The First Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington

Written by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch

Narrated by Scott Brick

This program includes a bonus conversation with the authors.

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 masterpiece, 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

• Language: English
• Publisher: Macmillan Audio
• Release date: Jan 8, 2019
• ISBN: 9781427299178

Brad Meltzer

Brad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod and twelve other bestselling thrillers. He also writes nonfiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series. Brad is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag with his show, Brad Meltzer’s Lost History.

Reviews for The First Conspiracy

[Jeanne Martin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book brought Washington to life, whereas other accounts of him seem like a cardboard cutout. The writing used engaging storytelling. I didn’t realize how split the loyalty to Britain and independence was. In many ways, our divisions persist.

[Bobby Oakes · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Very well written. Fantastic information and not dry. Some non-fiction books can be boring even with good subject matter. This isn’t one of the boring ones.

[gary robertson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I don’t usually read non-fiction but the title grabbed my interest. I was completely mesmerized with the way the story unfolded and how much I learned about the start of the revolution.

[Wanda Schaefer · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Fascinating story about an extraordinary man and a story that reads like a novel, but true and well-researched. I highly recommend that history buffs and mystery lovers get this book. Great narration, too!

[ajiD · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

This book is just ordinary. i'll try another book to read and check if its worth.

[star · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A dark history lesson about the birth of our nation - Brad Meltzer and Josh Menche investigate a centuries-old mystery that will change how you view the American Revolution. George Washington was, and still is, an inspiration for honor, modesty, and liberty. But before the real fighting began, a secret battle had already begun, and there was a target on his back.

[Patty Milner · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is an amazing telling of history in the form of a novel, so full of history and heart and raw beginnings and the part played by George Washington.