A Christmas Party by Georgette Heyer is a classic closed-circle mystery novel that takes place during the Christmas holidays at a country house. The story begins with a family gathering at the home of wealthy Stephen and his wife, the vivacious and much younger, Valerie. The other guests include the unhappy and neglected wife of Stephen’s cousin, a demanding and overbearing mother-in-law, a flirtatious actress, a hapless secretary, a reclusive artist, and a doctor who is an old family friend.

The atmosphere is filled with tension, secrets, and hidden agendas as the guests are trapped by a heavy snowfall that cuts off the house from the rest of the world. Soon, a murder takes place, and the guests must work together to solve the crime while also trying to protect their own interests.

Heyer creates an array of well-drawn characters, each with their own unique personality and motivations. The plot is cleverly constructed, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The dialogue is witty and engaging, and the setting is beautifully described, with all the charm and elegance of an English country house.

The pacing is slow in the beginning, but as the plot unfolds, the tension builds, and the story becomes more and more engrossing. Heyer’s writing style is elegant and sophisticated, perfectly suited to the setting and characters.

Overall, A Christmas Party is a delightful read, perfect for fans of classic mystery novels. It’s a well-crafted, intriguing story that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Heyer’s skillful plotting, engaging characters, and clever writing make this book a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery