7 intriguing novels to read before you watch their adaptations in 2024

Avid readers know that books are often better than their movie or TV adaptations. Whether you agree or not, it’s usually a good idea to read the book before watching the screen version. Novels often give us more details about the characters, settings, and other background details, helping us understand and enjoy the narrative better. Movies and shows often leave out additional details, because of the obvious time limits or simply because the creators think they’re not essential to the final plot. That’s why we’ve put together a list of intriguing books to read. Some have already made their on-screen premiere earlier this year, while others are on their way out. Either way, here are some great novels to read before (or after) you catch their adaptations. 

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

The film adaptation of this novel is one of the most anticipated films of 2024, and with good reason. What makes this such a captivating read is the fact that it was based on the relationship between the author, Colleen Hoover’s parents. The protagonist, Lily Bloom has a seemingly perfect life until she meets Ryle Kincaid, an assertive but occasionally stubborn neurosurgeon with an aversion to dating. As she begins to question the complexities of their relationship, Atlas Corrigan, her first love, walks right back into her life. As she grapples with her past and her future, Lily discovers some difficult truths about herself and her relationships. 

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

The skeleton for Netflix’s latest murder mystery series, this novel is for anyone who enjoys a good old small-town-murder mystery. The plot unfolds in a sleepy English town where the murder of a 17-year-old Andie Bell continues to haunt the town five years after the tragedy. Determined to uncover the truth, Pippa Fitz-Amobi decides to investigate the cold case as a school project but ends up discovering hidden secrets and dangerous truths that make the case seem much more complex and dangerous than she anticipated. 

Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home by Mikael Lindnord and Val Hudson

Now I know what you’re thinking—it’s a book about a dog, which means there’s a sad ending. Fortunately, it’s not (a sad book)! This is a heartwarming tale about a dog named Arthur and his new friend Mikael Lindnord. Lost in the thick mountainous forests of South Africa, Arthur latches on to his new friend Mikael and joins him in a gruelling adventure race. His remarkable journey through the jungle showcases his loyalty and courage, unfolding a heartwarming tale of friendship and resilience. The film adaptation, Arthur the King, saw Mark Wahlberg take on the role of Mikael. 

The Idea of You by Robinne Lee

The Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine adaptation sent us through a spiral of emotions but the book will surely leave you sobbing. Mostly because of its alternate ending, don’t worry, there are no spoilers here. The novel follows a 39-year-old divorced mother, Solène Marchand who falls for a musician named Hayes Campbell, who is in his early 20s. Their passionate but genuine relationship challenges societal norms and Solène’s own perceptions of love and identity. However, relentless media attention forces Solène to question how her love life affects the people she cares about.

The Watchers by A M Shine

There’s nothing more intriguing than a gripping horror novel that centres on themes of fear and uncertainty—that and a creepy forest setting to go along with it. When Mina’s car breaks down at the edge of a mysterious (read: creepy) forest, she is immediately guided by a frantic stranger into a refuge that turns out to be her new prison. Come nighttime, Mina and the other trapped humans are observed by eerie creatures known as the watchers. They can try to escape, but should they fail, the humans are faced with horrifying consequences. As Mina confronts her fear and uncertainty, she must uncover the truth about the Watchers and find a way to escape the claustrophobic terror of the bunker.

Presumed Innocent by Scott Turow

A legal thriller always makes for a good read and this novel by Scott Turow is among the notable ones, especially with the recently released TV series starring Jake Gyllenhaal as our protagonist Rusty Sabich. A prosecutor by profession, Rusty is accused of murdering his colleague and mistress, Carolyn Polhemus. The trial threatens everything he values, including his own life. A gripping legal thriller with twists and intense courtroom drama, the story explores themes of guilt and the human condition, delivering a suspenseful and haunting experience.

The Image of You by Adele Parks

This gripping psychological thriller explores the complexities of twin relationships and online trust. Anna and Zoe are inseparable twins with contrasting personalities. When Anna meets what she believes to be the perfect man, Nick, Zoe becomes suspicious and fears for her sister’s safety. As Zoe’s concerns grow, she is determined to uncover the truth, even if it means putting everything—including Anna’s life—on the line. The novel explores themes of deception, loyalty, and the dangers of online relationships.

Lead image credit: Sony Pictures Entertainment

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