Top Book-to-TV Shows on Netflix to Binge-Watch

Novels offer a wealth of material for television shows, as they often feature captivating and imaginative stories that transport readers to immersive worlds. These stories are filled with compelling characters who lend themselves well to long-form serialized storytelling. Witnessing beloved books come alive on screen is always an exhilarating experience, allowing us to observe the changes made by the writers and witness how actors bring these characters to life. Surprisingly, many of our favorite television shows actually originated from novels. To discover more exceptional shows and movies on Netflix, explore our comprehensive list.

Editor's note: This article was updated November 2023 to include The Fall of the House of Usher.

Bridgerton (2020-present)

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Created by: Chris Van Dusen

Cast: Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Nicole Coughlan

The series Bridgerton is an adaptation of Julia Quinn's book series. The debut season primarily focuses on the first book, The Duke and I, and centers around Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest daughter of the Bridgerton family. As Daphne enters the marriage market in Regency London, viewers are taken on a journey alongside her and her close-knit group of seven siblings as they navigate this unfamiliar environment. With opulent costumes and stunning sets, the show captivates viewers with its visual splendor. Seamlessly blending romance and intrigue, Bridgerton has taken Netflix by storm, and fans are eagerly awaiting Season 2, which is based on The Viscount Who Loved Me. Furthermore, there are already plans for two more seasons and an exciting spin-off in the pipeline!

The Fall of the House of Usher (2023)

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Created by: Mike Flanagan

Cast: Carla Gugino, Willa Fitzgerald, Kate Siegel

Based on Edgar Allan Poe's 1839 short story of the same name, The Fall of the House of Usher is a gripping tale that delves into the tragic deaths of the adult children of a corrupt CEO of a pharmaceutical company. With an impressive cast including Willa Fitzgerald, Carla Gugino, Kate Siegel, and Mark Hamill, the gothic style of the story is brought to life in a mesmerizing way. Director Mike Flanagan's distinctive touch can be felt throughout the film, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with suspense. The Fall of the House of Usher strikes a perfect balance between originality and staying true to its literary origins, offering a captivating blend of Flanagan's unique storytelling and a heartfelt homage to Poe himself. - Jake Hodges

Heartstopper (2022-present)

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Creator: Alice Oseman

Joe Locke and Kit Conner, known for their roles in "His Dark Materials," shine in the heartwarming series "Heartstopper" by Alice Oseman. Bringing Oseman's popular graphic novels to life, "Heartstopper" incorporates animated elements to highlight the emotional connections between the characters. The second season of this beloved LGBTQ+ coming-of-age series builds upon the strong foundation established by Locke, Conner, and their talented co-stars Yasmin Finney, Tobie Donovan, and William Gao. With its stunning cast and impactful themes of self-discovery, "Heartstopper" serves as a beautiful reminder of the wonders of the world.

Maid (2021)

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Creator: Molly Smith Metzler

Cast: Margaret Qualley, Nick Robinson, Anika Noni Rose, Andie MacDowell, Billy Burke

Maid is a riveting mini-series based on Stephanie Land's captivating memoir, brought to life by creator Molly Smith Metzler. The series follows the journey of a courageous young woman, portrayed by Margaret Qualley, as she escapes an abusive relationship and finds solace in becoming a house cleaner to support her daughter. Alongside the remarkable performances of Qualley and Nick Robinson, Maid also showcases the incredible talent of Qualley's real-life mother, Andie MacDowell, who takes on the role of her character's mother. Deliberately setting an uncomfortable tone, Maid fearlessly delves into its sensitive subject matter, weaving a tapestry of complexity and emotion across 10 compelling episodes. – Yael Tygiel

The Lincoln Lawyer (2022-present)

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Creator: Ted Humphrey, David E. Kelley

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Neve Campbell, Becki Newton, and Christopher Gorham star in The Lincoln Lawyer. Campbell, known for her role in Scream, and Garcia-Rulfo, who appeared in Murder on the Orient Express, come together in this adaptation of Michael Connelly's novels. The Lincoln Lawyer was brought to television by the talented duo of David E. Kelley (known for Boston Legal and Ally McBeal) and Ted Humphrey (The Good Wife). The series follows Mickey Haller, played by Garcia-Rulfo, a lawyer who operates out of his Lincoln Town Car. With its clever script, The Lincoln Lawyer combines drama, action, and mystery, supported by an exceptional cast, which includes the often overlooked Becki Newton (Ugly Betty) and Christopher Gorham. Filled with witty humor and intriguing cases, The Lincoln Lawyer is a captivating legal series.

Tales of the City (2019)

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Creator: Lauren Morelli

Cast: Laura Linney, Elliot Page, Murray Bartlett, Paul Gross, Olympia Dukakis

Based on Armistead Maupin's groundbreaking novels, Tales of the City brings together Laura Linney, Paul Gross, Olympia Dukakis, and Barbara Garrick, reprising their iconic roles from the original mini-series of the early 1990s and its subsequent sequels. This series marks Dukakis' final television performance before her passing. Tales of the City continues the story of these beloved characters while introducing a new generation of urban dwellers, including Elliot Page (known for The Umbrella Academy) as Shawna Hawkins, the adopted child of Mary Ann Singleton, played by Linney. Honoring the themes of its predecessors, Tales of the City is a heartfelt and refreshing addition to the franchise.

Tiny Pretty Things (2020)

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Created by: Michael MacLennan

Starring Brennan Clost, Barton Cowperthwaite, Bayardo De Murguia, and Damon J. Gillespie, Tiny Pretty Things is a captivating adaptation of the novel by Sona Charaipotra & Dhonielle Clayton. Set in a highly competitive ballet school in Chicago, the show stands out by having the actors perform their own dance sequences, showcasing their exceptional talent. While the narrative sometimes leans too heavily on scandal and sex instead of exploring the intriguing psychological depths of the characters, it remains an enjoyable and addictive watch. If you're seeking a thrilling and addictive series within a captivating world, Tiny Pretty Things should be next on your binge-watching list. - Taylor Gates

Trinkets (2019-2020)

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Created by: Amy Andelson, Emily Meyer, and Kirsten "Kiwi" Smith

Starring: Brianna Hildebrand, Kiana Madeira, Quintessa Swindell, Brandon Butler, Odiseas Georgiadis, Larry Sullivan, Dana Green, Linden Ashby, and October Moore.

Trinkets revolves around three friends who connect at a Shoplifters Anonymous meeting. While they share a common experience, they each have distinct personalities. Elodie, portrayed by Brianna Hildebrand, is introverted, Moe, played by Kiana Madeira, is rebellious, and Tabitha, portrayed by Quintessa Swindell, comes from a privileged background. Despite keeping their friendship hidden at school, they rely on one another for support when faced with family and romantic challenges.

Shadow and Bone (2021-present)

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Created by: Eric Heisserer

Starring Jessie Mei Li, Ben Barnes, and Archie Renaux, Shadow and Bone is a thrilling fantasy series adapted from Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse novels. Combining the Shadow and Bone trilogy with the Six of Crows duology, this Netflix show takes viewers on a captivating journey. The main protagonist, Alina, a skilled mapmaker, unveils her extraordinary ability to summon light, which has the potential to shift the balance in the war against dark forces. Simultaneously, a daring trio of thieves, lacking magical powers, is assigned the mission of capturing Alina and navigating treacherous territories. With a confirmed second season, the excitement continues.

Mindhunter (2017-2019)

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Creator: Joe Penhall

Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv

Oh Mindhunter, how we long for your return. While a third season seems unlikely in the near future, the first two seasons masterfully portray the chilling and captivating aspects of serial killers, drawing from the remarkable book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit written by actual FBI agents John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker. The series follows Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff), Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), and Dr. Wendy Carr (Anna Torv) as they delve into the intricate inner workings of history's most monstrous individuals. With deliberate pacing and impeccable performances, the show doesn't offer clear-cut answers, but rather unravels the terror lurking in the unknown. Each interview with a gruesome killer takes its time, building an oppressive sense of unease as ordinary people discuss unimaginable acts of violence. It is not always easy to endure, but it leaves an indelible impression. — Chase Hutchinson

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

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Creator: Mike Flanagan

Starring Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, and Henry Thomas, The Haunting of Hill House is the series that solidified Mike Flanagan's reputation in the horror television genre. Inspired by Shirley Jackson's novel of the same name, the series takes on a life of its own. With a deep understanding and compassion for its characters, it skillfully combines heart-wrenching emotions with bone-chilling scares. Each episode focuses on the personal struggles of a different family member, revealing the unique pain and danger they face. As the series progresses, the connections between these individual stories become both devastating and beautiful, intensified by a haunting piano score that sneaks up on the viewer. With every episode, The Haunting of Hill House weaves a captivating tapestry of terror that is truly lovable.

Halston (2021)

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Created by: Sharr White

Cast: Ewan McGregor, Rebecca Dayan, David Pittu, Krysta Rodriguez, Bill Pullman

Experience the glamorous realm of fashion from the 1960s to the 1980s in the exhilarating miniseries Halston. This compelling show chronicles the journey of the eponymous fashion designer as he builds one of the industry's most iconic brands. Showrunner Sharr White expertly adapted Steven Gains' 1991 biography, Simply Halston: The Untold Story. Unlike Ryan Murphy's typical melodramatic style, Halston offers a refreshingly sincere and emotionally captivating narrative. Ewan McGregor captivates audiences with his flamboyant and captivating performance, skillfully avoiding the risk of turning the titular character into a caricature. Additionally, keep an eye out for Rory Culkin's delightful supporting role as Joel Schumacher. - Liam Gaughan.

Cursed (2020)

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Created by: Frank Miller and Tom Wheeler

The cast of "Cursed" includes Katherine Langford, Devon Terrell, and Gustaf Skarsgard.

Frank Miller and Tom Wheeler are the creators of "Cursed," which was initially an illustrated young adult book. This book offers a unique perspective on the legend of Arthur. The show revolves around Nimue, a teenage sorceress, who encounters Arthur and takes on the role of the main character. Through her journey and ultimate transformation into the formidable Lady of the Lake, we witness Arthur’s story unfold. The possibility of a second season has not yet been confirmed.

Sweet Magnolias (2020-present)

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Created by: Sheryl J. Anderson

Cast: JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott, Heather Headley The TV series

Combining elements from Stealing Home, Feels Like Family, and Swan Point, Sweet Magnolias intertwines the storylines of these three books from Sherryl Woods' Sweet Magnolias series into a delightful romantic drama. This tale revolves around starting anew, the intricacies of finding love once again, and the challenges of raising children, as it follows the lives of three lifelong best friends from South Carolina. The entertaining chemistry between these women is apparent, showcasing their enduring friendship. The upcoming season is currently in production and is scheduled for release in 2022.

The Sinner (2017-2021)

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Created by: Derek Simonds

The Sinner, now entering its fourth season, is a show based on Petra Hammesfahr's 1999 novel. The story follows Detective Harry Ambrose as he investigates crimes committed by unexpected perpetrators. In the first season, Ambrose delves into a woman's history to uncover the motives behind her murder of a man. Originally planned as an eight-part miniseries, the show's popularity led it to become an ongoing series, with Ambrose tackling various crimes.

The Magicians (2015-2020)

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Created by: Sera Gamble and John McNamara

Cast: Stella Maeve, Hale Appleman, Arjun Gupta

All five seasons of The Magicians, the Syfy original series, are now available for streaming on Netflix. This gripping show is an adaptation of author Lev Grossman's fantasy trilogy, which was initially published in 2009. The captivating storyline revolves around Quentin, a college student who uncovers two surprising truths: magic is real, and he possesses the ability to wield it. Intrigued, Quentin enrolls in Brakebills University for Magical Pedagogy to further explore his newfound powers. However, he soon realizes that the magical world depicted in his beloved childhood book series is not mere fiction but a potential threat to humanity.

Firefly Lane (2021-present)

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Created by: Maggie Friedman

Starring Katherine Heigl, Sarah Calke, and Ben Lawson, this Netflix original series is a captivating adaptation of Kristin Hannah's beloved novel, Firefly Lane. Departing from the chronological structure of the book, the TV series eloquently navigates through time to reveal the profound bond between Kate and Tully, offering a comprehensive portrayal of their friendship across various moments in their lives. Rooted in Hannah's personal experiences, it explores the enchanting dynamics of two contrasting personalities coming together. Netflix has already greenlit a second season for this remarkable series.

Virgin River (2019-present)

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Created by: Sue Tenney

Cast: Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Colin Lawrence

Based on Robyn Carr's bestselling Virgin River book series, this show is a modern romance that draws inspiration from the Harlequin book series. It follows the journey of Melinda, a nurse practitioner and midwife, who decides to start afresh in a remote town after the loss of her husband. Currently, Netflix has two seasons available, and a third season is scheduled to premiere in July 2021.

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

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Created by: Scott Frank and Allan Scott

Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Marielle Heller, and Bill Camp, The Queen's Gambit traces the journey of Beth Harmon, a gifted chess player, from her childhood in an orphanage to her rise to fame in the chess world as a teenager and young adult. Although the narrative is fictional, it is rooted in Walter Tevis' novel and takes inspiration from the realm of competitive chess in the 1950s and 1960s.

The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

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Created by: Stephen Butchard

Cast: Alexander Dreymon, Eliza Butterworth, Arnas Fedaravicius

The Last Kingdom is an adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's historical novel series, which tells the story of the birth of England and chronicles the journeys of Alfred the Great and Uhtred. Spanning from 866 to the early 1000s BC, the first eight novels serve as the basis for the four seasons of the show, with a fifth season currently in the works.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the top book-to-TV shows on Netflix. I have read some of the books that have been adapted into shows, and I am eager to see how they will be brought to life on screen. I am particularly interested in seeing how the characters will be portrayed and how the stories will be adapted for a television audience.

I think it is great that Netflix is investing in book-to-TV adaptations. This is a great way to introduce new audiences to classic and contemporary literature. I also appreciate that Netflix is working with diverse writers and directors to bring these stories to life. I believe that these shows have the potential to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and I am excited to see what Netflix has in store for us.