Small-town reporter Will Barbee finds his reality fracturing as he investigates a series of gruesome murders linked to an ancient, supernatural threat. Barbee seeks to uncover the identity of the mysterious 'Child of Night' while navigating a web of deception and personal terror. As he pursues the truth, he encounters the enigmatic April Bell, whose presence coincides with increasingly vivid and violent dreams that blur the line between his waking life and his subconscious. The narrative follows Barbee's descent into a world where his own identity is challenged by forces that defy conventional logic and morality.

Readers frequently highlight the book's ability to blend classic science fiction tropes with visceral horror elements. Discussion often centers on the protagonist's psychological unraveling and the unsettling atmosphere that permeates the narrative. Critics note the effectiveness of the pacing, which mirrors the character's own confusion and growing dread as the mystery deepens. Many readers appreciate the subversion of traditional hero narratives, finding the exploration of inherent evil to be a distinct feature of the work. The book remains a subject of interest for those examining the evolution of mid-century speculative fiction.