R.J. Pineiro writes a good hi-tech thriller and Shutdown is no exception. A series of computer chip failures, leading to disastrous computer shutdowns, begins to destroy public confidence in American semiconductor plants. Erika Conklin, a hacker forced to work for the FBI or go to jail, discovers that sabotage is causing the chips to fail. With the help of special agent Brent McClaine, she discovers that the failed chips were designed by traitors planted within the American chipmakers by the Japanese government.

The plot is fast moving and realistic, which we expect from the author, a chip designer himself. The Erika Conklin characterization is thin but acceptable. Brent McClaine is pretty much a stock character, however. A good read for those of us who enjoy cyber-thrillers.