I’ve been a the-movie-is-never-as-good-as-the-book person ever since I was a kid. Let’s be honest: translating the magic of a beloved book into a series or movie can be hit or miss – and it’s ‘miss’ pretty often. Recently, though, I’ve noticed that things have taken a serious turn in the right direction. Below, dive into the recent four shows that are either as good as or – it pains me to say – better than the books that came before them. Happy reading and happy streaming!
I first came across Three Women by Lisa Taddeo on BookTok, where it was highly recommended as a gripping non-fiction story that follows three women’s emotional and sexual relationships over the course of eight years. The show Three Women – starring Shailene Woodley, Betty Gilpin, DeWanda Wise, and Gabrielle Creevy – is finally here, and it’s good. Really good. The first episode dropped on September 13, and the season finale is November 15. Hop in, and prepare for a wild (in the best way possible) ride. If you were obsessed with the book, the series will make you fall in love all over again.
I actually started watching Outlander before I read the Diana Gabaldon series, and they go hand-in-hand well. The characters (and every detail down to their accents and mannerisms) really bring this story to life. The books are long and detailed, and the show keeps the plot engaging and juicy. All in all, I’d say read the books if you’ve watched the show, and absolutely watch the show if you've read these books.
The Spanish Princess, based on Philippa Gregory’s books The Constant Princess and The King's Curse, dives into the life of Catherine of Aragon. I devoured the first book, so was eager to see how it would translate on screen. While a bit less historical, the show is highly entertaining and actually made me a fan of Catherine!
When I heard that The Serpent Queen, based on Leonie Frieda’s biography of Catherine de’ Medici, was getting a TV adaptation, I was…cautiously optimistic. The show was a slower burn for me at first, but around episode 4 I was absolutely hooked. Like The Spanish Princess, it’s not exactly historically accurate, but it’s fun. Plus, the costumes are incredible.
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