The Recruiter
Spying and the Lost Art of American Intelligence
-
-
3.7 • 16 Ratings
-
-
- $11.99
-
- $11.99
Publisher Description
This revealing memoir from a 34-year veteran of the CIA who worked as a case officer and recruiter of foreign agents before and after 9/11 provides an invaluable perspective on the state of modern spy craft, how the CIA has developed, and how it must continue to evolve.
If you've ever wondered what it's like to be a modern-day spy, Douglas London is here to explain. London’s overseas work involved spotting and identifying targets, building relationships over weeks or months, and then pitching them to work for the CIA—all the while maintaining various identities, a day job, and a very real wife and kids at home.
The Recruiter: Spying and the Lost Art of American Intelligence captures the best stories from London's life as a spy, his insights into the challenges and failures of intelligence work, and the complicated relationships he developed with agents and colleagues. In the end, London presents a highly readable insider’s tale about the state of espionage, a warning about the decline of American intelligence since 9/11 and Iraq, and what can be done to recover.
Customer Reviews
The Recruiter
Excellent primer examining the CIA’s recent history in failing to deal with the combined insidious pressures of bureaucratization, metrics, careerism and politicization. Not a screed, however, the book critically probes the requisite reforms needed to find its organizational way back to being the nation’s premier spy service; one in the business - emphatically - of stealing foreign secrets. First rate, highly recommended particularly for HUMINT and counterintelligence professionals.
Malignant narcissist
Painful, the authors long and exaggerated grievances are only eclipsed by their ego. With spies like this at the helm, it’s no wonder events like 9/11 and Iraq took place. I’m sure they will be a talking head on MSNBC or OAN in the near future.