I have not read any of the novels on which this series is based. I do know, however, that reducing a lenghty novel to 85 minutes means the plot will be slighted, if not completely emasculated or ignored. The show has virtually non-existent plots and lots of love looks between Zen and a fellow cop, who is shallow and poorly acted. The actor who plays Zen is charismatic and no doubt could have made a good detective in a show that was concerned with plot, even just a little bit concerned. I watched all three episodes simply to see Italy, hoping something along the lines of a plot would develop. No plot-- but there were action scenes and some smooching. This was a major disappointment. The 5 ratings are inexplicable and proof that a show can sink below mediocrity and still find an appreciative audience.