Brad Meltzer: A Master of Historical Thrillers and Beyond

Brad Meltzer is a renowned American author celebrated for his gripping thrillers, insightful non-fiction, engaging children’s books, and influential contributions to the comic book world. His works often blend historical intrigue with contemporary themes, captivating readers across genres.

Do You Need to Read Brad Meltzer Books in Order?

For most of Brad Meltzer’s novels, you do not need to read them in order as they are standalone works. However, if you’re diving into the Culper Ring series, it is recommended to read the books in order to fully appreciate the development of characters and overarching plots.

Best Sellers

• The Tenth Justice (1997)
• The Book of Fate (2006)
• The Escape Artist (2018)
• The First Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington (2019)
• The Lincoln Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill America’s 16th President—and Why It Failed (2020)

Brad Meltzer Books in Order

Below is a chronological list of Brad Meltzer’s novels, including standalone titles and series:

1. The Tenth Justice (1997)
2. Dead Even (1998)
3. The First Counsel (2001)
4. The Millionaires (2002)
5. The Zero Game (2004)
6. The Book of Fate (2006)
7. The Inner Circle (2011) – Culper Ring Series 1
8. The Fifth Assassin (2013) – Culper Ring Series 2
9. The President’s Shadow (2015) – Culper Ring Series 3
10. The Escape Artist (2018)
11. The Lightning Rod (2022)

Suspenseful Novels

Meltzer’s novels are marked by intricate plots and compelling characters. Below are some of his most notable works:

• The Tenth Justice (1997): His debut novel introduces a young Supreme Court clerk caught in a dangerous web of deception and betrayal.
• The Inner Circle (2011): The first book in the Culper Ring series follows archivist Beecher White as he uncovers secrets connected to a covert spy ring from George Washington’s era.
• The Escape Artist (2018): This thriller features Nola Brown, a military artist-in-residence, who stumbles upon a deadly conspiracy.
• The Lightning Rod (2022): A sequel to The Escape Artist, this novel delves deeper into government secrets with Nola Brown as the protagonist.
• The Book of Fate (2006): A standalone novel intertwining a contemporary conspiracy with secrets from America’s founding days.

Historical Non-Fiction

Meltzer has co-authored several non-fiction books with Josh Mensch, shedding light on little-known conspiracies in American history:

• The First Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington (2019): A thrilling account of a plot against the first U.S. president.
• The Lincoln Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill America’s 16th President—and Why It Failed (2020): An exploration of a failed attempt to assassinate Abraham Lincoln.
• The Nazi Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill (2023): A riveting narrative about a WWII-era conspiracy targeting Allied leaders.

Children’s Books

Meltzer’s “Ordinary People Change the World” series is designed to inspire young readers by showcasing influential historical figures. Some standout titles include:

• I Am Abraham Lincoln (2014)
• I Am Amelia Earhart (2014)
• I Am Rosa Parks (2014)
• I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. (2016)

Each book highlights how anyone, regardless of their background, can make a difference.

Comic Books

In addition to novels and non-fiction, Meltzer has left a significant mark on the comic book industry:

• Identity Crisis (2004–2005): A seven-issue limited series for DC Comics that delves into the personal lives and vulnerabilities of superheroes.
• Justice League of America (2006–2007): Meltzer revitalized this iconic series with character-driven storytelling and intricate plots.

Why Brad Meltzer Stands Out

Meltzer’s ability to weave historical elements into modern narratives sets him apart in the literary world. His works resonate with readers of all ages, from those seeking heart-pounding thrillers to children looking for role models.

Complete List of Brad Meltzer Books

Novels

1. The Tenth Justice (1997)
2. Dead Even (1998)
3. The First Counsel (2001)
4. The Millionaires (2002)
5. The Zero Game (2004)
6. The Book of Fate (2006)
7. The Inner Circle (2011) – Culper Ring Series #1
8. The Fifth Assassin (2013) – Culper Ring Series #2
9. The President’s Shadow (2015) – Culper Ring Series #3
10. The Escape Artist (2018)
11. The Lightning Rod (2022)

Non-Fiction

• The First Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington (2019)
• The Lincoln Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill America’s 16th President—and Why It Failed (2020)
• The Nazi Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill (2023)

Children’s Books (“Ordinary People Change the World” Series)

• I Am Abraham Lincoln (2014)
• I Am Amelia Earhart (2014)
• I Am Rosa Parks (2014)
• I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. (2016)

Comics

• Identity Crisis (2004–2005)
• Justice League of America (2006–2007)

For more on Brad Meltzer and his works, visit his official website at bradmeltzer.com. Whether you’re a fan of suspense, history, or inspiring stories, his books are sure to leave a lasting impression.