Epics could also fit. Epics are long narrative poems or stories that often deal with heroic deeds and adventures, so they are a great match for the 'long stories' crossword clue. They usually have a complex plot and a large number of characters.
One possible answer is chronicles. Chronicles are detailed records or accounts of events over a period of time, which are usually presented in a long - form narrative, so they can be a good fit for the 'long stories' crossword clue.
Another option could be 'parable'. Parables are short stories that convey a religious or moral lesson. While they are generally short, some parables can be more elaborate and thus considered a 'long short story' in relation to the crossword clue. Parables are found in many religious and cultural traditions, like in the Bible for example, and their length and complexity can differ.
One way is to think of words like 'narrative'. A narrative can be a long, involved account of events, real or fictional. It has a beginning, middle, and end, and often includes details about characters, settings, and actions.
Perhaps 'epic'. An epic is a long narrative that often involves many characters, complex plots and sub - plots, and a wide range of events. It can be a story of heroic deeds, like 'The Iliad' or 'The Odyssey' which are classic examples of long, involved stories.
Tale. A simple 'tale' can be a long story. It's a very broad term that can cover various types of long - form narratives, whether it's a fairy tale, a folk tale or just a made - up long story.
One answer could be 'yarn'. 'Yarn' can mean a story, and it can be used to describe a long short story in a more informal way. For example, someone might say 'He spun a long yarn about his adventures.', which implies a somewhat long story that still has the essence of a short story.