James and Carl were only 10 years old when they kidnapped and murdered 3 year old David McClendon. They were caught, tried, convicted and placed in separate juvenile facilities. At 18-years old, both are given new names and released back into society – much to the horror of the nation. They can have no contact with each other or with their past friends or relatives. The story follows the lives of these two boys as they try to start over, escape the past and survive the growing outcry following their release.

Their car breaks down and four friends find themselves stranded at The Lost Oasis, a strange museum run by the friendly Mr. Slausen. Even though they are warned not to, the teens explore a house nearby and learn that it belongs to Davey, Mr. Slausen’s insane brother. Davey has a knack for making mannequins. In fact, his house is filled with them. Davey’s enthusiasm shows when starts adding the teenagers to his collection.

Toulon, a puppet maker, discovers an ancient Egyptian potion and uses it to bring his creations to life. His puppets become murderous little demons and escape. Distraught, the master takes his life. Years later, psychics tune into the existence of the monstrous marionettes and set off to stop them.

A man who runs an apartment house for women is the demented son of a Nazi surgeon who has the house equipped with secret passageways, hidden rooms and torture and murder devices.