The First Conspiracy

By Brad Meltzer & Josh Mensch

The First Conspiracy - Brad Meltzer & Josh Mensch
  • Release Date: 2019-01-08
  • Genre: U.S. History
Score: 4
4
From 409 Ratings

Description

Taking place during the most critical period of our nation’s birth, The First Conspiracy tells a remarkable and previously untold piece of American history that not only reveals George Washington’s character, but also illuminates the origins of America’s counterintelligence movement that led to the modern day CIA.

In 1776, an elite group of soldiers were handpicked to serve as George Washington’s bodyguards. Washington trusted them; relied on them. But unbeknownst to Washington, some of them were part of a treasonous plan. In the months leading up to the Revolutionary War, these traitorous soldiers, along with the Governor of New York, William Tryon, and Mayor David Mathews, launched a deadly plot against the most important member of the military: George Washington himself.

This is the story of the secret plot and how it was revealed. It is a story of leaders, liars, counterfeiters, and jailhouse confessors. It also shows just how hard the battle was for George Washington and how close America was to losing the Revolutionary War.

In this historical page-turner, New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer teams up with American history writer and documentary television producer, Josh Mensch to unravel the shocking true story behind what has previously been a footnote in the pages of history. Drawing on extensive research, Meltzer and Mensch capture in riveting detail how George Washington not only defeated the most powerful military force in the world, but also uncovered the secret plot against him in the tumultuous days leading up to July 4, 1776.

Praise for The First Conspiracy:

"This is American history at its finest, a gripping story of spies, killers, counterfeiters, traitors and a mysterious prostitute who may or may not have even existed. Anyone with an interest in American history will love this book." —Douglas Preston, #1 bestselling author of The Lost City of the Monkey God

“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.” —former president George H.W. Bush

Reviews

  • Best true mystery

    5
    By S&JL Rogers
    This is an impactful and thrilling read. The authors bring to life a view of General George Washington, importantly his determination, that helped create the sense of what it means to be American. Lead by example. Like Julius Caesar, he was in the rain, cold, ice for the long duration of our Revolution. This book should be included in history classes throughout the 50 states.
  • Excellent Story Telling!

    5
    By supseasytotravel
    Excellent story telling! So many characters, but organized and placed well throughout the book! I was most amazed that all of this was put together from bits and pieces of documentation from different sources and was maticulously patched together in mystery novel format! Very much enjoyed! Page Turner.
  • A Powerful Afterthought in US History

    4
    By Small town mover
    For you American history buffs or speculators about conspiracies, this is an absorbing read for you. If this "first conspiracy " had succeeded, we may well not have the great nation our forebears were able to commit to creating in the sweeping Declaration of Independence.
  • First Read

    5
    By Maggellan
    I have not read the authors before and would like to say how nice it was to discover someone new with such depth of rhythm and precision in writing. This is a new story to me traces of which I have found nowhere else and I believe the research must have been very very time consuming. So thank you for all of that.
  • Fantastic

    5
    By Geo21463
    Like current detective stories but transports you back to 1776! Fantastic read!
  • First Rate Fun Read

    5
    By akarp
    Will the real Washington please stand up. I think they’ve captured an important piece of him here.