Frank is joined by an assistant, Chris Andriatta, sent by his publisher. The case fails to hold his interest and he tries to withdraw, but contract clauses force him to pursue the case. Initial inquiries lead to attempts on his life. The local sheriff attempts to discourage him. Town residents pressure Frank to leave the case. When similar cases begin to occur on the West Coast, the federal authorities begin to take an interest. All try to find a motive to the madness and apprehend the maniac. Frank is successful but helpless in a cliff-hanger ending.

Here is a novel full of twists and turns with a dramatic and chilling ending. This is well written and fast-paced, with excellent tension. The characters are well drawn, realistic and human. The pulse-pounding plot keeps the reader in suspense from page one to the cliff-hanging ending.