Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Crime

Drama

Family

History

Kids

Mystery

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Soap

War & Politics

Western

Dive into the captivating world of Anthony Horowitz's 'Magpie Murders,' a tour de force of mystery storytelling. The novel not only presents a cunning, engaging murder mystery with all the trappings of a classic whodunit but also offers a meta-twist that will delight and challenge even experienced mystery readers. Horowitz masterfully layers a story within a story, weaving a complex tapestry that begs to be unraveled. Each character is meticulously crafted, and the narrative switches between the fictional past and present, providing depth and intrigue.

While the TV series adaptation captures the essence of this mystery, reading the novel offers a different experience - one where the prose invites readers to slow down and savor every clue and red herring. Horowitz's writing style is engaging and immersive, allowing readers to explore the inner workings of the crime with their imaginations. By indulging in the book, you'll find richness in the literary nuances and enjoy the satisfaction of piecing together the mystery yourself. It's an invitation to become an armchair detective and experience the full breadth of Horowitz's storytelling genius.

An editor gets drawn into a web of intrigue and murder when she receives an unfinished manuscript.

Magpie Murders

Delve into the world of Jørn Lier Horst's gripping novels to experience the full depth and intricacy of William Wisting's investigations. The books offer a unique, immersive journey through the dark and complex layers of Scandinavian crime, providing more detailed character development and intricate plots than their TV adaptation. You'll uncover the relentless dedication and emotional struggles of Wisting, gaining a deeper understanding of his character and the chilling cases he encounters.

While the series captivates with its visuals and performances, the novels allow readers to engage more actively with the narrative, stimulating the imagination with their evocative prose. Reading Horst's novels is an opportunity to savor the subtle nuances of his storytelling: the shadows in every corner, the whispers of untold secrets, and the piercing tension of a thrilling mystery. Choose the books to enjoy a richer, more fulfilling narrative experience, where the stakes are fully realized in the theater of your mind.

Empathetic, meticulous and relentless - the only thing to escape Larvik detective William Wisting in his hunt for Norway's most notorious criminals is a happy family life. And when two mysterious deaths interrupt Wisting's Christmas, it is the beginning of a showdown with the deadliest killer of them all.

Bunnfall

Dødesporet

Wisting

Delve into the fascinating true story that inspired the TV series by reading 'The Minds of Billy Milligan.' Daniel Keyes weaves a remarkable narrative, exploring the depths of the human psyche in a way that only literature can. Through intimate insights and detailed portrayals, the book offers a profound understanding of identity and mental health challenges.

While the TV adaptation offers visual storytelling, the book invites readers on a deeper, personal journey. Keyes’ intricate exploration of Billy Milligan’s multiple personalities provides a compelling read that goes beyond entertainment, encouraging contemplation and empathy. Discover the original, nuanced tales surrounding Milligan’s life and unravel the complexities of his mind in a way no screen can capture.

In 1979 Manhattan, a young man is arrested for a shocking crime — and an unlikely investigator must solve the mystery behind it.

The Minds of Billy Milligan

The Crowded Room

Delve into the captivating world of Cornwall with Winston Graham's Poldark novels, where the vivid storytelling and intricate character explorations offer a much richer experience than a mere adaptation can capture. Through its detailed narratives, the novels provide an intimate look into the trials and tribulations of Ross Poldark and those around him, against the backdrop of a picturesque yet tumultuous 18th-century Cornwall. 

Unlike any on-screen portrayal, the books allow readers to profoundly connect with each character's inner dialogues, struggles, and growth, offering a deeply immersive journey. The nuanced descriptions of Cornwall's landscapes and the pulsating socio-political issues of the time are artfully woven into the plot, inviting readers to experience the era's essence fully. By reading the source material, you unlock a treasure trove of historical insights and emotional depth that transport you far beyond the limits of any television screen.

Britain is in the grip of a chilling recession... falling wages, rising prices, civil unrest - only the bankers are smiling. It's 1783 and Ross Poldark returns from the American War of Independence to his beloved Cornwall to find his world in ruins: his father dead, the family mine long since closed, his house wrecked and his sweetheart pledged to marry his cousin. But Ross finds that hope and love can be found when you are least expecting it in the wild but beautiful Cornish landscape.

Jeremy Poldark

The Angry Tide

The Twisted Sword

The Black Moon

The Loving Cup

Warleggan

Bella Poldark

Ross Poldark

Demelza

The Miller's Dance

The Four Swans

The Stranger from the Sea

Poldark

Stephen King's novel 'It' is an immersive literary journey that far surpasses the depth and detail found in any visual adaptation. Within its pages, readers will discover a richly woven narrative that intricately explores the terrors lurking beneath the surface of childhood fears and the dark, twisted realities they ensnare.

By diving into the book, you're invited to delve into the intricacies of Derry, a town that itself seems alive with secrets and memories. Unlike watching the TV series, reading 'It' offers a deep connection with complex characters whose development unfolds through the haunting prose and masterful storytelling unique to Stephen King. Embrace the opportunity to lose yourself in the atmospheric tension and profound emotional journeys that only the original novel can truly offer.

In 1960, seven outcast kids known as "The Losers' Club" fight an evil demon who poses as a child-killing clown. Thirty years later, they reunite to stop the demon once and for all when it returns to their hometown.

Immersing yourself in the pages of Gabriel García Márquez's 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' offers an unparalleled literary experience. The novel's intricate narrative and rich tapestry of themes invite readers into a world where the extraordinary coexists with the mundane, and the passage of time is as fluid as the story itself. Turning each page is like peeling away layers of history and humanity, where Márquez masterfully captures the essence of life in Macondo, making you feel as though you are a part of this mythical place.

Moreover, reading Márquez's novel allows you to fully appreciate the stylistic beauty and depth that can be lost in a visual adaptation. His meticulous attention to detail and the lyrical quality of his prose bring to life the Buendía family's saga in a way that resonates deeply with one's imagination. The novel is a meditation on love, loss, and the cyclical nature of human existence, rendering it a timeless tale that rewards readers with profound insights and a sense of wonder that truly stands the test of time.

In the mythical town Macondo, seven generations of the Buendía family navigate love, oblivion and the inescapability of their past — and their fate.

One Hundred Years of Solitude

Dive into the rich tapestry of Stephen King’s 'The Stand', a novel that has captivated readers with its masterful blend of horror, suspense, and riveting character development. King's book offers a detailed exploration of a dystopian world ravaged by a deadly pandemic and the ensuing battle between good and evil. With its enormous scope, 'The Stand' weaves an intricate narrative that delves deeply into the haunting realities and moral dilemmas faced by its diverse set of characters.

While the 2020 TV series adaptation provides a visual spectacle, it can only scratch the surface of King's monumental work. The novel presents a more comprehensive and nuanced exploration of its themes and characters. Through its pages, readers can experience every facet of emotional intensity and existential dread that King so expertly conveys. Reading 'The Stand' offers a unique, immersive escape into a world of suspense and philosophical inquiry, making it a must-read for fans of the genre and for those seeking a thought-provoking literary journey.

In a world mostly wiped out by the plague and embroiled in an elemental struggle between good and evil, the fate of mankind rests on the frail shoulders of the 108-year-old Mother Abagail and a handful of survivors. Their worst nightmares are embodied in a man with a lethal smile and unspeakable powers: Randall Flagg, the Dark Man.

The Stand

Dive into the gripping world of 'The Strain' trilogy, where master storytellers Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan bring an unprecedented depth and richness that can only be found in the books. From the chilling onset of a vampiric virus to the apocalyptic stakes faced by humanity, the novels weave intricate details and character backgrounds that make the narrative more immersive and the terror more palpable than any screen adaptation could achieve.

While the TV series captures exciting visual thrills, the books offer an unparalleled intimacy with the inner thoughts of protagonists and antagonists alike, adding layers of psychological horror and suspense. Del Toro and Hogan's careful construction of the vampire mythos is best appreciated in print, where the atmospheric writing vividly captures every unsettling moment, allowing your imagination to conjure the macabre and eerie visions in unparalleled detail. This makes their work a must-read for those eager to explore the full breadth of this terrifying saga.

A high concept thriller that tells the story of Dr. Ephraim Goodweather, the head of the Center for Disease Control Canary Team in New York City. He and his team are called upon to investigate a mysterious viral outbreak with hallmarks of an ancient and evil strain of vampirism. As the strain spreads, Eph, his team, and an assembly of everyday New Yorkers, wage war for the fate of humanity itself.

The Night Eternal

The Fall

The Strain

Immerse yourself in the vivid storytelling and rich detail of Nicholas Rhea's novels, which served as the inspiration for the acclaimed TV series Heartbeat. By choosing to read Rhea's books, you'll gain deeper insight into the charming and eventful life of a rural police constable. His engaging prose and heartfelt depiction of village life in the Yorkshire countryside offer an authentic experience that the TV adaptation can only touch upon.

The original novels provide an opportunity to truly get to know the protagonist and the quaint, tight-knit community he serves. Rhea's narrative brings to life the nuances of village dynamics, the gentle humor, and the emotional depth of the characters in a way that creates an intimate connection with the reader. By delving into the pages of these books, you're invited to explore a world of nostalgia and timeless charm, unfolding beyond the confines of the screen.

Set during the 1960s in the fictional North Yorkshire village of Aidensfield, this enduringly popular series interweaves crime and medical storylines.

Constable Around the Village

Constable on the Hill

Constable on the Prowl

Heartbeat

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the American frontier with Larry McMurtry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'Lonesome Dove.' While the TV series captures the scenic vistas and engaging drama of the Old West, the book delves deeper into the complex relationships and inner thoughts of characters like Augustus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call. McMurtry’s richly detailed storytelling paints a more vivid picture of the hardships and emotions faced by these brave Texas Rangers, allowing readers to experience their struggles and triumphs in a more personal and nuanced way.

Reading 'Lonesome Dove' offers the chance to explore the intricate desert landscapes, the vibrancy of small towns, and the harsh realities of frontier life in a way only prose can deliver. The novel is filled with moments of humor, sadness, and reflection, offering an emotional depth that transcends the limitations of the screen. For those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the saga of the American West, McMurtry’s masterful writing provides an opportunity to savor every detail and truly understand the motivations driving each character on their epic journey.

A pair of longtime friends and former Texas Rangers crave one last adventure before hanging-up their spurs. After stealing over a thousand head of cattle from rustlers south of the border, they recruit an unlikely crew of hands to drive the herd 3,000 miles north to the grasslands of Montana.

Lonesome Dove

When an ominous photo mysteriously surfaces, Greta must confront buried truths — and her hazy memory — to save her husband from his dark secrets.

Just One Look

While the TV series 'The Breakthrough' captivates with its thrilling narrative, the source novel by Johnathan Wells offers an unparalleled depth to its characters and themes. Diving into the pages of the book allows readers to experience the intricate backstories and motivations that drive the plot forward, enriching the overall experience far beyond the screen.

Moreover, the novel presents a more nuanced exploration of the psychological elements that the series may only skim over. Readers can immerse themselves in Wells' masterful prose, filled with suspense and twists that keep them guessing until the very last page. Choosing to read the book is choosing to engage fully with the story in a way that watching the series alone simply cannot replicate.

When a shocking double homicide goes unsolved for 16 years, a detective teams up with a genealogist to catch the killer before it becomes a cold case.

The Breakthrough

Dive into the immersive universe of William Gibson's 'The Peripheral,' a novel that masterfully intertwines complex technological innovations with a gripping narrative. Readers will appreciate the depth and intricacy of Gibson's world-building, something that can be more fully appreciated in print. The novel offers a richly detailed view of a future teetering on the brink of uncharted possibilities, exploring themes of time, identity, and dystopian realities, all through Gibson's unique literary lens.

While the TV series adaptation presents a visually stunning interpretation, it inevitably leaves out the nuanced prose and thematic complexity found in the original work. Reading 'The Peripheral' allows for a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the intricacies of the dual timelines that Gibson deftly explores. By engaging with the novel, readers can capture the full breadth of Gibson's imagination and delve into the philosophical questions that underpin his narrative—a rewarding experience for any fan of the genre.

Stuck in a small Appalachian town, a young woman’s only escape from the daily grind is playing advanced video games. She is such a good player that a company sends her a new video game system to test…but it has a surprise in store. It unlocks all of her dreams of finding a purpose, romance, and glamour in what seems like a game…but it also puts her and her family in real danger.

The Peripheral

Jake Adelstein's 'Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan' offers an unfiltered, first-hand account of Tokyo's underbelly that the TV series can only dramatize. As a pioneering American journalist covering crime stories in Japan, Adelstein presents an authentic and raw narrative that only someone with his access and experiences could provide. He joins forces with detectives, navigates the complexities of yakuza culture, and tackles issues like prostitution and corruption with a fearless tenacity. By immersing yourself in Adelstein's words, you gain an unparalleled glimpse into the journalistic grinding gears behind each headline, feeling the weight of every risky encounter and moral dilemma he faced.

Reading 'Tokyo Vice' allows you to appreciate the depth and nuance that television adaptations may bypass. The book presents intricate details and the broader context of the events Adelstein recounts, empowering readers to build their understanding of the Japanese justice system and the socio-cultural tapestry of Tokyo in a way that screen time constraints simply cannot accommodate. Through his vivid prose and exhaustive recounting of his experiences, the book conveys the full spectrum of his emotional journey, offering readers a chance to foster their imaginations and reconstruct the vibrant, bustling backdrop of Tokyo with every page they turn.

A first-hand account of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police beat following Jake Adelstein, an American journalist who embeds himself into the Tokyo Vice police squad to reveal corruption. Based on Jake Adelstein’s non-fiction book of the same name.

Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan

Tokyo Vice

Dive into the original brilliance of Charles Yu's 'Interior Chinatown,' where the written word allows you to deeply explore themes of identity, race, and assimilation with nuances that a visual medium might only skim. This sharp, inventive work invites readers to unravel the layers of complexity in storytelling structure and character development, employing a screenplay-like format that uniquely enhances the narrative’s engagement.

Within the pages of Yu's novel, you'll achieve a closer intimacy with the protagonist's thoughts and the poignant satire on the pursuit of the American dream. The book's clever use of metafiction not only draws readers into Willis Wu's world but also compels them to confront the real-world impact of cultural stereotypes. Don't miss the richness that the author’s words afford—experience 'Interior Chinatown' as it was first conceived, and bask in the full breadth of creativity and commentary.

Willis Wu, a background character trapped in a police procedural, tries to find his way into the larger story–and along the way discovers secrets about the strange world he inhabits and his family's buried history.

Categories

TV Series by Year

TV Series