When a redundant lathe operator decides to reinvent himself as a private investigator in Luton, he finds himself navigating a series of increasingly bizarre and dangerous cases. Joe Sixsmith, an unlikely sleuth, must balance the skepticism of his formidable Aunt Mirabelle with the demands of clients who range from self-proclaimed witches to men confessing to mass murder. The narrative follows Joe as he attempts to solve these disparate mysteries while dodging local gangsters and navigating the complexities of police bureaucracy. The story unfolds through a blend of dry wit and gritty realism, highlighting the physical and social constraints of Joe's working-class environment.

This work is characterized by its subversion of the hardboiled detective archetype, replacing the typical cynical investigator with a relatable, grounded protagonist. The narrative relies on a balance of comedic situations and genuine criminal tension to drive the plot forward. Readers often note the author's ability to maintain a lighthearted tone even when dealing with serious subject matter like murder and illicit activity. The series is recognized for its distinct voice and the charm of its central character, who succeeds through persistence rather than traditional investigative skill.