Sherlock Creator’s New 6-Part Detective Drama Bookish Can Only Get Better

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Mark Gatiss, the creative force behind Sherlock, has a promising new detective drama that’s likely to improve with each episode – and could run for many years. A highly successful actor and writer, Gatiss has contributed to popular shows like Sherlock, Doctor Who, and Agatha Christie’s Poirot. Given his lifelong passion for murder mysteries, it was natural for him to eventually create his own detective series, and it’s already proving to be a hit.

In the first season of Bookish, which premiered on PBS earlier this year, Mark Gatiss stars as Gabriel Book, a bookshop owner with a knack for detective work. Set in post-World War II London, Book assists the police in solving murders. He uses his connections – including a letter from Winston Churchill – and extensive knowledge of classic literature, along with help from his dedicated team, to investigate crimes in his neighborhood, on movie locations, and in luxurious hotels.

This critically acclaimed series—it has a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes and was quickly renewed for a second season in the UK, even before the first season aired—proves that murder mysteries are still incredibly popular. The first season features three self-contained stories told over six episodes, each focusing on different themes like jealousy, prejudice against older people, wealth gaps, politics, and revenge. Creator Mark Gatiss has revealed that the second season will be even bigger and bolder, moving beyond London to locations like Saville Row and even Germany in its final story.

The second season of Bookish will delve deeper into the lasting impact of World War II, using the historical setting to its full potential. The show will continue to explore how the war changed society and affected relationships, adding layers to its already intricate murder mysteries. Plus, the season will feature some exciting guest stars, including Rupert Graves (Inspector Lestrade from Sherlock), creating a reunion for fans and building on the strengths of the first season.

Bookish Season 2’s Biggest Mystery Won’t Be A New Murder Case

Throughout his investigations, we also see glimpses of Book’s personal life. As a gay man in 1940s London, he has a complicated relationship with the police. Because homosexuality was illegal then, helping them with cases always put him at risk. A powerful and sad flashback in the first season shows Book being arrested, but his future wife, Trottie (Polly Walker), saves him by telling the police they are engaged.

Book’s sexual orientation is a key aspect of his character, and it’s connected to one of the show’s most compelling storylines outside of the murders. In the first season, Book and Trottie employ Jack, a former convict (played by Connor Finch), at the bookstore. Jack quickly becomes involved in Book’s investigations, showing potential as an investigator despite his lack of experience. However, it’s soon revealed that Book and Jack share a deeper connection than initially appears, as Book previously had a significant personal relationship with someone close to Jack.

Season 2 of Bookish, coming to the UK this summer, promises a captivating holiday story set in Germany. The new season will center around a mysterious murder in an old castle, reminiscent of Agatha Christie novels. It will also explore the growing connection between Book and Jack, revealing more about Book’s experiences during the war and his time in Germany, as well as uncovering secrets from Jack’s family history.

What makes the first season of Bookish so good is how each case impacts Book on a personal level, slowly revealing his personality and the connections he has with others, both as friends and in romantic relationships. This approach has the potential to continue for many seasons, and it certainly feels earned. Book consistently risks his life to assist the police, and a more expansive and complex second season could finally explain what motivates him to do so.

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2026-04-23 02:43