"Check & Mate" is an enthralling YA debut that intertwines the worlds of strategy and romance. Written by the bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis, this novel centers on Mallory Greenleaf, an ambitious young woman who has sworn off chess after a devastating event four years ago wrecked her family life. As she juggles the responsibilities of caring for her mother and sisters with a monotonous job, fate intervenes.
When Mallory reluctantly agrees to participate in one final charity chess tournament, she encounters Nolan Sawyer, known as the "Kingkiller" and reigning Bad Boy of chess. His unexpected defeat at the hands of an unknown player sends shockwaves through the chess community, and Nolan's interest in facing Mallory again only complicates matters. While her victory offers lucrative prizes, Mallory wrestles with her growing connection to the game—and to Nolan.
As she rises through the ranks, the stakes increase, threatening not only her family’s stability but also her emotions. Can she keep her loved ones insulated from the chaos that chess has introduced to her life? As the competition heats up, Mallory discovers that the true battles are not just played on the board but within her heart. Will Mallory’s rekindled passion for chess lead her to new dreams or drag her back into a past she desperately wants to escape?
This story is a delightful exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of familial relationships set against the backdrop of strategic gameplay. Readers are bound to be captivated by the clever dialogue, relatable characters, and the thrilling intersection of rivalry and romance that unfolds with every move on the chessboard.
