A "phenomenal" crime thriller that has just arrived on Netflix is already gripping viewers within the first 10 minutes of the opening episode.

Absentia was initially made for Prime Video but has now relocated to a different streaming platform.

Shortly after being made available on the service, it has already climbed into the charts.

At the time of writing, it sits as the fifth most-watched programme amongst UK subscribers.

Quite an achievement for a programme that originally aired between 2017 and 2020, particularly when facing competition from several high-profile new releases such as The Beast In Me, reports the Mirror.

Those who don't have a Netflix subscription shouldn't be concerned, however. All three seasons can also be watched via Channel 5 at no cost.

According to the synopsis, Absentia follows the story of FBI special agent Emily Byrne, who vanishes without trace whilst pursuing one of Boston's most notorious serial killers. She is officially declared dead in absentia.

Six years on, she is discovered in a woodland cabin, barely alive and with no recollection of the years she was missing. She returns home to discover that her husband has remarried and her son is now being brought up by the new wife.

As if that wasn't challenging enough, she quickly finds herself implicated in a new string of murders. She soon embarks on a mission to reclaim her life and identity.

Stana Katic, best known for her role as Detective Kate Beckett in the popular crime series Castle, takes on the lead role of Special Agent Emily Byrn in Absentia.

Despite a lukewarm 50% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the show boasts a more impressive 70% audience score, with fans continuing to sing its praises.

One viewer lauded: "Stana is phenomenal per-usual and gives an excellent performance, if you're not wanting to watch for the plot you should definitely just watch for her. She deserves all the praise and more for this show, hope to see her acting in something big again soon!".

Another confessed: "Right from the initial 10 minutes, it had me hooked to the screen. Surely its among the great mystery thrillers ever made.

"A very, very intriguing story. A lot of twists and turns, good acting, nice setting. Also every episode finishes with a uh-oh moment. Loved it. Must watch for those who love a dark, twisted, thrilling story."

One more viewer chimed in: "Had me hooked. The twists and turns can be difficult to keep track of but it's been a long time since a series has had me so captured.

"It is slightly frustrating at times - resulting in many screams and shouts at the screen but I love the way the different story lines have played out and the development of the characters. Would highly recommend."

Absentia is streaming on Netflix