A collection of short stories centers on the methodical investigations of Inspector Maigret as he navigates the criminal underbelly of Paris. Inspector Maigret utilizes his keen observation and psychological intuition to resolve complex cases that baffle local authorities. He faces various antagonists ranging from desperate criminals to calculated murderers, all while operating within the rigid social hierarchies of mid-twentieth-century France. The narrative framework consists of distinct, self-contained episodes that highlight the inspector's patient approach to law enforcement.

Readers frequently highlight the efficiency of Simenon's writing, noting how he establishes a distinct mood within a limited page count. Discussion often centers on the contrast between Maigret's calm demeanor and the chaotic nature of the crimes he investigates. Critics often point to the inspector as a departure from the hyper-logical detectives common in the genre, favoring empathy and intuition over deduction. The collection is widely regarded as a representative entry point for those interested in the evolution of the police procedural format.