A review by laheath
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A fun, sweet romance about strong female characters involved in a predominantly male world.  Similar to the author's adult novels, this YA novel presents some of the stereotypes and harassment faced by women in STEM, this time being competitive chess.  Fortunately, most of the men are respectful.  This would be challenging to read without at least a basic knowledge of chess terminology and how it is played.  Considering this is YA, there are some pretty serious issues in the characters' backstories, so be aware of the trigger warnings.

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