Wuthering Heights, L’étranger, and The Housemaid : literature is inspiring Hollywood more than ever. Streaming platforms are doubling down to bring us TV adaptations of our favorite novels. From the buzzworthy story of a young woman doing whatever it takes to make ends meet, to the return of an iconic medical examiner, and a British love story as sensual as it is addictive : here’s our roundup of books to read ABSOLUTELY before they hit the small screen. Friendly advice: brush up on the source material before discovering adaptations that sometimes take a few creative liberties. We can’t wait to see these characters come to life.
Margo’s got money troubles
Genre ? Comedy-drama.
The plot ? The novel by Rufi Thorpe couldn’t have a more fitting title. Margo’s Got Money Troubles follows Margo Millet, a chaotic yet endearing twenty-something. The daughter of a former waitress and an ex-pro wrestler, this unemployed single mother struggles to make ends meet. Her unexpected solution ? Launching an OnlyFans account inspired by the world of wrestling. An outrageous idea — but one she believes could support her small family. Get ready for a wildly entertaining ride.
The adaptation ? Fresh, funny and heartfelt, the new Apple TV+ series is already one of the most anticipated shows of the year. The adaptation of Rufi Thorpe’s novel is helmed by David E. Kelley, creator of Big Little Lies, a master at exposing the cracks behind polished facades. As for the cast, it doesn’t get better than this : Elle Fanning takes on the title role, perfectly embodying a Margo who is sensitive, fragile and fiercely determined. She’s joined by Michelle Pfeiffer, Nicole Kidman, Nick Offerman and Marcia Gay Harden. Time to read the book before binge-watching the series, which promises plenty of laughs — and a few emotional tears.
Margo's got money troubles, disponible le 15 avril sur Apple TV
© Apple TV
Vladimir
Genre ? Erotic thriller.
The plot ? Published in 2022, Vladimir by Julia May Jonas explores desire, power and obsession. The story follows a contemporary literature professor in the midst of an existential crisis: her writing career is stalled, her classes are half empty, and tensions at home with her husband and daughter are rising. When Vladimir, a charismatic young writer, joins the faculty, her fragile balance collapses. He becomes the object of her dangerous fixation. Attraction quickly turns into obsession, and their deliberately ambiguous relationship only fuels the tension. How far will this forbidden desire go ?
The adaptation ? For fans of toxic romance, Vladimir, adapted from the bestselling novel by Julia May Jonas, is set to captivate audiences. With forbidden attraction, steamy scenes and a university setting, this eight-episode Netflix miniseries promises to turn up the heat. Its standout feature ? A narrative style in which the heroine breaks the fourth wall to address viewers directly, pulling them deep into her spiraling obsession — blurring reality and fantasy. Starring Rachel Weisz (The Constant Gardener) and Leo Woodall (One Day, Bridget Jones), alongside John Slattery (Mad Men) and Jessica Henwick (Iron Fist), Netflix has all the ingredients for a must-binge hit.
Vladimir, available March 5 on Netflix
© Netfllix
Kay Scarpetta
Genre ? Crime thriller.
The plot ? Created by Patricia Cornwell in 1990, Kay Scarpetta is one of the most iconic heroines in contemporary crime fiction. A brilliant and ambitious medical examiner, she stands at the center of a long-running bestselling series. In this new story, Scarpetta returns to Virginia and is thrust into a chilling investigation. As she hunts a serial killer, the crimes revive a dark ghost from her past : the 28-year-old case that launched her career — and now threatens to destroy it.
The adaptation ? Rather than a faithful page-to-screen retelling, this Prime Video series offers a brand-new storyline developed with Patricia Cornwell’s involvement. For the character’s first TV appearance, Prime Video has assembled a five-star cast. Leading the show is Nicole Kidman, fresh off hits like Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers and the controversial BabyGirl, now stepping into the role of the legendary medical examiner. Alongside her : Jamie Lee Curtis as her sister, Bobby Cannavale as her detective partner, Simon Baker as an FBI profiler, and Ariana DeBose (West Side Story) as Lucy Watson, Scarpetta’s niece. Younger versions are portrayed by rising talents Rosy McEwen (Blue Jean), Amanda Righetti, Jake Cannavale and Hunter Parrish.
Scarpetta, available March 11 on Prime Video
© Prime Video
Discover also 3 Must-Read Crime Novels to Devour This February and 5 New Series to Binge-Watch in February
