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A review by zahraaloujain
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood has managed to do the impossible: it's earned a 5-star rating from me, a rarity for a romance novel. While it may not be a groundbreaking story, it is undeniably entertaining and utterly captivating from start to finish.
Ali Hazelwood has firmly established herself as a staple in my reading list. Despite romance not being my go-to genre, her books consistently provide a refreshing escape from the heavier topics that dominate my usual reads. I particularly appreciate how she integrates scientific elements into her narratives, adding an extra layer of interest for readers who enjoy a touch of academia.
The main character, Mallory, is incredibly relatable, having had to mature quickly and shoulder responsibilities beyond her years. Hazelwood's emphasis on the struggles women face in male-dominated fields is another highlight, reflecting real-world issues in a thoughtful and engaging manner.
But the standout for me was Nolan Sawyer, my favorite Hazelwood love interest to date. There's something about him that had me completely hooked, and I found myself wishing for even more content featuring him and Mallory together.
"Check & Mate" is a book I can see myself revisiting in the near future, despite my usual aversion to rereading. It's a testament to Hazelwood's talent that she can craft stories that are both enjoyable and resonant. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a delightful romance.
Ali Hazelwood has firmly established herself as a staple in my reading list. Despite romance not being my go-to genre, her books consistently provide a refreshing escape from the heavier topics that dominate my usual reads. I particularly appreciate how she integrates scientific elements into her narratives, adding an extra layer of interest for readers who enjoy a touch of academia.
The main character, Mallory, is incredibly relatable, having had to mature quickly and shoulder responsibilities beyond her years. Hazelwood's emphasis on the struggles women face in male-dominated fields is another highlight, reflecting real-world issues in a thoughtful and engaging manner.
But the standout for me was Nolan Sawyer, my favorite Hazelwood love interest to date. There's something about him that had me completely hooked, and I found myself wishing for even more content featuring him and Mallory together.
"Check & Mate" is a book I can see myself revisiting in the near future, despite my usual aversion to rereading. It's a testament to Hazelwood's talent that she can craft stories that are both enjoyable and resonant. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a delightful romance.