48 pages 1 hour read

Ali Hazelwood

Check & Mate

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2023

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood follows Mallory Greenleaf, an eighteen-year-old who supports her family after her father's death and her mother's chronic illness. Though she had sworn off chess, Mallory's unexpected win against World Champion Nolan Sawyer pulls her back into the chess world, where she confronts her past and learns to trust again. Topics include familial and financial struggles, discussions of sexuality, and trauma recovery.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Ali Hazelwood's Check & Mate captivates with its witty prose and engaging characters, captivating readers with its blend of romance and intellectual intrigue. However, some find the plot predictable and the chess metaphors overplayed. Overall, Hazelwood’s storytelling prowess shines through, making it a charming read despite minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Check & Mate?

Readers who enjoy Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood are likely fans of contemporary romance with a strong, intelligent female protagonist. If you liked The Hating Game by Sally Thorne or The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang, you'll appreciate Hazelwood's blend of wit, romance, and modern themes. Perfect for lovers of smart, heartfelt romantic comedies.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

HL680L

Book Details

Genre

Romance

New Adult

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

Sports

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride

Relationships: Family

Values/Ideas: Win & Lose