But she's unaware that the killer has followed her, nor does she know that the small seaside village is dealing with a series of brutal assaults.

Meanwhile, a new tomcat appears on the scene, a wise and elderly wanderer who bears an important message from a state prisoner, for the chief of police. But this cat has a personal agenda too—just as does Maudie, who harbors her own secret about her son's killer. As the lonely prison cat provides the link between the mysteries, Joe Grey and his pals, in turn, help him find a surprising new home, a safe retreat in time for the holidays.