5 reasons Shetland could help you get through Droughtlander

2. The writing is excellent

I know that writing is subjective — I’ve really enjoyed some of the Outlander episodes that other fans haven’t — but Shetland is consistently praised for its good writing. It takes the main points of the original novel and turns them into something that works well for the TV screen.

This is a series that doesn’t get too graphic. You’ll get the idea of what’s going on through the actions and expressions of the actors, making the series slightly easier to watch and keeping the focus on the police work.

Dialogue isn’t stilted, the characters are well developed, and the storylines all make sense. There’s a perfect — and not always easy to guess — conclusion to the tale.

Most importantly, you’re not completely spoonfed the information. There is some inference involved, so if you enjoy that in a storyline, you’ll love this series.

1. The music is beautiful

Shetland isn’t all about the scenery, the actors, or the writing. There’s music involved, just like Outlander. One of the things you know about Outlander is that there are themes for Claire and Jamie, a theme for Fraser’s Ridge, and even themes for the past and the “present” within the storyline.

That’s the case for Shetland. There are different themes and the music will keep you on edge at the moments necessary. It helps to fuel the storyline without being over the top and distracting.

John Lunn is the composer for the series and has been with the show from the very beginning. You’ll also know him for the excellent music in The Last Kingdom, The White Queen, and Downton Abbey, among many other shows you’ve likely watched to get through Droughtlander.

What are you watching to get through Droughtlander? What do you love about Shetland? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Shetland Season 5 is currently airing in the UK. Seasons 1-4 are available on Netflix.