Wired (Buchanan-Renard #13)

Introduction

### Review of *Wired* (Buchanan-Renard #13) by Julie Garwood

Julie Garwood’s *Wired*, the thirteenth installment in the Buchanan-Renard series, offers a blend of romance, intrigue, and suspense that has become her hallmark. As with her previous works, Garwood skillfully intertwines the protagonists' chemistry with a fast-paced, suspenseful narrative. However, while the novel has its strengths, it also faces challenges in standing out within the well-trodden genre of romantic suspense.

#### Strengths:

1. **Engaging Characters**:
Allison Trent, the protagonist, is a young, brilliant hacker with a morally grounded perspective, making her both relatable and inspiring. Her skills in cyber security introduce a fresh element to the narrative, showcasing Garwood’s adaptability to contemporary themes. The male lead, FBI agent Liam Scott, is equally compelling, bringing a mixture of strength and vulnerability to the table. Their interactions brim with tension and sparks, providing a strong foundation for the romantic subplot.

2. **Intriguing Plotline**:
The story revolves around Allison’s recruitment by the FBI to tackle a high-stakes cybercrime case. This premise creates an immediate hook, blending modern technological themes with classic thriller elements. The stakes are consistently high, ensuring readers are invested in the outcome.

3. **Garwood’s Signature Style**:
Garwood's writing is as accessible as ever, characterized by sharp dialogue, witty humor, and a knack for painting vivid scenes. Her ability to build romantic tension without overshadowing the suspense keeps the narrative balanced.

#### Weaknesses:

1. **Predictable Tropes**:
While *Wired* introduces exciting themes such as cybercrime, it ultimately adheres to many well-worn tropes of romantic suspense. The plot is linear, with few genuine surprises. Veterans of the genre might find the twists predictable, and the climax lacks the gut-punch impact of some of Garwood's earlier works.

2. **Underdeveloped Subplots**:
Certain elements of the story, such as Allison’s family conflicts and the broader implications of the cybercrime case, feel underexplored. These threads could have added depth to the narrative, but they are resolved too quickly or sidelined in favor of the central romance.

3. **Character Chemistry**:
While Allison and Liam’s dynamic is engaging, their romance occasionally feels rushed. The transition from mutual attraction to a deep emotional connection could have been more gradually developed, giving the relationship greater emotional weight.

#### Overall Assessment:

*Wired* successfully combines romance and suspense, showcasing Garwood’s expertise in crafting enjoyable, light reads. However, it may not leave a lasting impression compared to earlier entries in the series. Fans of Julie Garwood or romantic suspense will likely appreciate its familiar style and engaging protagonists. For newcomers to the genre, *Wired* serves as an accessible entry point but may fall short of showcasing the genre’s full potential.

With its mix of contemporary issues, such as hacking and cybercrime, and timeless romantic elements, *Wired* demonstrates Garwood’s willingness to adapt her storytelling to modern times. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it offers a satisfying, if somewhat predictable, reading experience.