1: Aftermath by Al Steiner This was the first story I read on SOL, and probably the best story ever posted here. There is a reason that it's one of the most common entries in "Author's Favorites" lists. The other thing, is that EVERYTHING he writes is great. Just read them all!
2: Dance of a Lifetime by Don Lockwood Don Lockwood is one of the best "ROM" writers out there, and you'll find yourself laughing, and crying (you can't deny the tears, so just live with it!) Everything he has posted is worthy of reading.
3: The Lottery by Dark Vision This is a great story that includes a little bit of everything. I first started reading this one on Usenet, and suggested that Dark Vision start posting here on SOL. I doubt that it was actually my suggestion that brought his stories here, but here they are, none the less. The rest of his stories are great too, and some actually tie into this one. I suggest reading them all.
4: John Carter by Lazlo Zalezac What can be said about the monumental JC series by Lazlo Zalezac that hasn't been heralded by everyone that has read them. Not only is the whole series a "must read" but every thing that he has written should be in your library, or your favorite authors list. Thunder and Lightening is another truly outstanding tale by this author.
5: Wagons Ho! by Lazlong If you like historical stories, or even if you don't, give the Wagons Ho! universe a try. It's a very good read, and will keep you captivated for a long time. There are several stories in the series, so just keep on reading. I know that "Washed Up" won a "Silver Clit" award over at ASSTR (ASSD), and that says a lot!
There are a lot of other stories by this author that are also worth mentioning: the "Silent Endings: New Beginings" universe, even though the original story isn't copleted at this writing, and the "Fountain Of Youth" stories are great too.
6: Cancer by falcon29 I don't know what it is about this story that facinates me so. Maybe it's the sadness of the situation and the joy of the celebration of life. I don't know. I think you should see for yourself.
7: Two Different Worlds by Porlock Porlock's stories are more story than a lot of them on SOL, and that's not a bad thing. If you're looking for stroke, look to Beating Off Bob, or someone else, but if you like good writing, and especially SF stories, then this is the place to start! This is the first story in a universe, but he has other universes and stand alone stories worth reading too.
8: Once More With Feelings by The Night Hawk This story will make you laugh, it will make you cry in both sadness and joy, it will make you cheer, and it will make you angry. It has everything you need in a truly great story.
