A review by _basicbookworm
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

5.0

Chess led to the destruction of her family, and despite her talent, Mallory quit years ago. Now she’s a recent high school graduate, but instead of going to college, she is doing everything she can to support her family after her father’s death and her mother’s illness. When she agrees to play one last chess tournament, she never imagines it will lead to a high-paying fellowship. She shocks everyone by beating the reigning world champion, Nolan, and now all eyes are on her.

Ugh. Ali Hazelwood can do no wrong. I adored this YA debut!. The chemistry between Mallory and Nolan was incredible, I loved the girl power vibes and how incredibly smart and talented and dedicated Mallory was, and even though I know nothing about chess, this book had me captivated from start to finish. I will say this book has a bit of spice and felt a little more New Adult than YA, and I was here for it. There is so much to love about this book and it left me with all the good feels.

Thank you to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for the advance copy.