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 it 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 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.

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.

I 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 52stars. (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

I finished reading this on October 28, 2024.

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