I didn't see the first show in the television series so I can't compare the book to the show. This is the first in the series of Charmed Books though so in a way... it's a fresh start. This was a good introduction to Prue, Phoebe & Piper and how they come into being the CHARMED ONES. The book read well and held my attention... not a long book to read either. I think this series is going to be very exciting and I look forward to reading more.