Reveal: launch date, performers, narrative, sneak peek, conversations, episode rundown, and comprehensive information about the production
The much-anticipated crime drama series, "Bookish," is set to make its UK debut on July 16, 2025, on the UKTV channel U&Alibi. Created by and starring Mark Gatiss, the series promises a unique blend of period drama and crime investigation, set in the immediate aftermath of World War II.
The series follows Gabriel Book (played by Gatiss), an antiquarian bookseller in post-war London, who uses his vast book collection and unconventional detective skills to solve baffling murder cases. In the opening two episodes, Book and his assistant Jack (played by Connor Finch) investigate the death of a local chemist, Mr. Harkup, initially ruled a suicide by the police, but which Book suspects to be murder.
The investigation uncovers multiple suspects, a missing jade figurine, and a contentious will, with a wider ongoing mystery involving skeletons excavated from a nearby bomb site. Book is supported by a group of troubled yet loyal helpers including Trottie (played by Polly Walker), Nora (played by Buket Kömür), and a Labrador named Dog as they unravel complex clues and navigate police work and local intrigue.
Trottie, Gabriel's wife, is portrayed as an outsider and a crusader for women's rights, without realizing it. She is described as warm, generous, and positive, without being sickly sweet. Trottie and Gabriel have a non-sexual marriage, but are best friends with a similar sense of humor and interests.
The series also boasts a stellar line-up of guest stars, including Daniel Mays, Tim McInnerny, Joely Richardson, and Jonas Nay. Paul McGann, Tim McInnerny, Elizabeth Berrington, Mark Umbers, Angeliki Papoulia, Joely Richardson, Daniel Mays, and Jonas Nay are featured in certain episodes.
Mark Gatiss describes "Bookish" as a strange, funny, and thrilling show set in post-War London. The series has already received praise for its writing, atmosphere, and cast performances, particularly the interplay between Book, Polly Walker’s character, and Jack.
"Bookish" got its worldwide premiere at the inaugural Italian Global Series Festival (IGSF) on June 24, 2025. The series will be available as a full box set on Sky Box Sets and NOW from July 16.
Polly Walker, who plays Trottie Book, is a renowned actress, with previous roles in shows such as "Bridgerton," "Line of Duty," "Pennyworth," "Prisoners Wives," "Rome," and "The Syndicate." Mark Gatiss is also a well-known actor, having previously appeared in shows such as "The League of Gentlemen," "Sherlock," "Game of Thrones," and "Doctor Who."
The series is based on a book, according to Mark Gatiss. Other cast members include Blake Harrison, Rosie Cavaliero, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Tom Forbes, Amanda Drew, Luke Norris, Ella Bruccoleri, and Michael Workéyè.
With its intriguing plot, engaging characters, and historical setting, "Bookish" promises to be a captivating addition to the crime drama genre. Don't miss its UK premiere on July 16, 2025.
- The upcoming show, "Bookish," will have its premiere on UKTV channel U&Alibi on July 16, 2025, making its UK debut.
- Mark Gatiss, who also created the series, plays the lead character Gabriel Book, an antiquarian bookseller who uses his book collection and detective skills to solve murders.
- In the first two episodes, Book and his assistant Jack investigate the death of a local chemist, initially ruled a suicide but later suspected as murder.
- The series features a strong supporting cast, including Polly Walker as Trottie Book, Gabriel's wife, Buket Kömür as Nora, and Connor Finch as Jack.
- Celebrated actress Polly Walker, who plays Trottie, has appeared in numerous popular series such as "Bridgerton," "Line of Duty," and "Rome."
- The crime drama series, "Bookish," has already garnered positive reviews for its writing, atmosphere, and cast performances, especially the interactions between Book, Trottie, and Jack. It is set to release on Netflix on an undisclosed date.
