Ep 7. Ghosts of Christmas Past

In Midsomer Murders season 7 episode 7, titled "Ghosts of Christmas Past," a wealthy family's Christmas celebration comes to an abrupt end when a member is found murdered. The family had gathered at the ancestral manor for the holiday, but tensions run high as secrets and ill feelings bubble to the surface.

The victim, Richard Bayly, is a successful businessman and the black sheep of the family. His brother Simon, who runs the family estate, is quick to point fingers at Richard's estranged wife and her lover, both of whom were present at the gathering. However, DCI Barnaby and DS Troy soon uncover a web of deceit and greed within the Bayly family that suggests any of them may have had motive to kill Richard.

As they delve deeper into the family's past, Barnaby and Troy uncover more dark secrets. Suspicion falls on Simon's wife, who seems to have a secret relationship with Richard, and another family member with a history of mental illness. The detectives also must contend with a long-standing feud between the Baylys and a neighboring family, which complicates their investigation.

Meanwhile, the Christmas spirit is in short supply as the investigation continues. The Baylys bicker and fight amongst themselves, and tensions rise as secrets are revealed. Barnaby and Troy must navigate this tense situation while also trying to solve the murder before anyone else is hurt.

As the clues come together, Barnaby and Troy realize that the murder was motivated by greed and a desire for power within the family. The solution is both surprising and satisfying, as the detectives use their skills of deduction and observation to bring the killer to justice.

Overall, "Ghosts of Christmas Past" is a classic Midsomer Murders episode, full of rich characters, intriguing secrets, and a satisfying conclusion. Fans of the series will enjoy seeing Barnaby and Troy unravel this complex and deadly mystery against the backdrop of a tense family holiday.