Droughtlander suggestions: Watch Shadow and Bone on Netflix

You’re likely still looking for something to watch to get through Droughtlander. Shadow and Bone is now available on Netflix and should be on your list.

Let me start by saying that Shadow and Bone is nothing like Outlander. It’s not a time-travel series. It’s not a romance (although there are couples within the book series and in the TV show). This isn’t a story of family in the basic sense.

This is based on a fantasy YA book series. There is a lot of magic and a lot of betrayal and questions of where a person fits in. The Netflix series itself focuses on who the characters are, what their dreams are, and whether some of the worst characters can even be redeemed.

And it does have Ben Barnes in the role of General Kirigan. There’s no doubt that many will want to watch purely for him. You’ll end up sticking around for all the other characters.

What is Shadow and Bone about?

We’re pulled into the world through Alina Starkhov, played by Jessie Mei Li. She’s an orphan and a mapmaker who discovers a special ability within herself. When that happens, dark forces want her for themselves, and that leads to her finding her life in danger.

Alina is also looking for a place to call home. She’s looking for a family to call her own. There’s a chance she can find that with Mal, but what happens when General Kirigan pulls her in?

At the same time, we get to meet the Crows, three friends who will steal and fight to survive. They have each other’s backs and they become characters that you want to root for, even if they do the wrong thing sometimes. If you love Peaky Blinders, you’ll certainly adore the Crows.

Why this series is good for Droughtlander

Let’s start with the fact that Shadow and Bone is based on a book series, one that you may have read. Leigh Bardugo wrote the first book back in 2014 and since then, the Grishaverse has extended.

It’s not a straight adaptation from the book though. The series introduces characters from Six of Crows, the first book in a duology that takes place after the Grisha trilogy. We see the early start of the Crows’ storyline, offering something slightly different.

Why do writers want to invent their own storylines, though? I’m sure that’s what you’re thinking. Well, it’s not just the writers. Bardugo is one of the executive producers on the show and has helped to develop this adaptation.

In fact, she’s willing to admit that there are flaws in her earlier works. The adaptation has been a chance to correct those flaws, making Shadow and Bone on Netflix something bigger and better.

And you don’t need to have read the books to get into the show. This is one of those series that has Easter eggs but doesn’t assume that you’re a book reader first.

It’s full of action and there’s some amazing character development. In short, Shadow and Bone is sure to make you laugh, scream, cry, and get excited.

What are you watching to get through Droughtlander? What do you think of Shadow and Bone? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Shadow and Bone is now available to stream on Netflix.