New Nonfiction Book Examines Tragic 2018 ISIS Attack on American Cyclists in Tajikistan

Bestselling author William Elliott Hazelgrove has released a new work of narrative nonfiction titled 'Evil on the Roof of the World: A Cycling Trip That Ended in Terror,' published by Rowman & Littlefield on November 13, 2025. The book examines the 2018 tragedy in which two young American idealists, Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin, were murdered by ISIS members while cycling through the mountains of Tajikistan during their global bicycle journey.

The couple had embarked on their worldwide cycling expedition to document their belief in the fundamental goodness of people, chronicling their experiences through diaries and blogs. Hazelgrove's reconstruction of their odyssey draws extensively from these personal writings and global reporting to create a comprehensive account of their journey through the Caucasus, Europe, and Central Asia before their tragic encounter with terrorism.

Publishers Weekly has praised the book as meticulously researched and haunting, noting that Hazelgrove's utilitarian prose allows the facts to carry the narrative forward, creating an unsettling atmosphere that leaves readers aghast. The work blends elements of travel writing, moral inquiry, and investigative reporting to confront what Hazelgrove describes as the central question of modern idealism: whether innocence can survive in a world that still harbors evil.

Hazelgrove explained his motivation for writing the book, stating he wanted to understand what happens when pure belief in the world meets evil head-on. He characterizes the story as one about courage and faith in humanity, exploring how two adventurous spirits inspired by kindness and curiosity collided with the darkest expression of fanaticism. The book serves as a powerful meditation on the enduring tension between hope and cruelty in contemporary society.

The author's extensive background includes ten novels and twelve nonfiction titles, with his work receiving starred reviews in major publications and numerous literary awards. His previous book 'Madam President: The Secret Presidency of Edith Wilson' is currently in development, with two additional titles forthcoming. More information about the author and his work can be found at https://www.williamhazelgrove.com.

The publication of 'Evil on the Roof of the World' comes at a time when global travel and cultural exchange continue to face challenges from security concerns and ideological conflicts. The book's examination of the 2018 tragedy raises important questions about safety for adventure travelers and the complex dynamics between Western travelers and local populations in politically unstable regions. The story of Geoghegan and Austin serves as both a cautionary tale and a tribute to their humanitarian ideals, offering readers insight into the risks and rewards of pursuing global understanding through personal exploration.