A detective investigates a series of gruesome murders in a mill town where victims are discovered in vats of boiling dye. Detective Inspector Sugden leads the inquiry, navigating the complex social dynamics of a town hiding dark secrets. He faces pressure from multiple external authorities, including Scotland Yard and military officials, while attempting to connect the disparate clues left by the killer. The narrative follows a traditional procedural structure, focusing on the methodical collection of evidence and the interrogation of local figures.

Readers often note the distinct atmosphere of the industrial setting, which serves as a backdrop for the methodical investigation. Discussion frequently centers on the procedural elements and the pressure placed on the protagonist by various bureaucratic entities. Critics highlight the author's ability to weave local color into the traditional mystery framework. The pacing is generally described as steady, favoring logical deduction over high-octane action sequences.