The Matt Hawkins' series revolves around a recurring theme--an inexplicable historical artifact whose discovery results in unforeseen and explosive present-day consequences. In contrast to other books of this genre which often feature outlandish cabals and extremely unlikely historical departures, Richardson's books spin plausible tales, both in the historic past and with respect to present-day political and financial maneuvering. Readers are reintroduced to famous historical figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Meriwether Lewis and Teddy Roosevelt--albeit through the lens of fiction. It is precisely this infusion of history (both faux and real) into the story lines that makes these tales unique. The end result is a series of smart thrillers that toggle seamlessly between past and present to keep the action moving and the reader engaged--and maybe even wondering 'did that really happen?' Richardson's voice is a welcome new addition to the historically-based thriller mystery genre...in the tradition of great storytellers like Dan Brown, Steve Berry and Ken Follett. Abolition of Evil: They are the richest family in America that nobody has ever heard of,with a net worth of over $100 billion. Their privately held company has secretly been shaping public opinion and influencing elections for decades--and eliminating politicians who stand in their way. They are finally on the verge of achieving their lifelong goal: a covert takeover of the United States government. But the potential revelation of a centuries-old family secret threatens to sabotage their subversive plans. Meanwhile, Matt Hawkins discovers lost field notes written by Meriwether Lewis during the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition. In them, Lewis claims a seemingly impossible discovery. Hawkins follows a trail of clues--from the Spanish conquistadors to a legendary tribe of invincible black Indians to the hallowed halls of Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. His pursuit of the truth leads him out of the past and headlong into the center of a modern-day political conspiracy--whose outcome just might determine the fate of America's democracy.