You don't need to know the first thing about chess!! Well-written and likeable characters. Loved every word of this novel!

Oh my days I LOVED this book. After only quite enjoying Ali Hazelwood's previous novels, I was a bit apprehensive about Check & Mate but I couldn't have been more wrong. Mallory, after avoiding it for years, finds herself back into the Chess limelight where she comes across world number one Nolan Sawyer, who she defeated years ago.

I was instantly hooked! I was rooting for Mallory from the first page and was desperate to see her return to chess where she belonged and finally give in to her feelings for Nolan.

This book was so damn good and I've already recommended it to all my friends.

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.

"Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful YA contemporary romance that seamlessly weaves together life's moving pieces, chess strategy, and a swoonworthy love story.

Mallory Greenleaf, once passionate about chess, has distanced herself from the game that led to the destruction of her family. Her focus is now on caring for her mom, supporting her sisters, and navigating a dead-end job. However, a reluctant decision to participate in one last charity chess tournament unexpectedly thrusts her back into the world of chess. Mallory finds herself facing off against the notorious "Kingkiller," Nolan Sawyer, the current world champion and reigning Bad Boy of chess. The unexpected victory not only shocks everyone but also sets off a series of moves that rekindle Mallory's love for the game.

Nolan's desire for a rematch with Mallory raises questions, and as the two chess players navigate the board and their budding connection, the stakes become higher than ever. Mallory's rocketing ascent in the chess ranks introduces her to a world of cash prizes, intense competition, and the captivating enigma that is Nolan Sawyer.

The love story between Mallory and Nolan is skillfully developed, unfolding gradually and naturally. The rivalry between the protagonists adds a layer of complexity and excitement to the narrative. Ali Hazelwood's writing shines in this novel, capturing the intricacies of the game of chess and the emotions that accompany it.

The unique setting of the chess world adds a refreshing touch to Hazelwood's repertoire. The story is not just about the games played on the board but also about navigating life's challenges and learning to trust in oneself. Mallory's internal struggle, feeling the weight of her family's well-being on her shoulders, adds depth and relatability to her character.

The novel skillfully explores themes of family, resilience, and the rediscovery of passion. Hazelwood's ability to evoke emotions is showcased, especially in the poignant moments that resonate with readers. The love story between Mallory and Nolan, with its gradual and heartfelt development, is beautifully crafted.

"Check & Mate" is a captivating read, blending romance, chess strategy, and family dynamics. Ali Hazelwood's storytelling prowess shines in this YA contemporary romance, making it an engaging and emotionally resonant experience. The book's conclusion provides just enough information about the couple's future to satisfy readers, leaving a lasting impression.

What a fun read! I absolutely love Ali Hazelwood’s books and Check & Mate did not disappoint.
After watching The Queens Gambit on Netflix, I knew this was something I was going to enjoy reading. The chess element to the story was really interesting and I found myself googling a lot of the terminologies because I wanted to know more about the game.
The chemistry between Mal and Nolan, in typical Ali Hazelwood style, is off the charts. A really great YA story!

As always with Ali Hazelwood's books, this was so easy to read and the writing flowed really well.

I was a bit skeptical because it's a YA instead of her usual adult books but I don't think it really made a huge difference in the end; the story was fun, the characters were great, and overall I enjoyed it.

4.5/5 stars

This is the third Ali Hazelwood book I’ve read and they all have one thing in common - they’re such an easy joy to read!
Check & Mate is a fun, wonderful story that made me feel all the feels and left me with a smile on my face.

This was my first Ali Hazelwood book and I can't believe I've put it off for so long! Contemporary romance isn't really my genre, but when Check & Mate came up for request on Netgalley I figured I may as well put in a request and give it a go, and I'm so glad I did! This story captivated me right from the beginning, and I loved the chess setting. Needless to say, I shall be reading everything else AH has written shortly!

Ali Hazelwood's "Check & Mate" delivers a captivating blend of heart, humour, and strategic intrigue, showcasing the complexities of love and chess. Mallory Greenleaf's aversion to the game is palpable, shaped by the wreckage it brought to her family four years prior. Yet, when she reluctantly participates in a charity tournament, she not only triumphs over the reigning chess champion, Nolan Sawyer, but also finds herself entangled in a game of emotions that goes beyond the chessboard.

The novel's strength lies in Hazelwood's ability to seamlessly weave together the world of chess and the intricate dynamics of relationships. Mallory's character is brilliantly crafted, her internal conflicts and determination to shield her family from the game's impact adding depth to the narrative. Nolan, the 'Kingkiller,' emerges as a multifaceted character, and the unexpected connection between him and Mallory becomes the driving force behind the story.

The tension between Mallory and Nolan, both on and off the chessboard, is electric. Hazelwood skilfully navigates the complexities of their relationship, creating a slow-burning romance that feels authentic and satisfying. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and their banter is laced with humour, adding a delightful layer to the narrative.

The chess scenes are expertly depicted, making the game accessible to both chess enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with it. Hazelwood captures the strategic nuances of chess, using it as a metaphor for the intricate dance of emotions and relationships. The pacing is impeccable, with each move on the board mirrored by a corresponding development in the characters' lives.

As Mallory ascends the ranks in the chess world, the novel delves into the challenges of balancing passion and responsibility. The spotlight on Mallory intensifies, and Hazelwood skilfully explores the pressures that come with success, both in the game and in matters of the heart.

"Check & Mate" stands out not only for its romantic elements but also for its exploration of family bonds and personal growth. Mallory's journey is relatable, and the supporting characters contribute to the richness of the story. Hazelwood's prose is engaging, and her storytelling prowess keeps the reader invested in the outcome.

In conclusion, Ali Hazelwood's "Check & Mate" is a delightful and intelligent romance that transcends the boundaries of the chessboard. With well-developed characters, a compelling plot, and a perfect balance of humour and heart, this novel is a checkmate in the world of romantic fiction. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate a smart and emotionally resonant love story.

I started this and thought, no this isn’t for me, I don’t think I’m going to enjoy this. I was wrong. A predictable romance? Maybe, but aren’t they all? Light hearted and easy to read, just what I enjoy every now and then!

You can always rely on Hazelwood to write an engaging, intelligent romance that's just so much fun to read and Check and Mate is in the same vein. This was Hazelwood's first foray into the YA market.
As usual, Hazelwood ignores the usual romance settings and this time we're in the world of chess. I really liked the world the characters were living in and, as usual, learnt a lot about the challenges women face in a world that is traditionally dominated by men. The love story had the typical hiccups, though at times I found the main character of Mal frustratingly ignorant for someone who was logical and good at chess. I adored the MMC. Nolan was such a wonderful character and I wish we'd had a bit more of him in the book.
I liked the little plot twists along the way and really felt for Mal and the challenges she faces in life. Again, this is a fun little romcom that feels like it has more going on than you usually get in this genre.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an arc in return for an honest review.

This was absolutely fantastic !! The story was so so cute but not « cheesy », Nolan was absolutely adorable, with no red flags like you can sometimes see in some books. The only thing that I’m a bit sad about is that the end is maybe a bit too quick, I would have maybe like 1 or 2 more chapters to have a real end from Mallory perspective, or even maybe 1 chapter from Nolan perspective

As soon as I heard Ali Hazelwood had a new book I knew I had to read it having loved her previous books.
Off the bat, this being a YA book, the writing style is definitely different to Hazelwood's previous books, and is a closed door romance. Having said that, I'd say that this book is probably best for an older teen audience.
Mallory was an interesting character who is tied up in past family trauma which has stopped her from playing chess, which she used to love dearly. I found Mallory to be a tad frustrating at times if I'm honest as she was so stubborn and single minded. I liked Sawyer, broody, thoughtful and a calm presence throughout. I couldn't help but root for their slow burn relationship.
I don't play chess and wouldn't say I'm a fan by any means, but that didn't spoil my enjoyment reading this, and I may have learned a bit along the way!

This is such an entertaining read! You can dive right in even without knowing any single thing about chess. Mal was a little annoying, as well as the miscommunication and third-act breakup. But again, these books are predictable. However, I do eat up the secret pining and the boy-obsessed-with-the-girl trope.

I dont know ANYTHING about chess, but Ali Hazelwood wrote a book so that's all I need.

I have read all her books so far because they are just SO good. If you have never read a book of hers yet this is your call to action! This her debut YA book so it's more tame and is a closed-door romance. Although, with it being YA there is a LOT of talk about past hook-ups and such. But the romance in this book was like a lovely, cozy fire and I laughed so much while reading this book, I kept getting asked what was so funny. Yet again Ali has written a wonderful man who falls head over heels in love with the girl of his dreams. How does she write these men so perfectly?!?!

Mal is the main provider for her mother and two sisters Darcy and Nesta- whoops, I mean Sabrina... 😏
Which has forced her to put her own dreams aside to care for them. And as the story progresses she rediscovers her old passion for chess and what she wants to do with her future.

Highlight of the book: Nolan on the couch with her sisters and that bloody guinea-pig on his lap 😅😂 That entire chapter actually.

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood has been possibly my most curious read of the year. Many Thanks to NetGalley and Little Brown Book Group for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

The plot of the book follows a female chess prodigy Mallory who stopped competing, and one day ends up in an open tournament against the world champion Nolan and beats him. She is then recruited to work and compete professionally earning a wage, whilst keeping it a secret from her family.

I appreciated the plot for what it was, it gave a lot of Queens gambit vibes and honestly i quite liked it. It was engaging, fast paced and always explained to help those of us (i.e. me) who are not up to date/knowledge with a lot of the chess terms and moves.

I loved the characters and their development throughout. It was just a wonderful story.

what kind of dropped off a star and a half for me....i just don't understand how this is different from the authors adult works? So the major difference is it's not as explicit with certain aspects but it's still definitely older teen and honestly feels like some of the language had been reduced to read for younger teens, but keeping some of the older teen content and it confused me while i was reading. Also it got very very repetitive at times which dragged me out of the story and the miscommunication in this was maddening.

Overall it was a bit of a mixed bag. i loved the concept, and it read quite well and the characters were great but it just left me confused afterwards as to who this book was actually aimed at.

Thank you to Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I was delighted to hear that Ali Hazelwood was dipping her toe into the world of YA, and even more excited when I heard that the book was based in the world of chess tournaments.

I would recommend this book to everyone. Any adults who enjoy some YA or any young adults who enjoy a fun romance.

I will say that as an oldest sibling, this book really hit home for me with it following oldest sister Mal, trying to figure out her family and working life while trying to balance her personal needs. A truly delightful story with all the characteristics we loved from Ali Hazelwood's adult series, but with all the coziness that a YA publication can afford.

This is fantastic novel for any fans of the Queen's Gambit, if you want foray into the chess world.
I am quite surprised with myself that this may actually be my new favourite Ali Hazelwood work at my grown age. All in all, do not be put off by the YA label, this is a must read for everyone.

Is it my favourite Ali Hazelwood book? Nope. Is it a really entertaining book? too right it is!

I loved the two main characters Nolan and Mallory, Who knew chess could be so fun and exciting lol

Such a fun story Highly recommend!

This was a fun wee book to be fair! 100% not my favourite Ali Hazelwood book and I did find a LOT of the characters annoying but even though I know nothing about chess I actually really enjoyed all the chess bits, it's clearly well researched and she COMMITTED TO THE THEME. The romance was cute and the friendships were cute but I REALLY didn't like the FMCs family and family dynamic her sisters were SO annoying idc that they're kids

As a big chess fan I really loved this YA Romance from Ali Hazelwood. Check & Mate is a book that is smart, romantic and one that excited the hell out of me.

Mallory is a literal chess prodigy in hiding and on a whim she plays against Nolan (the current #1 for chess), shocker she wins and he literally becomes obsessed with her, he is down BAD!

Nolan is such a lovable character, he worships Mallory and he is just so.. soft and gentle. He's by far possibly my favourite MC's from Ali?

Mallory is great fun and I loved the scenes with her and Nolan training together.

If you like chess you will love this book, and even if you don't like chess.. you will still love this book. Ali is great with explaining some of the moves and technicalities about chess which makes it super interesting but the balance with the romance is just chefs kiss.

You have to keep in mind that this book is YA, if you are looking for something similar to The Love Hypothesis in terms of content, this one isn't for you.

Overall a really great, sweet read and one I thoroughly enjoyed.

I will be posting a review to my instagram later today (@porschereads)

I really enjoyed this! Perhaps partly because it spoke to my cdrama heart that's watched many a show about falling in love while playing some kind of game. But really this was just super cute, nothing particularly groundbreaking, but did it need to be?

Mallory has a complex backstory that really makes you feel for her, the weight on her shoulders is visceral and it made me hurt so much for her - however, it made seeing her blossom all the more gratifying.

Nolan was an enjoyable - albeit a little bit bland - love interest, I always appreciate a book where the man is unashamedly whipped and he pulled it off well.

The drama surrounding the world championships was well done, from the unexpected curveball to the fight they had prior to the competition. While it may have seemed like a bit of an overreaction from Mallory, I think it made a lot of sense for her character. So it didn't feel too contrived - however more than the drama I appreciated the resolution. I love seeing that kind of maturity in YA.

The main things I didn't like was - A. Why all the mentions of farts at the beginning, enoUGH. B. I didn't really like the reunion with Mallory's best friend, she ghosted Mal for months but then she randomly shows up and somehow ends up turning it around on Mal who just accepts it? It was very weird.

All in all, this was pretty cute - did kinda just feel like Love Hypotisis but YA but it was still fun.

Thank you to Netgally, Little, Brown Book Group UK and Sphere for a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.