Dr. Emil Euler Ganz was considered a preeminent astrophysicist, a world-renowned professor with a brilliant reputation. Then, without warning to his family or colleagues, he vanished. For ten years, no one knew of his whereabouts until he suddenly reappeared as "Father Jupiter," the founder of a pseudoscientific cult -- the Order of the Rings of God. For fifteen years, Ganz ruled his disciples with spiritual words and an iron fist. Now, suddenly, the aging charismatic leader is found dead, a fifth of vodka and a vial of pills by his bedside.
Ganz's demise brings about official questions for LAPD Lieutenant Peter Decker and his team of Homicide detectives. Is Ganz's death an accident, a suicide or even a homicide? Suspicions abound. But when the police enter the premises to investigate, the cult becomes resentful of the intrusion. Those closest to Father Jupiter -- his four "privileged" attendants -- are especially indignant, turning overtly hostile when two cult members -- including a child -- appear to be missing.
The situation becomes threatening and ugly, but Decker, with the support of his wife, Rina, refuse to back down. Amid disturbing forensic evidence, mangled bodies, and deadly secrets, the team continues its relentless probe of the bizarre cult, even as the Order turns violent, erupting into mayhem so deadly that it threatens not only the lives of its naive adult members but also scores of helpless, innocent children.
