The Midsomer Mummers, an amateur opera company, is in the middle of rehearsals for a charity concert, when a dead body is found in the theatre. The aim of the inquiry will be to find out who is most desperate to be the centre of attention.
When a body is found surrounded by ritual symbols on the eve of a Psychic Fayre, Barnaby must step into the spiritual world of mediums, psychics, and occult followers to find the killer.
Gated estate Challis Court is a tight-knit community for retired police officers, but when a new arrival is found dead, the other residents regard the murder as an affront; Barnaby realizes that the killer is likely an ex-police officer.
Parish chairwoman Lois Springfield is found dead in a local theatre. The detectives assume it's because of her hostility toward a drag show being organised, but other motives are at play.
When the author of a book that sparked a nationwide treasure hunt is found dead, Barnaby and Winter must unravel the cryptic clues to find the killer among a group of dedicated seekers.
Frank Bailey is a pet detective whose methods irk some of the villagers, so when he is found dead in the kennel of a dog he was looking for, Inspector Barnaby has his work cut out for him.