Then there's 'FanficWizardX'. This author likes to put Xander in unique situations. For instance, they might send him to an alternate dimension where he has to fight different versions of vampires and demons. Their creativity in plot - making makes their Xander fanfictions stand out.
There's an author named Catherine White. Her fanfictions about Spike are known for their beautiful prose and in - depth character analysis. One of her works, 'Spike's True Self', really peels back the layers of Spike's character. Another great author is Paul Harris. He has a knack for writing Spike in different time periods and situations, like in his 'Spike Through the Ages' series. And don't forget about Anne Miller, who creates some really heart - warming and sometimes heart - breaking stories about Spike.
I'm not sure about the absolute best, but some popular ones might be those who have a deep understanding of the Buffy universe. They know all the characters well, especially Dawn, and can write her in - character. For example, an author who has been following the show since it started and has a passion for Dawn's character arc.
Some Xander fanfiction focuses on his love life in a more unique way. He could fall for a new character, a half - vampire half - human girl perhaps. Their relationship would be full of drama as they struggle with their different natures and the Scooby Gang's reactions.
In Xander x Cordelia Buffy the Vampire Slayer fanfiction, the theme of redemption can be quite common. Cordelia, who may have been mean - spirited at first, can find redemption through her relationship with Xander. Social class differences are also a theme, as they come from different social strata in the Buffyverse. This creates tension and also opportunities for character development. And finally, the theme of loyalty is present. As they face the various threats in the Buffyverse, their loyalty to each other becomes a crucial part of their relationship and the story.
Well, I really liked 'Giles: The Early Years'. It gives a great backstory to Giles, showing how he got involved with the Council and his first encounters with the supernatural. 'A Day in the Life of Giles' is a charming short fanfic that just follows Giles through an ordinary day in Sunnydale, but with his unique perspective as a Watcher. There's also 'Giles and the Ancient Artifact' which has an exciting plot involving Giles and a mysterious magical item.
One great Buffy fanfiction is 'The Initiative Redux'. It takes the concept of the Initiative from the show and expands on it in a really interesting way. It delves deeper into the experiments and the characters involved in that aspect of the Buffyverse. Another one could be 'Slayer's Bond' which focuses on the relationships between the slayers and how they support each other beyond just fighting vampires and demons. And 'A Different Sunnydale' which reimagines the town and the events in a unique and engaging way.
Some great Xander x Cordelia Buffy the Vampire Slayer fanfiction include 'Forbidden Love'. In this one, their relationship is sort of a forbidden love because of the social circles they're in and the roles they play in the Buffyverse. It's full of drama and emotion. 'The Cordelia - Xander Connection' is another one that really digs deep into their personalities and how they complement each other. And 'Xander's Cordelia' is a fanfic that shows Xander's perspective on their relationship in a very unique way.
Well, 'The Watcher's Guide' is often considered one of the best. It delves deep into the Buffyverse, providing detailed information about the characters, the mythology, and the overall world. It's like a comprehensive encyclopedia for fans.
A really good starting point could be 'Once More, with Feeling' by various authors. This fanfic collection is inspired by the musical episode of the show. It has a lot of creativity in terms of how the characters are developed further in the musical - themed stories. There are different takes on the relationships and the overall Buffy - verse, which makes it an interesting read.
To find the best Buffy the Vampire Slayer fanfiction, first, make use of dedicated fanfiction platforms. AO3 is a great place as it has a tagging system. Look for tags like 'Best Rated' or 'Popular' under the Buffy section. FanFiction.net also has a lot of Buffy stories. Browse through the completed ones with high vote counts. Additionally, follow Buffy - related blogs. Some bloggers review and recommend fanfictions. They might point you to some hidden gems that you wouldn't find otherwise. Also, don't be afraid to ask other Buffy fans directly. They can give you some personal favorites.