When an immigrant is found tortured and murdered in a ritualistic killing, Beckett navigates the uncharted territory of the mysterious Vodun religion with Castle leading the way. Having researched similar deaths for one of his books, Castle's knowledge and sources prove valuable, but only their apt teamwork can unravel the murderer's motives. Meanwhile, Castle is confronted with the possible return of his first wife, Alexis's mother, whose dizzying personality threatens to upend the tranquility of the entire family.