THE FIRST CONSPIRACY: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington
by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch
(Non-Fiction; Flatiron Books, 432p) Order Here
The First Conspiracy tells the largely unknown story of a treasonous plot against George Washington in New York City during the first tumultuous year of the Revolutionary war.
Taking place against the backdrop of the nation’s birth, The First Conspiracy explores a remarkable and little-known piece of American history that not only illuminates George Washington’s character, but also reveals the origins of America’s counterintelligence movement that led to the modern day CIA.
Written with New York Times #1 Bestselling author Brad Meltzer, The First Conspiracy is deeply researched and rich in historical detail, but contains the intrigue and plot twists of a thriller.
Former president Bill Clinton calls The First Conspiracy “a great read” and “…an important book: a fascinating largely unknown chapter of our hazardous beginning.”
Early praise for the The First Conspiracy
“If you thought you knew everything about the American Revolution, here’s dispositive proof that you’ve been wrong. Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch have given us a powerful account of a conspiracy to assassinate George Washington on the eve of all-out war—a fascinating tale of spies and intrigue, of near-misses and what-ifs. Read it!”
—Jon Meacham, Pulitzer-Prize-winning author of American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House
“History and mystery combine in this taut true-life thriller. Meltzer and Mensch write a page-turner with rich characters and compelling details that just so happens to be part of the real story about George Washington and a conspiracy against him. A joy to read!”
―Jake Tapper, CNN Anchor and bestselling author of The Hellfire Club
“A wonderful book about leadership — and it shows why George Washington and his moral lessons are just as vital today. What a book. You’ll love it.”
—President George H.W. Bush
“A true mystery story that very few Americans know, written with a voice that beckons to be heard.”—Joseph Ellis, Pulitzer-Prize-winning author of Founding Brothers and His Excellency, George Washington
“Meltzer and Mensch relate a tale of spies and treason, conspiracy and counterintelligence at the start of the colonists' war against Britain.... A lively political thriller.”
―Kirkus Reviews
"This story of skullduggery, bribery, espionage, and treason sheds new light on the beginnings of the American Revolution. It also highlights the importance of intelligence and counterintelligence in waging war.”
―James M. McPherson, Pulitzer-Prize-winning author, Battle Cry of Freedom
"Readers who like their histories full of twists, turns, and cliff-hangers will enjoy this romp through the Revolution."
―Booklist
"This is American history at its finest, a gripping story of spies, killers, counterfeiters, traitors… Anyone with an interest in American history will love this book." ―Douglas Preston, #1 bestselling author of The Lost City of the Monkey God