Epic Fantasy and Sci-Fi Books for Adults

1. 1. Many readers assume fantasy and sci-fi are for young people, but there's a growing need for stories featuring protagonists in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.
2. 2. "The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi" features a retired pirate mother balancing dangerous ventures with parenting, exploring relatable work-life conflict in a fantasy setting.
3. 3. "Kings of the Wyld" presents a heartfelt narrative about former mercenary Clay "Slowhand" Cooper, who reunites his old band to help a friend, emphasizing enduring friendships.
4. 4. "Luna: New Moon" depicts a moon colony ruled by ruthless families, focusing on Adriana Corta, a Brazilian immigrant matriarch striving to secure her legacy.
5. 5. "Apprehension" follows Bonnyjean, a surgeon with PTSD and a bad hip, as she relentlessly pursues her kidnapped grandchild on an alien planet.
6. 6. "The Bone Maker" explores what happens to heroes after saving the world, reuniting aging warriors when their leader attempts to resurrect her husband using forbidden magic.
7. 7. "Remnant Population" features Ofelia, a cranky 70-year-old who achieves her "lifegoals" of a peaceful retirement on a deserted colony, subverting first contact tropes.
8. 8. "The Keeper’s Six" centers on Esther, a Jewish grandmother and Hex member, convincing her banned crew to rescue her kidnapped adult son from a dragon lord.
9. 9. "Leviathan Wakes" (The Expanse series) offers a noir perspective through Detective Joe Miller, an aging, cynical cop on a quest for purpose amid an interplanetary conspiracy.
10. 10. "Legend" by David Gemmell, inspired by his misdiagnosis, features the grizzled warrior Druss, proving that adventures are still possible at any age.