The maid for a wealthy couple who lives in a mansion along the Maine coast, is found dead at the bottom of the main staircase a few weeks before Christmas. The couple claims that the maid's ex–boyfriend ran out of the house just as they arrived home, but there are no footprints in the snow, and the guard at the front gate didn't see anyone leaving the property. Jack and his fiancée, local medical examiner Dr. Jamie Cutter, reluctantly leave their eggnog and tinsel when they are called in to help catch the killer. Soon Jack realizes that there is more at work than simply murder: a mysterious visitor has been conning the rich couple with tales of spirits, magic, and elfin visitors. 'Tis the season for tracking down the truth, so Jamie and Jack set out for New York City and end up in a foot chase that takes them through the snow–covered city, tailing a lost Dalmation puppy, mysterious elves, a sly killer, and the true meaning of Christmas.