Siege Of The Capital, the second Jake Katz novel, tracks Hamaas Abdul Khaalis’ takeover of the District Building, the Islamic Center, and the B’nai B’rith in Washington in March 1977, during which one person was killed, several others (including Marion Barry) were wounded, and more than 100 people were held hostage for 39 hours. Four years earlier, Black Muslims had slain seven members of Mr. Khaalis’ family, including three small children, at his home in Washington, D.C.
The novel is true to the facts of both cases. The fiction weaves Katz’ personal story – including his time on the MPD, his torrid relationship with a female colleague, and his own crisis deciding what he wants to do with the rest of his life – through the real 39 hours and their aftermath.
Dave Tevelin was an attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice and the first Executive Director of the State Justice Institute. He lives in Arlington, Virginia with his wife Sandy.
Sep 14, 2026 7:00 pm - Sep 15, 2026 4:00 am
