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Discover the gripping world of British politics with Michael Dobbs' 'House of Cards', the source of the acclaimed TV series. Delve into the pages to experience a deeper and more extensive understanding of the political maneuvers, character complexities, and dramatic twists that are often limited by on-screen portrayals. The novel unveils a more intricate web of ambition, deceit, and the drive for power, offering insights that only a master storyteller like Dobbs can illustrate.

Reading 'House of Cards' allows you to explore the richly developed internal dialogues and nuanced motivations of its characters, which the constraints of television may gloss over. Dobbs' vivid prose paints an unforgettable picture of political machinations, inviting readers to churn through the dizzying corridors of power and moral dilemmas. Escape the confines of the screen and immerse yourself in the book to truly appreciate the depth and prowess of this political thriller.

Frustrated at a new moderate Conservative government and deprived of a promotion to a senior position, chief whip Francis Urquhart prepares a meticulous plot to bring down the Prime Minister then to take his place.

House of Cards

Dive into 'Himmelsdalen,' the gripping novel by Marie Hermanson, where layers of psychological depth and supernatural mystery create a haunting experience. Unlike a TV screen's fleeting images, this book invites you into a meticulously crafted narrative that engrosses with its rich language and nuanced character exploration. As you turn each page, you're drawn deeper into an enigmatic world, constantly questioning the reality presented before you.

While the TV series offers an interpretation of Hermanson's work, the novel itself provides a more immersive and thought-provoking experience, allowing you to savor the intricate themes at your own pace. Delve into the original story to fully appreciate the complexities of its plot and to uncover hidden dimensions that only the written word can convey. By reading 'Himmelsdalen,' you'll experience an intimacy and connection to the narrative that goes beyond what is possible on screen.

Jonas's life is turned upside down after a difficult accident. He begins to explore his true self, unaware that someone, or something, is looking for him. Slowly he is drawn into a tangle of mystery and ritual murder against the captivating backdrop of modern day Stockholm.

Himmelsdalen

Hidden: First Born

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of George Eliot's 'Middlemarch,' a novel that offers more depth and nuance than any screen adaptation can provide. Eliot's intricate exploration of provincial life in 19th-century England presents a profound reflection on human relationships, ambitions, and the societal norms that shape them. The novel invites readers into the intertwined lives of its characters, each with their own desires and challenges, against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world.

Reading 'Middlemarch' allows you to savor Eliot's exquisite prose and insightful commentary on morality, politics, and love with your own pace and imagination. The book's multidimensional characters and intricate plot developments offer a deeper emotional and intellectual engagement, revealing the complexities of their inner worlds and interactions. Let yourself be captivated by Eliot's masterful storytelling and discover why 'Middlemarch' is cherished as one of the greatest novels in the English language.

19th century Great Britain. The Industrial Revolution brings both the promise and fear of change. In the provincial town of Middlemarch, the progressive Dorothea Brooke desperately seeks intellectual fulfillment in a male-dominated society and is driven into an unhappy marriage to the elderly scholar Casaubon. No sooner do they embark on their honeymoon than she meets and develops an instant connection with Casaubon's young cousin, Will Ladislaw. When idealistic Doctor Lydgate arrives, his new methods of medicine sweep him into the battle between conservatives and liberals in town. He quickly becomes enamored of the beautiful, privileged Rosamond Vincy, a woman whose troubles seem bound to destroy him.

Middlemarch

Delve into the intriguing world of Lauren Oliver's 'Panic,' where the stakes are higher and the motivations deeper than onscreen. The novel offers a rich tapestry of character development and emotional depth, giving readers a more intimate look at the fears and desires driving each participant in the dangerous game.

In the book, you'll find a more nuanced exploration of Heather, Dodge, and their peers, revealing complex inner worlds and relationships that can't be captured fully on TV. By turning each page, you’re invited to feel the tension and anticipate the outcome in a way that only literature can offer. Engage with the intricate storytelling and insightful commentary on risk, courage, and the search for identity, making it a must-read for those looking to experience 'Panic' beyond the screen.

In the forgotten town of Carp, Texas, Panic is the only way out. Every summer the graduating seniors risk their lives competing in a series of challenges for the chance to win life-changing money. After the death of two players the stakes—and danger—have never been higher.

Panic

Immerse yourself in the original literary tapestry of 'The Forsyte Saga' by John Galsworthy, where the depth of characters and societal critiques go beyond the surface interpretation presented in the television adaptation. Galsworthy's intricately woven narratives provide a detailed study of moral and social issues prevalent in Victorian society, which are crucial for understanding his critique of the values and contradictions of the time.

By engaging with 'The Forsyte Saga' in its original form, you gain access to Galsworthy's rich prose and philosophical insights, offering a more nuanced appreciation of the characters' inner struggles and motivations. The novels capture the essence of the period with an authenticity that only literature can provide, making them an indispensable read for anyone seeking to truly understand the complexities and depths of the Forsyte family saga.

Epic series spanning three generations of the upwardly mobile Forsyte family at the turn of the 20th century.

To Let

In Chancery

Awakening

The Man of Property

Indian Summer of a Forsyte

The Forsyte Saga

Dive into the thrilling world of Lynda La Plante's novels, the original inspiration for the TV series 'Above Suspicion'. These gripping books offer a richly detailed exploration of the criminal underworld, delving deeper into the complex psychology and backstories of the characters. In print, you’ll find a more nuanced portrayal of protagonist Anna Travis and her relentless pursuit of justice, elucidating her inner struggles and unwavering determination in a way the screen simply cannot.

Choosing the books over the series allows readers to immerse themselves in La Plante's masterful storytelling, where every page brims with suspense and intricate plot twists. Her vivid descriptions and the layered development of each character offer a fuller, more immersive experience. Readers will appreciate the depth of the narratives, distinguishing the novels as deeply-engaging mysteries that extend beyond the limitations of visual media. Experience the original, compellingly crafted tales that set the benchmark for crime fiction and continue to captivate readers around the world.

Above Suspicion is a British TV series based on Lynda La Plante's novels Above Suspicion, The Red Dahlia, Deadly Intent and Silent Scream. It stars Kelly Reilly and Ciarán Hinds, and features the career of La Plante's latest heroine DC Anna Travis.

The first series, Above Suspicion, was shown on the fourth and fifth of January 2009; the second series, Above Suspicion: The Red Dahlia, was shown on the fourth, fifth and sixth of January 2010. The third series, Above Suspicion: Deadly Intent, was shown on the third, fourth and fifth of January 2011. The fourth series, Above Suspicion – Silent Scream was shown on the ninth, sixteenth and twenty-third of January 2012; in a break from the previous broadcasts, which were broadcast on consecutive days, this latest tale was serialised weekly.

ITV cancelled Above Suspicion on May 28, 2012.

Deadly Intent

Above Suspicion

Silent Scream

The Red Dahlia

Reading the original Miss Marple novels by Agatha Christie offers a rich and immersive experience that the television series can only hint at. Christie’s writing style is known for its vivid character portrayals and detailed settings, which draw readers into the quaint English villages where these intriguing mysteries unfold. As you turn each page, you’ll find yourself savoring the slow build of suspense and masterful plotting that Christie is famed for.

Unlike a television adaptation, where time constraints often necessitate the trimming of story elements and character development, the novels afford readers the luxury of exploring Miss Marple’s world at their own pace. Christie’s prose allows for deeper insight into characters’ motivations and the social dynamics at play, enriching your understanding and appreciation of the story. By reading the books, you engage more fully with the legendary sleuth’s deduction process, all while enjoying the subtle wit and wisdom that Miss Marple imparts throughout her investigations. So, grab a cozy blanket and a cup of tea, and delve into the timeless allure of Christie’s original works.

Miss Marple, the spinster detective who is one of the most famous characters created by English crime writer Agatha Christie, is portrayed by Joan Hickson who starred in a dozen television mysteries about Miss Marple over the course of a decade.

4.50 from Paddington

A Murder is Announced

Sleeping Murder

A Pocket Full of Rye

A Caribbean Mystery

The Murder at the Vicarage

The Mirror Crack'd from Side to Side

The Body in the Library

The Moving Finger

They Do It with Mirrors

Nemesis

At Bertram's Hotel

Miss Marple

Dive into the captivating world of Arthur Hailey's 'Hotel,' where the pages transform the iconic St. Gregory into a bustling microcosm of human drama and ambition. Unlike the television series, the novel provides a richly detailed exploration of the hotel industry, offering readers a deeper understanding of the inner workings and the personal stories that unfold within its walls.

Arthur Hailey masterfully crafts a narrative that is as educational as it is entertaining, with each chapter unveiling the complexities of a high-stakes environment. The book invites readers to experience the vivid characters and intense scenarios on a more intimate level, providing a sense of immediacy and reality that is often unmatched by on-screen adaptations. Immerse yourself in Hailey's intricate storytelling and discover the original source of inspiration behind the celebrated TV adaptation.

Hotel is an American prime time drama series which aired on ABC from September 21, 1983 to May 5, 1988 in the timeslot following Dynasty.

Based on Arthur Hailey's 1965 novel of the same name, the series was produced by Aaron Spelling and set in the elegant and fictitious St. Gregory Hotel in San Francisco. Establishing shots of the hotel were filmed in front of The Fairmont San Francisco atop the Nob Hill neighborhood. Episodes followed the activities of passing guests, as well as the personal and professional lives of the hotel staff.

Hotel

Embark on a journey through the whimsical world of Discworld with Terry Pratchett's celebrated novels, 'The Colour of Magic' and 'The Light Fantastic.' These books offer a unique blend of comedy, fantasy, and satirical wit, inviting readers to explore a universe where magic is as unpredictable as the characters who wield it. Terry Pratchett's storytelling is masterful, drawing readers into a narrative full of humor and intrigue.

While the TV series adaptation brings some aspects of Pratchett's vivid universe to life, it can only capture a fraction of the depth and charm found in the books. The novels provide an immersive experience where each page brims with Pratchett's clever wordplay and imaginative world-building. Readers have the opportunity to dwell longer in the eccentricities of characters like Rincewind and Twoflower, experiencing their adventures in a way that can only be realized through the written word. Dive into these books and discover the magic of Discworld for yourself.

As Rincewind involuntarily becomes a guide to the naive tourist Twoflower, they find themselves forced to flee the city of Ankh-Morpork to escape a terrible fire, and begin on a journey across the Disc. Unknown to them, their journey and fate is being decided by the Gods playing a board game the whole time.

The Light Fantastic

The Colour of Magic

Dive into the captivating world of 'Suburra' with the original novel by Carlo Bonini and Giancarlo De Cataldo, a masterful tapestry of intrigue, corruption, and power. As you flip through the pages, you'll uncover a richly detailed narrative that takes an unflinching look at Rome's underbelly. The novel immerses you in the complex and interwoven stories of politicians, gangsters, and clergy, showcasing the raw and gritty reality of a city where the fight for dominance knows no boundaries. 

Reading 'Suburra' offers an experience far deeper than watching the series. The book provides a nuanced exploration of its characters' motivations and insights into the societal structures they exploit, offering layers of meaning that are distilled in cinematic adaptation. Between its covers lies a gripping journey that captivates the imagination, compelling readers to reflect on the dark shadows cast by ambition and greed. Choose 'Suburra' to gain a broader, richer understanding of the story's themes and the vibrant, restless world it depicts.

In 2008, a fight over land in a seaside town near Rome spirals into a deadly battle between organized crime, corrupt politicians and the Vatican.

Suburra

Suburra: Blood on Rome

Delve into the pages of Zhou Qingqing's 'When I Fly Towards You' and embark on a journey that evokes the innocence and exuberance of first love. This compelling novel captures the essence of youthful emotions more vividly, offering a depth that television can only skim. Experience the author's nuanced writing, bringing the characters to life and immersing you in their world of dreams, challenges, and the timeless struggle to find one's own path. Reading the novel allows for a more intimate connection with the characters' inner thoughts and personal growth, something the filmed adaptation cannot entirely capture. Books allow for imagination and personal reflection, enhancing the reader's experience as they explore complex relationships and emotions in a more profound way. Indulge in the narrative's subtlety and grace that only the written word can truly convey, and enjoy a richer, more fulfilling journey beyond the screen.

Set off by a sweet chance encounter, 16-year-old Su Zaizai finds herself helplessly drawn to Zhang Lurang — her smart, charming yet distant schoolmate.

When I Fly Towards You

Reunited as teens, two childhood friends fall deeply in love, experiencing the joy and heartache of a first romance that will change their lives forever.

FOREVER

Delve into the intriguing world of Pablo Escobar by reading the source books that inspired the series. These books offer a comprehensive and intimate look into the life of one of the most notorious drug lords in history. 'The Secret History of Pablo Escobar' by Aldona Czechak presents a meticulously researched account of Escobar's rise to power, unveiling the complex web of crime, politics, and power that fueled his empire. 

Meanwhile, 'Pablo Escobar: My Father' by Juan Pablo Escobar provides a deeply personal perspective. It is a memoir from the inside of the Escobar household, offering a view that no TV series could match in depth or authenticity. Through these compelling reads, you gain deeper insights into the man's personal and professional life and understand the nuances and intricacies that television adaptations might overlook.

Pablo is a man with a natural ability for business. Early in his life, Pablo is introduced to the business of cocaine and the power it yields. A young life of crime lands Pablo in and out of jail as he builds his criminal empire. Pablo expands his power through politics but it is not long before his conflicts as a Congressman and a drug lord collide. Pablo has his enemies executed, but not before the United States activates its own war on the Medellin cartel.

The Secret History of Pablo Escobar

Pablo Escobar: My Father

Pablo Escobar: The Drug Lord

Embark on a captivating journey with 'Clark Olofsson: The Man, The Myth, The Legend,' a gripping autobiography penned by the notorious criminal himself. This book offers a first-hand account of Clark Olofsson's life, revealing insights and experiences that no dramatized series can fully capture. 

By delving into the pages of this fascinating book, readers gain direct access to Olofsson's unique perspective, exploring his complex personality and the events that made him infamous. Unlike the TV adaptation, which necessarily embellishes and fictionalizes certain events for entertainment, the autobiography stays true to Olofsson's own voice and story, providing a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the mind of a real-life anti-hero.

This is the incredible story behind Sweden's most notorious gangster, Clark Olofsson, whose infamous crimes gave rise to the term "Stockholm Syndrome".

Clark Olofsson: The Man, The Myth, The Legend

Clark

Dive into the world of graphic novels and experience Gene Luen Yang’s groundbreaking 'American Born Chinese' in its original form. This highly acclaimed book weaves together three distinct stories, blending rich storytelling with stunning artwork to explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, and self-acceptance in a uniquely captivating way. The source material allows for a more intimate connection with the characters and delves deeply into their internal struggles, offering nuanced perspectives that may be overlooked in televised adaptations.

While the TV series provides a visual spectacle, the book's pages give readers the chance to appreciate the subtle artistry and the intricate narrative structure at their own pace. Each panel is meticulously crafted to bring out the emotions and complexities that define the characters’ journeys. By opting to read 'American Born Chinese,' audiences will gain a deeper appreciation for Yang’s storytelling brilliance and the cultural motifs interwoven throughout the novel. Embrace the opportunity to let your imagination paint the scenes and truthfully engage with a narrative that paved the way for Asian American representation in literature.

Average teenager Jin Wang juggles his high school social life with his immigrant home life. When he meets a new foreign student on the first day of the school year, even more worlds collide as Jin is unwittingly entangled in a battle of Chinese mythological gods.

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