There may be honor among thieves, but a long-ago diamond heist might hold the secret to a man's murder . . .

Pet shop owner Shell McMillan is thrilled to see everyone in Fox Hollow flocking to the local animal shelter's fundraiser, where they can get their old keepsakes and collectibles appraised and maybe even sell them for a tidy sum. But the event has drawn some shady characters as well, including Pete Martin, who seems determined to get his hands on a beat-up old jewelry box at any cost. Then Martin is found murdered, and Shell has to go from fundraising to finding a killer.

It doesn't take long for Shell to figure out that the jewelry box was concealing diamonds from a long-ago heist, and that Martin wasn't the only one trying to get his hands on the stash. But to figure out who wanted him dead, she'll have to uncover who was behind the original heist and who knows where the rest of the gems are hidden. It's as dangerous a case as Shell has ever faced, and if she's not careful, her search for the missing stones will leave her stone-cold dead . . .

Praise for the books of T. C. LoTempio, winner of the Firebird Award for Best Cozy Mystery:

"If you love cozy mystery books with cats, great characters, yummy food descriptions, and twisty mysteries, you will love A Purr Before Dying!" -Christy's Cozy Corners

"A fabulous addition to the fun cozy mystery series. It can be read on its own but it is so much better if you have read them in order. T. C. LoTempio creates a story that you won't want to put down." -Books A Plenty Book Reviews

"I hope we get more adventures and mysteries with Nora and Nick. There's so much intrigue in each book with some hints at a potential romance. I know I'm in for hours of enjoyment when I see a new Nick and Nora book out." -Socrates' Book Reviews

"A Purr Before Dying was so entertaining. I hope this series continues for a long time as these characters are some of my favorites." -Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book