Dramatic Murder — Elizabeth Anthony

She could imagine the headlines all too well. . . DEATH ON POSSETT ISLAND: Well-known Playwright Found Dead on Christmas Tree. Dimpson McCabe - Dimpsie - has invited his closest friends of the theatre world to join him for Christmas at his castle on a private island some hours' drive from Edinburgh. The festivities have barely begun when Dimpsie is found draped atop the Christmas tree, electrocuted by the lights. It's labelled Accidental Death, but in the swirling snow suspicion is dancing among the flakes. Through Dimpsie's cadre of directors, producers, actors and agents runs a hot streak of hidden grievances and theatrical scheming, and upon return to London the dogged Inspector Smith begins to circle, seeking to find the leading man or prima donna responsible. First published in 1948 and lost for over 75 years, this Christmas novel returns to bedazzle a fresh audience of mystery-lovers.