‘King’s Checkmate’ wraps up a trilogy of books that follow former gang member King and ersatz Irish mafia heir Rory as they fall in love and face their pasts in order to create their happy ending. Books 1 & 2 should be read before this one in order to enjoy the full experience.
Rory’s Irish mob troubles are behind him, but now the entire found family at King’s Gambit nightclub face danger from King’s gang leader brother, Drake. What will it take to break free from King’s past and live out a happily ever after?
While I feel the suspense elements of the story are a little implausible, I do enjoy Rory and King’s relationship. There’s light angst sprinkled in at times, but it resolves itself quickly when it tries to rear its ugly head. The ending leaves the reader satisfied with the outcome (including for Elias and Thomas).
This 3rd book is my favorite of the series in terms of the narration by Austin Jay. The various character voices are distinct and the interpretations match Bates and Lyda’s storytelling.
I received a complementary copy of this audiobook at my request. This review represents my voluntary opinion of it.
Recommended.