Victor Grundy, a man consumed by malice, is selected to awaken an ancient entity known as the Sleeper to initiate global destruction. To achieve this objective, Grundy undergoes a physical metamorphosis into a basilisk, a creature of mythic lethality. He faces opposition from Danny and Hope, two teenagers confined within the same apartment complex. The narrative tracks their efforts to thwart the transformation and prevent the impending catastrophe within the claustrophobic setting of their shared living space.

Readers frequently highlight the rapid pacing and the unsettling nature of the physical transformation described in the text. Discussion often centers on the effectiveness of the confined setting, which heightens the tension between the protagonists and the antagonist. Critics note that the narrative prioritizes immediate action and suspense over complex character backstories. The book is often cited for its straightforward approach to supernatural horror, making it accessible for younger readers interested in dark fantasy themes.