The Recruiter: The Rewired Series, Book 1

by Alexander Mukte

Read by an Earphones Award winner as part of a dual narrator performance, this 2022 International Book Awards Winner for African-American Fiction is "one of those well-written, nuanced books" that will "keep you guessing, keep you thinking ... an impressive read" ( Reader Views ).

Ori may seem like an idealist, but he understands how this world works. Powerful people want it to stay that way, and a degree of social order is needed to ensure that's possible. Ego can be dangerous....

However, through everything he has done as founder and CEO of Singularity Group, Ori has proven what good can come from granting people certain freedoms. Though he hoped otherwise, he knew the day might come when powerful opposing forces would threaten what he has built.

When a series of suspicious events escalates to an attempt on his life, Ori must use all he is capable of to see the bigger picture and who, or what, is pulling the strings.

Is protecting this legacy worth exposing who he truly is?

With imaginative twists that span across time into the near future, this visionary thriller explores greater possibilities for humanity. The Recruiter is "an intriguing thriller" with an "intelligent storyline" that "feels quite original" (The BookLife Prize).

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction

Audible Audio

First published January 30, 2020

About the author

Alexander had an active imagination his whole life, but it wasn’t until the birth of his son that he began putting the stories in his mind on paper. He wanted to be an example for his son of someone pursuing his passion, dreaming big, and taking chances.

Alexander loves people, their stories, and their backgrounds as well as what shapes them, how they think, and what they dream about. He has a passion for learning and is known by most as an intensely curious person who eagerly soaks up anything and everything he can. He dreamt of a career that allowed him to learn new things and meet new people every day. In writing, he has found a life that allows him to do just that.

After graduating with a degree in business, Alexander volunteered in the U.S. Peace Corps where he spent two years in Central America. Before taking this leap of faith, Alexander did Business Development and Consulting for large domestic and international companies. An avid traveler, Alexander enjoys exploring new places with his family. Alexander was raised in Southeastern Arizona, and now calls Georgia home, along with his wife and son.

The Recruiter is Alexander’s first novel, though perhaps the 39th in his mind. We hope you enjoy it as much as we have.

Reviews

[Penny Ferguson]

As a mystery-novel aficionado, I was immediately pulled into the world of Ori Clayborn and Leslie. With a car explosion, secretive Cartel involvement, and corrupt FBI agents, the novel is a page-turner that keeps you wondering what will happen next. How will political figures get involved? Will reporter Jessica be able to uncover the truth? The novel will keep you on the edge of your seat as you wonder if good will triumph over evil. Is there hope for a better tomorrow? Get your copy and find out. Definitely a must-read!

[READER VIEWS]

Okay… when a reviewer starts out describing a book as an action-packed FBI crime drama that focuses on everything from cartels that remind you of the “Godfather” to corrupt law enforcement officials, what would you think? Exactly. You would think I was describing one of those ultimate fast-paced dramas that would make Puzo’s infamous Corleone family proud. But if I then talk about science fiction among the politics, car explosions and investigative reporting, what would you think? Yes, you’d then think the reviewer has read too many books or her brain needs rest. But… you would be wrong. Enter “The Recruiter,” the first book in The Rewired Series by Alexander Mukte.

Even though I am a bit on the loony side (LOL), this is the ultimate book that I can honestly say I have never read before! We meet Leslie, who is no moron, I’ll tell you that. She has a good head on her shoulders, even though there is that idealistic element within her heart. What Leslie also has is a boss by the name of Ori Clayborn. Ori has always come across as a great man, kind, a good boss someone can absolutely trust, and one who has goals set. Now, this sounds like a job worth having until… a bomb is detonated and everything in Leslie’s life seems to plunge into the depths of the immoral, unethical and most dishonest corners imaginable.

Now we have a reporter by the name of Jessica. She is an investigative journalist intent on uncovering the facts and unveiling the worst of humanity to the world. But when she receives an assignment that takes her to her birthplace, what Jessica finds is a whole new Ori Clayborn who has hidden secrets you will love to find out about.

So is Ori the man Leslie thought he was, or is Ori the boss who has just placed her in danger? And…here come your cartels, your political figures and law enforcement figures that are as disreputable as one can get. Where does this turn into sci-fi? Not a chance, readers. There are so many spoilers I could spill here, that I refuse to even give you a glimpse. This is one of those well-written, nuanced books that keep you guessing, keep you thinking as the writer incorporates many of today’s social issues into the tale, and introduces you to Ori…who is one you will never forget. This is an impressive read that almost feels like a collaboration of sorts, because there’s so many things going on and so many great characters, it feels like one brain couldn’t have possibly come up with all this. But (yay!) that’s exactly what happened.

The best part about “The Recruiter” is the fact that this is book one. I always love it when you read a book that causes your mouth to drop open at the surprises and know the whole time that the author has even more to say. Bring it on, Mr. Mukte. I am officially one of those “big fans” who can’t wait to pick up the next book.

[Peggy]

How in the name of all things that are ... well...named does this have an average of 4.75??? This book is the third piece of sh** books that I have read in a row and courtesy of this .... I will now officially not read for a while.

It has so many characters that they had to do a character chapter .... but it was at the F**** end of the book!!! Why not at the front as I couldn't keep track of all the people.

It wasn't good. It didn't hold my attention. I just kept reading (stupidly) for hopes it would get better because it got so many great reviews.

ABSOLUTE waste of my time.

Skip this one!!

[Jerry]

The Recruiter by Alexander Mukte is a fast-paced and intriguing mystery filled with suspense and unexpected twists. The story pulls readers into Leslie’s world as a sudden bombing forces her to question everything she believes about her trusted boss, Ori Clayborn. Alongside Jessica, a determined investigative journalist searching for the truth, the mystery deepens with each chapter. Engaging and imaginative, The Recruiter keeps readers hooked and eager to uncover the secrets surrounding Ori.

[Steven Quiler]

This book is a thoughtfully written work that captures the reader’s attention from the very beginning. The author does an excellent job of developing the story while maintaining a clear and engaging narrative. The characters feel authentic, and the message behind the story is both meaningful and inspiring. It’s a book that not only entertains but also leaves the reader reflecting on its deeper themes. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-crafted and engaging read.

[Andrew Cole]

The Recruiter by Alexander Mukte is a fast-paced and engaging mystery that keeps readers interested from the beginning. The story follows Leslie as her world is turned upside down after a bombing at work, leading to many questions about her boss, Ori Clayborn. With intriguing characters and unexpected twists, the book pulls you deeper into the mystery with every chapter. It’s an entertaining start to what promises to be an exciting series.

[Leslie]

I didn’t love it. The idealistic concept of a better world is nice, but the lead up to action and the first points of conflict could have come sooner, the jump to the future and a different narrator seemed awkward, a plot line in the final third of the book did not get resolved (not that they must but this one should have), and the deus ex machina sci-fi ending was, well, contrived.

[Mark]

This book offers a compelling behind-the-scenes perspective on the CIA and modern spycraft. Through personal stories and reflections, Douglas London explains how intelligence officers identify and recruit foreign agents while navigating high-risk environments. It’s both informative and thought-provoking.

[Paul T]

A detailed and honest memoir that explores the challenges of intelligence work before and after 9/11. The author blends storytelling with analysis, showing how espionage relies heavily on human relationships and trust. Readers interested in security and world affairs will find this book very enlightening.

[Mary Gorman]

Make sure you have time before you stay this one because once you start you won't be able to put it down. The characters come to life and you feel like are right along with them every step of the way invested in what will happen next. I don't want ti spoil the ending but you will not see it coming!

[Amy]

Would have been 4 stars but it was only 1/3 of a story. Intriguing characters and plot, but come on. Wrap up at least one of the storylines so I can get some closure! Instead, I found myself wondering if I only got part of the book, because where’s the rest of the story?

[Erin Hatt]

Hooked from the first page, all the way to the end. Each chapter brought more adventure and involvement from interesting characters. The tangled webs we weave...I would love to read the rest of the series!

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, but that has no influence on my review.

[Liu]

An intriguing look into one of the world’s most secretive professions. The book combines personal anecdotes, operational insights, and reflections on how intelligence agencies have changed over time. It provides a rare and readable snapshot of real spy work.

[Amy]

Really well written, fast paced novel. Ending was definitely a twist too.

[Laura]

I liked the message of growing the middle class and giving true living wages and counseling to former prisoners, but as a novel, I didn't really get into the story itself.

[Sandy Wallace]

A Very Unusual Mystery

So many questions to be answered… who is Ori Clayborn? Who is out to get him, and why? Where did Ori go? Taking this journey will spark your intellect and your philosophical belief system as the characters capture your imagination and the plot spins out. Not all questions are answered in Book 1, but I’ve got Book 2 next to me, ready to read.