About Diana Xarissa
We list 45 books by Diana Xarissa so far, from 8 series.
Tagged on most of their books: Coastal Town and British.
Latest addition to our list: The Uxley Assignment (added November 2026).
If you like Diana Xarissa, try Betty Rowlands, Sara Bourgeois and SIMON BRETT.
What readers say
Diana Xarissa is best known for the long-running Aunt Bessie mysteries set on the Isle of Man, plus spin-offs with ghostly and other village sleuths. Readers love the warm, independent amateur sleuth often compared to a classic village detective, the unusual island setting with its history and local phrases, a likable police cast and quick, gentle, clean reads. Common criticisms are slow pacing with lots of repetition and detailed meals and tea, mysteries that are easy to solve, contrived endings, characters some find thin, and occasional editing slips in later books.
Best for: Readers who want gentle, clean village cozies with a distinctive island setting.
Summary of public reader reviews, updated November 2026.
