Check & Mate: From the bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis

In this novel, a chess player falls in love with a rival player after a game changes everything. The player must navigate the game and her feelings while keeping her family safe from the consequences of the past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

In this captivating and enchanting new novel from the acclaimed New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis, the intricate tapestry of life weaves together rival chess players in a heart-stopping match for love.

Mallory Greenleaf has had enough of chess. Every move holds immense significance in the modern world, a world that was shattered by the sport four years ago, leaving behind a trail of devastation that has consumed her every thought. Her primary focus now lies in caring for her mother, her sisters, and the modest job that barely sustains them. That is, until she reluctantly agrees to participate in one final charity tournament, where fate intervenes in the form of the enigmatic Kingkiller Nolan Sawyer.

Nolan, the current world champion and reigning Bad Boy of chess, is known for his strategic brilliance and his unyielding determination. His loss to an unknown rookie sends shockwaves through the chess community. What's even more perplexing is his newfound desire to cross pawns again. What kind of audacious gambit is Nolan playing? The wise choice would be to walk away, resign, and declare the game over. But Mallory's victory opens the door to much-needed cash prizes, and despite her reservations, she cannot resist the allure of the enigmatic strategist.

As Mallory ascends the ranks, she grapples with the daunting task of keeping her family safely distanced from the game that once caused them so much pain. And as her love for the sport she had once detested begins to rekindle, Mallory realizes that the games extend far beyond the chessboard. The spotlight is brighter than she ever imagined, and the competition is fierce, both in terms of skill and attractiveness. Nolan Sawyer is a captivating figure, with his piercing blue eyes, mischievous smile, and razor-sharp intellect. He is both a fierce rival and a source of fascination, leaving Mallory torn between admiration and frustration.

As the tournament progresses, Mallory finds herself drawn deeper into Nolan's world, a world of intense competition, hidden alliances, and unexpected betrayals. She must navigate treacherous waters, balancing her desire for success with the need to protect those she loves. The stakes are high, and the consequences of failure are dire.

This novel is a captivating blend of romance, chess, and strategic intrigue, appealing to both young adult and adult audiences alike. It explores the complexities of relationships, the power of determination, and the sacrifices we make for the things we love. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and heart-stopping moments, The Queen's Gambit is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story that challenges the mind and the heart.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 240 x 163 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408727614