Home / News / FAQ
FAQ

FAQ: Evil on the Roof of the World - The True Story of Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin

FaqStaq News - Just the FAQs October 3, 2025
By FAQstaq Staff
Read Original Article →
FAQ: Evil on the Roof of the World - The True Story of Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin

Summary

This book chronicles the true story of two American cyclists, Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin, who were murdered by ISIS terrorists in Tajikistan during their global bicycle journey. It serves as both a gripping adventure narrative and a sobering cautionary tale about the risks of pursuing wonder in dangerous regions.

What is ‘Evil on the Roof of the World’ about?

It’s a narrative nonfiction book that recounts the true story of Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin, two young Americans who were murdered by ISIS terrorists in Tajikistan while cycling around the world in search of adventure and wonder.

Who are the main subjects of this book?

Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin, two young Americans who left well-paying Washington jobs to cycle across Africa, Europe, and Central Asia before being killed by terrorists in Tajikistan.

When and where did the tragic events occur?

The cyclists were murdered in 2018 in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan, which are known as the ‘Roof of the World.’

Who is the author of this book and what are his credentials?

William Elliott Hazelgrove is a National Bestselling author of ten novels and twelve nonfiction titles, with works receiving starred reviews from major publications and being featured on NPR, The New York Times, and other major media outlets.

When will the book be released and who is publishing it?

The book will be released on November 13, 2025 by Bloomsbury Academic.

What sources did the author use to write this account?

Hazelgrove drew from the couple’s personal blog, their own words, and extensive interviews with friends and family to create a vivid portrait of their journey.

What kind of adventures did Lauren and Jay experience before their deaths?

Their journey included close calls with elephants, harsh landscapes, bureaucratic suspicion, and grueling crashes as they cycled across Africa, Europe, and Central Asia.

How has the book been described by reviewers and publications?

It’s been compared to Jon Krakauer’s ‘Into the Wild’ and described as a gripping true crime tale with narrative drive of a novel and sobering truth of investigative reporting that leaves readers ‘aghast.’

What is the main theme or message of this book?

The book serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the risks of wonder-seeking in a world where danger often lurks in the shadows of idealism.

Where can readers find more information about the author?

More information about William Elliott Hazelgrove can be found at www.williamhazelgrove.com.

QR Code for Content Provenance

This story is based on an article that was registered on the blockchain. The original source content used for this article is located at 24-7 Press Release

Article Control ID: 242228