Streaming Sunday features TV series or movies adapted from books I’ve read, offered on at least one streaming service and I’ve watched.
The series is based on the book with the same name by Karin Slaughter. It’s about Laura Oliver and her daughter, Andrea (Andy) and how their lives changed in a moment after a violent attack in a diner. That confrontation puts Andy on the run, at Laura’s demand, and an upheaval of the life and mother she thought she knew.
A group of us read the book together before watching the series, as is my preference because rarely can I do the reverse and enjoy the book. I’m used to TV and movie adaptations having differences but here there are major changes that impact the foundation of the story, including significant characterizations. They rattled me and most of those involved in the group read but there were also aspects we liked better.
For example, in the book, Andy comes across as TSTL (Too Stupid to Live) often, making decisions where you’re screaming, “Nooooooo!” and wanting to jump into the pages and stop her. She’s a bit smarter in the TV series though she has her dubious moments.
The one constant, however, is Laura Oliver, portrayed by the fabulous Toni Collette who mirrors the book’s complex character rather brilliantly. I wished I’d had her image in my head while reading the story because she couldn’t be more perfect in translating the opaqueness of the woman. She’s the heart of the story even though it’s Andy’s journey through her mother’s past, trying to make sense of the present and navigate the implications on her future.
I’m not surprised that many gave this series a cool reception as the fundamental plot and characterization changes from the book seriously undermined the crux and central themes of the story. It came across as a bit convoluted and difficult to absorb because the backstory transitions required too much telling rather than effectively weaving together an interesting narrative.
When we started the book, we didn’t realize a sequel was in the works, which was implied at the end of the first season of the series. I’m not sure a second season is in the future as reviews were mediocre at best. But it seemed to be a unanimous opinion that Collette made it worth watching.
This is a case where the book is so much better than the TV series. I had my issues with the book, too (see my review) but thought it compelling. It’s streaming on Netflix and starring Toni Collette and Bella Heathcote.
Blue Mood Café 
I knew I should have read the book before watching the series. I enjoyed watching it and Toni Collette was great but it didn’t end on the high that I had hoped it would after so much build up. I seem to have forgotten a lot about it already, I didn’t even know about a sequel… maybe I need to watch the ending again 🙂
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It had a cliffhanger-like ending. If you read the book, it will be much more memorable. There’s definitely a second book coming out but I’d be surprised if there’s a season 2 to the series.
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Really interesting Jo, as there was a lot left in the air with regard to Laura’s brother and Andy’s Dad. Perhaps I should give the audiobook a go after all!
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Thanks, Nicki💜 There was quite a bit remaining. I don’t normally recommend reading the book after watching the movie/tv series but I highly recommend so with this one.
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👍
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Excellent review as you always do. I thought I’d have nothing interesting here since I rarely watch tv. But this is a favorite author. I haven’t read this book yet, although I have it, and of course I haven’t watched the show. I would do that order also.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Thanks, Anne💜 Definitely read the book first!
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This sounds interesting. I haven’t read the book but it sounds like I should if I’m thinking about watching this. Excellent reflection on the book vs series!
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Thank you, Tessa💜 I strongly recommend if you have any interest in this series that you read the book first. It helps!
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My husband and I enjoyed watching the series. It was left open-ended in a way, so we were hoping for a sequel. I haven’t read the book, and probably won’t at this point. I’m like you — it’s easier to read the book first than watch.
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I think if I hadn’t read the book I would have enjoyed the series more so it’s good to know that you and hubby did. The book sequel is coming out this year but no word on the TV series yet.
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I haven’t read the book but loved the series!
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That’s wonderful Diane💜
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Great review! I liked this series as well but had issues connecting to Andy.
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Thank you, Amy💜 She was difficult to connect with in the book, too.
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I haven’t read the book yet so I think I would start there since the series seems to be a bit of a mixed bag.
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It’s what I recommend though several here who hadn’t read the book enjoyed the series more.
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As you know, I gave up on the series after two episodes. Really disappointed. But I don’t really remember much about the book itself either so I guess for me it wasn’t a Slaughter favourite to begin with. Now I’m wondering if Girl, Forgotten will make any sense to me 😳😄
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Eva, our group read of the book was a mixed bag but we watched the series immediately after reading the book and had strong memories of both. We did, however, appreciate that there was a follow up book coming because we had unanswered issues. I think it will all come back to you😏
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You have more faith in my one brain cell than I do 😂
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My daughter did not read the book, but watched the series. She really enjoyed it, but I have been reluctant to watch as I heard it was so different from the book. Great post, Jo. I am still undecided.
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