Have you ever found yourself unable to stop watching a show? Each episode ends at a crucial moment, the characters feel like close friends, and the season finale leaves you thinking, "How am I supposed to wait for the next one?!"
We’ve gathered five series that may not be widely known but absolutely deserve your attention. What makes them even more special is that they are all based on outstanding books, meaning you can expect deep, well-crafted storytelling and immersive worlds.
Slow Horses (2022, 3 Seasons)
What if spies weren’t always suave, elite agents saving the world in sharp suits? In the British series Slow Horses, MI5 operatives are far from James Bond material. They’re not particularly brilliant, successful, or even lucky. In fact, they’ve all made major career-ending mistakes, which is why they’ve been exiled to a department for intelligence failures.
Leading this group of misfits is Jackson Lamb, played masterfully by Gary Oldman. His character is a cynical, worn-out agent who, despite his gruff demeanor, sees potential in his team. With sharp British humor, thrilling investigations, and an engaging plot, this espionage drama is not just entertaining — it’s addictive.
Daisy Jones & The Six (2023, 1 Season)
Love rock and roll? Then this series is for you! Inspired by legendary bands of the 1970s, Daisy Jones & The Six follows the meteoric rise and fall of a fictional rock group. Based on Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel, the show transports viewers to an era of free-spirited music, intense emotions, and backstage drama.
But it’s not just a success story — it’s about how fame can destroy even the most talented musicians, and how relationships within a band can be as explosive as the songs they create. Every scene oozes ’70s vibes: vintage recording studios, underground clubs, and festival stages are recreated with stunning authenticity. And the best part? The soundtrack. The original songs sound so real, they could easily be mistaken for lost Fleetwood Mac tracks.
Call the Midwife (2012, 13 Seasons)
The title might be misleading, but this show isn’t just about childbirth. It’s about the extraordinary women who dedicate their lives to helping others in the most challenging conditions.
Set in 1950s London, Call the Midwife follows young midwife Jennifer Worth as she faces the harsh realities of the city’s poorest neighborhoods. Many of the expectant mothers she meets are in desperate situations, yet a devoted team of nurses and nuns at Nonnatus House work tirelessly to bring new life into the world and offer hope where it’s needed most.
The show balances deeply personal character stories with broader social themes, addressing issues like discrimination, medical advancements, and women’s rights — all while maintaining a warm, heartfelt tone.
The Underground Railroad (2021, 1 Season)
This limited series is an adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Set in 19th-century America during the era of slavery, it follows young Cora as she escapes a brutal plantation using a secret network of safe houses and escape routes, known as the Underground Railroad.
Unlike traditional historical dramas, Barry Jenkins infuses the story with elements of magical realism, blending real-life horrors with poetic, allegorical visuals. The show is both haunting and hopeful, showcasing the strength and resilience of those who fought for freedom. With breathtaking cinematography and powerful performances, The Underground Railroad is a must-watch.
Pachinko (2022, 1 Season)
Based on Min Jin Lee’s bestselling novel, Pachinko spans four generations of a Korean family navigating life in Japan while struggling for survival and identity.
More than just a family saga, this series is an epic tale set against the backdrop of 20th-century historical upheavals, including the Japanese occupation of Korea, World War II, and its aftermath.
Visually stunning, Pachinko brings every scene to life — from the bustling markets of Seoul to the crowded streets of Osaka. But what truly elevates the show are its powerhouse performances, including Academy Award-winning actress Youn Yuh-jung.
Which One Will You Watch First?
Each of these series is worth watching, and each offers something unique. Looking for a spy thriller? Slow Horses delivers intrigue and humor. Love music? Daisy Jones & The Six brings the golden age of rock to life. If you want deep, emotional storytelling, The Underground Railroad and Pachinko are perfect choices. And if strong female-led dramas appeal to you, Call the Midwife will win your heart.
So, which world will you dive into first?
