Home from the War in Europe, Jacob Heppleman goes to work for Blue Devil Books, writing pulpy yet successful crime novels. He prides himself on the authenticity of his work, which means picking the brains of some disreputable characters, including an Irish gangster who wants a cut of the profits—or else. Meanwhile, as Hollywood comes calling, the entire industry also comes under fire from politicians out to censor such books, and Heppleman needs to stay ahead of the mob to avoid becoming a victim of his own success.