Bookish, tv series – petit plaisir #419 – The Simply Luxurious Life®

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Created, starring, and co-written by the creative genius of Emmy Award-winning writer Briton Mark Gatiss, the new cozy mystery series, Bookish, is a treat. (He won an Emmy for writing an episode of Sherlock in 2016 – “The Abominable Bride” starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman.)

Gabriel Book (Gatiss) owns an antiquarian bookshop in London following World War II (1946). Possessing a letter from Winston Churchill for his bravery in the war, Book frequently brandishes it (though we do not yet know what it says, even by the end of season one) while helping the police solve crimes to assuage any doubts among skeptics. One of whom is not the lead detective, Inspector Bliss, with whom Book shares a respectful working relationship. Gabriel Book provides his encyclopedic knowledge through his love of literature to assist and ultimately culminate in solving seemingly unsolvable crimes.

At his side is his wife Trottie, played by Polly Walker. Dear friends since childhood, the two are fiercely loyal to each other, to the point of marrying each other to protect Book, who is a gay man during a time when it is illegal. The marriage provides them both with safety while letting them both live their lives as they wish. Next to Book’s Books (Gabriel’s bookshop), Trottie has her own shop, one for wallpaper and décor. Her boutique is full of classic Arts & Crafts designs, many identifiable as William Morris’ creations, so whether you are watching a scene in the bookshop or Trottie’s boutique, your eyes are in for a treat.

The first season comprises six episodes, each with two parts, so in total, there are three crimes to be solved in season one. And good news, a second season is in the works.

I thoroughly enjoyed the series, and whizzed through all six episodes far too quickly. From the complex crimes, time-period sets and enjoyable cast, settle in for capers I think you will thoroughly enjoy. I know many of TSLL readers, especially those in the UK, where the series premiered in 2025, have shared they enjoyed it as well, so don your sleuthing cap and get ready to be inspired to pick up a book as well (after popping into your local bookshop ☺️).

Have a look at the trailer below, and watch the series now on PBS Masterpiece.