Check & Mate

Reach for this book when your teenager is shouldering heavy family responsibilities or feeling guilty about pursuing their own dreams. It is an ideal choice for the child who acts as the secondary parent in the home and needs permission to reclaim their own identity. Mallory Greenleaf has given up chess to support her family following her father's death and her mother's illness. When she accidentally defeats a world champion, she is pulled back into a world of competitive strategy and high-stakes romance. While the story features a charming rivalry, its heart lies in exploring grief, financial anxiety, and the courage required to stop being a martyr for one's loved ones. It is a sophisticated, contemporary romance suitable for older teens who enjoy witty dialogue and emotional depth.