In 9-1-1, DJ Maughan delivers a gripping crime thriller that intertwines a tale of deceit, survival, and desperation. Set brilliantly against the haunting backdrop of the 9/11 tragedy, Maughan expertly crafts a narrative that is as much about the aftermath of that fateful day as it is about one man’s desperate attempt to cover up his crimes. This novel, part of the Peter Andrassy series, can be read as a standalone and will certainly keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The story follows Scott Lyon, a man whose greed and deceit lead to a high-stakes game of hiding from the law. Working in a title company on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center, Scott has been embezzling funds from clients. When a client threatens to expose him, he sees an opportunity in the chaos of 9/11. As the towers collapse, Scott fakes his own death, disappearing with millions of dollars hidden away in a secret account. But as he tries to access his stolen fortune, he is shocked to find it gone. Someone has stolen what Scott believes was rightfully his, and now he’s desperate to find the missing money.

The novel’s shifting perspectives—told from both first and third-person points of view—add layers of complexity to the story. Maughan’s technique keeps the tension high, as we are constantly pulled in different directions, unsure of what the next twist will be. I particularly enjoyed the unpredictability of the plot, especially when the true fate of the embezzled funds is revealed in a stunning twist. Without giving too much away, I will say that the ending left me shocked long after I’d finished the book. The person who took the money from Scott is not who you’re expecting!

What makes 9-1-1 especially impactful is not just its compelling plot, but also Maughan’s ability to connect it to the real-life tragedy of 9/11. In the author’s note at the beginning, Maughan shares his personal memories of that day, grounding the story in a sense of real-world loss and reflection. His thoughtful touch adds emotional weight to a fast-paced crime thriller and elevates the stakes of Scott Lyon’s actions. Maughan does a great job of remaining respectful to the real-life events of that day, while spinning a compelling fictional tale from the ruins.

With 9-1-1, DJ Maughan has written a story that hooks you from the first chapter, delivering intrigue, suspense, and a powerful emotional undercurrent. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thrillers that not only entertain but also provoke thought about the choices we make in moments of crisis.The novel will be released on March 1st, 2025, and if you enjoy high-stakes suspense, unpredictable plot twists, and characters grappling with the consequences of their actions, 9-1-1 is a thrilling addition to your TBR list!