The Incendiary: The Misadventures of John the Painter, First Modern Terrorist

The Incendiary: The Misadventures of John the Painter, First Modern Terrorist by Jessica Warner is a gripping work of historical nonfiction that explores the extraordinary true story of John the Painter, a troubled young Scot whose acts of arson during the American Revolution shocked Britain and earned him a place in history as one of the first modern terrorists.

Set in 1776 and 1777, this atmospheric account follows John’s journey through Europe, colonial America, and England as he wages a dangerous one-man campaign against the British Empire. Drawing fascinating parallels between the political fears of the eighteenth century and modern concerns about terrorism and national security, Warner combines rich historical detail with the pace of a thrilling adventure novel.

Filled with spies, political intrigue, sensational headlines, and dramatic courtroom pursuits, The Incendiary is a compelling read for fans of Revolutionary War history, true crime, and historical biography.

Hardcover, Very Good. Ex-Library book