
Do you ever believe that truth still matters — even when it’s buried deep beneath lies?
“The Cleansing” by Robert Pugh is a gripping mystery-thriller that follows retired journalist Howard Ewing, who finds himself drawn back into the world of investigative reporting when his longtime friend and colleague, Max Leopard, dies under suspicious circumstances. Proudly published by Citi of Books, this is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retail platforms.
Robert Pugh currently has seven self-published novels. As a result of these novels, he has successfully conducted book signing events through Barnes and Noble in Jacksonville, Florida, Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Daytona Beach, Florida. He has conducted several speaking engagements at local community organizations, book clubs, and libraries. Robert Pugh is a graduate of Stetson University with a B.A. in American History, a minor in Political Science, and a master’s in education. He is married and blessed with four children and eight grandchildren. He is a retired educator and stays active in his church.

If you’re a fan of old-school mysteries that blend heart, history, and suspense, “The Cleansing” is a story that will keep you glued to every page. From the moment retired journalist Howard Ewing begins to suspect his best friend’s “accidental” death was no accident at all, you’re pulled into a world where every clue counts and every question leads to danger. It’s a smart, emotional thriller that feels like a love letter to true investigative storytelling — and it’s impossible not to root for Howard as he chases the truth in a world that’s moved on from his kind of journalism.
What makes this book so addictive is its sense of realism. You can practically smell the ink from the newsroom, feel the tension of late-night stakeouts, and hear the click of camera shutters capturing moments that might change everything. But beyond the action and intrigue, the novel is about friendship, purpose, and refusing to let go when something doesn’t add up.
Robert’s masterpiece especially resonates with readers who love classic detective fiction, investigative dramas, or character-driven mysteries with heart — think All the President’s Men meets The Pelican Brief. It’s perfect for adults who enjoy thoughtful thrillers that explore not just “whodunit,” but why people choose to chase justice even when the odds are stacked against them.
At its core, “The Cleansing” by Robert Pugh reminds us of something deeply real: life doesn’t always hand us neat endings, and sometimes it’s up to us to dig for the truth — even when it’s painful. Just like Howard, we all face moments when we must choose between comfort and courage. This story captures that struggle beautifully, showing that the search for truth, in fiction or in life, can be both cleansing and costly — but always worth it.
“The Cleansing” by Robert Pugh is now available for purchase through the links provided below:
- Citi of Books: https://citiofbooks.com/bookstore/uncategorized/the-cleansing/
- AbeBooks: https://www.abebooks.com/Cleansing-Robert-Pugh-CITIOFBOOKS/32314920786/bd
- Amazon: https://a.co/d/7lqr57l
- Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-cleansing-robert-pugh/1148283153?ean=9798893918731
- Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/The-Cleansing-Paperback-9798893918724/17873556687?classType=REGULAR&from=/search

