Maud is busy getting ready for Christmas in Boston: she goes shopping at Filene's Basement, attends a party at the Museum of Fine Arts, rides the trolley, decorates, bakes, shovels snow, and finally throws a party herself.

Murder for Christmas Eve is an anthology that brings together a stunning array of stories woven around the grim festivities of Christmas Eve, masterfully demonstrating the profound versatility and chilling thrill of the murder mystery genre. This collection spans the gamut from the gothic to the detective, the psychological to the supernatural, offering readers an unparalleled tapestry of narratives. Each tale, while unique in setting and approach, converges around the central, eerie celebration of a Christmas steeped in shadow and mystery. The anthology is notable for including some of the most distinguished works of the period, skillfully curated to highlight the breadth and depth of the genre's capabilities in exploring human nature and societal mores. The contributing authors and editors, a veritable whos who of 19th and early 20th-century literature, lend this collection an impressive literary pedigree. Figures such as Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle are synonymous with the development of the narrative form and the exploration of societal issues through fiction. Each author brings their distinct voice and perspective, having contributed significantly to various literary movements of their time, from the intricacies of Victorian morality to the nuanced explorations of human psychology and the supernatural found in Edwardian literature. Their combined efforts result in a multifaceted exploration of the darker aspects of the yuletide season, reflecting broader themes of justice, redemption, and the human condition. Murder for Christmas Eve is an essential volume for both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts of the mystery and detective genres. The anthology invites readers to traverse the shadowy paths laid by these literary giants, providing not only entertainment but a profound commentary on the complexities of morality and the timeless allure of the mysterious. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the art of the written word and the myriad ways it can illuminate the darker facets of our world and ourselves.