In order to reach her aunt’s house for the biggest event on the holiday calendar, Genny fights her way through a blistering snowstorm. When she arrives, the only person in the house is Cole, back from a four-year overseas posting.
Cole has been the love and bane of Genny’s life since childhood. The first kiss of their reunion reignites a lifelong passion. But they can’t act on it as a worrying problem looms: their hostess is missing. None of her usual preparations are evident. The house is not decorated.
Aunt Isabel is a wealthy woman, known for her generous hospitality which culminates each year in a lavish multi-day Orphans and Strays Party. As the storm closes around them, Cole and Genny must figure out why Isabel is missing at her favorite time of year.
While raking her vast house for clues, they quickly find that Isabel has a hidden side. In searching for her, their own secrets emerge.