When the Dupree Sisters attend the National Portrait Gallery's annual gala, they expect an evening of fine dining and mingling with Washington's social elite. However, a dead body and an accusation of murder quickly change their plans. In the days that follow, names of suspects begin to circulate around parties and fundraisers. At the center of these scandalous tales is Harlan Ellis, a habitual gossiper who delights in spreading rumors with such dramatic effect it is hard to tell fact from fiction. Only Charlotte and Ruth Dupree are curious enough to pursue Harlan to learn the truth behind the Corpse at the National Gallery.