If you’re tired of formulaic plots and predictable twists, this list is for you. Here are five series based on books that will not only provide hours of captivating entertainment but might also inspire you to explore their literary origins.
The Luminaries, 1 season, 2020
A historical drama with mystical elements set in New Zealand during the Gold Rush era. The story follows Anna Wetherell, a young woman seeking a new life, who instead gets caught in a web of intrigue and supernatural events.
Based on the novel by Eleanor Catton, the show’s unique storytelling structure is influenced by astrological principles. Each character symbolizes a celestial body, and their destinies intertwine like constellations in the night sky.
The Man in the High Castle, 4 seasons, 2015–2019
An alternate history series adapted from Philip K. Dick’s novel, envisioning a world where the Nazis and Japanese forces won World War II, dividing America between them. At the center of the story are mysterious film reels that depict a reality in which the Allies were victorious.
The show is remarkable for its immersive atmosphere, truly capturing the oppressive spirit of an alternate 1962. It also raises thought-provoking questions about the fragility of freedom and the power of individual choices.
Reacher, 2 seasons, 2022–present
A gripping crime thriller based on Lee Child’s novels. The protagonist, former military policeman Jack Reacher, travels across America, stumbling into dangerous investigations. In the first season, he arrives in a quiet town only to be wrongfully accused of murder.
Alan Ritchson brings Reacher to life as a true lone-wolf action hero, relying not just on brute strength but also sharp intellect to navigate deadly situations. If you enjoy smart detective stories with intense action, this series is a must-watch.
The Suspect, 1 season, 2022
A British psychological thriller about a brilliant psychologist who unexpectedly becomes the prime suspect in a murder case. As his life unravels, he is forced to go on the run and uncover the truth himself.
The plot is packed with twists and keeps viewers on edge until the very end. Based on the debut novel by Michael Robotham, a well-known name among fans of psychological crime fiction.
Anne, 3 seasons, 2017–2019
The heartfelt story of 13-year-old orphan Anne Shirley, who is mistakenly sent to a family that had been expecting a boy. Despite her difficult childhood, she remains optimistic and begins a new chapter in her life.
This adaptation of the classic novel Anne of Green Gables offers a more realistic take, exploring themes of childhood trauma and survival in an unjust world. No wonder fans launched a petition demanding a continuation after the series was canceled following its third season.
