Which Ongoing Fiction Series Are Worth Starting To Read Now?

Space opera with heart and heists? 'The Expanse' is the obvious answer, and it's a perfect, complete nine-book series. But if you want something a bit more offbeat, 'Revenger' by Alastair Reynolds is a solar system-spanning adventure about sisters on a bone ship hunting for ancient treasures. It's got a weird, Gothic, almost pirate-y feel, with mysterious aliens and ruthless rivals. Reynolds' sci-fi concepts are always mind-bending, and this is a more accessible, adventure-driven entry into his work.

Anthology series are underrated. 'The Gods are Bastards' is a finished web serial that's basically a fantasy western with a huge cast of students at a magical university. Each 'book' focuses on a different set of characters within the same world, weaving their stories together. It gives you the satisfaction of completed character arcs within a larger, ongoing narrative. The world-building is incredibly deep, and the blend of magic, technology, and theology is unique.

A lot of recommendations here are Western fantasy. If you want to branch out, translated works offer incredible long series. 'The Three-Body Problem' trilogy by Cixin Liu is hard sci-fi, but it reads like epic fantasy in its scope and imagination. It's a completed, mind-bending journey through cosmic sociology. Or try 'Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit' by Nahoko Uehashi (originally Japanese), a fantasy series deeply rooted in anthropology and spirit lore. Different cultural perspectives can make a long series feel brand new.

This year has been a treasure trove for serialized novels, and I find myself lost in so many incredible stories! Kicking things off, 'The Wandering Inn' by pirateaba really deserves a spotlight. The mix of fantasy and slice-of-life elements creates an enchanting blend that’s hard to resist. It follows Erin Solstice, who ends up in a fantastical world and opens an inn. It's about friendship, resilience, and the sheer joy of finding your place in a unique universe. The character development is rich, and each chapter leaves me eager for more, especially as Erin navigates her challenges in such an unpredictable setting. Another gem that isn't getting enough buzz is 'Mother of Learning' by nobody103. It's a time loop story that takes a fascinating approach to magic and personal growth. Zorian, the protagonist, relives the same month repeatedly, offering insight into his character and the complex world he inhabits. The blend of high-stakes adventure and meticulous planning is so engaging that I found myself getting deeply invested in the character's growth and clever strategies to escape his predicament. The writing is sharp, and the plot twists keep hitting me like a well-timed punch. Lastly, I can't forget about 'A Practical Guide to Evil' by ErraticErrata. This sprawling fantasy redefines the genre with a narrative that challenges traditional tropes. Follow Cat as she navigates a world where heroes and villains play by ruthless rules. The layers of moral ambiguity and political intrigue make every chapter feel like a thrilling chess match. Plus, the humor woven throughout is delightful! It's a novel that forces you to question how traditionally defined roles can be expected to evolve in a shifting landscape. Seriously, it’s one of those reads that will stick with you long after you close the page!