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Rick Carter #1
The Recruiter: A Rick Carter Novel
An action-packed debut from Gregg Podolski, The Recruiter is a thrilling and unique adventure through the European underworld.
When bad guys need good help, they call Rick Carter.
He’s a criminal recruiter, searching for contract killers, cyber hackers, gun smugglers, and any other assorted villains-for-hire a European crime boss might need. But, when the family he left behind in New Jersey is caught up in a client’s plot to monopolize the black market, Rick has to save them from two of his own top deadly assassins known only as Ghost and The Persian.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right.
When bad guys need good help, they call Rick Carter.
He’s a criminal recruiter, searching for contract killers, cyber hackers, gun smugglers, and any other assorted villains-for-hire a European crime boss might need. But, when the family he left behind in New Jersey is caught up in a client’s plot to monopolize the black market, Rick has to save them from two of his own top deadly assassins known only as Ghost and The Persian.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right.
352 pages, Paperback
Published July 23, 2024
26 people are currently reading
8496 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Podolski
2 books41 followersGregg Podolski lives in New Jersey with his wife and two children. When not writing, he works as an executive recruiter for a family-owned staffing firm. He loves Philly sports, the Jersey Shore, and is one of the last people on the planet who still buys CDs. The Recruiter is his first novel. If you don’t like it, that’s cool. Just lie and say you do. Seriously, it will be our little secret.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 7, 2024
What starts as a comedic action romp becomes unexpectedly emotional in this debut novel. Rick Carter makes for an engaging, reluctant hero reminiscent of the best 90s movie stars; think John McClane if he worked on the other side of the law.
The dialogue rips, the plot hustles, and Carter’s world expands. I enjoyed the hell out of this one, and am already waiting Podolski’s next effort.
The dialogue rips, the plot hustles, and Carter’s world expands. I enjoyed the hell out of this one, and am already waiting Podolski’s next effort.
July 31, 2024
DEBUT AUTHOR
Creative story.
Fun.
I’d call this a good thriller-comedy.
I recommend it!
Creative story.
Fun.
I’d call this a good thriller-comedy.
I recommend it!
January 31, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
It was enjoyable and entertaining and action packed. I just know I won't remember it.
It was enjoyable and entertaining and action packed. I just know I won't remember it.
December 9, 2024
Gregg Podolski's debut novel, "The Recruiter," is a high-octane thriller that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the European underworld. The story follows Rick Carter, a former corporate recruiter who has turned his skills to a more dangerous profession — recruiting criminals, including hitmen and hackers, for high-paying clients.
The plot kicks off when Rick's latest job hits too close to home, forcing him to protect his family from a powerful group that is closing in on him. Jamie Renell's expert narration brings the story to life, with his ability to create a multitude of distinct voices for the diverse cast of characters. From a German woman with a thick accent to a British woman with an upper-crust tone, Renell's performance enhances the immersive experience.
Podolski's writing is sharp and well-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The action scenes are intense and well-executed, while the espionage elements add a layer of intrigue and suspense. Rick Carter is a compelling antihero, a tough guy with a sense of morality who finds himself in increasingly dangerous situations.
One of the standout aspects of the audiobook is the character development. Rick Carter is a complex character, and Podolski does an excellent job of exploring his motivations and inner conflicts. The supporting characters are also well-drawn, each adding depth and nuance to the story.
The audiobook is a winner of the AudioFile Earphones Award, a testament to its high-quality production and engaging storytelling. The cliffhanger ending leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
"The Recruiter" is a gripping and entertaining debut that showcases Gregg Podolski's talent for crafting thrilling narratives. Jamie Renell's narration elevates the experience, making it a must-listen for fans of mystery, espionage, and action-packed thrillers.
The plot kicks off when Rick's latest job hits too close to home, forcing him to protect his family from a powerful group that is closing in on him. Jamie Renell's expert narration brings the story to life, with his ability to create a multitude of distinct voices for the diverse cast of characters. From a German woman with a thick accent to a British woman with an upper-crust tone, Renell's performance enhances the immersive experience.
Podolski's writing is sharp and well-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The action scenes are intense and well-executed, while the espionage elements add a layer of intrigue and suspense. Rick Carter is a compelling antihero, a tough guy with a sense of morality who finds himself in increasingly dangerous situations.
One of the standout aspects of the audiobook is the character development. Rick Carter is a complex character, and Podolski does an excellent job of exploring his motivations and inner conflicts. The supporting characters are also well-drawn, each adding depth and nuance to the story.
The audiobook is a winner of the AudioFile Earphones Award, a testament to its high-quality production and engaging storytelling. The cliffhanger ending leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
"The Recruiter" is a gripping and entertaining debut that showcases Gregg Podolski's talent for crafting thrilling narratives. Jamie Renell's narration elevates the experience, making it a must-listen for fans of mystery, espionage, and action-packed thrillers.
June 22, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to preview The Recruiter. This may be one of my favorite books of the year. A great debut novel that is very different, great characters, loads of twists and turns.
Starts with a bang and ends with the hope of a sequel.
Rick Carter is a recruiter and a specialist in the field of finding contract killers. He’s the best in the world of finding freelance hit man or hit women. If someone needs to be killed, Rick Carter has a network of “experts” who can do the job.
But being in this business gets him in a bad situation because Ricks next contract won’t be voluntary and as a matter of fact he doesn’t have a choice. The people who need his services will take what means the most to Rick - his family.
This was a roller coaster of emotions for me as a reader. I don’t want to give up too much more and spoil this story but for those who love a good thriller, this is a great read.
Recommend with 5 stars!!!!!
Starts with a bang and ends with the hope of a sequel.
Rick Carter is a recruiter and a specialist in the field of finding contract killers. He’s the best in the world of finding freelance hit man or hit women. If someone needs to be killed, Rick Carter has a network of “experts” who can do the job.
But being in this business gets him in a bad situation because Ricks next contract won’t be voluntary and as a matter of fact he doesn’t have a choice. The people who need his services will take what means the most to Rick - his family.
This was a roller coaster of emotions for me as a reader. I don’t want to give up too much more and spoil this story but for those who love a good thriller, this is a great read.
Recommend with 5 stars!!!!!
May 9, 2024
Deadpool jokes and sarcasm meets John Wick action and a Hitman storyline in Podolski’s debut. This one was fun, funny, and a good time. Podolski is a talented writer with a witty sense of humor and excellent with his action and suspense. Loved this one and can’t wait for the next.
May 5, 2024
Great twists and double crosses. Can't wait for the next one!
October 6, 2024
Gregg Podolski's The Recruiter presents a specialized head hunter and the unique problems he encounters in his profession. Rick Carter is a recruiter- like an executive head hunter, but he recruits contract killers. He provides a unique service for mostly European multi-national businesses with mob connections and a need to eliminate people who pose barriers to their businesses. Some of the targets are in law enforcement- others are just powerful competitors. The contract killers earn extremely lucrative fees and Rick receives large commissions. Expect a lot of violence and killing. but no children or pets die. Somehow the action gets so extreme that it rates as entertainment. It almost becomes a form of humor. I've previously stopped reading other books with a similar violence quotient, but not this one. Perhaps Rick's back story made the difference. He was an executive recruiter when the economy tanked, he wanted to keep his family safe so he deserted them, changed his name, and moved to Europe to start his new business. Times of quiet desperation lead to unexpected actions.
August 14, 2024
The beginning of a book might be the most important part. The Recruiter starts off with a bang, as we follow Rick Carter, a recruiter who connects assassins and other in-demand specialists with well-funded criminals who have a need for specific experts. Rick is immediately shoved into action when a new client sends thugs/crooked Interpol agents to collect him and whisk him off on a private jet for a secret meeting.
Rick is resistant to this new aggressive client, because she wants him to hire assassins to eliminate a group of law-enforcers, including FBI agents. We learn that Rick has enough ethical foundation to refuse to help kill police. The new client convinces Rick to play ball in a violent fashion, and we’re off to the races.
From the beginning, our hero is a smartass with a quick tongue. This sort of banter, trying hard to be obnoxious and funny, is difficult to do. Robert Crais does it well, as did Robert B. Parker. I’ve read many writers who tried and just came off as irritating. Fortunately, Podolski does a pretty good job. Even better, he knows when to lighten up on the wisecracks. A few chapters in, we get to see more of Rick’s true nature and discover the heartbreak at the center of his life; the fact that he abandoned his family in a misguided attempt to insulate them from his dangerous life of crime.
A handful of other wonderful characters show up, including assassins named “The Ghost” and “The Persian,” as well as several other assassins who make up Rick’s stable of talent. With a couple in tow, he flies from Europe to Philadelphia when he discovers that his family is in danger.
The negativity behind Rick’s abandonment of his family, and the hole it leaves in his life threaten to sink this story in a pit of despair, but Podolski keeps us following along with hopes that Rick will somehow not only save his family, but make everything all right.
The build-up and the climax are great, full of action and suspense. But the ending is the high point of this book for me. The very ending is one of the best I’ve read in years. It provides everything I want from a denouement, especially in a series book. It gives hope, fun, mystery, and a promise of even bigger things to come in the next book.
Take home: I’m recruiting everyone to read this book. You won’t regret it. 5/5
Read more reviews at www.jasonswink.com
Rick is resistant to this new aggressive client, because she wants him to hire assassins to eliminate a group of law-enforcers, including FBI agents. We learn that Rick has enough ethical foundation to refuse to help kill police. The new client convinces Rick to play ball in a violent fashion, and we’re off to the races.
From the beginning, our hero is a smartass with a quick tongue. This sort of banter, trying hard to be obnoxious and funny, is difficult to do. Robert Crais does it well, as did Robert B. Parker. I’ve read many writers who tried and just came off as irritating. Fortunately, Podolski does a pretty good job. Even better, he knows when to lighten up on the wisecracks. A few chapters in, we get to see more of Rick’s true nature and discover the heartbreak at the center of his life; the fact that he abandoned his family in a misguided attempt to insulate them from his dangerous life of crime.
A handful of other wonderful characters show up, including assassins named “The Ghost” and “The Persian,” as well as several other assassins who make up Rick’s stable of talent. With a couple in tow, he flies from Europe to Philadelphia when he discovers that his family is in danger.
The negativity behind Rick’s abandonment of his family, and the hole it leaves in his life threaten to sink this story in a pit of despair, but Podolski keeps us following along with hopes that Rick will somehow not only save his family, but make everything all right.
The build-up and the climax are great, full of action and suspense. But the ending is the high point of this book for me. The very ending is one of the best I’ve read in years. It provides everything I want from a denouement, especially in a series book. It gives hope, fun, mystery, and a promise of even bigger things to come in the next book.
Take home: I’m recruiting everyone to read this book. You won’t regret it. 5/5
Read more reviews at www.jasonswink.com
September 12, 2024
From the first page, I was engaged with the main CH, Rick Carter, even though it was obvious that he was someone who recruited cold-blooded assassins for hire. Podolski immediately underscores his humanity and continues to do so even with all of Rick’s many flaws, as he expertly employs the URN (Unreliable Narrator). This has an action-fueled Pace and Plot, intermittent seat-of-your pants suspense mixed with shorter moments of reflection and combines witty, snarky dialogue well with integrated information about weapons, tactics, travel details, and everyday needs well. I rooted for Rick and immediately found the cold and calculating Liz and her reprehensible organization the adversary the book needs to keep you in Rick’s corner. The other CHs play out well from Erica, one of Rick’s recruitments, to others you need to discover on your own along with the plot in order to enjoy the twists (many), turns (some you will anticipate), and the well-stocked cast of conflicted “allies” and comical takes on Rick’s adversarial “minders.” Themes about family, loyalty, and resilience weave webs within the narration. Locations vary from Brussels to London to the US cites in NJ & PA, and the Poconos. Satisfactory ending (take the leap of faith at the fantasy of some of this) but a definite sequel is a must to follow one of the last surprising threads. Trust no one except Rick. RED FLAGS: Graphic violence; Graphic Torture; Child endangerment; Sex trafficking; Vulgar and coarse language. This reminded me of Roger Hobb’s Ghost Man (high praise), Rob Hart’s Assassins Anonymous (Hart has more humor), and novels by David Gordon (The Bouncer) all for the combination of Pace, CH, and suspenseful, gritty Tone.
January 11, 2025
I received a copy of The Recruiter from Netgalley to read.
Rating of 4.25.
I read a bunch of fun debuts in 2024, but one of my favourites was the awesome and action-packed thriller from Gregg Podolski, The Recruiter. Following an entertaining protagonist as he faces the mistakes of his past, as well as a crew of ruthless assassins he personally recruited, this was a fantastic first novel from Podolski that I honestly had a ton of fun with.
I really liked the central plot idea that Podolski came up with for The Recruiter, as his protagonist, rather than being an extreme action-orientated hero, is someone who took their corporate recruiter job to the next level and started working with criminals in the same capacity. This was an interesting change of pace which I think worked well, especially when combined with a sinister conspiracy and threats close to the protagonist’s home.
Podolski starts The Recruiter off hot and fast as you are quickly introduced to the protagonist, Rick Carter, and the recruitment business he has built up. The story takes an interesting turn when Rick is kidnapped and forced to work for a shadowy organisation that wants him to pull together a team of killers to take out several law enforcement officers across the world. Reluctantly agreeing to work with them, Rick is soon forced to turn against his new employers when he discovers that one of their targets is connected to his own family who Rick abandoned years before. Suddenly finding his two top recruits working against him, Rick is forced to pull together an unlikely last-minute team to accompany him back to America to save his family and work out who is trying to kill them.
The Recruiter’s resulting story is the awesome and captivating action thrill ride you would expect with that sort of set-up. Podolski keeps things moving fast, and there is always something awesome or interesting on the page as the protagonist attempts to keep his family safe while trying to determine why they are being targeted. There are some excellent betrayals, compelling twists and big action moments as the plot proceeds, and I had a fun time seeing the protagonist’s unique plans in action. Podolski does a good job balancing this excitement with some moving character moments as the protagonist reunites with the wife and kids he left behind, and the resulting heartfelt sequences add a fantastic emotional edge to the entire book. The author ends The Recruiter on an excellent note that keeps the reader strongly engaged right up to the end and finishes with some thrilling confrontations with the protagonist’s former assassins. There is also a fun reveal that, while not entirely unexpected, was interesting, especially as it indicates Podolski has plans to continue the series in the future.
You can tell that Podolski had a great time writing this novel, and I personally loved the awesome story and exciting writing style, which made The Recruiter very easy to read and power through. I especially enjoyed the fantastic characters, as the author introduced several compelling and memorable figures throughout the plot. The main one naturally was protagonist and point-of-view character Rick Carter, who serves as an awesome central figure for the story. While I do think that Podolski occasionally made Rick a little too zany, for the most part he was a great sarcastic protagonist that thriller fans will appreciate. Thanks to his skillset as a recruiter rather than an operator, Rick stands out compared to your typical thriller protagonist, and there are some entertaining sequences where he uses his talent for networking and other corporate skills to defeat his opponents. There is also the great emotional element to Rick’s story as he deals with his own guilt at abandoning his family, and it proved captivating to see how he reflects and moves forward through it. Other great characters include a rookie operative recruit that Rick hires who proves to be both a real badass and a potential love interest, Rick’s former ace assassins who more than live up to their reputation, as well as a great overarching antagonist who steals the early scenes they are in and remain a threatening presence throughout the entire plot.
I had an absolute blast with The Recruiter, and it ended up being an outstanding debut from this first-time author. An exciting and compelling character-driven read, The Recruiter was a book that was very easy to have fun with, and I am very glad I decided to check it out. I look forward to seeing if Gregg Podolski will continue this series in the future, and I know that I will be grabbing the sequel when it comes out.
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
Rating of 4.25.
I read a bunch of fun debuts in 2024, but one of my favourites was the awesome and action-packed thriller from Gregg Podolski, The Recruiter. Following an entertaining protagonist as he faces the mistakes of his past, as well as a crew of ruthless assassins he personally recruited, this was a fantastic first novel from Podolski that I honestly had a ton of fun with.
I really liked the central plot idea that Podolski came up with for The Recruiter, as his protagonist, rather than being an extreme action-orientated hero, is someone who took their corporate recruiter job to the next level and started working with criminals in the same capacity. This was an interesting change of pace which I think worked well, especially when combined with a sinister conspiracy and threats close to the protagonist’s home.
Podolski starts The Recruiter off hot and fast as you are quickly introduced to the protagonist, Rick Carter, and the recruitment business he has built up. The story takes an interesting turn when Rick is kidnapped and forced to work for a shadowy organisation that wants him to pull together a team of killers to take out several law enforcement officers across the world. Reluctantly agreeing to work with them, Rick is soon forced to turn against his new employers when he discovers that one of their targets is connected to his own family who Rick abandoned years before. Suddenly finding his two top recruits working against him, Rick is forced to pull together an unlikely last-minute team to accompany him back to America to save his family and work out who is trying to kill them.
The Recruiter’s resulting story is the awesome and captivating action thrill ride you would expect with that sort of set-up. Podolski keeps things moving fast, and there is always something awesome or interesting on the page as the protagonist attempts to keep his family safe while trying to determine why they are being targeted. There are some excellent betrayals, compelling twists and big action moments as the plot proceeds, and I had a fun time seeing the protagonist’s unique plans in action. Podolski does a good job balancing this excitement with some moving character moments as the protagonist reunites with the wife and kids he left behind, and the resulting heartfelt sequences add a fantastic emotional edge to the entire book. The author ends The Recruiter on an excellent note that keeps the reader strongly engaged right up to the end and finishes with some thrilling confrontations with the protagonist’s former assassins. There is also a fun reveal that, while not entirely unexpected, was interesting, especially as it indicates Podolski has plans to continue the series in the future.
You can tell that Podolski had a great time writing this novel, and I personally loved the awesome story and exciting writing style, which made The Recruiter very easy to read and power through. I especially enjoyed the fantastic characters, as the author introduced several compelling and memorable figures throughout the plot. The main one naturally was protagonist and point-of-view character Rick Carter, who serves as an awesome central figure for the story. While I do think that Podolski occasionally made Rick a little too zany, for the most part he was a great sarcastic protagonist that thriller fans will appreciate. Thanks to his skillset as a recruiter rather than an operator, Rick stands out compared to your typical thriller protagonist, and there are some entertaining sequences where he uses his talent for networking and other corporate skills to defeat his opponents. There is also the great emotional element to Rick’s story as he deals with his own guilt at abandoning his family, and it proved captivating to see how he reflects and moves forward through it. Other great characters include a rookie operative recruit that Rick hires who proves to be both a real badass and a potential love interest, Rick’s former ace assassins who more than live up to their reputation, as well as a great overarching antagonist who steals the early scenes they are in and remain a threatening presence throughout the entire plot.
I had an absolute blast with The Recruiter, and it ended up being an outstanding debut from this first-time author. An exciting and compelling character-driven read, The Recruiter was a book that was very easy to have fun with, and I am very glad I decided to check it out. I look forward to seeing if Gregg Podolski will continue this series in the future, and I know that I will be grabbing the sequel when it comes out.
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
December 25, 2024
"The Recruiter" is a complete humour mixed with electrifying action in this gripping debut novel from author Gregg Podolski.
Rick Carter doesn’t have your typical 9 to 5 job. Carter is a criminal recruiter. When a bad guy needs a freelance contract killer, hacker, gun runner, weapons expert, or even a master thief, they go to Carter, who then supplies the right criminal for the right job, no questions asked.
It’s not a relaxing career choice, given the constant contact with unsavoury types, but Carter is the best at what he does. However, in order to sleep at night and keep his conscience as clean as it can be when your job involves running criminals, Carter lives by a certain moral code, meaning he only takes jobs and supplies recruits for operations that target people who themselves are no saints. People that, for the most part, deserve what’s coming to them. That ability to turn down any job offers that don’t jive with his take on things preserves his moral compass until he suddenly finds himself without a say in the matter, placing his family, who he abandoned years back, in grave danger.
In order to undo and clean up the mess he’s created, not to mention keep his loved ones (who he previously deserted and severed ties with so that his career wouldn’t bring danger to their lives) safe, Carter must find a way to finally become the hero, rather than just recruiting someone else to fix his problems. Ultimately, that means locking horns with two of the best assassins in the game, where one wrong move will lead to certain death.
Get ready to explore the European criminal underworld like never before A prosaic world that features a criminal underworld to help top assassins operate and manoeuvre from one job to another, Mr. Podolski does an excellent job painting his own unique and vivid crime network, adding a mysterious and intriguing element to the story that’s both fun and terrifying. The real strength of The Recruiter lies not only in its breakneck pace and adrenaline-pumping action sequences but also in its complex characters and their morally ambiguous motivations. Rick Carter is a compelling anti-hero whose internal conflicts drive the narrative forward, and his journey adds surprising depth to the overall story. Mr. Podolski’s prose is lean and efficient, and his ability to add genuine humour to the page is a standout trait and perhaps his greatest strength.
With its intricate plot, dynamic protagonist, and relentless action, The Recruiter is a book that you cannot miss. And for those who have read it, I am sure you are hoping this turns into a series or at least has a few sequels coming up featuring Rick Carter.
Rick Carter doesn’t have your typical 9 to 5 job. Carter is a criminal recruiter. When a bad guy needs a freelance contract killer, hacker, gun runner, weapons expert, or even a master thief, they go to Carter, who then supplies the right criminal for the right job, no questions asked.
It’s not a relaxing career choice, given the constant contact with unsavoury types, but Carter is the best at what he does. However, in order to sleep at night and keep his conscience as clean as it can be when your job involves running criminals, Carter lives by a certain moral code, meaning he only takes jobs and supplies recruits for operations that target people who themselves are no saints. People that, for the most part, deserve what’s coming to them. That ability to turn down any job offers that don’t jive with his take on things preserves his moral compass until he suddenly finds himself without a say in the matter, placing his family, who he abandoned years back, in grave danger.
In order to undo and clean up the mess he’s created, not to mention keep his loved ones (who he previously deserted and severed ties with so that his career wouldn’t bring danger to their lives) safe, Carter must find a way to finally become the hero, rather than just recruiting someone else to fix his problems. Ultimately, that means locking horns with two of the best assassins in the game, where one wrong move will lead to certain death.
Get ready to explore the European criminal underworld like never before A prosaic world that features a criminal underworld to help top assassins operate and manoeuvre from one job to another, Mr. Podolski does an excellent job painting his own unique and vivid crime network, adding a mysterious and intriguing element to the story that’s both fun and terrifying. The real strength of The Recruiter lies not only in its breakneck pace and adrenaline-pumping action sequences but also in its complex characters and their morally ambiguous motivations. Rick Carter is a compelling anti-hero whose internal conflicts drive the narrative forward, and his journey adds surprising depth to the overall story. Mr. Podolski’s prose is lean and efficient, and his ability to add genuine humour to the page is a standout trait and perhaps his greatest strength.
With its intricate plot, dynamic protagonist, and relentless action, The Recruiter is a book that you cannot miss. And for those who have read it, I am sure you are hoping this turns into a series or at least has a few sequels coming up featuring Rick Carter.
November 30, 2024
4.5 stars
This was a great thriller! I can’t believe this was Gregg Podolski’s debut, but it certainly seems like the stage is set for this to become a series. And I’m all in.
“People who aren’t prone to making bad decisions often fail to foresee just how life-altering a truly bad one can be.”
Rick Carter is a recruiter. However, he’s not the guy you’d call to find a new marketing person or CTO. Rick recruits assassins, hackers, smugglers, and any other kind of skilled criminal his clients might need. He doesn’t share secrets and the cops never get involved—and he gets lots of referrals from clients.
But he has a bad feeling about the latest client to hire him, or force him to work for them. You see, while Rick isn’t the most upstanding of citizens, he never wants to be party to harming the good guys. And this client is more than a little, ummm, persuasive, in making him see things their way.
When Rick learns that the family he left behind 10 years ago is somehow in danger related to this new client, he has to come out of hiding to try and fix things. It won’t be easy, however, because not only does he not know whom to trust, but his family definitely doesn’t trust him. Can he convince them he’s capable of saving them, and, more importantly, can he save them?
The pacing of this book was great. The action kept coming but there were pauses, so it never was too much. Rick is so sarcastic, and that’s very close to how I am, so I enjoyed him and the ragtag band of “candidates” he worked with. This reads like a movie and it really entertained me.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
This was a great thriller! I can’t believe this was Gregg Podolski’s debut, but it certainly seems like the stage is set for this to become a series. And I’m all in.
“People who aren’t prone to making bad decisions often fail to foresee just how life-altering a truly bad one can be.”
Rick Carter is a recruiter. However, he’s not the guy you’d call to find a new marketing person or CTO. Rick recruits assassins, hackers, smugglers, and any other kind of skilled criminal his clients might need. He doesn’t share secrets and the cops never get involved—and he gets lots of referrals from clients.
But he has a bad feeling about the latest client to hire him, or force him to work for them. You see, while Rick isn’t the most upstanding of citizens, he never wants to be party to harming the good guys. And this client is more than a little, ummm, persuasive, in making him see things their way.
When Rick learns that the family he left behind 10 years ago is somehow in danger related to this new client, he has to come out of hiding to try and fix things. It won’t be easy, however, because not only does he not know whom to trust, but his family definitely doesn’t trust him. Can he convince them he’s capable of saving them, and, more importantly, can he save them?
The pacing of this book was great. The action kept coming but there were pauses, so it never was too much. Rick is so sarcastic, and that’s very close to how I am, so I enjoyed him and the ragtag band of “candidates” he worked with. This reads like a movie and it really entertained me.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
August 3, 2024
He's a headhunter for bad people still has a heart. Rick Carter (not his real name) is a criminal recruiter, searching for contract killers, cyber hackers, gun smugglers, and any other assorted villains-for-hire a European crime boss might need. But, when the family he left behind in New Jersey is caught up in a client’s plot to monopolize the black market, Rick has to save them from two of his own top candidates: deadly assassins known only as Ghost and The Persian.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right.
You always have a choice and Rick chose to leave his family behind to protect them but after ten years it all comes crashing down around him. So he uses his contacts to try and help save them from the very worst of the worst hired killers. I enjoyed this ride of a book and look forward to the next book.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right.
You always have a choice and Rick chose to leave his family behind to protect them but after ten years it all comes crashing down around him. So he uses his contacts to try and help save them from the very worst of the worst hired killers. I enjoyed this ride of a book and look forward to the next book.
October 11, 2024
Smashing debut, action-packed and full of heart.
Rick Carter is a recruiter with a twist - he recruits bad guys, hitmen, cyber-criminals, smugglers, whatever a bad guy might need to do other bad things. He is pretty successful, and enjoying his life (with a complicated morality that let's him believe he's not that bad) until he meets a client to whom he can't say no. Confronted by a terrifying committee and a ruthless powerbroker, Rick has no choice but to provide the hitmen to get the job done, to take out federal agents from the FBI, Mossad, and the British Secret Service.
But when he finds out that his ex-wife's fiancée is also on the hitlist, things take a very personal turn. With very few people to trust and two world class assassins about to destroy his family, Rick has to move from being behind the scenes to being thrown in the middle of the action. Can he survive his best recruits and save his family?
Great action, good build-up, Rick's a smart ass but he quickly calms down once his family is threatened. Lots of thrills, violence, double-crosses, and hidden agendas, plus an ending that will keep you riveted looking for the next chapter.
Rick Carter is a recruiter with a twist - he recruits bad guys, hitmen, cyber-criminals, smugglers, whatever a bad guy might need to do other bad things. He is pretty successful, and enjoying his life (with a complicated morality that let's him believe he's not that bad) until he meets a client to whom he can't say no. Confronted by a terrifying committee and a ruthless powerbroker, Rick has no choice but to provide the hitmen to get the job done, to take out federal agents from the FBI, Mossad, and the British Secret Service.
But when he finds out that his ex-wife's fiancée is also on the hitlist, things take a very personal turn. With very few people to trust and two world class assassins about to destroy his family, Rick has to move from being behind the scenes to being thrown in the middle of the action. Can he survive his best recruits and save his family?
Great action, good build-up, Rick's a smart ass but he quickly calms down once his family is threatened. Lots of thrills, violence, double-crosses, and hidden agendas, plus an ending that will keep you riveted looking for the next chapter.
March 12, 2024
Barely a quarter of the way in, I gave this four stars. It deserves five - what a roller-coaster ride through the murky underworld and the shady world of espionage. The bad guy is the good guy and the villains are suitably bad.
Rick Carter is a recruiter - he lines up "staff" for those who are willing to pay big bucks for a job to be done - no questions asked. However, things go a little awry (understatement) when a new client comes on the scene and makes Rick an offer he cannot refuse. Now Rick must use his skills and contacts to ensure that this new client does not achieve their end game - and it will come at a personal cost.
It is so easy to become invested in Rick's narrative as the tale rockets along - sometimes a break-neck speed - to an inevitable outcome, which is not a a tidy affair at all. The body count is high, the violence oft times gratuitous, the humour suitable dark, the undertones noirish, the action non-stop. For a first novel, the reader could not ask for anything more. Except more!
A couple of years ago, I was lucky enough to read a number of books of a similar genre. Podolski is in good company and I look forward to reading more.
Rick Carter is a recruiter - he lines up "staff" for those who are willing to pay big bucks for a job to be done - no questions asked. However, things go a little awry (understatement) when a new client comes on the scene and makes Rick an offer he cannot refuse. Now Rick must use his skills and contacts to ensure that this new client does not achieve their end game - and it will come at a personal cost.
It is so easy to become invested in Rick's narrative as the tale rockets along - sometimes a break-neck speed - to an inevitable outcome, which is not a a tidy affair at all. The body count is high, the violence oft times gratuitous, the humour suitable dark, the undertones noirish, the action non-stop. For a first novel, the reader could not ask for anything more. Except more!
A couple of years ago, I was lucky enough to read a number of books of a similar genre. Podolski is in good company and I look forward to reading more.
April 18, 2024
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy of Gregg Podolski's debut thriller, and then humbled and grateful when asked to provide a blurb. It is no easy thing bringing a fresh new take into the thriller world, so I appreciated what The Recruiter accomplishes in this regard even more than it being just a fantastic read. I loved the unique premise - job placement for contract killers - and the delivery of Rick Carter's wit and humor had me laughing harder than any book I can remember reading. As soon as this book drops, you have to get it. Run, don't walk.
"Rick Carter is cunning and capable with a sarcastic wit and hilarious one liners. It feels like the heir apparent to Nelson DeMille's John Corey has just burst onto the scene in a big way."
"Rick Carter is cunning and capable with a sarcastic wit and hilarious one liners. It feels like the heir apparent to Nelson DeMille's John Corey has just burst onto the scene in a big way."
November 25, 2024
"When bad guys need good help, they call Rick Carter. He’s a criminal recruiter, searching for contract killers, cyber hackers, gun smugglers, and any other assorted villains-for-hire a European crime boss might need. But, when the family he left behind in New Jersey is caught up in a client’s plot to monopolize the black market, Rick has to save them from two of his own top candidates: deadly assassins known only as Ghost and The Persian.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right."
The author is too cute for his own good - and mine. It also strains credulity.
Fixing his own mess will require a set of skills he doesn’t have—not a problem, as finding qualified help is where he excels. But stepping into action, becoming the hero his family needs, that’s new territory. For a man who’s spent the last ten years being the best at helping the worst, this may be his last chance to do something right."
The author is too cute for his own good - and mine. It also strains credulity.
August 15, 2024
Action packed and relatable
How can book about a hitman recruiter be relatable you wonder? Gregg managed to write a book that was action packed but also had great character development and humor which made Rick Carter completely relatable. The story telling was easy to read and very natural. Like a friend is telling you the story.
The references to NJ and PA locations also made this jersey girl's heart warm and fuzzy.
Glad for the cliffhanger at the end because it means there will be more books coming. Just don't make us wait too long!
How can book about a hitman recruiter be relatable you wonder? Gregg managed to write a book that was action packed but also had great character development and humor which made Rick Carter completely relatable. The story telling was easy to read and very natural. Like a friend is telling you the story.
The references to NJ and PA locations also made this jersey girl's heart warm and fuzzy.
Glad for the cliffhanger at the end because it means there will be more books coming. Just don't make us wait too long!
October 9, 2024
A great debut ! It's quirky , had me hooked in spite of the initial biffo ! but hey you cant watch the evening news without some confrontation .
Even though at a stretch this man aka the recruiter ended up in bed doing bizzo with the wrong dudes . He's making amends to try and save his family who he abandoned years back to salvage the family budget . it sounds feeble yet Gregg's potential as a writer of some worth is evident here !
The writing is sharp and precise , some plots a little beyond dream level . but hey he's a cool man enjoying the ride . I look forward to his next book .
Even though at a stretch this man aka the recruiter ended up in bed doing bizzo with the wrong dudes . He's making amends to try and save his family who he abandoned years back to salvage the family budget . it sounds feeble yet Gregg's potential as a writer of some worth is evident here !
The writing is sharp and precise , some plots a little beyond dream level . but hey he's a cool man enjoying the ride . I look forward to his next book .
January 1, 2025
The Recruiter, the person who connects the assassin to the job, who never get his own story until now. Rick Carter knows all the best assassins and his new client if you can call her that wants the best, but who she wants kill goes against his morels. Sometimes you have no choice but to take the job. Rick quickly finds out that there is another name on the list that he was not told about, someone he has to stop from being murdered and same time he might be saving himself.
I really liked The Recruiter fresh take on action packed book.
I really liked The Recruiter fresh take on action packed book.
January 21, 2025
Kalishnikov Kids with wannabe Deadpool sass. It's an interesting concept: a corporate headhunter moves over to the dark side to become a recruiter of nefarious bad guys for other bad guys. However, the premise-- his reason for abandoning the States, is flimsy at best, and although we're supposed to like Rick Carter, we just don't. The corporate recruiter part is beaten to death, and his encounter with his family is melodramatic. For those who enjoyed the story, the reader is set up for a Recruiter 2.
July 6, 2025
A fast paced, quick read. I thought the premise was interesting to have the main character be a recruiter to find assassins instead of being an assassin. There was a twist at the end which I liked. The main character was full of wisecracks like Elvis Cole, but the story had more action than most of the Cole/Pike novels.
I can definitely say I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Overall, 4.5 stars but I rounded up because this was his debut book. Can't wait for the sequel.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator performed well and captured the essence of the character.
I can definitely say I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Overall, 4.5 stars but I rounded up because this was his debut book. Can't wait for the sequel.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator performed well and captured the essence of the character.
August 21, 2024
📱This was a great debut and a thoroughly fun read! I heard the author interviewed on the Book Wild podcast and enjoyed his convo with the host. His personality totally infuses this book. It is fast, dynamic, visual, and peppered with biting humor. Be warned, this story wraps up to a point, and then boom…cliff hamger! Not a bad one, you can read this and be dine, but for this reader it left me wantng more NOW!!
October 16, 2024
I read this book in less than 24 hours. And trust me, that never happens. I literally couldn't put it down. The book had a little of everything in it...suspense, humor, shock, etc. A few twists and turns were thrown in for good measure. There were several parts that were jaw dropping. Try this book out, you will not be disappointed. Rick Carter is the man. If this ever does get made into a movie, Ryan Reynolds would be a great Rick Carter.
October 2, 2024
A former corporate recruiter turns criminal recruiter turns thriller hero? The premise of this novel had me intrigued, and it did not disappoint at all! Add to this that Gregg Poldolski's writing style is reminiscent of Nelson DeMille's and it is an enjoyable read.
Looking forward to the further adventures of Rick Carter!
Looking forward to the further adventures of Rick Carter!
November 27, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much. The storytelling unraveled at just the right pace plus I love the humor. I laughed a lot because of how the story was told. Action packed, dramatic, funny, sensible, properly descriptive. I listened to it as an audiobook but I could clearly see the scenes play out in my mind's eye. Just absolutely love this book and looking forward to reading more from the writer.
December 30, 2024
I read this based on its good review score but was disappointed and DNF. The protagonist's odd sense of humour takes away from the potential of this being an amateur delve into the criminal underworld of hired guns. He flirts with his captors as though he was in a 'Carry On' movie. Really? This undermines any other potential storyline which doesn't seem to be remotely credible.
August 26, 2025
A lot of conveniences to ensure our character makes it through the story, however if we disregard that it was a fun ride. Rick was problematic, but that’s what made him not quite lovable, because he’s not a good person necessarily, but an engaging character to follow.
I liked that the story had a definitive end while leaving it open to continue the series.
I liked that the story had a definitive end while leaving it open to continue the series.
August 1, 2024
Couldn’t put this down even though I don’t typically read this genre. it was like Michael Scott from the office starring in a Jason Bourne adventure for non stop action with an awkward, funny, flawed main character that quickly won you over with his dad jokes. Can’t wait for the next one!
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