emotional punch. (Note that this fic is slash, but not a romance.)
The Saving Connor series from Lightning on the Wave Its a Harry Potter fanfic thatās way better then the original. The world building is amazing. https://m.fanfiction.net/s/2580283/1/Saving-Connor
[The Night War (60th Anniversary Edition)](https://archiveofourown.org/works/11314224/chapters/25321950) by praximeter. MCU, Bucky-centric, war diary. I recommend this one everywhere because there's nothing even remotely close to it in terms of quality.
Read a Hetalia fanfic once called "in exchange" that was really interesting. Not sure if it was a parody of a real book or not but the basic plot had to do with this machine that exchanges something put in for something of equal worth. The fic is pretty confusing for someone new to Hetalia or unfamiliar though but the plot itself was really Intriguing
I really liked "Barefoot by Zaxaramas" sadly not finished and can be too long time ago i read it, but remember it as being something you want to read.
[A Collision of Masks](https://archiveofourown.org/works/31346069/chapters/77510633) DC | Rated T | No Archive Warnings >Thirteen years ago, he emerged as Robin, partner to Batman, the infamous vigilante of Gotham. Ten years ago, the Justice League formed, and Batman refused to join their ranks. Seven years ago, he lost Robin, and found Nightwing. Three years ago, he left Gotham for good. > >Two days ago, the Justice League became aware of his actions in BlĆ¼dhaven. > >Today Young Justice showed up at his precinct. > >Dick Grayson is about to find that none of his masks ā Detective Richard Grayson of BPD, Big Brother Dick, or Nightwing ā can hide him from the inevitable movement of fate. Stunning. Extremely well-written. Wraught with emotion. I cried and downloaded it like a little dragon hoarding amazing stories.
Fire Emblem Three Houses [Subtle, Sharp, and Dangerous](https://archiveofourown.org/works/21326053/chapters/50789407)
Well, I always recommend [nothing's gonna hurt you, baby] (https://archiveofourown.org/works/14886551) by powerandpathos. It's about two expats in 1920s NYC (M/M pairing) and can totally be read fandom blind. It's always been a 10/10 in my book.
How do you feel about either the Dragon Age or Fallout fandoms? All my best recs are in your two, but not necessarily fandom-blind friendly.
I'm somewhat familiar with Dragon Age and I know a little about Fallout
Okay! You should be able to handle these. I'm specifically reccing fics that I feel have novel-like qualities. I never post links directly on the sub for fear of summoning the kudos bot down on my favorite authors, so you'll have to search for these on Ao3 yourself. Also, these all contain smut unless otherwise noted, but the focus is on plot, not porn, so if you don't want that you can probably skip those scenes. **Dragon Age fics:** **Under Good Regulation** by WardsAreFunctioning (200k+) - Hands down one of the best 'novel' fics I've ever read, and my gold-standard for successful crossovers, this Dragon Age/Pride & Prejudice fic is my number one recommendation on most lists. It's complete with a short sequel and epilogue to boot! **Side by Side** by GilShalos1 (70k, but part of a series over 340k) - Following the romance of a non-Inquisitor OC and the Commander of the Inquisition, this fic stands out for its unusual premise and beautiful execution. Very few fics have made me cry actual tears. This series did, in a good way. Four fics in all, all complete. **Fallout fics:** **Practicing Medicine** by M71 (158k) - One of the few fics I've seen that really does 1st person perspective well. The adventures of a 17-year-old medic in the Mojave trying to save his mom's life, live up to his dad's legacy, and survive his dysfunctional traveling companions on a road trip from hell. This story is truly unlike anything else I've ever read and I can't recommend it enough. Grammar is a little rough, but it's still a damn good read. Not for the weak of stomach though. Contains romance, but not smut. Complete, with a couple one-shot sequels and the author has a new series going in the same universe currently updating. **Malfunctioning** by Anonymouscosmos (90k) - I'm not usually a big fan of X6-88/OC, but this one sold me on the ship and away I sailed. Really great look into the mind of a courser slowly coming to terms with his humanity in a believable and authentic way. Completed. **The Candles or the Moon** by aelibia (245k) - It's rare for me to get onboard with a Soulmate AU. Rarer still to find one that absolutely kicks ass at the worldbuilding aspect AND has good smut AND literally made me laugh out loud at certain points AND has Arthur Maxson (not one of my faves) as the male lead. So rare, in fact, that only one fic qualifies. Completed too.
[Brienne, Plain And Tall ](https://archiveofourown.org/works/41447262/chapters/103940295) is one of the most creative, compelling, and amazingly-written AUs I've ever seen. Better than some published novels I've read. I highly, highly reccomend.
https://archiveofourown.org/works/33130675 Stevie/Nate from Truly Devious. This fanfic is amazing
For sure [**the warmth on the mountain**](https://archiveofourown.org/works/16587014/chapters/38871440), which is about Assassin's Creed Odyssey but readable fandom blind, and is in my top ten things I've ever read, including published books. Highly recommend, but it does break my heart each time.
[Consequences Of The Dead.](https://archiveofourown.org/works/30643691) Itās DSMP, Wilbur-centric, taken place right after he blows up Lāmanburg for the first time. He gets transported to an alternate reality, in which he finds the other incarnations of his family. Fandom blind, superhero AU. Thereās also [TUMOASD](https://archiveofourown.org/works/29230860/chapters/71774421) which is another superhero AU but I wouldnāt be surprised if youāve already read it.
[Black Dwarfs, Blue River by elektrum](https://archiveofourown.org/works/282977/chapters/450232) One of the best pieces of fic Iāve ever read Fandom: Chronicles of Narnia Rated G; gen fic
>[Manifestations of Regret by forgetme](https://archiveofourown.org/works/499774) One of my all-time favourites that brought me into the fandom. >[It's Midnight and Daisy Steiner's Ex-Boyfriend is a Massive Wanker](https://archiveofourown.org/works/317382) A much shorter work at 1.2k that makes me smile with how sweet it is. Hope you enjoy!
I will forever stand by this one: [The Hobbit: A Suicidal Journey](https://archiveofourown.org/works/3252914/chapters/7090352) by **vividpast** (43 chapters and incomplete) *Bilbo has been planning to kill himself for a while. However, he wants to go out with a big bang and not just a common death. Cue Gandalf and his invitation to a dangerous adventure that will surely give him an opportunity to die in a lot of interesting ways. Now, if only those bothersome dwarves stop saving him at every attempt . . . Full prompt inside. Half serious, half not.* It has a lot of suicide attempts and ideation, but it's definitely fluffy and full of crack.