Septuagenarian Sleuth Lorilee Riley becomes involved in two investigations: a cold-case murder, which later turns out to be two murders, and toxic dumping in a Florida sinkhole. Of course a cat plays a role by catching Lorilee's interest, and of course her ward Jess and his girlfriend Wendy help out.

Familiar characters contribute to the humor and the mystery: Ditzy Mitzi Talbot, her son Nasty Greg, soft-spoken veterinarian Doctor Ahuja, Detective Law, and the chatty Deputy Brilli. Lorilee's cats, snooty Callie, brawler Bruiser and the rest, are around to observe, but they keep their opinions mostly to themselves.

Things get perilous for Lorilee on a rainy night in a remote spot. Fans might shiver a little at her plight, but don't be scared. She's faced death before, and after all, this is a cozy mystery!