Hey readers, get ready to dive into a captivating world of strategy, romance, and unexpected twists with "Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood! "Reading 'Check & Mate' was a joy from start to finish, with its engaging story and charming characters keeping me hooked throughout." The story follows Mallory Greenleaf, who played chess as a child but stopped because of her family. Her friend, Emerson, convinces her to compete in one last competition with her before she leaves for college. It’s there that she meets Nolan Sawyer, the highest-rated chess player in the world when she has to play against him in a match. After she wins this match against the top-rated chess player in the world, she gets offered a fellowship at a chess club called Zugzwang, which she accepts after losing her dead-end job. Mallory, compelled by the destructive impact of chess on her family, chose to shield them through deception. Despite this turmoil, her love for her mother and sisters, Sabrina and Darcy, remained unwavering. Her chess journey began at the Philly Open, where she encountered Nolan Sawyer once more, initially resisting his advances due to her perception of him as manipulative. However, as Mallory delved deeper into the competitive scene, she found herself reluctantly drawn to Nolan, ultimately accepting his mentorship as she navigated the complexities of the chess world and her own conflicted emotions. The narrative delves into the technical aspects of chess, providing readers with a glimpse into the strategic intricacies of the game. Additionally, it sheds light on the sexism prevalent in the chess world, illustrating the challenges faced by female players. The author's writing starts off slow, gradually drawing readers into the story's world. Around the 100-page mark, the pace picks up, making the plot more exciting. What stands out is how the author captures teen language and behavior, making the characters relatable. Plus, the pop culture references add depth to the story, making it feel current. Overall, while it might take a bit to get going, the payoff is worth it as the plot unfolds with authenticity and engagement. One aspect that truly stood out to me and greatly enhanced my enjoyment of the book was the clever reference to Taylor Swift, which added a fun and contemporary layer to the narrative. Additionally, the portrayal of Mallory Greenleaf's relationship with her family was deeply touching and added emotional depth to the story, making her journey all the more relatable and compelling. Furthermore, witnessing Mallory's character development throughout the story, particularly as she navigated and resolved her issues with her father, was a highlight that kept me invested in her growth and evolution. While the book had many strengths, one area that could have been improved upon was the slow pacing of the first 100 pages. The gradual build-up may have tested the patience of some readers and could have benefited from a more accelerated introduction to the main plot. Additionally, the abundance of chess terminology throughout the book might have been overwhelming for readers who are not familiar with the game. A more balanced approach to integrating chess language could have made the story more accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that readers of all backgrounds could fully engage with the narrative. The book had me hooked on the thrilling tension of the protagonists' love story, especially as they transitioned from rivals to lovers. Their gradual development and authentic emotions kept me engaged throughout. Additionally, the book's portrayal of sexism in sports struck a chord. Overall, "Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood offers a compelling blend of strategy and romance, drawing readers into Mallory Greenleaf's journey through the intricate world of chess. While the slow pacing in the beginning and the abundance of chess terminology may pose challenges for some readers, the gradual acceleration of the plot and the authentic portrayal of teen language and behavior ultimately make for a rewarding reading experience. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy stories with well-developed characters, nuanced relationships, and thought-provoking themes. As Mallory navigates her way through challenges both on and off the chessboard, readers are treated to a tale that is both captivating and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression long after the final move is made.