The Mystery of the Missing Pages

A short story from the casebook of Atticus Priest.

When famed literary agent Lydia Marchant invites a select group of authors to her manor house for a festive weekend, she promises a celebration of creativity, camaraderie, and Christmas cheer. But the glittering gathering takes a dark turn when a priceless manuscript—the long-awaited sequel to Eleanor Pierce's literary masterpiece Solstice in September—vanishes from Lydia's study.

Private investigator Atticus Priest finds himself at the heart of the intrigue, drawn into a house brimming with egos, rivalries, and hidden agendas. Among the guests are a publishing powerhouse with a chip on her shoulder, a charismatic crime novelist with a penchant for controversy, and a struggling debut author desperate to salvage his career. With tensions rising, Atticus must sift through a maze of lies, half-truths, and personal vendettas to uncover the truth.

As secrets unravel and suspicions mount, the stakes become clear: this isn't just about a stolen manuscript. It's about pride, ambition, and a desperate act of sabotage that threatens to destroy more than one career. Can Atticus solve the case before the culprit escapes?

Set against the backdrop of a snow-dusted manor and a holiday gathering gone awry, The Mystery of the Missing Pages is a short story brimming with wit, suspense, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and contemporary whodunits.