A Third Term: A Novella

by Paul Greenberg

There is one last chance to save the democracy George Washington founded. That last chance is Washington himself.

It is 2028 and a certain president wants a third term. The Constitution shouldn’t allow it but the Supreme Court has found a workaround. The electoral system has been mangled. The media is a joke. Voters can barely be troubled to vote.

A Third Term is a speculative fiction by New York Times bestselling author Paul Greenberg in which a Democratic political operative snatches George Washington from his deathbed in 1799 and brings him to the present era. Riddled with pneumonia, possessing dentures fashioned from slave’s teeth, and an aristocratic sensibility tempered by war and religious faith, Washington will require considerable rehabilitation to pose a challenge to the man he only refers to as “The Tyrant.” But a wily, unorthodox campaign manager and a sexy, sympathetic personal trainer are up for the job.

“A Third Term is just the sweet, witty, fact-checked fairy-tale we need right now. Do yourself and your dreams a favor and read this at bedtime instead of scrolling the polls.”
--Sam Lipsyte, bestselling author of The Ask

"Save democracy! Start by reading this book."
--Gary Shteyngart, bestselling author of Our Country Friends

Genres: Politics, Fantasy, Humor

101 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 18, 2024

About the author

Paul Greenberg is the New York Times bestselling author of Four Fish, American Catch, The Omega Principle and Goodbye Phone, Hello World. A regular contributor to the Times and many other publications, Mr. Greenberg is the winner of a James Beard Award for Writing and Literature, a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation and the writer-in-residence at the Safina Center. He has been featured on Fresh Air with Terry Gross, TED and PBS's Frontline.

Reviews

[Libbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

What would happen if George Washington was revived from the dead to campaign against Trump for a 3rd term? A frankly terrifying question and idea that this book aims to answer.

I appreciate that this book refers to the antagonist as simply the "Tyrant" and does not give him the privilege of a name. It is a fitting title and I think having to read his name over and over again would have made this reading experience exponentially worse. However, his personality is certainly toned down a lot.

The sci-fi elements of this book are never really explained and requires suspension of disbelief. I found it morbidly fitting that the author decided that the republican equivalent of George Washington was Andrew Jackson. I'm glad it made the decision not to delve into that much more.

I also like and appreciated that the book does not idealise Washington. Rightfully calling him out for his beliefs and behaviours when alive, specifically towards slavery. It would have felt wrong if this wasn't addressed.

The book has it's highlights but it's too short to really delve into the premise in much depth. The ending felt quite rushed and abrupt. The side plot with Elise seems to come out of nowhere and was weird.

If you enjoy speculative fiction that maybe hits a little too close to home this could be for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and Ground Zero press for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Isla · Rating 3 out of 5]

'A Third Term' by Paul Greenberg is a humorous novella about a tyrant attempting to go for a third term as US president. The only person able to stop him? George Washington.

This novella is short and funny the author packs his punch through the prose of the characters. I picked this book up pre-election to read and unfortunately, after the results it seems that we could be closer to this reality than expected. I enjoyed that the 'how we got there' plots were ambiguous and that the novella didn't spend a long time delving into it. It left it open for interpretation.

Thank you to #netgalley for this ARC.

[Deborah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Disappointing read.

[Chhavi Gandhi · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ Rating: 4/5
📖 Genre: Political Satire, Speculative Fiction
📅 Publication Date: Available Now

🌟 Summary:
Paul Greenberg’s A Third Term is a sharp political satire that envisions a startling what-if scenario: What if a sitting U.S. president sought a third term, defying democratic norms? In an audacious response, a determined Democratic operative hatches an unconventional plan—bringing none other than George Washington from 1799 to the present day to challenge the incumbent, known only as "The Tyrant." What follows is an engaging and thought-provoking journey through history, politics, and media, as the first U.S. president navigates a country far removed from the one he helped build.

🖋️ My Thoughts:
✔ Intriguing Premise: The idea of reviving George Washington in modern America is both humorous and thought-provoking. Watching him grapple with contemporary political strategies, social issues, and media frenzy makes for an entertaining and satirical read.
✔ Sharp Political Commentary: Greenberg doesn’t hold back in his critique of modern democracy. The novel explores voter apathy, the influence of media, and the moral dilemmas surrounding power and governance.
✔ Balanced Tone: Despite its political themes, the book maintains a light-hearted yet insightful tone, making it accessible to a broad audience.

🔸 A Few Drawbacks:
▫ While "The Tyrant" is an intriguing figure, his character could have been more fleshed out for an even stronger satirical impact.
▫ The novella length leaves some themes underexplored, making it feel like a glimpse rather than a deep dive into its fascinating premise.

✨ Final Verdict:

A Third Term* is a witty, timely, and imaginative take on democracy, power, and history. It will appeal to readers who enjoy political satire with a clever twist. If you’re a fan of speculative fiction that makes you think while keeping you entertained, this one is worth picking up!
📌 Recommended For: Fans of political satire, history buffs with a sense of humor, and anyone intrigued by democracy’s evolving landscape.

[Kristen Post · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Paul Greenberg and The Ground Zero Press for selecting me for the Goodreads Giveaway and giving me this free novella in exchange for an honest review!

A Third Term was written toward the end of Trump's first term and has been released now that he's back and talking about "blowing through the constitutional stop sign on term limits" as Greenberg put it. It follows the efforts of Tonnely to restore the country to sanity by bringing George Washington back from the dead to run against Trump in his third election. Washington has critiques of modern politics and society and is reluctant to take on the burden of presidency yet again, but he agrees to help for the greater good and learns from his own shortcomings along the way.

This isn't a comedy, but the dry humor created through Washington's salty demeanor and some of the author's character descriptions is just enough to keep a heavy topic fairly light. The reactions of modern citizens to Washington's dentures, clothing, and sense of honor were also enjoyable. Washington's personal growth was inspiring, the manipulation of debates and media were hopefully thought-provoking for anyone not already analyzing how those forums are used to steer political opinion, and the last few scenes were quite satisfying. What I loved most, however, were the descriptions of and interactions with Washington's running mate. Greenberg portrayed her with intelligence, strength, and leadership without making her into the brusque caricature many authors fall back on. Her story line fills me with hope.

A Third Term isn't my usual genre (it sounds like it isn't Greenberg's usual genre, either), but I enjoyed it and will promote it among others who also need a little humor and a little hope right now.

[Mr. Book · Rating 2 out of 5]

You can also see this review, along with others I have written, at my blog, Mr. Book's Book Reviews.

Thank you, Ground Zero Press, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Mr. Book just finished A Third Term: A Novella, by Paul Greenberg.

Mr. Book doesn’t usually review fiction books, but decided to take a chance on this one. It’s about “Tyrant” who decides he is going to run for a third term, so the opposition brings back George Washington. It was billed as a satire, so I decided to take a chance on it.

The idea of Trump staying in office beyond two terms is an extremely credible premise. But, while “Tyrant” is presumably based on Trump, the character is too toned down in order to serve as a reputable representation of him.

The idea of Washington being brought back requires suspension of disbelieve, but on the other hand, everything that has been going on in this country in the past decade is stranger than fiction.

This book has some highlights, but not enough. Instead, it stands as a reminder that fiction does not compare to the real world.

I give this book a C. Goodreads and NetGalley require grades on a 1-5 star system. In my personal conversion system, a C equates to 2 stars. (A or A+: 5 stars, B+: 4 stars, B: 3 stars, C: 2 stars, D or F: 1 star).

This review has been posted at NetGalley, Goodreads and my blog, Mr. Book’s Book Reviews

Mr. Book finished reading this on October 28, 2024.

[Oliver Snowden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Paul Greenberg's A Third Term takes a satirical dive into the complexities of U.S. politics, weaving humour and a touch of caution for those still undecided in the upcoming elections. The book’s central figure—a tyrant who seems uncannily reminiscent of a certain popular candidate—feels both disturbingly familiar and more grounded than we might like. Through this character’s critiques of Washington, Greenberg explores how valid frustrations can arise from unexpected sources, highlighting that even our most celebrated historical figures were ultimately products of their time, with flaws and secrets like anyone else.

Though I come to this as a proud Englishman with only a casual interest in the spectacle of American politics, I found the book thoroughly enjoyable. The “man out of his time” premise adds depth, while Greenberg’s political insights provide a sharp layer of satire. Overall, it’s a quick, entertaining read that pairs well with the ever-evolving narrative of modern American politics.

Thank you The Ground Zero Press for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Startling, bold, and satirically cringeworthy, A Third Term takes aim at a certain President Elect, referring to him only as The Tyrant. The antiquated American system of electoral votes are part of a dirty deal to favor a constitutionally forbidden third term for the Tyrant. Subsequently George Washington is taken from his deathbed and carried through time and space to the USA at the onset of the 2028 election proceedings. What ensues is an often amusing, sometimes concerning and always tongue in cheek peek into a future America where only the Father of Our Country can beat a reprehensible Tyrant who would be king. Washington is portrayed as a far from perfect human being elevated by his true gift of courage

If you can suspend your belief in what is scientifically possible and are horrified by the possibilities of the USA’s political future, you’ll appreciate the thought provoking witty novella that says a lot in only about 100 pages. Four stars for a book I read in one sitting give or take a few breaks.

Thank you NetGalley and The Ground Zero Press for an ARC in exchange for my honest review. It’s available right now! Go get it!

[Joanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is a speculative fiction novella with a premise as bold as it is unusual: George Washington is resurrected to run as the Democratic Party’s candidate in the 2028 presidential race. This setup might suggest a unifying vision, and although humorous, the story quickly reveals deeper layers, with Washington's opponent, ominously referred to as "the tyrant," who is unmistakably modeled on Donald Trump. The title’s “third term” raises questions—does it refer to Washington's return to politics, or to a continuation of Trump's influence?

The novella doesn’t shy away from Washington’s brutal legacy with slavery, but it takes a critical tone that casts Trump’s past as even more problematic. This uneven scrutiny might feel biased to some, but it creates a vivid narrative that entertains as much as it provokes. Though it leans strongly left, it offers a fresh take on the age-old question of who —dead or alive— should be in the Oval Office.

It’d be cool to see this same story with a resurrected Alexander Hamilton, as that was toyed with a bit here.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Third Term by Paul Greenberg is a speculative fiction novella set in 2028. A Democratic political operative transports George Washington from his deathbed to challenge The Tyrant who is seeking a third presidential term.

This was a fun, quick, and engaging read that you can finish in one sitting.

Thank you to The Ground Zero Press for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed

I have very mixed feelings about this book. I suspect my opinion is especially colored by the fact that Greenberg has erroneously assessed The Tyrant to be the wrong party altogether. The premise that we could bring a previous leader back from the dead is intriguing, but at the same time terrifying. Still an interesting, short read.

[Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always enjoyed Greenberg’s nonfiction forays, so I decided to give his new work of fiction a go. It is a wicked satire directed at the very imperfect U.S. presidential election process. Perfect timing! Not only is A Third Term hysterical, but Greenberg manages to sneak in some wise insight into what ails our current political climate. Highly recommended!

[Stuart · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Third Term is more of a pamphlet than a book. It is a very short fantasy about George Washington appearing in the present to set Trump straight. George’s manners come out of the 16th century. He likes modern dentistry and has to deal with modern people as a slave owner. I can’t imagine him so easily joining the Democratic Party. This is an amusing political cartoon.

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a satirical story about the 2028 election. The Democrats are in disarray and have no clear opponent to the "Tyrant". This causes some in the Democratic Party to bring George Washington back to life. This story shows the differences between when our Republic was established and current times. This is eye-opening.

[Randi Hochman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not great literature, but an interesting “what if” story that has the current president up against George Washington for 3rd terms. The use of uppercase letters seems to enhance the story as does the name The Tyrant for the current president and The Network for Fox News. If you have Kindle Unlimited I’d give it a read…not sure I would have been happy paying separately for it though.

[Chel · Rating 3 out of 5]

#GoodreadsGiveaway

A witty quick read. I liked it but 2 things bothered me. Why does Washington stay so quiet during the debates? Was there no other way for the story to go; did it have to devolve into threatened violence?

[Joanne T S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witty thoughtful read

i enjoyed the premise of this novella. It made me do some thinking about what might occur in 2028. Is a third term even possible? I pray not! The depiction of Washington in all of his humanness was well done. A good read.

[Sue Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent

If only this could happen! I’m sure George Washington would be appalled with Trump & his blind & deaf followers.

[Bg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kinda implausible, but a fun read that gave me a little more hope for the upcoming election.

[Sarahschenckfilms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul Greenberg’s writing makes you laugh and makes you think in new ways about old dilemmas. Buy it now as a little indulgence and as a celebration of democracy and freedom of speech. Funny!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

A creative plot and an interesting thought exercise.

[Kristen Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun story.

[Lenora C. Metting · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, so very TRUE. We are living it now. A MUST READ!!!!

[Melony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Goodreads giveaway win.
Fun short book. I enjoyed it