"In the Evil Day" is a novel by Richard Matheson, published in 1955. The story revolves around a small town that experiences a sudden and mysterious outbreak of violence, where ordinary people turn against each other. The narrative explores themes of fear, paranoia, and the fragility of societal norms. The protagonist, David, struggles to understand the cause of the chaos while trying to protect his family. As the situation escalates, the novel delves into the psychological impact of the events on the townspeople, highlighting how quickly civilization can unravel in the face of crisis.