Two recent non-fiction books read more like spy thrillers. The First Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch and Code Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII's Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry Loftis bring to life the importance of counterintelligence during the Revolutionary War and World War II.  The First Conspiracy tells of a hidden event that took place during the most critical period of America’s birth. Written as a historical mystery, the plot exposes an attempt to assassinate General George Washington. The heart of the book takes place after Washington’s arrival at New York City in early 1776.  After having to flee to a British ship docked in New York’s harbor, New York's Loyalist governor William Tryon devises a treacherous plan to kill the U.S. commander.  He enlists the help of the city’s mayor, David Mathews, and some in the civilian population who...(Read Full Article)