The book investigates the complex and often controversial field of criminal profiling. It delves into the historical evolution of profiling techniques, detailing the FBI's established crime scene analysis procedures and the methodologies used to construct a criminal profile. The work also examines the nuances of crime signatures and rituals, offering insights into the psychological underpinnings of criminal behavior.

This work is recognized for its comprehensive overview of criminal profiling, providing a detailed examination of its historical development and practical applications within law enforcement. The inclusion of over fifty true crime case studies offers concrete examples of profiling techniques in action. The book is structured to inform readers about the methodologies behind identifying and understanding criminal behavior.