Set in a fictional corner of Cornwall, Conning mainland has several islands nearby, one of which is Harbourtown. A busy place for shipping imports, the local RNLI and new visitor attractions - a wildlife tour, new Inn and Cafe and gift shop.

Shock is felt by everyone in the area when what was thought to be an accidental death on the quayside is ruled to be a murder - this means that the murderer is one of them!

At first there seems to be no witnesses, but Inspector Venus discovers there was one. However, there is a problem with this - he is a cat!

Trade within the area drastically falls with the news and it is up to local policeman, Walter, and Inspector Venus to not only find the murderer but also to solve the problem of Harbourtown becoming a ghost town!

Can the pair restore normality to Harbourtown before it is too late?