The Scientology Murders (A Dead Detective Novel)

“Heffernan’s style harks back to traditional hard-boiled mysteries . . . The Scientology Murders isn’t likely to make the church’s recommended reading list, but for mystery fans it’s an entertaining tale.” —Tampa Bay Times

A series of murders in Florida have left the police force baffled and Detective Harry Doyle’s much-loved adoptive father seriously wounded. As his investigation becomes personal, Doyle—known to his peers as the Dead Detective—finds he must penetrate one of the most private institutions in the country in order to track down those responsible.

Clearwater, Florida, is the spiritual center of Scientology, a religion that encourages its members to remain pure and true to their beliefs. One senior leader has a misguided young man in his employ, a twisted soul who will stop at nothing to make sure the rules are followed—even if it means shaming the very virtues espoused by the church.

With veils of secrecy surrounding the church’s inner sanctums, the detectives are stonewalled at every turn. Eventually, however, the investigation leads Doyle, his partner Vicky Stanopolis, and Clearwater Sergeant Max Abrams to the far reaches of Alaska, where they come face-to-face with death in a form they never expected.