Check & Mate

by Ali Hazelwood • 2023 • 347 pages

3.95

304.8K ratings

Romance Young Adult Contemporary

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Plot Summary

Unexpected Chess Challenge

Mallory reluctantly returns to chess

Eighteen-year-old Mallory Greenleaf, once a chess prodigy, is drawn back into the game by her friend Easton for a charity tournament. Despite her reluctance, she finds herself facing Nolan Sawyer, the reigning world chess champion. The tournament is a chance for Mallory to reconnect with a game she left behind due to painful memories associated with her father. As she sits across from Nolan, the tension is palpable, and the stakes feel higher than she anticipated.

A Surprising Victory

Mallory defeats the world champion

Against all odds, Mallory manages to defeat Nolan Sawyer in a stunning upset. The victory is unexpected and leaves both the audience and Nolan in shock. Mallory's win is not just a personal triumph but also a public spectacle, drawing attention from the chess community and beyond. The game reignites a spark in Mallory, reminding her of the passion she once had for chess, even as she tries to downplay its significance.

The Aftermath of Winning

Mallory faces unexpected attention

Following her victory, Mallory is thrust into the spotlight, attracting the interest of chess enthusiasts and media alike. She struggles with the sudden attention and the pressure it brings, as well as the resurfacing of old memories tied to her father. Despite her attempts to distance herself from chess, the game seems to pull her back in, challenging her to confront her past and reconsider her future.

A New Opportunity

Mallory receives a life-changing offer

Defne, a charismatic chess club owner, approaches Mallory with an offer to join a fellowship at Zugzwang, a prestigious chess club. The fellowship promises a year of training and the chance to compete professionally. Mallory is torn between the financial security the offer provides and her desire to keep chess at arm's length. Ultimately, the need to support her family pushes her to accept, setting her on a path she never expected to revisit.

The Tournament Drama

Mallory encounters challenges and rivals

As Mallory begins her fellowship, she is quickly immersed in the competitive world of chess. She faces new challenges, including rivalries with other players and the pressure to prove herself. Her journey is complicated by the reappearance of Nolan Sawyer, who seems to have taken a personal interest in her. The tension between them grows, fueled by their past encounter and the competitive nature of the chess world.

Tension in the Glass House

Nolan and Mallory's silent reunion

In the quiet of the night, Mallory finds Nolan in the glass house where the World Chess Championship will take place. They stand before a picture of Nolan's grandfather, a former champion, and the air is thick with unspoken words. Mallory breaks the silence, admitting she's been studying his grandfather's games, unable to face Nolan's directly. Their conversation is tentative, filled with apologies and acknowledgments of past mistakes. Nolan's presence is a comfort, yet a reminder of the emotional turmoil between them. They both express regret for their harsh words, and Mallory admits her desire to be with Nolan, despite the upcoming championship.

A Game of Instincts

Mallory's instinctual chess journey

As the championship looms, Mallory reflects on her instinctual connection to chess. Her natural talent, honed by years of practice and a rekindled passion, guides her through the complexities of the game. She acknowledges the role her father played in nurturing her skills and the support from Defne that brought her back to the chess world. Despite the pressure, Mallory is determined to play her best, driven by an innate understanding of the game and a desire to prove herself.

Confronting the Past

Mallory faces her family's history

Mallory's journey to the championship is intertwined with her family's past. She grapples with the guilt of her father's actions and the impact on her family. Conversations with her mother and sisters reveal the depth of their shared pain and the need for healing. Mallory learns to balance her responsibilities with her own desires, finding strength in her family's support. This confrontation with her past allows her to move forward with a clearer sense of purpose.

A Reunion of Hearts

Mallory and Nolan reconcile

In a heartfelt conversation, Mallory and Nolan address the misunderstandings and hurt feelings that have kept them apart. They acknowledge their mistakes and express a desire to be together, despite the challenges ahead. Their reunion is marked by a renewed understanding and a commitment to support each other, both personally and professionally. This emotional reconciliation sets the stage for their upcoming championship match, where they will face each other not just as opponents, but as partners.

The Championship Begins

The first move in Venice

The World Chess Championship kicks off in Venice, with Mallory and Nolan as the main contenders. The ceremonial first move is made, and the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Mallory reflects on the journey that brought her here, from her early days as a chess prodigy to her unexpected return to the game. As she faces Nolan across the board, she is filled with a mix of excitement and determination, ready to prove herself on the world stage.

A New Understanding

Mallory embraces her future

As the championship progresses, Mallory gains a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the chess world. She learns to trust her instincts and embrace the challenges ahead. Her relationship with Nolan evolves, grounded in mutual respect and shared goals. Mallory's journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as she navigates the complexities of love, family, and ambition. The championship becomes more than just a competition; it is a testament to her resilience and passion for the game.

Characters

Mallory Greenleaf

Reluctant chess prodigy rediscovering passion

Mallory is a talented chess player who left the game due to painful associations with her father. Her victory against Nolan Sawyer thrusts her back into the chess world, challenging her to confront her past and reconsider her future. Mallory is determined, intelligent, and fiercely protective of her family, often putting their needs above her own.

Nolan Sawyer

World champion with a mysterious interest

Nolan is the reigning world chess champion, known for his intense focus and competitive nature. Despite his initial loss to Mallory, he becomes intrigued by her talent and potential. Nolan is enigmatic, with a reputation for being both brilliant and difficult, and his interest in Mallory adds complexity to her journey.

Easton Peña

Supportive friend and chess enthusiast

Easton is Mallory's longtime friend who encourages her to return to chess. She is determined, ambitious, and deeply cares for Mallory, often pushing her to pursue opportunities she might otherwise avoid. Easton's friendship is a source of support and motivation for Mallory.

Defne Bubikoğlu

Charismatic chess club owner and mentor

Defne is the owner of Zugzwang, a prestigious chess club, and offers Mallory a fellowship to train and compete professionally. She is passionate about chess and sees great potential in Mallory, providing guidance and support as Mallory navigates her new path.

Sabrina Greenleaf

Mallory's sullen yet caring sister

Sabrina is Mallory's younger sister, who often appears rebellious and distant. Despite her attitude, she deeply cares for her family and is protective of Mallory. Sabrina's relationship with Mallory is complex, marked by both tension and affection.

Darcy Greenleaf

Mallory's precocious and observant sister

Darcy is Mallory's youngest sister, known for her intelligence and curiosity. She is perceptive and often acts as a bridge between Mallory and the rest of the family. Darcy's innocence and insight provide a unique perspective on Mallory's journey.

Oz Nothomb

Gruff GM with a soft spot

Oz is a Grandmaster at Zugzwang, initially gruff and unapproachable. Over time, he becomes a reluctant ally to Mallory, offering guidance and support. His tough exterior hides a genuine care for the chess community and its players.

Emil Kareem

Charming teammate and friend

Emil is a fellow chess player and teammate of Mallory's during the Chess Olympics. He is charismatic, friendly, and supportive, often lightening the mood with his humor. Emil's presence provides camaraderie and encouragement for Mallory.

Tanu Goel

Energetic teammate and confidante

Tanu is another teammate of Mallory's, known for her vibrant personality and enthusiasm. She quickly becomes a confidante for Mallory, offering friendship and support as they navigate the challenges of competitive chess together.

Plot Devices

Chess as a Metaphor

Chess symbolizes life's complexities and challenges

Throughout the story, chess serves as a metaphor for the complexities and challenges Mallory faces in her personal and professional life. The game represents her struggles with identity, family, and ambition, as well as her journey toward self-discovery and acceptance.

The Fellowship

Opportunity for growth and transformation

The fellowship at Zugzwang is a pivotal plot device that offers Mallory the chance to grow and transform. It provides her with the resources and support needed to hone her skills and confront her past, setting the stage for her journey of self-discovery.

Rivalry and Competition

Driving force for character development

The rivalry and competition Mallory encounters, particularly with Nolan Sawyer, serve as a driving force for her character development. These elements challenge her to push her limits, confront her fears, and ultimately embrace her potential as a chess player and individual.

The Championship

Catalyst for growth and transformation

The World Chess Championship is a pivotal plot device that drives Mallory's journey of growth and transformation. It provides her with the opportunity to prove herself on the world stage, confront her past, and embrace her future. The championship is a testament to her resilience and passion for the game.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness

Key to personal and relational growth

The themes of reconciliation and forgiveness are central to the story, as Mallory and Nolan navigate their complex relationship. Their journey is marked by misunderstandings and hurt feelings, but ultimately leads to a deeper understanding and mutual respect. This reconciliation is key to their personal and relational growth, setting the stage for their future together.

Analysis

A journey of self-discovery and resilience

"Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood is a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, ambition, and the complexities of personal relationships. Through the lens of chess as a metaphor, the story delves into the intricacies of Mallory's journey as she navigates the challenges of returning to a world she once left behind. The book highlights the importance of confronting one's past to embrace the future, emphasizing the power of reconciliation and forgiveness. Mallory's growth is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of passion, offering readers a poignant reflection on the balance between personal desires and familial responsibilities.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Check & Mate about?

Chess prodigy's return : The story follows Mallory Greenleaf, a former chess prodigy who reluctantly returns to the game for a charity tournament, only to find herself facing the world champion, Nolan Sawyer.
Unexpected romance and rivalry : As Mallory navigates the competitive chess world, she develops a complex relationship with Nolan, blurring the lines between rivalry and competition and romance.
Personal growth and family : The narrative explores Mallory's journey of self-discovery, her struggle with past traumas, and her commitment to her family, all while rediscovering her passion for chess.

Why should I read Check & Mate?

Compelling characters : The book features well-developed characters with complex motivations, making their interactions and relationships engaging and emotionally resonant.
Unique blend of genres : It seamlessly combines elements of romance, sports, and self-discovery, offering a fresh and captivating reading experience.
Exploration of deeper themes : Beyond the surface plot, the story delves into themes of family, ambition, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with responsibilities.

What is the background of Check & Mate?

Contemporary setting : The story is set in the present day, with references to modern technology and social media, grounding the narrative in a relatable context.
Chess world backdrop : The book provides a glimpse into the competitive world of professional chess, including its tournaments, rankings, and the intense dedication required to succeed.
Personal and emotional context : The narrative is deeply rooted in Mallory's personal history, including her relationship with her late father and her family's financial struggles, adding layers of emotional depth.

What are the most memorable quotes in Check & Mate?

"I knew all along that there was nothing that I liked as much as winning a chess match." : This quote from Nolan Sawyer in the prologue reveals his intense passion and competitive drive, setting the stage for his character.
"No shame in retreating your pieces if you're being pinned and can get out, Dad used to say. No shame in knowing the limits of your game." : This quote reflects Mallory's strategic thinking and her father's influence, highlighting a key theme of knowing when to fight and when to retreat.
"You think I'm some kind of . . . chess talent, but I don't play. Sawyer must be in some kind of funk, and—" : This quote showcases Mallory's initial denial of her talent and her attempt to downplay her victory against Nolan, revealing her internal conflict.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Ali Hazelwood use?

First-person perspective : The story is told from Mallory's point of view, allowing readers to intimately experience her thoughts, emotions, and internal conflicts.
Witty and engaging dialogue : Hazelwood employs sharp, humorous dialogue that adds depth to the characters and makes their interactions entertaining and realistic.
Use of metaphors and symbolism : Chess as a metaphor is used as a central metaphor, with the game's strategies and tactics mirroring the characters' personal and relational struggles.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The pink and purple chess set : Mallory's first chess set, described as plastic and pink and purple, symbolizes her initial joy and passion for the game, contrasting with her later reluctance.
The recurring mention of Bob, Mallory's boss: Bob's unpleasant behavior and Mallory's dislike for her job at the garage highlight her need for financial stability and her desire for a more fulfilling career.
The description of the Greenleaf house : The small, not-quite-solvent Greenleaf estate reflects the family's financial struggles and Mallory's sense of responsibility to provide for them.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Nolan's public image: The prologue's description of Nolan as a "Gen Z sex symbol" foreshadows the media attention and public scrutiny that Mallory will face later in the story.
The mention of the Danish Gambit : Mallory's brief consideration of the Danish Gambit in her first game against Nolan foreshadows her aggressive and unconventional playing style.
The recurring theme of "touch-move" : The touch-move rule, initially mentioned in the tournament, becomes a metaphor for the characters' inability to avoid their feelings and the consequences of their actions.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Defne and Nolan's shared history: The revelation that Defne and Nolan both trained with his grandfather adds depth to their characters and explains Defne's initial interest in Mallory.
Oz's unexpected support: Oz's gruff exterior hides a genuine care for Mallory and Defne, as seen in his willingness to help Mallory and his concern for Defne's well-being.
Emil and Tanu's past relationship: The reveal of Emil and Tanu's past relationship adds a layer of complexity to their interactions and explains their close bond with Nolan.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Defne Bubikoğlu: As the owner of Zugzwang and Mallory's mentor, Defne plays a crucial role in Mallory's return to chess and her personal growth, offering guidance and support.
Easton Peña: Mallory's best friend, Easton, serves as a constant source of encouragement and support, pushing Mallory to pursue her passions and challenging her to confront her fears.
Oz Nothomb: Despite his initial gruffness, Oz becomes a key figure in Mallory's training, providing valuable insights and a unique perspective on the chess world.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Mallory's fear of commitment: Mallory's reluctance to fully embrace chess and her relationships stems from a fear of vulnerability and a desire to protect herself from potential hurt.
Nolan's need for connection: Despite his public persona as a cold and aloof champion, Nolan's actions reveal a deep-seated need for genuine connection and understanding.
Defne's desire to create a safe space: Defne's passion for Zugzwang is driven by her desire to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all chess players, particularly women.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Mallory's internal conflict: Mallory struggles with her desire to protect her family and her own ambitions, leading to internal conflict and self-doubt.
Nolan's emotional repression: Nolan's tendency to suppress his emotions and his difficulty expressing vulnerability stem from his past experiences and his desire to maintain control.
Oz's social awkwardness: Oz's gruff exterior and difficulty with social interactions mask a deep-seated insecurity and a desire for genuine connection.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Mallory's decision to accept the fellowship: This decision marks a turning point in Mallory's journey, as she chooses to confront her past and embrace her passion for chess.
The pool scene : The encounter between Mallory and Nolan at the pool is a turning point in their relationship, revealing their mutual attraction and the underlying tension between them.
Mallory's confrontation with her family: Mallory's emotional outburst and subsequent conversation with her family mark a turning point in her personal growth, as she begins to confront her past and embrace her own desires.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Mallory and Nolan's shift from rivalry to romance: Their relationship evolves from a competitive rivalry to a complex romance, marked by mutual respect, vulnerability, and a shared passion for chess.
Mallory and Easton's friendship: Their friendship is tested by distance and changing priorities, but ultimately strengthened by their shared history and mutual understanding.
Mallory and her sisters' bond: Mallory's relationship with her sisters evolves from a sense of responsibility to a deeper understanding and appreciation of their individual needs and desires.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The nature of Nolan's feelings: While Nolan expresses his feelings for Mallory, the depth and complexity of his emotions remain somewhat ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation.
The future of Mallory's career: The story ends with Mallory's decision to pursue chess professionally, but the specific path she will take and the challenges she will face remain open-ended.
The long-term impact of the past : While Mallory confronts her past, the long-term impact of her father's actions and her family's history on her future remains somewhat ambiguous.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Check & Mate?

Nolan's financial support of Mallory's fellowship: Nolan's decision to secretly fund Mallory's fellowship raises questions about his motivations and the power dynamics in their relationship.
Mallory's initial rejection of chess: Mallory's initial reluctance to embrace her talent and her attempts to distance herself from the game can be seen as both a form of self-preservation and a missed opportunity.
The ethics of the touch-move rule : The use of the touch-move rule by Koch to gain an advantage over Mallory raises questions about the ethics of competitive chess and the lengths players will go to win.

Check & Mate Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Mallory's decision to embrace chess: The ending sees Mallory finally embracing her passion for chess, choosing to pursue it professionally and compete in the Championship.
Nolan and Mallory's relationship: The ending suggests a future for Mallory and Nolan's relationship, with a mutual understanding and a shared commitment to support each other.
Open-ended future : While the ending provides a sense of closure, it also leaves the future open-ended, allowing readers to imagine the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead for Mallory and Nolan.