Set against the backdrop of a post-World War II London, the new detective series “Bookish,” premiering on PBS on January 11 at 10 p.m., combines elements of mystery and personal drama while navigating the profound emotional landscape left in the wake of the war. The show centers around Gabriel Book, played by Mark Gatiss, who is an antiquarian bookseller with a secret life—being a closeted gay man in a lavender marriage with his childhood friend, Trottie, portrayed by Polly Walker.
“Bookish” follows the unique formula of the detective genre by introducing a fascinating lead character alongside a compelling supporting cast. The narrative kicks off as a young man named Jack, portrayed by Connor Finch, is released from prison and unexpectedly offered a job at Book’s store, appropriately named Book’s Books. This intriguing dynamic unfolds as Book, who assists the police department in solving crimes during his spare time, faces skepticism from Jack, who is wary of Book’s true intentions and past.
Throughout the series, Book’s role as a crime solver is established as he frequently finds himself involved in the investigation of murders that surprisingly intersect with his life as a bookseller. Each episode combines elements of mystery and historical context, exploring themes of trauma and human relationships in the wake of the war. While the central mysteries, divided into three two-episode arcs, are engaging, they often serve as a backdrop to delve deeper into the psychological and emotional tension between the characters.
Book’s character is refreshingly mild-mannered and approachable—a departure from typical eccentric detectives in contemporary crime dramas. His quirks, such as his disdain for alphabetical organization in his bookstore, add charm, while his kind-hearted nature makes him relatable and endearing. However, the supporting cast’s potential remains somewhat underdeveloped, particularly Trottie’s motivations for their unusual marriage and the character dynamics involving police inspector Bliss, played by Elliot Levey.
The series balances elements of coziness with darker undertones, maintaining a strong noir influence alongside its whimsical moments. The exploration of the characters’ pasts and their connections to the broader narrative of post-Blitz Britain hints at a wealth of storytelling opportunities for future seasons.
While “Bookish” is still solidifying its identity, the intertwining of personal stories with the grim realities of its setting suggests a promising direction. The intriguing premise and historical backdrop leave viewers with hope for a rich exploration of character development and narratives in the pipeline, ultimately providing an engaging viewing experience with layers to peel back in future installments.