48 pages • 1 hour read
Check & Mate
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2023
YA
18+ years
HL680L
Super Short Summary
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood follows Mallory Greenleaf, an eighteen-year-old who supports her family after her father's death and her mother's chronic illness. Though she had sworn off chess, Mallory's unexpected win against World Champion Nolan Sawyer pulls her back into the chess world, where she confronts her past and learns to trust again. Topics include familial and financial struggles, discussions of sexuality, and trauma recovery.
Romantic
Humorous
Emotional
Bittersweet
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
254,902 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ali Hazelwood's Check & Mate captivates with its witty prose and engaging characters, captivating readers with its blend of romance and intellectual intrigue. However, some find the plot predictable and the chess metaphors overplayed. Overall, Hazelwood’s storytelling prowess shines through, making it a charming read despite minor flaws.
Who Should Read Check & Mate?
Readers who enjoy Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood are likely fans of contemporary romance with a strong, intelligent female protagonist. If you liked The Hating Game by Sally Thorne or The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang, you'll appreciate Hazelwood's blend of wit, romance, and modern themes. Perfect for lovers of smart, heartfelt romantic comedies.
254,902 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2023
YA
18+ years
HL680L
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