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The Lincoln Conspiracy: A Novel
A nation shattered by its president’s murder
Two diaries that reveal the true scope of an American conspiracy
A detective determined to bring the truth to light, no matter what it costs him
From award-winning journalist Timothy L. O’Brien comes a gripping historical thriller that poses a provocative What if the plot to assassinate President Lincoln was wider and more sinister than we ever imagined?
In late spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of its leader, Washington, D.C., police detective Temple McFadden makes a startling discovery. Strapped to the body of a dead man at the B&O Railroad station are two diaries, two documents that together reveal the true depth of the Lincoln conspiracy. Securing the diaries will put Temple’s life in jeopardy—and will endanger the fragile peace of a nation still torn by war.
Temple’s quest to bring the conspirators to justice takes him on a perilous journey through the gaslit streets of the Civil War–era capital, into bawdy houses and back alleys where ruthless enemies await him in every shadowed corner. Aided by an underground network of friends—and by his wife, Fiona, a nurse who possesses a formidable arsenal of medicinal potions—Temple must stay one step ahead of Lafayette Baker, head of the Union Army’s spy service. Along the way, he’ll run from or rely on Edwin Stanton, Lincoln’s fearsome secretary of war; the legendary Scottish spymaster Allan Pinkerton; abolitionist Sojourner Truth; the photographer Alexander Gardner; and many others.
Bristling with twists and building to a climax that will leave readers gasping, The Lincoln Conspiracy offers a riveting new account of what truly motivated the assassination of one of America’s most beloved presidents—and who participated in the plot to derail the train of liberty that Lincoln set in motion.
Praise for The Lincoln Conspiracy
“History as a dangerous, inventive game . . . fascinating.”—Martin Cruz Smith
“A notable fiction debut with an appealing detective hero and plenty of action. It gets off to a fast start and never stops.”— Library Journal
“A historical puzzle as labyrinthine and grandiose as Scheherazade’s tales . . . As clever as Sherlock Holmes, as wily as Pendergast in Preston and Child’s series, and wickedly funny on top of it all, the irresistible McFadden is due to return in a sequel—thank goodness!”— Booklist (starred review)
“[A] fast-paced, well-conceived adventure . . . There is nothing more fun than losing oneself in O’Brien’s rich and riotous mixture of reimagination and fact.”—Historical Novels Review
“Gripping . . . The history and overall arc of the novel are superb . . . and Temple McFadden proves to be a worthwhile hero.”—Associated Press
Two diaries that reveal the true scope of an American conspiracy
A detective determined to bring the truth to light, no matter what it costs him
From award-winning journalist Timothy L. O’Brien comes a gripping historical thriller that poses a provocative What if the plot to assassinate President Lincoln was wider and more sinister than we ever imagined?
In late spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of its leader, Washington, D.C., police detective Temple McFadden makes a startling discovery. Strapped to the body of a dead man at the B&O Railroad station are two diaries, two documents that together reveal the true depth of the Lincoln conspiracy. Securing the diaries will put Temple’s life in jeopardy—and will endanger the fragile peace of a nation still torn by war.
Temple’s quest to bring the conspirators to justice takes him on a perilous journey through the gaslit streets of the Civil War–era capital, into bawdy houses and back alleys where ruthless enemies await him in every shadowed corner. Aided by an underground network of friends—and by his wife, Fiona, a nurse who possesses a formidable arsenal of medicinal potions—Temple must stay one step ahead of Lafayette Baker, head of the Union Army’s spy service. Along the way, he’ll run from or rely on Edwin Stanton, Lincoln’s fearsome secretary of war; the legendary Scottish spymaster Allan Pinkerton; abolitionist Sojourner Truth; the photographer Alexander Gardner; and many others.
Bristling with twists and building to a climax that will leave readers gasping, The Lincoln Conspiracy offers a riveting new account of what truly motivated the assassination of one of America’s most beloved presidents—and who participated in the plot to derail the train of liberty that Lincoln set in motion.
Praise for The Lincoln Conspiracy
“History as a dangerous, inventive game . . . fascinating.”—Martin Cruz Smith
“A notable fiction debut with an appealing detective hero and plenty of action. It gets off to a fast start and never stops.”— Library Journal
“A historical puzzle as labyrinthine and grandiose as Scheherazade’s tales . . . As clever as Sherlock Holmes, as wily as Pendergast in Preston and Child’s series, and wickedly funny on top of it all, the irresistible McFadden is due to return in a sequel—thank goodness!”— Booklist (starred review)
“[A] fast-paced, well-conceived adventure . . . There is nothing more fun than losing oneself in O’Brien’s rich and riotous mixture of reimagination and fact.”—Historical Novels Review
“Gripping . . . The history and overall arc of the novel are superb . . . and Temple McFadden proves to be a worthwhile hero.”—Associated Press
368 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2012
121 people are currently reading
1417 people want to read
About the author
Timothy L. O'Brien
4 books89 followersTim O'Brien's novel, "The Lincoln Conspiracy," is a historical thriller set in Washington and New York in the weeks following the Lincoln assassination. The first in a series of novels about the exploits of an Irish-American detective and his wife, "The Lincoln Conspiracy" is a gripping tale of intrigue, riddles, and murder and a riveting account of what motivated the assassination of one of America's most beloved presidents.
Tim is also the Executive Editor of The Huffington Post, where he edited the 2012 Pulitzer Prize-winning series about wounded war veterans, "Beyond the Battlefield." Previously, he was an editor and reporter at The New York Times. There, he helped to lead a team of Times reporters that was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize in Public Service in 2009 for coverage of the financial crisis.
Prior to becoming Sunday Business editor at The New York Times in 2006, Tim was a staff writer for the Times. Among the topics and people he has written about for the paper are Wall Street, Russia, Manhattan's art world, cybercrimes and identity theft, Warren Buffett, geopolitics, digital media, international finance, Hollywood, terrorism and terrorist financing, money laundering, gambling, and white-collar fraud. Tim was a member of a team of Times reporters that won a Loeb Award for Distinguished Business Journalism in 1999.
Before returning to the Times in 2003, Tim was the senior feature writer at Talk, a magazine founded by former New Yorker editor Tina Brown. Tim was with Talk from 2000 until it ceased publishing in 2002. Before joining Talk, Tim was a reporter with the Times and, prior to that, The Wall Street Journal.
O'Brien, a graduate of Georgetown University, holds three master's degrees -- in US History, Business and Journalism -- all from Columbia University. He lives in Montclair, New Jersey, with his wife and two children. Connect with Tim on Facebook , Twitter, LinkedIn , Pinterest , and Tumblr .
Tim is also the Executive Editor of The Huffington Post, where he edited the 2012 Pulitzer Prize-winning series about wounded war veterans, "Beyond the Battlefield." Previously, he was an editor and reporter at The New York Times. There, he helped to lead a team of Times reporters that was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize in Public Service in 2009 for coverage of the financial crisis.
Prior to becoming Sunday Business editor at The New York Times in 2006, Tim was a staff writer for the Times. Among the topics and people he has written about for the paper are Wall Street, Russia, Manhattan's art world, cybercrimes and identity theft, Warren Buffett, geopolitics, digital media, international finance, Hollywood, terrorism and terrorist financing, money laundering, gambling, and white-collar fraud. Tim was a member of a team of Times reporters that won a Loeb Award for Distinguished Business Journalism in 1999.
Before returning to the Times in 2003, Tim was the senior feature writer at Talk, a magazine founded by former New Yorker editor Tina Brown. Tim was with Talk from 2000 until it ceased publishing in 2002. Before joining Talk, Tim was a reporter with the Times and, prior to that, The Wall Street Journal.
O'Brien, a graduate of Georgetown University, holds three master's degrees -- in US History, Business and Journalism -- all from Columbia University. He lives in Montclair, New Jersey, with his wife and two children. Connect with Tim on Facebook , Twitter, LinkedIn , Pinterest , and Tumblr .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
August 7, 2012
Incredible, Amazing, Fantastic....just a few of the adjectives I can think of to describe this book by Timothy O'Brien.
Books about Lincoln invariably sell well. We, as a nation, have a strange fascination with President Lincoln. With his life, his presidency and especially with his death. This book takes place roughly one month after the assassination. It features a detective named Temple McFadden. An Irish immigrant who revered President Lincoln. Through unfortunate circumstances, Mr. McFadden ends up with two diaries in his possession. One belonging to Mary Todd Lincoln, and the other to John Wilkes Booth. Even immediately after Lincoln's death, there were conspiracy theories abound. Temple wants to get to the bottom of the assassination, but his own life is in danger. People are after him. People who have no qualms about killing. People who must protect their own interests, and fear the contents of the diaries becoming public.
The characters are flawed, funny, sarcastic and endearing. I found myself rooting for Temple and his cohorts during every altercation. I must admit, it is somewhat difficult to discern who is good and who is criminal.
I must confess, I have a soft spot for Mary Todd Lincoln. History has not been kind to her. Was she insane, or just a grief stricken woman? Was Robert Lincoln a cad for his treatment of her or just a son looking out for his mother?
This is a thought provoking novel. One that features interesting theories (remember, it is a work of fiction). You will be rocked by the ending, left begging for more. More about the characters, more about the theories, and most importantly, a desire to learn more about Lincoln.
Books about Lincoln invariably sell well. We, as a nation, have a strange fascination with President Lincoln. With his life, his presidency and especially with his death. This book takes place roughly one month after the assassination. It features a detective named Temple McFadden. An Irish immigrant who revered President Lincoln. Through unfortunate circumstances, Mr. McFadden ends up with two diaries in his possession. One belonging to Mary Todd Lincoln, and the other to John Wilkes Booth. Even immediately after Lincoln's death, there were conspiracy theories abound. Temple wants to get to the bottom of the assassination, but his own life is in danger. People are after him. People who have no qualms about killing. People who must protect their own interests, and fear the contents of the diaries becoming public.
The characters are flawed, funny, sarcastic and endearing. I found myself rooting for Temple and his cohorts during every altercation. I must admit, it is somewhat difficult to discern who is good and who is criminal.
I must confess, I have a soft spot for Mary Todd Lincoln. History has not been kind to her. Was she insane, or just a grief stricken woman? Was Robert Lincoln a cad for his treatment of her or just a son looking out for his mother?
This is a thought provoking novel. One that features interesting theories (remember, it is a work of fiction). You will be rocked by the ending, left begging for more. More about the characters, more about the theories, and most importantly, a desire to learn more about Lincoln.
September 16, 2012
"From award-winning journalist Timothy L. O’Brien comes a gripping historical thriller that poses a provocative question: What if the plot to assassinate President Lincoln was wider and more sinister than we ever imagined?
In late spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of its leader, Washington, D.C., police detective Temple McFadden makes a startling discovery. Strapped to the body of a dead man at the B&O Railroad station are two diaries, two documents that together reveal the true depth of the Lincoln conspiracy. Securing the diaries will put Temple’s life in jeopardy—and will endanger the fragile peace of a nation still torn by war."
From the above synopsis, one can gather that this most remarkable of novels is both historical and quite large in it's scope. Reading Tim O'Brien's take on one of history's most important and tragic events left me stunned- the plot-the story and characters were that good!
The mid- to late 19th Century atmosphere created by the magnificent pen of Mr. O'Brien is nothing short of breathtaking! Figures as diverse as Alan Pinkerton and Sojourna Truth come vividly to life in what must be called a work of literary fiction combined with thriller aspects.
As the reader tags along with Temple McFadden, the novel's lead protagonist, THE LINCOLN CONSPIRACY accomplishes all that truly great books strive for- to fully immerges the reader into the period of history covered- in other words- history comes alive- thanks to this most brilliant of writing styles and I highly recommend this book to both lovers of history as well as thrillers!
AN OFFICIAL JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB MUST READ
RICK FRIEDMAN
FOUNDER
THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
In late spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of its leader, Washington, D.C., police detective Temple McFadden makes a startling discovery. Strapped to the body of a dead man at the B&O Railroad station are two diaries, two documents that together reveal the true depth of the Lincoln conspiracy. Securing the diaries will put Temple’s life in jeopardy—and will endanger the fragile peace of a nation still torn by war."
From the above synopsis, one can gather that this most remarkable of novels is both historical and quite large in it's scope. Reading Tim O'Brien's take on one of history's most important and tragic events left me stunned- the plot-the story and characters were that good!
The mid- to late 19th Century atmosphere created by the magnificent pen of Mr. O'Brien is nothing short of breathtaking! Figures as diverse as Alan Pinkerton and Sojourna Truth come vividly to life in what must be called a work of literary fiction combined with thriller aspects.
As the reader tags along with Temple McFadden, the novel's lead protagonist, THE LINCOLN CONSPIRACY accomplishes all that truly great books strive for- to fully immerges the reader into the period of history covered- in other words- history comes alive- thanks to this most brilliant of writing styles and I highly recommend this book to both lovers of history as well as thrillers!
AN OFFICIAL JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB MUST READ
RICK FRIEDMAN
FOUNDER
THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
December 6, 2012
Giveaway! Ends Dec. 16th @ Let Them Read Books!
"I was tasked earlier in my life to keep order on the streets of San Francisco. Later on, keeping my identity cloaked in service of the Union, I tried to track Jefferson Davis himself in Richmond. And I spent twelve days chasing an enigma until my men corralled John Wilkes Booth in a burning barn. But goddammit, madam, I find your husband to be a unique and incalculable bother."
Thus is the description bestowed upon our hero in The Lincoln Conspiracy, Metropolitan Police Detective Temple McFadden, by his nemesis, the Secretary of War's watchdog, Lafayette Baker. After witnessing a murder in broad daylight and absconding with a parcel Baker is after, Temple embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth behind the assassination of his beloved President Lincoln. In possession of both Mrs. Lincoln's and John Wilkes Booth's diaries, and with the help of his smart and capable wife, his highly educated best friend, and a colorful cast of underworld criminals, Temple goes up against some very powerful men in his determination to bring all of Lincoln's killers to justice. He is a very unique and compelling character, and one I was drawn to right away, though he is not without his flaws: walking with a limp, having a penchant for cards, and possessing a real knack for finding trouble. But he is smart, street tough, and passionate, and the reader gets to see glimpses of the childhood and young adulthood that shaped him into what he is as he hunts for answers while trying to evade his enemies and protect his loved ones.
I'm going to skip a plot synopsis in an effort to preserve this mystery's suspense and simply tell you why I liked it. I stepped outside my normal reading habits with this historical thriller, and though it took me a little while to get used to O'Brien's writing style and the point of view changes, at some point along the way I got well and truly hooked, for I found I didn't want to put it down, and when I did, I kept thinking about getting back to it. The novel is richly atmospheric, creating a gritty and evocative setting in post-war D.C. (even if it does lean a bit toward over-description), and O'Brien has done a fabulous job of weaving some very famous historical figures into the story in interesting and believable ways. Sojourner Truth, Alexander Gardner, and Allan Pinkerton all have large roles to play in a mystery that holds no punches and keeps readers guessing until the very end, and then smacks them in the face with one heck of a surprise. While the conspiracy itself is speculation, O'Brien has not strayed far from the known facts of his famous characters, including the villainous Lafayette Baker and the suspect Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton.
I enjoyed this novel, and grew especially attached to Temple and his wife Fiona, who are both nuanced characters and perfect partners for a series of historical mysteries, of which, I am hoping, The Lincoln Conspiracy will prove to be only the first. There are a couple of loose ends and a few gaps in Temple's life story which give the reader hope for more. I'd recommend The Lincoln Conspiracy for any lover of thrillers, and for historical fiction readers looking for something a bit different, like getting down and dirty with a great cast of characters during a dark and troubled time in America's history.
"I was tasked earlier in my life to keep order on the streets of San Francisco. Later on, keeping my identity cloaked in service of the Union, I tried to track Jefferson Davis himself in Richmond. And I spent twelve days chasing an enigma until my men corralled John Wilkes Booth in a burning barn. But goddammit, madam, I find your husband to be a unique and incalculable bother."
Thus is the description bestowed upon our hero in The Lincoln Conspiracy, Metropolitan Police Detective Temple McFadden, by his nemesis, the Secretary of War's watchdog, Lafayette Baker. After witnessing a murder in broad daylight and absconding with a parcel Baker is after, Temple embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth behind the assassination of his beloved President Lincoln. In possession of both Mrs. Lincoln's and John Wilkes Booth's diaries, and with the help of his smart and capable wife, his highly educated best friend, and a colorful cast of underworld criminals, Temple goes up against some very powerful men in his determination to bring all of Lincoln's killers to justice. He is a very unique and compelling character, and one I was drawn to right away, though he is not without his flaws: walking with a limp, having a penchant for cards, and possessing a real knack for finding trouble. But he is smart, street tough, and passionate, and the reader gets to see glimpses of the childhood and young adulthood that shaped him into what he is as he hunts for answers while trying to evade his enemies and protect his loved ones.
I'm going to skip a plot synopsis in an effort to preserve this mystery's suspense and simply tell you why I liked it. I stepped outside my normal reading habits with this historical thriller, and though it took me a little while to get used to O'Brien's writing style and the point of view changes, at some point along the way I got well and truly hooked, for I found I didn't want to put it down, and when I did, I kept thinking about getting back to it. The novel is richly atmospheric, creating a gritty and evocative setting in post-war D.C. (even if it does lean a bit toward over-description), and O'Brien has done a fabulous job of weaving some very famous historical figures into the story in interesting and believable ways. Sojourner Truth, Alexander Gardner, and Allan Pinkerton all have large roles to play in a mystery that holds no punches and keeps readers guessing until the very end, and then smacks them in the face with one heck of a surprise. While the conspiracy itself is speculation, O'Brien has not strayed far from the known facts of his famous characters, including the villainous Lafayette Baker and the suspect Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton.
I enjoyed this novel, and grew especially attached to Temple and his wife Fiona, who are both nuanced characters and perfect partners for a series of historical mysteries, of which, I am hoping, The Lincoln Conspiracy will prove to be only the first. There are a couple of loose ends and a few gaps in Temple's life story which give the reader hope for more. I'd recommend The Lincoln Conspiracy for any lover of thrillers, and for historical fiction readers looking for something a bit different, like getting down and dirty with a great cast of characters during a dark and troubled time in America's history.
August 20, 2012
This is a very entertaining book that revolves around the appearance of two diaries soon after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. One diary belongs to Mary Lincoln, the President's widow. The other is an encoded diary that belonged to John Wilkes Booth, the man who murdered President Lincoln. Both diaries contain information which could reveal truths not only about Lincoln, but also about those who plotted to kill him. They have the potential to rewrite what we know about history. Washington Metropolitan Police Detective Temple McFadden inadvertently secures the diaries while interrupting a fight between two gangs of unknown thugs. It turns out that both are after the same prize, although they have very different reasons for wanting the diaries. Temple starts to decode the Booth diary. In order to stay one step ahead of the two factions vying for control of the diaries, Temple joined by his wife, Fiona, must enlist the help of various friends, many of whom are recognizable historical characters. There is plenty of action and great descriptions of Washington, D.C. in the aftermath of the Lincoln assassination. A very good summer read. The book was provided for review by Library Thing and the well read folks at Ballantine Books.
August 8, 2012
Potential readers may think this is another account of what took place when Lincoln was assassinated. This book is much more interesting than that. Imagine that you could rewrite a potential explanation that combined the clarity of fact with the excitement of fiction. This historical novel does just that. Through the eyes of fictional detective Temple McFadden, the reader learns of extra, fictional mysteries that occurred as Lincoln was assasinated. The diaries of both Mary Todd Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth surface. The thrill of learning what went through the minds of Lincoln and Booth is amazing. Imagine if theis diaries had really surfaced in the wake of this terrible crime! The crux of the murder may have been solved, and in great detail! This book is highly recommended.
August 23, 2012
This book was an interesting historical fiction read set in the aftermath of the Lincoln assassination. Two diaries are uncovered: one from Mary Todd Lincoln and the other from John Wilkes Boothe. The diaries present an interesting historical alternatives and make for an interesting read. I really enjoyed the characters of the fictional detective and his wife. They are lively, interesting and go against the grain of the times. It makes for a nice contrast to the unveiling mystery.
An enjoyable read for those who love mysteries and historical fiction.
Reader received a complimentary copy from Library Thing Early Reviewers program.
An enjoyable read for those who love mysteries and historical fiction.
Reader received a complimentary copy from Library Thing Early Reviewers program.
August 25, 2012
The Lincoln Conspiracy is a historical fiction which takes place soon after the assasination of Abraham Lincoln. After two dairies appear we follow Temple McFadden, a Washington D.C. police detective(or defective, as his wife puts it), must rush to decipher the conspiracy revealed in the two dairies. Timothy O'Brian did an excellent job of describing the time and place, putting the reader there. I could actually feel the pervailing attitudes of the era. An excellent job by O'Brian, and an excellent read. Recommended.
First Reads giveaway recipient.
First Reads giveaway recipient.
February 19, 2022
Would be so much better had the subsequent books in this “series” been written….
February 17, 2013
As many of you know I enjoy reading books about the United States Presidents and First Ladies, so when I saw the pitch for this one I was in. While Lincoln has been assassinated prior to the start of this book, we do get to interact with his wife, the widow Lincoln. We see her as a weeping widow, but I also felt that the author played into her “madness” a little excessively. We hear a lot about the late President through people who knew him well, such as Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton, and others who frequented the White House so that he became a well-rounded character, despite being deceased.
The catalyst throughout the novel is these two diaries (I won’t reveal whose). Everyone wants to get their hands on these diaries (that supposedly no one knows about) for different ends. One group wants to expose a conspiracy, one wants to hide a conspiracy, and others was personal gains. This is a very fast paced read where from the very beginning we don’t stop to breathe throughout. While there is character development, it is done on the run, so to speak. I found myself easily getting to know Fiona and Temple McFadden and truly feeling their anxiety, horror, excitement, fear. This is very much the story of the adventure – reminiscent of the film National Treasure the way one clue leads to the next – however everything fit into its historical context.
One of the things that I loved was that you get a lot of history in this adventure story. We get insights into the Civil War and people who were on different sides. The tone he sets for the city of Washington felt real and palpable. We learn a little about the use of photography during the Civil War. I especially liked the inclusion of real historical characters with the fictional – among others we are introduced to: Dorothea Dix, Edwin Stanton, Matthew Brady, the Lincoln family, Sojourner Truth, and Mary and John Surratt. These characters were seamlessly interwoven into the narrative fabric.
There were two things that I did have an issue with. The first was that there was a little bit of revisionist history or alternative history. While it ultimately resolved itself to protect the real historical outcome, the way the outcome was achieved was different. It will be something quite obvious to anyone that reads to book, even if you only have limited historical knowledge of the period. I can’t say what it is or I will give away a huge plot thread. This was jarring for me while reading because everything else thus far had felt very true to the historical narrative. I also felt that the ending wrapped up a little too quickly. As the pages were dwindling I was trying to figure out how all of the threads would be wrapped up in time. It felt slightly rushed.
However, it appears that the author is going to be writing a series of historical thrillers set within the years following Lincoln’s death. I hope that Fiona and Temple McFadden continue to be our protagonists as they were quite enjoyable. I hope that you read this book for the fun of the adventure and story. If you are looking for something deep and profound, this isn’t your book, but for adventure within a believable historical setting, this is it.
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
The catalyst throughout the novel is these two diaries (I won’t reveal whose). Everyone wants to get their hands on these diaries (that supposedly no one knows about) for different ends. One group wants to expose a conspiracy, one wants to hide a conspiracy, and others was personal gains. This is a very fast paced read where from the very beginning we don’t stop to breathe throughout. While there is character development, it is done on the run, so to speak. I found myself easily getting to know Fiona and Temple McFadden and truly feeling their anxiety, horror, excitement, fear. This is very much the story of the adventure – reminiscent of the film National Treasure the way one clue leads to the next – however everything fit into its historical context.
One of the things that I loved was that you get a lot of history in this adventure story. We get insights into the Civil War and people who were on different sides. The tone he sets for the city of Washington felt real and palpable. We learn a little about the use of photography during the Civil War. I especially liked the inclusion of real historical characters with the fictional – among others we are introduced to: Dorothea Dix, Edwin Stanton, Matthew Brady, the Lincoln family, Sojourner Truth, and Mary and John Surratt. These characters were seamlessly interwoven into the narrative fabric.
There were two things that I did have an issue with. The first was that there was a little bit of revisionist history or alternative history. While it ultimately resolved itself to protect the real historical outcome, the way the outcome was achieved was different. It will be something quite obvious to anyone that reads to book, even if you only have limited historical knowledge of the period. I can’t say what it is or I will give away a huge plot thread. This was jarring for me while reading because everything else thus far had felt very true to the historical narrative. I also felt that the ending wrapped up a little too quickly. As the pages were dwindling I was trying to figure out how all of the threads would be wrapped up in time. It felt slightly rushed.
However, it appears that the author is going to be writing a series of historical thrillers set within the years following Lincoln’s death. I hope that Fiona and Temple McFadden continue to be our protagonists as they were quite enjoyable. I hope that you read this book for the fun of the adventure and story. If you are looking for something deep and profound, this isn’t your book, but for adventure within a believable historical setting, this is it.
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
November 27, 2012
3.5 stars. Oh, President Lincoln is going to be a very popular subject for the near future, I can see. Between several books coming out about him recently and the Lincoln movie being in theaters now (I saw it this past weekend and it was very good), I think we're in for a very Lincoln filled 2013. No complaints here!
The death of Lincoln is still an event that captivates many minds both here in the United States as well as the rest of the world. The whole story takes place in the time period just after Lincoln's murder. The nation, having only recently signing a peace agreement between the North and the South after the Civil War, is absolutely shattered. Temple McFadden, a detective, finds two diaries that may hold the secrets to whether or not Lincoln's murder was something much larger, a conspiracy of sorts.
While I am not usually a mystery fan, I did enjoy this book, especially for the historical fiction part of it. This story is not necessarily new. While Temple is a fictional character, some believe that there really was just more than John Wilkes Booth involved in the killing of Lincoln even indirectly. Mary Surratt and Samuel Mudd are two names that come up a lot in these conspiracy theories. This book was definitely an interesting take on these theories. I loved the inclusion of a coded diary.
I also really liked the setting. I love books set in Washington. It's so cool to me to be able to look at a fictional view of my city. It was interesting how much of Temple's Washington was still familiar to me. I loved seeing 1860s Washington. You can tell that the author did a lot of research on what the city was like back then. The setting really made the book feel more real to me.
Some parts of the book were repetitive, especially when it came to the coded messages in the diaries. I wish that the book would have gone more in depth about coded messages in general rather than repeating what the messages said.
Bottom line: A good historical mystery with a great setting!
The death of Lincoln is still an event that captivates many minds both here in the United States as well as the rest of the world. The whole story takes place in the time period just after Lincoln's murder. The nation, having only recently signing a peace agreement between the North and the South after the Civil War, is absolutely shattered. Temple McFadden, a detective, finds two diaries that may hold the secrets to whether or not Lincoln's murder was something much larger, a conspiracy of sorts.
While I am not usually a mystery fan, I did enjoy this book, especially for the historical fiction part of it. This story is not necessarily new. While Temple is a fictional character, some believe that there really was just more than John Wilkes Booth involved in the killing of Lincoln even indirectly. Mary Surratt and Samuel Mudd are two names that come up a lot in these conspiracy theories. This book was definitely an interesting take on these theories. I loved the inclusion of a coded diary.
I also really liked the setting. I love books set in Washington. It's so cool to me to be able to look at a fictional view of my city. It was interesting how much of Temple's Washington was still familiar to me. I loved seeing 1860s Washington. You can tell that the author did a lot of research on what the city was like back then. The setting really made the book feel more real to me.
Some parts of the book were repetitive, especially when it came to the coded messages in the diaries. I wish that the book would have gone more in depth about coded messages in general rather than repeating what the messages said.
Bottom line: A good historical mystery with a great setting!
April 3, 2024
This is one of the many cases where I wish GoodReads had a half star option, in which case I would have given this book 2-1/2 stars. Since I'm a sucker for historical fiction, particularly when the setting is one I'm familiar with, especially when a fictional conspiracy is involved regarding events that really happened, I was quick to pick this book up. The Lincoln Conspiracy contains all of these elements, as it takes places in Washington DC shortly after the assassination of President Lincoln. John Wilkes Booth is the killer, but was he a lone zealot or acting on behalf of others? Timothy O'Brien asks these questions and makes up an answer for us. On the chase is a cop named Temple who walks with a limp that he turns to his advantage by making convenient use of his cane as a weapon on multiple occasions. Abe's wife Mary Todd has a cameo, and one of their sons plays a role in the plot as well. Sojourner Truth is also put to use. But celebrity cameos aside, The Lincoln Conspiracy is basically a cop story with horse chases in place of car chases. Temple finds himself thrust into the middle of a grand scale mystery and is determined to follow through to its resolution, no matter how much opposition is thrown at him. Will he get his man? What do you think? Since the official story we all know in 2013 is that Booth acted alone, presumably Temple is not able to prove and expose what he learns. This book makes for breezy reading that you'll zip through from beginning to end. Thanks to the well received movie, Lincoln is currently a hot topic and that has probably helped sales. I've read better in the genre. I've read worse. I'm feeling generous, and O'Brien did a pretty good job of visualizing the setting for readers, so I'll throw in the extra half star.
December 28, 2012
I'm giving this book a four star rating because I really loved the characters and I really loved the intricacies of the plot. This book was a well written masterpiece that drew you into the world of post Civil War America including continuing problems with the South and racial aggressions.
So where to start, where to start. I really loved Fiona, Temple's wife, she was everything that a woman wasn't supposed to be at that time, she was strong and an independent thinker. She went and got an education as well as a medical degree, and she used it when taking out the bad guys. More women like her would make the world a better place. She was a force to be reconed with in this book which was really inspiring because women during that time were not that brave.
I also liked Temple, our hero in this book who stuck his nose in the wrong business. I loved how even though he had a physical deformity, he didn't let that get him down or even slow him down. He used his cane like a weapon, and he kicked some serious ass.
A few things did slow me down while reading it, one of those was that randomly between paragraphs there would be lyrics or poems or prayers, I'm not entirely sure because it wasn't consistent and lacked an explanation. The other thing was that the book would randomly jump into someone else's thoughts like Fiona's. It would be done with no warning, and then it would end.
Otherwise, I adored this book, I loved how historically accurate it was. Not perfect, but they can't always be. I loved how they alluded to the missing pages in John Wilkes Booth's journal. You can learn more about how to win the book tomorrow!
So where to start, where to start. I really loved Fiona, Temple's wife, she was everything that a woman wasn't supposed to be at that time, she was strong and an independent thinker. She went and got an education as well as a medical degree, and she used it when taking out the bad guys. More women like her would make the world a better place. She was a force to be reconed with in this book which was really inspiring because women during that time were not that brave.
I also liked Temple, our hero in this book who stuck his nose in the wrong business. I loved how even though he had a physical deformity, he didn't let that get him down or even slow him down. He used his cane like a weapon, and he kicked some serious ass.
A few things did slow me down while reading it, one of those was that randomly between paragraphs there would be lyrics or poems or prayers, I'm not entirely sure because it wasn't consistent and lacked an explanation. The other thing was that the book would randomly jump into someone else's thoughts like Fiona's. It would be done with no warning, and then it would end.
Otherwise, I adored this book, I loved how historically accurate it was. Not perfect, but they can't always be. I loved how they alluded to the missing pages in John Wilkes Booth's journal. You can learn more about how to win the book tomorrow!
September 19, 2012
I won an advance copy of this one from goodreads first reads and it just came in the mail! Yay! I'm feeling so lucky I'm sure that Summer Reading Program Kindle Fire Prize is mine, all mine, surely they will call any day;-) Looking forward to this, wish I wasn't in the midst of moving so I could devour it immediately!
Alas, I did not win the Kindle fire at the library or the iPad at my agency's golf tournament. Sad. I did win a golf bag so my lucky streak continues but electronic delight eludes me. Sad.
I am also sad to report that since I read this in the middle of our move, which fell during the craziest days of that golf tournament preparation, that I only read this very good novel in bits and pieces and thus do not feel I can really do it justice in a review. I enjoyed this bit of historical fiction, it's about Honest Abe after all (well, only sorta, it's more the after bits), there was lots of action and some interesting conspiracy ideas, it was well researched and well written and I wish I could say more and be more specific but when you're putting in 11 and 14 hour days, coming home and unpacking and, yes, actually, I am insane, trying to home can peaches and pears and pickled peppers all at the same time, well, my reading was not as focused as I like it to be. Sad. And so sorry. I have guilt but thank you goodreads, I enjoyed and I recommend to fans of historical fiction, conspiracy theories, the Civil War and Abe Lincoln.
Alas, I did not win the Kindle fire at the library or the iPad at my agency's golf tournament. Sad. I did win a golf bag so my lucky streak continues but electronic delight eludes me. Sad.
I am also sad to report that since I read this in the middle of our move, which fell during the craziest days of that golf tournament preparation, that I only read this very good novel in bits and pieces and thus do not feel I can really do it justice in a review. I enjoyed this bit of historical fiction, it's about Honest Abe after all (well, only sorta, it's more the after bits), there was lots of action and some interesting conspiracy ideas, it was well researched and well written and I wish I could say more and be more specific but when you're putting in 11 and 14 hour days, coming home and unpacking and, yes, actually, I am insane, trying to home can peaches and pears and pickled peppers all at the same time, well, my reading was not as focused as I like it to be. Sad. And so sorry. I have guilt but thank you goodreads, I enjoyed and I recommend to fans of historical fiction, conspiracy theories, the Civil War and Abe Lincoln.
August 24, 2012
Note- I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book from the publisher.
This book was filled with a lot of action! I loved it! It was a great read and one of the things that I enjoyed the most while reading this book was the time setting of the story. I love historical fiction when it is written like this. The author really was descriptive in the surroundings that I could visualize the location of where everything was taking place. There was mystery throughout the whole story up until the very end I was kept on my toes with the suspense.
There was also some gore which I love, when corpses were described, or some of the shootings. One of the interesting historical facts that I read in the book was on the soldiers coming back from war & being addicted to Opium. It makes me more interested in that subject and I think I will read up more on that. As this isn’t the first time I have heard that as a fact.
My favorite character was Fiona. I found her to be a kick butt woman who stood her ground and backed up her man!
I highly recommend this book to readers who like action, mystery, suspense & historical fiction. The Lincoln Conspiracy has all of that wrapped up into one book. I do look forward to reading future books by this author.
This book was filled with a lot of action! I loved it! It was a great read and one of the things that I enjoyed the most while reading this book was the time setting of the story. I love historical fiction when it is written like this. The author really was descriptive in the surroundings that I could visualize the location of where everything was taking place. There was mystery throughout the whole story up until the very end I was kept on my toes with the suspense.
There was also some gore which I love, when corpses were described, or some of the shootings. One of the interesting historical facts that I read in the book was on the soldiers coming back from war & being addicted to Opium. It makes me more interested in that subject and I think I will read up more on that. As this isn’t the first time I have heard that as a fact.
My favorite character was Fiona. I found her to be a kick butt woman who stood her ground and backed up her man!
I highly recommend this book to readers who like action, mystery, suspense & historical fiction. The Lincoln Conspiracy has all of that wrapped up into one book. I do look forward to reading future books by this author.
May 27, 2015
Apparently JFK was not the first assassinated U.S. President that created a furor of suspicion that a more shrouded and clandestine conspiracy was probably involved. Many, as well, found it hard to believe that Abraham Lincoln's assassination could be so easily accomplished by a Confederate zealot who then handily escaped, even with a broken leg. Of course, we know that others were implicated and some of them were executed but they appeared to be less than capable conspirators in the successful murder of such a beloved and important figure. The smoothness and efficiency of the operation seemed to indicate that other more powerful and influential individuals were involved. When a D.C. policeman unexpectedly comes into possession of two important diaries that have sections written in code, his curiosity becomes a driving force that endangers his wife and his friends, in addition to himself. The policeman, Temple McFadden is a flawed but swashbuckling character but his wife Fiona can match him point for point and often surpass him, as he pursues the truth in this well researched and exciting adventure of post Civil War America.
December 14, 2016
Good escapist fare. What makes it a cut above is the wonderful sense of the time through the use of the patois of the times. A fun read that you're tempted to read out loud.
July 13, 2020
I was both looking at the book and listening at the same, both are excellent, i did feel he crowded in too many historical characters in order to give everyone their say. It wasnt the best but good.
April 18, 2018
I received this book free through Goodreads First Reads.
In the Spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of President Abraham Lincoln, a shocking discovery is made. Police detective Temple McFadden stumbles upon two diaries that together reveal the true story behind the Lincoln assassination.
With many people after the diaries, Temple's quest to bring the conspirators to justice endangers his life as well of the lives of his wife and friends. Temple's journey to the truth takes him through the Civil War-era capital district, into bawdy houses and back alleys where he struggles to remain one step ahead of the enemies that await him at every turn.
With an interesting and diverse cast of characters this story follows many twists toward a climax that may leave readers gasping.
The author did a fantastic job making his characters believable.
The story was well developed and I enjoyed reading it, although at times it did seem to drag a bit. Overall, this was a great story that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good conspiracy theory.
In the Spring of 1865, as America mourns the death of President Abraham Lincoln, a shocking discovery is made. Police detective Temple McFadden stumbles upon two diaries that together reveal the true story behind the Lincoln assassination.
With many people after the diaries, Temple's quest to bring the conspirators to justice endangers his life as well of the lives of his wife and friends. Temple's journey to the truth takes him through the Civil War-era capital district, into bawdy houses and back alleys where he struggles to remain one step ahead of the enemies that await him at every turn.
With an interesting and diverse cast of characters this story follows many twists toward a climax that may leave readers gasping.
The author did a fantastic job making his characters believable.
The story was well developed and I enjoyed reading it, although at times it did seem to drag a bit. Overall, this was a great story that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good conspiracy theory.
September 19, 2022
I'd like to give this book 2 1/2 stars, but that's not an option here. What does a rating of 2 stars say about a book? It says that I found it to be okay, but couldn't go quite so far as to say that I liked it, and that pretty much sums it up for me. O'Brien is a fine writer. He does well here in setting the reader in a place and time, with his descriptions of Civil War-era Washington and his characterizations of historical personalities. He's also adept in describing sequences of action. Where I think this book fails is in dialog. Somehow the interactions between the characters often don't ring true, and O'Brien's research sometimes bleeds a little too much into the characters' spoken words. There's also something of a lack of motivation and urgency in the actions that characters take, and the payoff at the end is a bit of a disappointment, ***possible spoiler alert*** especially as he seemed to be setting things up for a sequel.
June 17, 2020
The Lincoln Conspiracy examines one potential conspiracy theory surrounding the death of Abraham Lincoln. Many of the characters introduced in the book were actual people during that time period. I enjoyed researching which of them were authentic and how closely O’Brien mimicked their characters and accomplishments. From that standpoint, I enjoyed the novel.
In all honesty, I was disappointed in the telling of the story. In my opinion, the beginning of the story floundered in advancing the plot. I also thought Temple McFadden, the DC detective and protagonist, took on superhero attributes that allowed him to escape multiple physical traumas with his mental faculties still intact. For me, this lessened the believability of the novel.
In all honesty, I was disappointed in the telling of the story. In my opinion, the beginning of the story floundered in advancing the plot. I also thought Temple McFadden, the DC detective and protagonist, took on superhero attributes that allowed him to escape multiple physical traumas with his mental faculties still intact. For me, this lessened the believability of the novel.
May 3, 2022
For a book billed as an historical thriller, I found it very sluggish, not the fast pace I expected. Set right after Lincoln's assassination and involving intrigues surrounding two diaries containing information wanted by almost everyone, I found O'Brien's descriptions of Washington, D.C. fascinating, liked his inclusion of real figures like Edwin Stanton, Dorothea Dix, and Sojourner Truth among his cast of characters, but there was way too much violence, death, and destruction at every turn. Made Washington seem like its own battlefield with so many dead bodies killed in gruesome ways. And the story just dragged, took forever to reach its conclusion. Liked the rather surprise twist at the end, although it really was so late in the day that I no longer felt invested.
February 3, 2018
I tend to dislike historical fiction that changes the narrative around formative people or events, but I found this book to be a decent read regardless. It followed a detective in Washington, DC after Lincoln's assassination, as he tried to protect to diaries that revealed a new plot behind Lincoln's murder. It made for a great mystery read, but some of the fictionalized aspects made it so ridiculous that I didn't enjoy the conclusion.
August 13, 2019
Part Caleb Carr and part Jonathon Putnam in their creations of "period piece" mysteries...We have the protagonist, Irish immigrant NY/DC detective, digging deeply into the Lincoln assassination...He's seemed to discover that the assassination plot goes much deeper and is more sinister the the nation has been made to believe...Decent characters, plot twists and examinations of Irish immigrant history...Okay read!
July 22, 2020
This is a review for the audio version as narrated by Paul Boehmer. Without hesitation this was an entertaining spin on one of the most famous events in American history. I will not even divolge wether I believe in any of the numerous conspiracy theories developed over the 150 years of the assination of Lincoln but sometimes it is fun reading though. This was a thoughly riveting listen that for any historical fan will be enraptured to the end!
December 27, 2021
This book was just ok, and was not what I expected. I was involved enough to finish it, but it took me a long time because I kept expecting things to develop faster, and I found it somewhat confusing to keep track of the many characters involved. There was also some bad language at times. The last few chapters were much more interesting, but not enough to raise my opinion to a three star rating. I love reading about Lincoln and historical fiction in general, but I can’t recommend this one.
May 27, 2022
This was one of the best books I have ever read about Lincoln’s assassination. The characters were very well developed and the plot was fantastic. It’s so fast moving it almost takes one’s breath away. I could not put this book down. I highly recommend it for fans of historical fiction with a twist.
March 26, 2022
I am not usually a huge fan of Civil War era fiction, but this book held my interest and lead me down some Wikipedia trails as well. Well-written and smoothly paced. The plot is a little contrived, but what the heck. Still worth an evening's read.
January 4, 2026
I almost quit reading because of the narrators voice but I’m glad I forged on. His voice grew on me and I realized his talent.
I’m confused by this book, I wish to go back and relisten but doubt I will.
I’m confused by this book, I wish to go back and relisten but doubt I will.
May 13, 2017
A fabulous unpredictable pageturner not to be missed.
June 21, 2017
A Irish-American Washington, D.C. detective is put on the case to discover a plot behind the Lincoln assasination. A clever plot twist at the end.
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