Reviews - Check & Mate - Zug um Zug zur Liebe

24.2k reviews for:

Check & Mate - Zug um Zug zur Liebe

Ali Hazelwood

4.04 AVERAGE

gabbydelag's review against another edition

4.25

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I really loved this book. Koch was the worst and the twist with his character after his win was not shocking to me, but it was definitely a satisfying end to his story.

I really loved the MMC and FMC. Them as individuals was one thing but they really made each other better. I really loved how Sawyer was so blunt and spoke to Mallory in a way that she wasn’t used to but gave her what she needed to hear, even when it made her extremely angry. He loved her with no hesitation. She needs someone who isn’t really going to fight with her and just says it like it is. Her growth in communication was wonderful.

I actually really appreciated her outburst with her family. It was necessary, I think. I know she was the one apologizing for her behavior, but it needed to be said because they really didn’t appreciate her sacrifices. She took on the role she needed to at the time, and I’m glad that she got to eventually live for herself. I’m glad her mom finally had the heart to heart with her too. It took forever for us to get the story with her father, but it was a good one and I can see why a child would have blamed themselves, even when it clearly was not her fault.

This story only got better as we got further into it. I hate a third act breakup, but I’m glad we got the HEA they deserved. Also, I love the fact that they are able to compete against each other and love each other without any jealousy or qualms about it.

Easton made me mad, but I guess I’m glad she came back around. Though, I don’t think the breakdown in their communication was quite explained in a way that made sense to me. She made it seem like Mallory stopped reaching out when she was the one never responding.

I still don't know how to play chess, but this book was still such a good read.