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A review by the_vegan_bookworm
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Another fun, easy Ali Hazelwood read. I loved seeing a bisexual main character who is comfortable with her sexuality.
I will say that all Hazelwood male characters need to take a class on consent and boundaries. Hanging out with your ex's little sisters after you break up is...weird. Mallory's unbelivable success in the chess world also requires a healthy suspension of disbelief verging on straight up not thinking too much about it. This is also very much not a YA and more of an adult romance with fade to black sex scenes (but sexual themes are extremely present throughout).
With all this said, if you like Hazelwood, this is a fun one.
I will say that all Hazelwood male characters need to take a class on consent and boundaries. Hanging out with your ex's little sisters after you break up is...weird. Mallory's unbelivable success in the chess world also requires a healthy suspension of disbelief verging on straight up not thinking too much about it. This is also very much not a YA and more of an adult romance with fade to black sex scenes (but sexual themes are extremely present throughout).
With all this said, if you like Hazelwood, this is a fun one.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Misogyny, Sexism, Death of parent, and Abandonment
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity and Car accident