About the Book
What happens when one man’s pursuit of love, purpose, and redemption collides with the greatest security threats of our time? Life with X is not just a memoir—it’s a living testimony of resilience, ambition, and the relentless fight to make America safer.
This gripping narrative pulls you deep into the untold story of Xavier—a man whose life unfolds like a high-stakes thriller. From the quiet corners of small-town beginnings to the tense rooms where decisions shape national security, every page grips you tighter. Love affairs test loyalty, moral dilemmas challenge the soul, and personal tragedy ignites an unbreakable will to protect what matters most.
A Journey Beyond Ordinary
At its core, this book is about transformation—of a man, a mission, and a nation under siege by unseen enemies. When new biological threats loom over society, Xavier doesn’t just rise to the occasion—he rewrites the rules of defense. This is the inside look at the silent war fought with strategy, science, and sheer determination.
More Than a Story—A Testimony
Life with X speaks to anyone who has faced impossible odds, anyone who has loved and lost, and anyone who dares to believe that one person can still change the world. It’s part love story, part warning, and part manifesto for those who refuse to surrender.
What Readers are Saying
"A masterpiece of modern fiction. A must-read for every patriot." - John S., Texas
"Finally, a book that speaks the truth without apology. I couldn't put it down." - Beth J., Florida
"Engaging, thought-provoking, and deeply moving. This novel is a journey worth taking." - Peter S., Ohio
Meet the Author
“I’ve built pathways and walls in the software all around us, but A Life with X illustrates the power of the ones that reside inside us.”
— Joel Rakow
From a dusty California town to the halls of Harvard, Joel Rakow's life is a journey of resilience and purpose. Raised by a roofer and an elementary school teacher, his father’s lessons in truth and honor shaped a career defined by integrity. Joel carried these values from dirt baseball fields to the forefront of cybersecurity, where he became a trusted voice.
A Lifelong Pursuit of Security and Trust
Joel blazed a path at the intersection of risk and resilience, advising agencies like the FBI InfraGard, U.S. Secret Service, and the Los Angeles Electronic Crimes Task Force. Over decades, he led more than 300 major security deployments and helped shape industry best practices with contributions to ASIS security standards. His work earned teams he led accolades such as Microsoft Partner of the Year and PC World Product of the Year.
“Security is less about firewalls and passwords—than progress, trust, accountability, and the patterns we can’t afford to ignore.”
Beyond Firewalls: A Story That Warns and Resists
Joel Rakow, Ed.D., is not only a security strategist—he is a storyteller. His novel, A Life with X, is a modern-day parable based on true events and decades of experience. Like Orwell and Ishiguro, Joel uses fiction to reveal urgent truths about the timeless concerns of human agency and social integrity.
The Road That Shaped Him
Joel’s journey was never linear. From delivering millions of boxes of educational software across 22 countries to testifying as a Court Advocate for vulnerable children, every chapter added weight and purpose to his voice. Today, Joel, a socially liberal yet fiscally grounded champion of the middle class, shares his life with his wife, four adult children, and six grandchildren, splitting his time between a historic Texas ranch and the beaches of Southern California.
Secure Your Copy Today!
The highly anticipated release is just around the corner. Get ready to experience a novel that will resonate with you long after the final page.
