Wired

Would be better if the NFL did shirts and skins. – Marcus
Now that’s something I would watch. – Claire

Leslie North
Wired

Format:
Audible. ebook is available to borrow via Kindle Unlimited. Note: This book has been bundled with the other two books in the Solomon Brothers series and the box set on Audible is significantly less than buying them individually. Box set is also available on KU.

Publisher’s Synopsis:
Star quarterback Marcus Kingston lives and breathes football. He’s trusted his abilities and instincts to get him this far, but an injury last season nearly ended his career. When his coaches want him to wear biofeedback technology to analyze his game, Marcus thinks the idea is ridiculous. Plus, the mousy scientist behind the project knows nothing about sports, and she quickly gets under his skin. But with another QB waiting on the sidelines, Marcus can either agree to participate, or be benched – permanently.

Scientist Clare Wynifred values intellect above most things. With her brain constantly working, she has little interest in her appearance and zero interest in sports. She never imagined her wearable tech being used to improve someone’s game, but its success with the team could get her a military contract. Clare may be too late to save her brother, but her technology could save the lives of countless soldiers. She just has to make it work with the stubborn quarterback, and she’ll be one step closer to her goal. Marcus and Clare butt heads at first, but their mutual attraction quickly grows. And yet, with everything to lose, it’s easy to ignore that together they might be able to go the distance. Note: The Publisher’s Synopsis uses the spelling, “Clare”, while the ebook uses “Claire”.

Point of view:
3rd person. Alternating perspectives, not always by chapter, but it’s clearly defined. 

Rellim’s Thoughts:
This is my first book by Leslie North and my first experience listening to Rebecca Roberts. It won’t be my last for either one. North does an amazing job of crafting an engaging story into this novella. There’s always something fun about the stoic athlete with a heart of gold and the nerdy girl who isn’t as reserved as everyone thinks. There were enough steamy scenes to satisfy those who are looking for it without overtaking the plot. I was also incredibly intrigued by the tech aspect and appreciated the care North took in explaining to the reader/listener. Despite being only 3.5 hours, I felt a connection to Marcus and Claire as individuals, enjoyed their blossoming relationship, and was invested in their HEA.

Narration:
Rebecca Roberts did an excellent job narrating this book. Roberts gives Claire her sweet and stern moments the perfect inflection and also has enough inherent “gravel” in her voice so that Marcus sounds naturally masculine.

Trigger Warnings (possible spoilers):
Death of a sibling killed in combat is discussed.

I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.

My Favorite Quotes

Despite being three sizes too large, there was something infinitely sexy about a woman who wore a football jersey like a dress. – Wired @leslienorthbook narrated by @Rebeccas_Voice #SportsRomance

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“Would be better if the NFL did shirts and skins.” – Marcus, “Now that’s something I would watch.” – Claire, -Wired @leslienorthbook narrated by @Rebeccas_Voice #SportsRomance

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