In this fast-paced novella, when ventriloquist Priscilla Graham has her wisecracking stuffed sidekick Checkers stolen, she turns to her opening act for help—none other than stand-up comedian turned amateur sleuth Biff Kincaid. With just twenty-four hours to go before show time--and the hefty payday he desperately needs--Biff springs into action. It’s up to him to track down the dummy-nappers who stole Checkers by uncovering their twisted motives and dark deadly secrets. Biff races against the clock to deliver the ransom and rescue Checkers before the thieves deliver on their threat to put an end to the beloved puppet—and Biff along with it!