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A review by sophiecatherine
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
2.0
The storyline, unfortunately, unfolded in a predictably formulaic manner. While sporadic moments of humor were present, the reliance on clichés rendered the narrative lackluster. Characterization suffered as well, with the male lead's somewhat unsettling obsession and the toxic dynamic between the protagonist and her best friend lacking the necessary depth for meaningful connection. Nolan, the supposedly flawless character, felt one-dimensional, making it challenging to engage with him on a profound level.Moreover, the explicit sexual content seemed out of place for the intended young adult audience, disrupting the balance expected in the genre.
The touted rivals-to-lovers trope failed to deliver, as the characters played against each other without genuine rivalry. The central conflict focused more on the protagonist's financial needs and her relationship with her family than establishing a meaningful emotional connection between the characters.
Compared to Hazelwood's other works, "Check and Mate" lacked the depth and engagement I had anticipated. For readers seeking a more profound and less predictable YA romance, this particular book may not meet expectations.
The touted rivals-to-lovers trope failed to deliver, as the characters played against each other without genuine rivalry. The central conflict focused more on the protagonist's financial needs and her relationship with her family than establishing a meaningful emotional connection between the characters.
Compared to Hazelwood's other works, "Check and Mate" lacked the depth and engagement I had anticipated. For readers seeking a more profound and less predictable YA romance, this particular book may not meet expectations.