On November 14 at Bank Square Books, historian and novelist Brian Carso will talk about the true secret plot implemented by George Washington to capture Benedict Arnold following his treason at West Point. This little-known spy mission is explored in his new historical novel Gideon’s Revolution, which Robert Morgan (author of Gap Creek) describes as “a novel of espionage and thrilling action.”
Gideon’s Revolution is an American origin story based on actual historical events, an odyssey that reveals the profound human tensions between loyalty and betrayal, allegiance and treason, revenge and the possibility of forgiveness. Thomas Mallon (author of Henry and Clara) writes that “Gideon’s Revolution is a lean, remarkable piece of historical fiction, beautifully paced and always plausibly voiced.”
This presentation delves briefly into the life of Benedict Arnold and the circumstances of his betrayal at West Point, followed by an exploration of the known facts of Washington’s secret plot to capture Arnold. Interspersed with the historical narrative are readings from the corresponding parts of Gideon’s Revolution, demonstrating how, as the renowned novelist Hilary Mantel wrote, “if we want to imagine not just how the past was, but what it felt like, from the inside—we pick up a novel.” Given that Bank Square Books is located in Mystic, on the Connecticut coast, the readings will focus on Arnold’s 1781 attack on nearby New London and the battle at Fort Griswold.
Author Talk and Book Signing
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
6:00 P.M.
Bank Square Books
53 West Main Street Street
Mystic, Connecticut 06355
Free and Open to the Public
