Ratings9
Average rating3.3
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.
Reviews with the most likes.
2.5 Factually interesting but written a bit too dramatic for me.
At times it seems like there is too much extra information, which is typical of non-fiction books like this. Normally I like that, but I guess I am less interested in the Revolutionary War.
I do like the timeline of the book. It starts with Washington's commission and ends basically with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. I didn't realize there was so much happening before the Declaration of Independence. I'm glad I read it, but I probably won't be seeking out any more Revolutionary War books.
Series
1 released bookConspiracy is a 5-book series first released in 2019 with contributions by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch.