Black Novels centres across the foul tempered and exceptionally eccentric bookshop owner Bernard Black. Bernard's dedication to the joys of drunkenness and wilful antagonism deepens and enriches his helper, of Manny and his life. Sweet, bearded and good, Manny is what that Bernard isn't and has been punished by Bernard relentlessly solely for the crime of existing. They depend on each other for significance as Fran, their oldest friend, is dependent on them to get distraction.Black Books is a haven of books, wine and conversation, the only real threat to the peace and prosperity of the group is their own limitless stupidity.