Forecast: A 9/11 Historical Fiction Novel

by Aaron Ryan

What if you could undo 9/11 and prevent tragedy?
What if you had the power to see the future, but every glimpse you caught filled you with terror? Would you dare to intervene, even if it meant causing the very calamity you were trying to prevent? This is the dilemma facing 28-year-old meteorologist Roland Bishop from Jersey City.

After surviving a lightning strike, Roland discovers he can see glimpses of the future by simply being near those who are about to commit atrocities. But when he meets a psychologist who helps him understand the source of his power, Roland realizes that he must make a difficult choice. Will he use his abilities to save innocent lives, or will he inadvertently become a pawn in the very tragedies he's trying to prevent?

As Roland grapples with his newfound abilities and the weight of his decisions, he must navigate a dangerous world of chaos and butterfly effects. But the question is, will he be able to change the course of the future, or is it already set in stone?


From the bestselling author of the alien invasion military science fiction thriller series "Dissonance," Aaron Ryan weaves a complex tale of butterfly effect and chaos theory in the unputdownable, 9/11 historical fiction novel, "Forecast." It's Unbreakable meets The Dead Zone meets Firestarter meets Groundhog Day meets Minority Report in this unforgettable sci-fi 9/11 fiction book thriller!

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2024

About the author

Award-winning and bestselling author, speaker, panelist, workshop presenter and voice actor Aaron Ryan lives in Washington with his wife and two sons, along with Macy the dog, Winston the cat, and the finches Inky, Pinky, Blinky & Clyde.

He is the prolific author of the bestselling Dissonance 6-book alien invasion saga, the Christian dystopian fiction trilogy The End, the Talisman trilogy, the sci-fi thrillers Forecast, The Slide, and The Phoenix Experiment, the nonfiction books God Is Not Santa, You are my whole Earth: A Daddy's love for his Sons, You're Going Straight To Helen (In A Handbasket) and Aaron Ryan presents "A Lyrical Empirical Satirical Miracle," the children's picture books The Ring of Truth, The Sword of Joy and The Book of Power, the business reference books How to Successfully Self-Publish & Promote Your Self-Published Book and The Superhero Anomaly, 6 business books on voiceovers penned under his former stage name (Joshua Alexander), as well as a previous fictional novel, The Omega Room.

When he was in second grade, he was tasked with writing a creative assignment: a fictional book. And thus, The Electric Boy was born: a simple novella full of intrigue, fantasy, and 7-year-old wits that electrified Aaron's desire to write. From that point forward, Aaron evolved into a creative soul that desired to create.

He enjoys the arts, media, music, performing, poetry, and being a daddy. In his lifetime he has been an author, voiceover artist, wedding videographer, stage performer, musician, producer, rock/pop artist, executive assistant, service manager, paperboy, CSR, poet, tech support, worship leader, and more. The diversity of his life experiences gives him a unique approach to business, life, ministry, faith, and entertainment.

Aaron's favorite author by far is J.R.R. Tolkien, but he also enjoys Suzanne Collins, James S.A. Corey, Michael Crichton, Marie Lu, Madeleine L'Engle, John Grisham, Tom Clancy, Tim Lebbon, Christopher Golden, C.S. Lewis, Stephen King and Dave Barry.

Aaron has always had a passion for storytelling. Visit his website at https://www.authoraaronryan.com, join his exclusive Facebook group at authoraaronryangroup.com, or check out his store at authoraaronryanstore.com.

Reviews

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

A groundbreaking novel that masterfully blends historical fiction with supernatural elements to explore one of America's darkest days

In his latest novel "Forecast," award-winning author Aaron Ryan delivers an emotionally charged and thought-provoking story that asks the compelling question: If you could prevent one of history's greatest tragedies, would you? And more importantly, should you?

The Story Lightning Strikes

Roland Bishop is a weatherman at News 12 in Jersey City who finds his life irrevocably changed after being struck by lightning. Rather than death or disability, the strike endows him with an extraordinary and terrible gift—the ability to see visions of future atrocities when in proximity to their perpetrators. As Roland grapples with his newfound abilities, he discovers that his visions may hold the key to preventing the September 11 terrorist attacks.

What follows is a masterfully crafted narrative that weaves together elements of supernatural thriller, historical fiction, and human drama. Ryan's prose crackles with the same electricity that courses through his protagonist, delivering scenes that are both visceral and deeply contemplative.

Time, Identity, and the Weight of Knowledge

The story's exploration of identity and time is particularly fascinating. As Roland jumps between different timelines and even inhabits different bodies - including that of terrorist Mohammed Atta - the narrative raises profound questions about the nature of self and consciousness. Who are we really when our memories and experiences can be rewritten? When does intervention become interference?

Ryan handles these philosophical elements with a deft touch that never overwhelms the human story at the center. The relationship between Roland and Detective Roxanne Byers provides an emotional anchor amid the chaos of shifting realities, while his sessions with psychiatrist Dr. Penny offer moments of clarity and insight.

Characters Who Illuminate the Human Experience

The character development in "Forecast" is exceptional, particularly:

• Roland Bishop - A deeply relatable protagonist whose struggle with his "gift" mirrors larger questions about responsibility and fate
• Dr. Penelope "Penny" Eggers - A brilliantly crafted supporting character whose own story arc provides a powerful parallel to the main narrative
• Detective Roxanne Byers - The perfect foil to Roland's supernatural abilities, grounding the story in procedural reality while adding romantic tension
• Multiple versions of Roland - Each iteration adds layers of complexity to our understanding of identity and choice

Masterful Structure and Pacing

The novel's structure is particularly impressive, managing multiple timelines and perspectives while maintaining narrative coherence. Ryan employs a unique countdown device - the numbers Roland sees correspond to days remaining until 9/11 - that creates mounting tension as the story progresses.

Themes That Resonate

Several powerful themes emerge throughout the narrative:

1. The burden of foreknowledge
2. The relationship between free will and destiny
3. The ripple effects of our choices
4. The nature of heroism in the face of inevitable tragedy
5. The power of human connection in times of crisis

Technical Excellence

Ryan's writing style is both accessible and sophisticated, employing vivid imagery and masterful control of pace. His background in media and performance shines through in the cinematic quality of his action sequences, while his attention to historical detail grounds the fantastic elements in reality.

Historical Fiction with Heart

What sets "Forecast" apart from other alternate history narratives is its deep emotional resonance. Ryan doesn't just ask "what if?" - he explores the human cost of both action and inaction. The novel serves as both a tribute to the real victims and heroes of 9/11 and a meditation on the nature of tragedy and hope.

In the Context of Ryan's Work

Following his successful "Dissonance" science fiction series, "Forecast" represents an evolution in Ryan's storytelling abilities. While it shares some elements with his previous work - particularly in its exploration of extraordinary circumstances affecting ordinary people - this novel showcases a new maturity in both theme and execution.

A New Voice in Speculative Fiction

"Forecast" can be compared to other works in the genre such as Stephen King's "11/22/63" or Blake Crouch's "Recursion," but Ryan's voice is distinctly his own. His blend of supernatural elements with historical events creates a unique narrative texture that will resonate with fans of both genres.

Impact and Relevance

In our current era of global uncertainty, "Forecast" feels particularly relevant. The questions it raises about responsibility, intervention, and the nature of fate speak to contemporary concerns while remaining grounded in its historical setting.

Verdict: A Powerful Achievement

"Forecast" is a remarkable achievement that succeeds on multiple levels. It works as:

• A compelling supernatural thriller
• A thoughtful exploration of historical events
• A meditation on choice and consequence
• A deeply human story about love, loss, and redemption

The novel's greatest strength lies in its ability to make readers feel both the weight of history and the possibility of change, all while delivering a story that is both entertaining and profound.

For Readers Who…

This book is perfect for readers who:

• Enjoy thoughtful speculative fiction
• Appreciate complex narratives about time and identity
• Are drawn to stories that blend historical events with supernatural elements
• Seek fiction that balances action with emotional depth

Final Thoughts

In "Forecast," Aaron Ryan has created something truly special—a novel that honors the gravity of its historical subject matter while telling a story that is both thrilling and deeply moving. It's a book that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page, prompting questions about choice, destiny, and the true nature of heroism.

The novel stands as both a tribute to those affected by 9/11 and a testament to the power of fiction to help us process historical trauma. Through Roland's journey, we experience both the terror of foreknowledge and the hope that comes with the possibility of change.

"Forecast" is more than just another time travel story or alternate history - it's a powerful meditation on human nature and our capacity for both destruction and redemption. Ryan has delivered a novel that is both timely and timeless, marking him as an author to watch in the speculative fiction genre.

[Aparna Thaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Forecast" is a masterfully crafted supernatural thriller that brilliantly reimagines one of America's darkest days through a lens of hope and heroism. Ryan weaves an intricate tale centered on Roland Bishop, a weatherman whose life is forever changed when a lightning strike grants him extraordinary abilities - including devastating visions of future tragedies and the power to manipulate electricity itself.

The novel's greatest strength lies in its expertly balanced blend of intimate character development and pulse-pounding action. Through Roland's complex relationships with psychiatrist Dr. Penny Eggers, Detective Roxanne Byers, and his estranged wife Jenette, Ryan explores profound themes of identity, purpose, and the weight of foreknowledge. The author's decision to have Roland experience multiple timelines and even inhabit different identities adds fascinating layers of psychological complexity while raising thought-provoking questions about fate versus free will.

Ryan's prose crackles with energy, particularly during the novel's electrifying action sequences. His description of Roland's lightning-wielding confrontations with terrorists are cinematic in their intensity, while the quieter moments between characters feel authentic and emotionally resonant. The author demonstrates remarkable skill in maintaining narrative tension across multiple timeline shifts while keeping readers grounded through consistent character development.

What truly sets "Forecast" apart is its ambitious attempt to provide catharsis for historical trauma through speculative fiction. Rather than simply offering escapist fantasy, Ryan thoughtfully explores how the human spirit might triumph over hatred and violence when given extraordinary means to do so. The result is a deeply moving story about sacrifice, redemption, and the power of choice.

The novel's carefully constructed plot builds to a spectacular climax that satisfies both emotionally and narratively. Ryan's attention to detail in crafting the rules and limitations of Roland's abilities helps ground the supernatural elements in a framework that feels believable despite its fantastic nature.

"Forecast" is a remarkable achievement that manages to be both an engaging supernatural thriller and a poignant exploration of human nature in the face of inevitable tragedy. It's a must-read for fans of thoughtful speculative fiction that dares to imagine how history might be rewritten by ordinary people granted extraordinary powers.

[Lunatic Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lightning strikes twice in Aaron Ryan's spellbinding novel "Forecast," where destiny dances with electricity and time bends like light through storm clouds. Through the story of Roland Bishop, a weatherman touched by lightning's fierce kiss, Ryan weaves a tapestry of possibility where the boundaries between past and future shimmer like heat waves on summer pavement.

Like the weather itself, the narrative flows with natural grace between moments of devastating power and gentle clarity. We follow Roland as he navigates the turbulent waters of his newfound abilities - visions that pierce the veil of time, accompanied by nosebleeds and blazing light, and the raw power to channel lightning itself. Each flash of precognition carries the weight of lives that might be saved, each surge of electricity holds the promise of destiny rewritten.

Through the corridors of time, Roland's consciousness splits and reforms like storm clouds gathering and dispersing. He inhabits multiple identities - himself, Ethan Stiles, even his own enemy - while anchored by constants as simple as his cat Winston's collar and as complex as his growing connection with Detective Roxanne Byers. Their romance builds like distant thunder, growing from skepticism to trust to something electric and profound.

Ryan's prose crackles with energy, especially in moments where Roland unleashes his power. The air itself seems to hum with potential as blue light erupts from his being, and time itself bends to his will. Yet it's in the quiet moments - conversations with the sage Dr. Penny, intimate exchanges with Roxanne, silent struggles with identity - where the story's heart truly beats.

What emerges is a tale that transcends its supernatural elements to explore deeply human questions: Can we change what seems inevitable? Does foreknowledge bring power or paralysis? Where does destiny end and choice begin?

"Forecast" soars on wings of lightning toward its thunderous conclusion, where all timelines converge in a storm of possibility. It's a story that reminds us that sometimes the most powerful force isn't the lightning itself, but the human spirit that dares to harness it - to reach through time and space, to save lives, to change history, to keep hope alive when darkness threatens to descend.

[Readers' Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the quantum realm of possibility, where parallel timelines intersect and destiny's code can be rewritten, Aaron Ryan's "Forecast" emerges as a groundbreaking temporal thriller. Like a consciousness uploaded into multiple bodies, the novel's protagonist Roland Bishop experiences reality across divergent timelines after a mysterious lightning strike rewrites his neural pathways with precognitive abilities and bioelectric powers.

Ryan's narrative operates like a quantum computer processing multiple realities simultaneously. Through Roland's fractured existence - as himself, as Ethan Stiles, even inhabiting his adversary's consciousness - the story explores the butterfly effect of temporal manipulation. Each timeline shift generates new possibility waves, while Roland's desperate race to prevent tragedy creates interference patterns in the fabric of history itself.

The novel's character matrix is exquisitely coded. Roland's relationship with Detective Roxanne Byers evolves like an AI achieving consciousness - from binary opposition to complex emotional integration. Meanwhile, Dr. Penny Eggers serves as his anchor point in the temporal storm, her wisdom helping him navigate the dangerous waters of foreknowledge.

Ryan's prose generates high-voltage excitement during Roland's displays of bioelectric power, while maintaining precise calibration during intimate character moments. The description of Roland channeling lightning reads like advanced theoretical physics made manifest - raw energy controlled by human will and determination.

The story's temporal mechanics are elegantly designed. Rather than create paradox, each timeline shift builds toward a convergence point where all possibilities collapse into a single, crucial moment. Roland's consciousness exists in a superposition across multiple identities until the final quantum decoherence forces reality to choose its path.

"Forecast" ultimately transcends its sci-fi elements to probe the depths of human potential. It asks whether consciousness, armed with foreknowledge and extraordinary abilities, can override destiny's programming. The answer emerges through Roland's journey across time and identity - proving that even in a universe of infinite possibilities, the human spirit remains the most powerful force for change.

This is temporal manipulation fiction operating at peak efficiency - a must-read for anyone who's ever wondered if destiny's code can be rewritten by those brave enough to attempt it.

[Prakruti · Rating 5 out of 5]

In his riveting supernatural thriller "Forecast," Aaron Ryan masterfully explores the intersection of fate, free will, and the burden of foreknowledge through the compelling story of Roland Bishop, a weatherman whose encounter with lightning transforms him into something extraordinary.

Ryan demonstrates remarkable narrative control as he navigates multiple timelines and parallel identities. The novel's intricate plot structure serves both the story's suspense and its thematic resonance, raising profound questions about identity and destiny while maintaining a breakneck pace that keeps readers thoroughly engaged.

The character work here is exemplary. Roland's evolution from an ordinary weatherman to a reluctant hero with reality-altering abilities feels organic and earned. His relationships with the astute Detective Roxanne Byers and the enigmatic Dr. Penny Eggers provide emotional anchors throughout the story's reality-bending developments. Particularly fascinating is Ryan's decision to have Roland experience existence as multiple identities - including that of his adversary - which adds layers of psychological complexity to an already rich narrative.

The author's prose style shifts masterfully between moments of intense action and quiet character development. Descriptions of Roland's supernatural abilities crackle with energy, while intimate character moments resonate with authentic emotion. Ryan has a particular talent for making the impossible feel plausible through careful attention to detail and consistent internal logic.

What elevates "Forecast" above standard genre fare is its thoughtful exploration of responsibility and choice in the face of inevitable tragedy. Through Roland's struggle with his precognitive abilities, Ryan examines the psychological toll of foreknowledge and the complex moral calculations involved in attempting to change history.

The novel builds to a spectacular convergence of its multiple plot threads, delivering a conclusion that satisfies both emotionally and intellectually. Ryan's handling of the climactic sequences demonstrates his ability to maintain clarity and impact even as reality itself seems to fragment and reform.

"Forecast" stands as a remarkable achievement in speculative fiction, combining supernatural thrills with profound philosophical questions about the nature of destiny and the power of human choice. It's a compelling argument for Ryan's growing importance in the genre.

[Mae-Anne Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Forecast: A September 11th Historical Fiction" by Aaron Ryan is a gripping and heartfelt thriller that blends a fictional story with the real impact of the September 11th attacks. Ryan's writing is sharp and cinematic, capturing Roland Bishop's inner struggles with vivid, strong sentences that focus on character rather than exposition. The style beautifully balances Roland's meteorological expertise and his visions induced by lightning with intimate, relatable moments that make his fears and moral decisions feel authentic. The pacing is excellent: scenes rush by like approaching storm fronts, while quieter moments allow grief and doubt to settle, creating a natural rhythm that keeps you engaged without feeling rushed or sluggish. The butterfly effect concept is skillfully handled, with moral stakes that genuinely resonate. The relationship between the psychologist and his mentee adds a human touch to the speculative elements, grounding them in real psychology. Ryan's thoughtful plotting invites you to keep reading without using cheap tricks. Instead, choices and consequences build suspense and emotional depth. Reading "Forecast" is like standing in a rainstorm: cold, urgent, and invigorating. It made me reflect on how ordinary people face seemingly impossible questions. This book stirs your emotions, makes you think, and stays with you long after the story ends. It's a powerful read for individuals and book groups alike. This novel is brave, authentic, and profoundly necessary in today's world.

[Janine G · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Aaron Ryan’s latest book, everyman Roland Bishop weathers a near death experience lightning strike resulting in him acquiring time bending superpowers. Consequently, he is hounded by nosebleed inducing visions whenever he is near someone plotting future violence. Against the backdrop of the mass horror of September 11th, Ryan weaves a story of suspense and time travel. A casual encounter with a would be- 9/11 terrorist throws Roland into a physical and moral quandary. Forecast explores themes of identity, purpose and our collective responsibility to act. Additionally, Roland’s witty and ‘irretrievably British’ therapist, Dr Penny, aims to encourage him to seize the moment with all that he is before it’s too late. With thought-provoking sensitivity and humor Forecast offers thrilling suspense wrapped in our deepest yearnings that terrible wrongs be made right.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful

One thing that stands out in Forecast is how the author uses real historical events and combines them with speculative fiction. It’s clear Ryan put a lot of thought into the research, and the result is a story that feels authentic and chilling. The book also asks fascinating questions about destiny and the limits of human intervention. Can we change the future, or is it set in stone? The exploration of these ideas is both philosophical and thrilling.

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reality mixed with fiction

Aaron Ryan’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the chaos of trying to alter fate and the quiet moments of human vulnerability. This book is about exploring what it means to live with knowledge that most of us could never handle. If you’re a fan of stories that blend real-world events with speculative fiction and love a narrative that grips your heart and mind, Forecast is a must-read. It’s unforgettable, haunting, and brilliant.

[Maps R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forecast by Aaron Ryan is an emotional rollercoaster that had me hooked from start to finish. The premise alone is intriguing: a man who gains the ability to see the future after surviving a lightning strike, facing the ultimate moral dilemma of trying to prevent a disaster as monumental as 9/11. It’s a heart-pounding thriller and a deeply thoughtful story.

[Lauraforero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!


I loved this book. The writing is vivid, and Ryan does a fantastic job of weaving historical elements with science fiction. It’s not just a novel about time and power, it’s about the complexity of human choice

[Jeannine Dryden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, just like the rest, really hard to put down

[Ghulam Mustafa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forecast by Aaron Ryan is a brilliant mix of historical fiction and speculative sci-fi. Following Roland Bishop, a meteorologist burdened with glimpses of future disasters, the book weaves tension and moral complexity into an unforgettable narrative.

Ryan masterfully blends real-world events like 9/11 with thought-provoking themes of fate and responsibility. The storytelling is fast-paced yet introspective, pulling readers into Roland’s internal conflict and the enormous stakes of every decision he makes.

What truly shines is the novel’s balance of action and deep reflection. Whether you’re a fan of speculative fiction or historical reimaginings, this book will keep you hooked and leave you contemplating its themes long after the final page.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron Ryan’s Forecast presents a gripping and thought-provoking story centered on Roland Bishop, a 28-year-old meteorologist from Jersey whose life is irrevocably changed after surviving a lightning strike. The incident leaves him with an extraordinary ability: he can foresee catastrophic events before they unfold. However, these visions come with a chilling caveat; they only manifest in the presence of individuals on the brink of committing devastating acts, including terrorism. As Roland struggles to understand the implications of his newfound power, he faces an agonizing dilemma: should he intervene to prevent disaster, or does meddling in fate risk unleashing unintended consequences?

Ryan weaves a story that is as suspenseful as it is intellectually stimulating, tackling themes of fate, free will, and the harrowing burden of responsibility. The novel does not merely present a man with premonitions; it plunges the reader into his psychological torment, forcing them to consider the weight of knowing too much.

The writing is sharp, immersive, and relentless in its pacing. Ryan constructs a world brimming with moral ambiguity, capturing the essence of Roland’s internal conflict with a palpable sense of urgency. The premise itself is fascinating, one man burdened with the knowledge of looming tragedies, including events akin to 9/11. Yet, it is the execution that truly elevates the novel. Each vision Roland experiences intensifies the tension, and as he attempts to alter the future, the butterfly effect looms ominously in the background. The story constantly forces the reader to question: is intervention an act of heroism or hubris?

Beyond its riveting plot, Forecast excels in its thematic depth. The age-old struggle between fate and free will is explored with precision as Roland grapples with the unnerving possibility that his actions might be predetermined. Can he truly change the course of events, or is he merely a pawn in an unchangeable timeline? The novel does not offer easy answers, making Roland’s moral dilemmas all the more compelling. His internal turmoil is visceral, his fear and uncertainty radiating from the pages, drawing readers into his desperate attempts to navigate an impossible situation.

Ryan also succeeds in crafting a world that feels unpredictable and chaotic, mirroring the protagonist’s own unstable reality. The novel blends elements of thriller and psychological drama seamlessly, offering both high-stakes suspense and philosophical reflection. Readers are not only kept on edge by the tension-laden plot but are also invited to contemplate the ethics of intervention, the limits of human agency, and the price of knowledge.

Forecast is a riveting, intelligent, and emotionally charged thriller. For readers who appreciate high-concept suspense novels laced with deep ethical quandaries, Aaron Ryan delivers a story that is as exhilarating as it is thought-provoking.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Haunting Dance with Destiny and Time...

Aaron Ryan's "Forecast" masterfully tackles 9/11 through an innovative lens of precognition and moral complexity. Following Roland Bishop, a meteorologist granted the haunting ability to glimpse future catastrophes, the novel explores the weight of foreknowledge and responsibility. The supporting cast, particularly the enigmatic Dr. Penny, adds depth to this intelligent exploration of chaos theory and temporal causality.

"Forecast" is a thoughtful examination of fate and free will, elevating it beyond typical alternative history fare. Though the premise might evoke comparisons to other precognition thrillers, Ryan crafts something uniquely his own, building tension toward a finale that challenges readers' expectations while respecting its historical backdrop. The meticulously placed clues and examination of causality form an intriguing puzzle that excels as both a gripping thriller and a profound reflection on heroism. This skillfully constructed story is an intellectually stimulating read that resonates in the mind. Highly recommended.

[Shirley St. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forecast by Aaron Ryan is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that blends elements of speculative fiction with historical intrigue. The story follows a man struck by lightning who gains the ability to see the future, specifically foreseeing the tragedy of 9/11. Faced with the weight of this knowledge, he embarks on a desperate mission to prevent the devastating event, dealing with the authorities he encounters while his powers are displayed and the consequences of employing those powers ie., landing in jail, being investigated by the FBI, etc.

Ryan's exploration of fate, free will, and the consequences of altering history is both poignant and suspenseful. The novel's central premise raises important questions about destiny and whether one person's actions can truly change the course of history. Engaging and introspective, Forecast is a compelling read that will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered if they could change the future.

[Archie Breznikar · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOM! Amazing story. Read this a while back and forgot to leave a review. This is an AMAZING historical fiction work. Roland, Dr. Penny, Roxanne, the agents, everyone is working together - even a surprise character - in order to stop 9/11 before it even happens. It's a really intriguing take on historical fiction because it deals with something so traumatic. Nothing can ever be done, of course, to undo 9/11. That's a sad fact. But this novel delivers escapism of the highest magnitude and allows you to imagine a world where it just never happened. WE, of course, will never have the luxury of a world without 9/11. But Roland, knowing what he knew was going to happen, gets to enjoy it for us, knowing full well what calamity was averted. For that, I'm grateful. At least SOMEone gets to live that life.

[YellowBelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Was. Unbelievably. Cool. What a cool concept. I beta read this and had heard of the initial premise of it but the final act is unbelievable in its complexity and epic in its scope...it's nothing short of amazing! Roland, Byers, Renita, and especially Dr. Penny...such great characters! Dr. Penny deserves a book unto herself. This is a HUGE thriller and something that I think is going to really please lovers of historical fiction because it deals with such a sensitive topic. There are a ton of M. Night Shyamalan-esque Easter Eggs in each chapter that signify where it's going, helping the protagonist figure out what's actually happening. You have to look, but they're there. Brilliant! I could not recommend this book more highly: it was nothing short of amazing.

[Ashlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Forecast: A 9/11 Historical Fiction Novel" Aaron Ryan explores the concept of fate and free will through the eyes of Roland, who after a near-death experience gains the ability to foresee future. Set in the tense days around 9/11, the novel brilliantly blends suspense with historical events by presenting an imaginative attempt to alter the course of a tragic day.

The book masterfully intertwines real-life events with fictional elements by creating an alternate history that feels both plausible and captivating. For fans of historical fiction with a twist this novel offers a fresh perspective on a sensitive topic. It challenges readers to consider the power of foresight and the consequences of trying to change the past.

[Robin Knapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “Forecast”, Aaron Ryan explores the ripple effects of foresight and responsibility through the story of Roland Bishop, a meteorologist who develops a mysterious ability to speculate future tragedies after a lightning strike. I found Roland to be both relatable and burdened by these extraordinary challenges. What stood out for me was the intense interpretation of Roland’s inner turmoil and the way the butterfly effect is woven into the storyline. I found the pacing to be just about right as the stakes are consistently high, drawing readers into a story that is both speculative and grounded in the sobering realities of 9/11.

[Victoria Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting story that asks “What if?”

Once you get sucked into the world of Roland Bishop, its impossible to leave until you see this story through. An excellent blend of science fiction and historical fiction that is thrilling. Set around the event of 9/11, follow this wild journey with Roland as he learns to embrace a mysterious gift and work towards preventing tragedies. Every action he makes has the potential to change the course of history. Will he succeed? Or are some things inevitable? Feels like a superhero movie in the making that is sure to leave an impression.

[Steve Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entered cautiously and was pleasantly surprised at the result.
I approached this book with some hesitation, unsure how a fictional take on 9/11 would sit with me. I worried it might feel like an attempt to profit from tragedy. Instead, I was impressed by the author’s respectful handling of the events, weaving them into a brilliantly crafted story with a historical sci‑fi twist. It’s well written, thought‑provoking, and a true page‑turner. Highly recommended—and I’m eager to explore more of this author’s work.

[Aaron Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

9/11 remains very personal to me. This is the first time I've ever really intentionally given myself five stars on anything I've ever written, and utterly meant it. The truth of the matter is that...I. LOVED. THIS. JOURNEY. This book is deeply personal to me, and I know it resounds to personally and hits so close to home for so many because it IS so personal. I pray that this book stirs and compels, motivates and takes you on a thrill ride reading it as much as it did for me writing it.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forecast by Aaron Ryan is one of the most gripping and thought-provoking books I’ve read in a long time. It tackles the heavy subject of 9/11 in a way that feels both respectful and incredibly imaginative. Roland Bishop, the main character, is a 28-year-old meteorologist who gains the power to see the future after a bizarre lightning strike. This is where the novel shines: it takes a historical tragedy we all know and layers in a fascinating what-if scenario.

[Archie Breznikar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never read this one. This is so GOOD. Imagine it if it never happened. Roland Bshop is a great character with a lot of internal struggles and the messiness of life. But then this happens. What does he do? He has to figure it out. I love Roxanne's quippiness. And the part where he splits into three and it goes from first to third person and back to 1st again. WHOA. Great novel! Gave me chills and tears and I would defintely read again.

[Josh A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was reticent to plunge into this one and perhaps relive some of the trauma of that day. I mean, it's right there on the cover. Instead, what I found as I read through this was that it's very redemptive. I don't want to spoil it, but the main character takes us on an incredible journey through September 2001 in an effort to undo the horrible tragedy that took place in New York, Washington DC and Shanksville PA. There are also some VERY cool Easter Eggs hidden in each chapter that you have to look for but they are there, and they are amazing, and they are meaningful. It's a tremendous account of historical fiction, and a fantastic piece of work. Very easy read, to boot.

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron Ryan’s Forecast offers a "unique" perspective on the events leading up to 9/11, combining historical drama with a touch of the supernatural. Roland Bishop’s ability to see the future leads him into a gripping moral conflict that keeps readers invested as it makes you want to know more. The book is both suspenseful and reflective, making it a rollercoaster of a book narratively.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about this book was the way Aaron Ryan played with the butterfly effect. Every action Roland considers has potential consequences that spiral unpredictably. The suspense builds beautifully, and I found myself questioning what I would do in his place.

[Payal Sinha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book uses a momentous tragedy from the world history and recreates it showing how a man with unexpected superpower can alter the event. The story is compelling, shoveling the readers into alter timelines, while continuously springing new surprises.