The Rook

Stephen King's The Lawnmower Man was purchased for the title and the story was deep sixed. The Rook is similar to anyone how has read the book, which is magnificent. The book is totally Myfanwy's story and the TV show seems like they wanted the book title but not the book, which would have required the team from Stranger Things to do it justice and scare the pants off anyone watching which it would have. This is sort like watching MI-5 with some super powers thrown in. I can't say I dislike the show but knowing the book does get in the way. I will watch the TV show simply because it is not even close to the book other than the title so I just view it as a Procedural, but anyone watching the show good luck figuring out the 'Blonds' and no they are not the Children of the damned all grown up.

Watchable but the week by week drip does not help. This needs to be seen in one long weekend.

This has elements of other shows, like Blindspot, the X-Men. I am particularly fond of mysteries that take a while to unfold. I'm hooked on this show. You do have to put in some effort with the story line. Now let's wait for a few more episodes.

I am on Episode 6 now. The book is much, MUCH better, however, the show has a life of its own. Don't try to see the book in this show, just watch it. The show is not bad, but it's an average one. The book (both if them, The Rook and Stiletto) are really original. The author ("That Aussi Guy") has a wild imagination, it's a pity that the show is not based on the book in any coherent way.

It's not easy to create a supernatural setting that feels fresh. The Rook is the most successful approach since Sense 8. Most importantly, Gestalt is the most original and hypnotizing character idea since I cannot even remember (I guess you can argue "ever"). I am disappointed that they are not the main character, and this is my main complaint: I find Myfanwy one of the least interesting characters in the story. I still really enjoy the show, but it's tailored for a specific audience that enjoy alternative supernatural stories. If you enjoyed Mysfits, The Umbrella Academy, or Sense 8 - I cannot recommend it enough. The story unfolds slowly, but it is way more subtle than I expected from something based on the book classified by many as YA. Gestalt alone make me want to know what happened next.

After first episode, it looks like a very interesting supernatural spy thriller. Well done with decent acting, great visuals and sound. I hope the series will maintain this level of excellence. I did not read the book it is based on, so have no prior expectations.