It is a mystery novel set in the imaginary New England town of Shinn Corners, United States.

Aunt Fanny Adams, famed artist, is the most notable citizen of the tiny New England town of Shinn Corners.

When she is found murdered, suspicion immediately falls on a passing tramp named Josef Kowalczyk, and a planned lynching is nearly successful.

Empaneling a jury takes every eligible citizen in the village, counsel and witnesses alike, and so the trial would never withstand legal scrutiny.

There are many similarities between the character of Aunt Fanny Adams and the real-life naturalist painter Grandma Moses.