New Book Chronicles American Cyclists' Tragic Encounter with ISIS in Tajikistan

Acclaimed novelist and historian William Elliott Hazelgrove will release a new work of narrative nonfiction titled Evil on the Roof of the World through Bloomsbury on November 13, 2025. The book recounts the true story of Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin, two young Americans who left well-paying Washington jobs to embark on a global cycling adventure that ended tragically when they encountered ISIS terrorists in Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains.

The couple documented their journey across Africa, Europe, and Central Asia through a personal blog, facing numerous challenges including close calls with elephants, harsh landscapes, bureaucratic suspicion, and grueling crashes. Despite these obstacles, they continued their quest for adventure and wonder until reaching the fabled 'Roof of the World' in Tajikistan, where their dream collided with radicalized young men determined to make them martyrs. Hazelgrove's account draws from the couple's own words, their blog, and extensive interviews with friends and family to create a vivid portrait of their journey.

Early reviews and comparisons position the book alongside significant works in modern adventure and true crime writing. Publishers Weekly noted that 'readers will be aghast' at the chilling true crime tale, while Doug Kari, author of The Berman Murders, compared Hazelgrove's gripping account to Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild. Bestselling author Cory Mortensen described the book as 'a sobering, gut-punch reminder that even the boldest dreams aren't safe from the darkness we pretend doesn't exist.'

The book's publication carries significant implications for travelers, adventure seekers, and those interested in international security dynamics. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers facing Western travelers in regions where terrorist organizations operate, particularly in Central Asia where geopolitical tensions often intersect with tourism routes. The story highlights the complex reality that idealism and the pursuit of wonder can collide with harsh political and security realities in unexpected ways.

For the publishing industry, the book represents another significant work from Hazelgrove, whose previous titles have received starred reviews in Publisher Weekly and Kirkus, among other honors. More information about the author and his work can be found at https://www.williamhazelgrove.com. The narrative combines the drive of a novel with the sobering truth of investigative reporting, creating both a cautionary tale and a testament to human resilience in the face of unimaginable circumstances.