Copyright © Nadine LaPierre 2010 Prohibition may be putting a real damper on the social drinking scene in early 1930’s America, but it’s   all swills and thrills in France. So what better way for American writers to relax and celebrate   their literary works than to have a grand old party at the very prestigious Fritz hotel in Paris.  Writers are a civilized bunch. So are rats. Yes, rats are actually quite ordered and civilized. You just can’t turn your back on any of them is all. Especially when they’re walking around with a drink in  one hand and a revolver in the other.            “Protection, Dahling. You just never know when a huge rat is going   to come around the corner...even in the finest hotels.”  Why, someone killed a big, fat one this evening. Not that the poorly departed Mr. Raht’s literary  peers care very much–there are already too many writers out there competing for valuable shelf space.   Hotel management however, is very concerned. After all they do have a reputation to uphold. Therefore,   all exit doors have been locked, and the hotel’s chief security officer has gathered up everyone who had  motive, means, and opportunity.  Earnst Lemingway is quite irritated with the whole ordeal. He’s only tolerating it for the moment because   the banquet room he’s been corralled in has a bar. Hagatha Skitzy keeps rolling her eyes at this   American’s over-indulgence. The world-renowned British mystery writer would much prefer to look for  clues than to be considered a suspect herself.   Virgeena Wool isn’t much of a fan of either of them. She prefers more like-minded women, like her  friend and fellow writer, Gert Rude. Well, she’s not a fellow. But she could pass for one. According  to Sorority Mocker at least. Ms. Mocker has quite the wit, and never lets an opportunity to use it   pass her by. With all these literary giants in one hotel, you’d think the press would be all over them, but the only  guest they seem to be interested in is Crayta Cargo. But this very reclusive actress has been walking  the halls in a head scarf and sunglasses saying she vants to be left alone. Is that why she refuses  to talk?