Queen’s Gambit

A witch, a betrayal, a curse - so begins Queen’s Gambit. Fast forward several hundred years to present-day Scotland, and learn how life and love are but games of chance.

A chess game between two masters is a sight to behold, and the press is scrambling to watch this weekend’s tournament. Christi, the bartender at the hotel where the contest is being held, notices the handsome Russian chess master Andrei right off the bat, and is inexplicably drawn to him. She is mysterious and secretive about her life, but they act on their attraction anyway. Dare she trust him with the truth about her past?

Andrei’s got problems of his own, mainly involving his brother and money owed to the mafia, and he’s very much interested in Christi and her antique chess set. It is a gorgeous piece, except the black queen appears to be missing. When he tries to visit Christi in her room the next day, he doesn’t find her there, but the chess set is complete.

Queen’s Gambit is tightly written, and keeps readers in suspense until the very last as to the way it will all end. Christi is complex and afraid to try to love, but takes the chance in spite of her fear. Chess enthusiasts will enjoy the many references to the game, and lovers of erotic romance will savor this hot tale of passion and redemption. Marie Treanor casts a spell of her own in Queen’s Gambit that will enchant and move readers!

Reviewed by: Michelle