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Checkmate #8
Checkmate
Bishop men are nothing but a plague on this planet, a disease that needs eradication before it spreads. They’re murderers. Liars. Thieves. The day I met Colum Bishop, I thought my life was finally turning around. I was led to believe he would be our saviour. He was supposed to be our hero, a long awaited reprieve from the hardships life insisted on throwing at my mom and me. But in reality, he was the beginning of the very end. Instead of accepting us, he destroyed us. Instead of saving us, he had us murdered. But before my final moments, I met a girl. My only ally in a savage war that would eventually end my life. Elizabeth Tate was the first and last thought that passed through my mind as I lay in an alleyway and finally closed my eyes. It’s ironic, really, that my name is Gunner Bishop. That makes me his heir, I suppose. But the Bishop kingdom is nothing to aspire toward. I was born to be great, but my name makes it impossible. I was born to lead, but my father made sure I wouldn’t grow to lead him. I have just two more Bishops to take care of, and then I can rest knowing my mother’s death wasn’t in vain. From a child in alleyway, I must shed and eradicate the filth my name implies, then I’ll emerge amongst the flames and rule the empire I was destined to lead. I truly hope Libby’s loyalties are not with the man she calls Uncle. Checkmate is the 8th and final instalment in the Checkmate Series. Please note, reader discretion is advised. Book includes scenes of violence and sexual assault.
364 pages, Paperback
Published January 27, 2020
759 people are currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
Emilia Finn
110 books1,598 followersEmilia Finn is an Amazon Top 20 bestselling, Australia-based author with more than 55 books written and published to date.
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
July 23, 2020
Checkmark HEA
This is the last book in this series. It focuses on Gunner and Libby. Gunner meet Libby when he was 11 and his mother was killed by his father. He wants revenge but finds family and a HEA.
This is the last book in this series. It focuses on Gunner and Libby. Gunner meet Libby when he was 11 and his mother was killed by his father. He wants revenge but finds family and a HEA.
February 6, 2020
Fantastic conclusion
I have to say it. I hated this book. Hated it because it meant that this amazing cast of characters was going to be done and over. It was everything that I could have wanted and then some in a conclusion. It finished off the storyline that had been interwoven throughout the books. It gave these characters the closure and family that they all wanted. It showed the power of love and how far it comes to healing the scars that can be left both physically and mentally. It was just perfect.
Did I have a few issues with the book? yes, the conversation, in the beginning, seemed too grownup but I put that aside because it made sense later in the book as to why that was important. Did all the action happen at the VERY end of the book making it feel rushed? Yes. However, the epilogue made up for it by showing how far these characters had come. I loved getting to see two characters that I didn't even care about or even know become such a focal point of importance in this amazing chess game.
Finding this author late last year is one of my favorite parts of 2019. I cannot wait to go back and read her earlier books because she is that amazing of a writer.
I have to say it. I hated this book. Hated it because it meant that this amazing cast of characters was going to be done and over. It was everything that I could have wanted and then some in a conclusion. It finished off the storyline that had been interwoven throughout the books. It gave these characters the closure and family that they all wanted. It showed the power of love and how far it comes to healing the scars that can be left both physically and mentally. It was just perfect.
Did I have a few issues with the book? yes, the conversation, in the beginning, seemed too grownup but I put that aside because it made sense later in the book as to why that was important. Did all the action happen at the VERY end of the book making it feel rushed? Yes. However, the epilogue made up for it by showing how far these characters had come. I loved getting to see two characters that I didn't even care about or even know become such a focal point of importance in this amazing chess game.
Finding this author late last year is one of my favorite parts of 2019. I cannot wait to go back and read her earlier books because she is that amazing of a writer.
June 24, 2024
Ew gunner was the least likeable character in this whole series. He had zero personality except for a victim complex
June 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this series. Now onto the next generation
December 5, 2025
This is a Romance, and this is the 8th book in the Checkmate series. I read the first seven books in the series before picking up this book. This is my least favorite book in this series.
July 9, 2021
That was a loooong book and the end to this series of eight books. You could probably read it as a stand alone, as the back story is revealed as you go along, but if you haven't read this series I suggest reading from book one, as this last installment will give massive spoilers. The romance itself is contained within this novel, but the main characters from book one appear right throughout. I enjoyed it and it was beautifully written, as were the romance scenes. The actual romance featured throughout, was sort of slow burn, yet didn't overshadow the back story. That of course, was the most interesting part, as there was obviously intensive pre-planning by the author to weave one gigantic and complicated story through these eight books. Note that there are a lot of side characters, which is why if you've read the other books in this series before this one, they will all make sense and have their place. Everything is wrapped up neatly and explained. I know all these people will keep appearing in future books, as the author has created quite a book world for readers in this small town.
February 7, 2020
Rush to the end
I absolutely adore everything that Emilia Finn has written and I savor each of her books. I was so excited about this book, the finale of the Checkmate series. It has her expected humor and sexiness. There is wonderful character development and lovely cameos from previous loved characters. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is the ending felt way too rushed to me. I felt like we didn't really get to "see" the relationship develop by the skipping of time periods (skipping weeks at a time where we are told they spent time together but we didn't get that interaction). I love the overall story, I just feel like a little something else was missing. I am looking forward to the Next Gen series and maybe we will get some more details of the end of this story with the beginning of the next. Overall, I highly recommend this book but start at the beginning of the series for all of the back story.
I absolutely adore everything that Emilia Finn has written and I savor each of her books. I was so excited about this book, the finale of the Checkmate series. It has her expected humor and sexiness. There is wonderful character development and lovely cameos from previous loved characters. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is the ending felt way too rushed to me. I felt like we didn't really get to "see" the relationship develop by the skipping of time periods (skipping weeks at a time where we are told they spent time together but we didn't get that interaction). I love the overall story, I just feel like a little something else was missing. I am looking forward to the Next Gen series and maybe we will get some more details of the end of this story with the beginning of the next. Overall, I highly recommend this book but start at the beginning of the series for all of the back story.
February 5, 2020
I did not want to write this review. To me that is admitting it is over and I am just not ready for that. I found Emilia Finn's books in July 2019 and quickly blew through her back catalog in less than a month. This is the final book in her third series, Checkmate. Yes it's the title of the book and the series. While I loved everyone of of her books this series has my heart. The Bishop boys are everything and Kane holds my heart. In this book we find out that there is a third Bishop boy and let me tell you it is a doozy. It had the action and suspense that we have all come to love and expect from this series. It has the Bishop boys and their women making you laugh your a$$ off. And it has all the alpha male swoon you expect from a Bishop boy. Gunner and Libby's story was the perfect ending to this amazing series.
September 7, 2020
This series was the first series I read by Emilia Finn, and I have to say, I really loved it. I kept checking to see when Checkmate went live, I couldn't wait to find out what happened, and I was not disappointed. Now it's time to read some of her other series.
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March 21, 2026Checkmate by Emilia Finn* is one of those stories that hooks you early with emotion and then just keeps layering on intensity, history, and complicated relationships.
The book starts with Gunner Bishop as a kid, being taken by his mother to meet his father for the very first time—a moment that should mean something, but instead goes completely wrong. While the adults are dealing with their own chaos, Gunner gets shuffled off into a “kids room,” and that’s where he meets Elizabeth Tate. And honestly, that moment ends up being one of the most important parts of the entire story, because the connection they form there sticks with both of them for life.
From that point on, things spiral fast. What was supposed to be a turning point in Gunner’s life becomes the beginning of something much darker. Instead of gaining a father, he loses everything, and ends up running away and surviving on the streets. That early trauma really shapes who he becomes—he grows up holding onto a deep hatred for the Bishop family and everything they represent, while also clinging to his feelings for Libby as one of the only good things to come out of that time.
As an adult, Gunner is driven by the need for answers and a sense of justice. He’s not just looking back—he’s actively trying to dismantle the legacy tied to his name. The whole “Bishop men are nothing but a plague” idea really fuels his motivation, and you can feel how personal everything is for him. At the same time, there’s this constant pull toward Libby, and a big part of his journey is figuring out if she’s still the same girl he connected with… or if her loyalties lie somewhere he can’t follow.
What really stands out is how gritty and intense the story is. This isn’t a light romance—it’s layered with violence, revenge, and a lot of emotional weight. Gunner’s perspective, especially when reflecting on his past and everything he’s lost, adds a darker edge that makes the story feel raw and real. And the dynamic between him and Libby has that mix of history, tension, and uncertainty that keeps things interesting.
I also liked that even though this is part of a series, it can still be read on its own without feeling lost. You get enough context to understand the stakes and the relationships, which makes it accessible even if you haven’t read the earlier books.
Overall, this is a heavy, emotional read with a strong focus on survival, revenge, and the kind of connection that doesn’t fade even after years of separation. If you’re into darker romance with complicated characters, high stakes, and a lot of intensity, this one definitely delivers—just be sure to check the content warnings going in, because it doesn’t hold back.
The book starts with Gunner Bishop as a kid, being taken by his mother to meet his father for the very first time—a moment that should mean something, but instead goes completely wrong. While the adults are dealing with their own chaos, Gunner gets shuffled off into a “kids room,” and that’s where he meets Elizabeth Tate. And honestly, that moment ends up being one of the most important parts of the entire story, because the connection they form there sticks with both of them for life.
From that point on, things spiral fast. What was supposed to be a turning point in Gunner’s life becomes the beginning of something much darker. Instead of gaining a father, he loses everything, and ends up running away and surviving on the streets. That early trauma really shapes who he becomes—he grows up holding onto a deep hatred for the Bishop family and everything they represent, while also clinging to his feelings for Libby as one of the only good things to come out of that time.
As an adult, Gunner is driven by the need for answers and a sense of justice. He’s not just looking back—he’s actively trying to dismantle the legacy tied to his name. The whole “Bishop men are nothing but a plague” idea really fuels his motivation, and you can feel how personal everything is for him. At the same time, there’s this constant pull toward Libby, and a big part of his journey is figuring out if she’s still the same girl he connected with… or if her loyalties lie somewhere he can’t follow.
What really stands out is how gritty and intense the story is. This isn’t a light romance—it’s layered with violence, revenge, and a lot of emotional weight. Gunner’s perspective, especially when reflecting on his past and everything he’s lost, adds a darker edge that makes the story feel raw and real. And the dynamic between him and Libby has that mix of history, tension, and uncertainty that keeps things interesting.
I also liked that even though this is part of a series, it can still be read on its own without feeling lost. You get enough context to understand the stakes and the relationships, which makes it accessible even if you haven’t read the earlier books.
Overall, this is a heavy, emotional read with a strong focus on survival, revenge, and the kind of connection that doesn’t fade even after years of separation. If you’re into darker romance with complicated characters, high stakes, and a lot of intensity, this one definitely delivers—just be sure to check the content warnings going in, because it doesn’t hold back.
March 26, 2026
Dual Narration - such a great ending to the series!
This was a great ending to the story and I loved that we see their story happening alongside Spence/Abigail and we get to see the other side of a few things that happened throughout the series (like seeing Spence's time away from their POV)
We are introduced to Gunnar at 11 years old, he's meeting his father for the first time but everything quickly goes to hell - he spends one hour with a girl named Libby and that one hour is enough to imprint on one another's lives for the next 20+ years.
Gunnar ends up on the streets living on scraps, selling pictures of Libby to make money until he's able to build an entire empire - Griffin Industries. Now, he's made it his mission to get revenge on all the people who ruined his life all those years ago, the only problem is that the Bishops got them first and now they are the only ones left for him to focus on. He wants to find out if they are as bad as their father and plans to kill them if that's the case. That leads him to the town the Bishops are living in and he ends up finding Libby like he always said he would.
Libby has been a cop for the last decade and has gone through life thinking Gunner died the day they met but she is constantly thinking of him. She even still has keepsakes from that day that she still has. Then she meets Theo and the second she meets his eyes gets a feeling of strong familiarity. I loved Libby being a strong FMC but I really wish there hadn't been such a focus on her weight. She was a chubby girl when the two met and now she deprives herself of literally anything but one sleeve of cookies a week and goes to the gym daily to stay fit. Like come on us plus size girlies need a Gunnar too! When he said he had been imagining that chubby girl all these years I was like YAS.
I definitely felt for the Bishop brothers - all three of them. Kane/Jay have been through the ringer already and now get thrown another curveball when they discover Gunnar exists. That first meeting with them when this all comes to light broke my heart. I was so happy to get the epilogue we got and to see this one big happy family at the end of the series.
I CANNOT WAIT to get to the kids stories - Mac and Benny I can only imagine are going to have great stories.
This was a great ending to the story and I loved that we see their story happening alongside Spence/Abigail and we get to see the other side of a few things that happened throughout the series (like seeing Spence's time away from their POV)
We are introduced to Gunnar at 11 years old, he's meeting his father for the first time but everything quickly goes to hell - he spends one hour with a girl named Libby and that one hour is enough to imprint on one another's lives for the next 20+ years.
Gunnar ends up on the streets living on scraps, selling pictures of Libby to make money until he's able to build an entire empire - Griffin Industries. Now, he's made it his mission to get revenge on all the people who ruined his life all those years ago, the only problem is that the Bishops got them first and now they are the only ones left for him to focus on. He wants to find out if they are as bad as their father and plans to kill them if that's the case. That leads him to the town the Bishops are living in and he ends up finding Libby like he always said he would.
Libby has been a cop for the last decade and has gone through life thinking Gunner died the day they met but she is constantly thinking of him. She even still has keepsakes from that day that she still has. Then she meets Theo and the second she meets his eyes gets a feeling of strong familiarity. I loved Libby being a strong FMC but I really wish there hadn't been such a focus on her weight. She was a chubby girl when the two met and now she deprives herself of literally anything but one sleeve of cookies a week and goes to the gym daily to stay fit. Like come on us plus size girlies need a Gunnar too! When he said he had been imagining that chubby girl all these years I was like YAS.
I definitely felt for the Bishop brothers - all three of them. Kane/Jay have been through the ringer already and now get thrown another curveball when they discover Gunnar exists. That first meeting with them when this all comes to light broke my heart. I was so happy to get the epilogue we got and to see this one big happy family at the end of the series.
I CANNOT WAIT to get to the kids stories - Mac and Benny I can only imagine are going to have great stories.
March 17, 2026
This final installment in the eight‑book series delivers a powerful and satisfying conclusion to a sprawling, intricately woven story. While the author includes enough backstory to let new readers follow along, this book truly shines when read after the previous seven—both because of the emotional payoff and because it contains major spoilers.
The romance is beautifully written, slow‑burn, and emotional without overshadowing the overarching plot. Long‑time readers will appreciate seeing characters from book one appear throughout, creating a strong sense of continuity and community. The sheer number of side characters can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the series, but for returning readers, each one clicks into place with purpose.
What stands out most is the author’s meticulous planning—eight books’ worth of twists, character arcs, and small‑town lore connect seamlessly here. Everything is wrapped up neatly, and the world the author has created feels ready to expand into future stories.
The darker, more intense storyline surrounding Gunner Bishop adds depth and grit, contrasting sharply with the romance. His struggle with legacy, vengeance, and identity brings emotional weight to the narrative, making this finale both heartbreaking and hopeful.
A beautifully crafted ending to a long, complex, and deeply engaging series.
The romance is beautifully written, slow‑burn, and emotional without overshadowing the overarching plot. Long‑time readers will appreciate seeing characters from book one appear throughout, creating a strong sense of continuity and community. The sheer number of side characters can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the series, but for returning readers, each one clicks into place with purpose.
What stands out most is the author’s meticulous planning—eight books’ worth of twists, character arcs, and small‑town lore connect seamlessly here. Everything is wrapped up neatly, and the world the author has created feels ready to expand into future stories.
The darker, more intense storyline surrounding Gunner Bishop adds depth and grit, contrasting sharply with the romance. His struggle with legacy, vengeance, and identity brings emotional weight to the narrative, making this finale both heartbreaking and hopeful.
A beautifully crafted ending to a long, complex, and deeply engaging series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2023
Just when you thought you knew it all, nothing is as it seems!
Gunner is pushy, protective, possessive, slightly unhinged and desperate to hold those responsible accountable. He just doesn’t expect that everything he knows to be turned on it’s head. The men he has hated his whole life are actually good. The people he has trusted wronged him. The girl he knew is now a woman and he likes what he sees. Libby is a strong independent woman fighting to right the wrongs others caused in the world. Still, she feels connected to the young boy she met briefly and thought died. Now he’s back and he won’t stop until he claims her and the revenge he so desperately seeks.
Will they tear Checkmate to the ground or earn their place among the ranks? This story is a wild and unexpected roller coaster of events that disrupt everything we thought we knew about Checkmate. Even in the chaos, it ties so well that you can’t help but think it’s been this way all along. I love that Emilia is always thinking up new ways to keep us guessing but still brings home the sense of family and the happy ending for the main characters. Once again we get the full spectrum of the Checkmate characters and fill out the larger picture during Gunner and Libby’s story.
Gunner is pushy, protective, possessive, slightly unhinged and desperate to hold those responsible accountable. He just doesn’t expect that everything he knows to be turned on it’s head. The men he has hated his whole life are actually good. The people he has trusted wronged him. The girl he knew is now a woman and he likes what he sees. Libby is a strong independent woman fighting to right the wrongs others caused in the world. Still, she feels connected to the young boy she met briefly and thought died. Now he’s back and he won’t stop until he claims her and the revenge he so desperately seeks.
Will they tear Checkmate to the ground or earn their place among the ranks? This story is a wild and unexpected roller coaster of events that disrupt everything we thought we knew about Checkmate. Even in the chaos, it ties so well that you can’t help but think it’s been this way all along. I love that Emilia is always thinking up new ways to keep us guessing but still brings home the sense of family and the happy ending for the main characters. Once again we get the full spectrum of the Checkmate characters and fill out the larger picture during Gunner and Libby’s story.
October 19, 2025
DNF 73%. I loved Jay’s book (5 stars) and I liked Kane’s book well enough. The non-Bishop brother books in this series that I tried to read were meh to DNF. I probably should have moved on but I wanted to see if the surprise third Bishop bro would recapture the magic of book 5.
Nope. It did not.
First off, I really hated Libby. Her reasons for doing or not doing things are so stupid. Can’t date Theo because he’s rich and she’s a cop? Then she drags him and says his trauma isn’t bad enough? Bitch, his mother was raped and murdered in front of him, he spent 7 years alone as a homeless child, still managed to drag himself out of the gutter and become a billionaire tech bro? What trauma could possibly be enough? 🙄
Then she fell so much in love with Gunner at 9 years old in the one hour she spent with him that she refuses to call him by the name he chose and built his life on for 20 years? 😡 so fucking disrespectful.
On top of the worst FMC I’ve read in a while, the plot is so weak. Nothing really happens that isn’t a direct result of poor decisions and pointless arguments. I tried to force myself to finish it so I could see if Jay, Kane, and Theo build a relationship, but I just couldn’t anymore.
Nope. It did not.
First off, I really hated Libby. Her reasons for doing or not doing things are so stupid. Can’t date Theo because he’s rich and she’s a cop? Then she drags him and says his trauma isn’t bad enough? Bitch, his mother was raped and murdered in front of him, he spent 7 years alone as a homeless child, still managed to drag himself out of the gutter and become a billionaire tech bro? What trauma could possibly be enough? 🙄
Then she fell so much in love with Gunner at 9 years old in the one hour she spent with him that she refuses to call him by the name he chose and built his life on for 20 years? 😡 so fucking disrespectful.
On top of the worst FMC I’ve read in a while, the plot is so weak. Nothing really happens that isn’t a direct result of poor decisions and pointless arguments. I tried to force myself to finish it so I could see if Jay, Kane, and Theo build a relationship, but I just couldn’t anymore.
February 4, 2020
Such a great ending.....check and mate
I avoided this book. I avoided it like no other Emilia Finn book. Normally they download and I’m ready to read within minutes. This one lasted 3 days and 12 hours before I finally gave in. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to read it. It was that I was scared to read it. I knew it was going to be the end of an era, and I wasn’t ready to let them go.
As always, Emilia outdid herself. The way that she keeps track of her characters and interweaves them together throughout the books like in the movie Crash. Honestly, you read it and it makes you want to go back and reread other books to figure out how you could have missed it. Hats off, Emilia, because you do it and do it well.....every single book.
Libby Tate has been pining for a boy that she met for 1 hour when she was 9 years old. She has lined for him and the life he could have had for the last 20 years. She knows he’s dead.....but why does this new guy have his eyes and his memories. And, should she trust her gut or her heart....do they both want the same thing.
5 star read - can’t wait for Next Gen
I avoided this book. I avoided it like no other Emilia Finn book. Normally they download and I’m ready to read within minutes. This one lasted 3 days and 12 hours before I finally gave in. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to read it. It was that I was scared to read it. I knew it was going to be the end of an era, and I wasn’t ready to let them go.
As always, Emilia outdid herself. The way that she keeps track of her characters and interweaves them together throughout the books like in the movie Crash. Honestly, you read it and it makes you want to go back and reread other books to figure out how you could have missed it. Hats off, Emilia, because you do it and do it well.....every single book.
Libby Tate has been pining for a boy that she met for 1 hour when she was 9 years old. She has lined for him and the life he could have had for the last 20 years. She knows he’s dead.....but why does this new guy have his eyes and his memories. And, should she trust her gut or her heart....do they both want the same thing.
5 star read - can’t wait for Next Gen
March 11, 2026
Checkmate by Emilia Finn completely delivered on audiobook. From the very first chapter, I was hooked and couldn’t stop listening. The story pulls you in like a strategic chess match where every move matters, and the emotional tension keeps building until you’re fully invested in the characters.
The narration was fantastic and really brought the characters to life. You could feel every ounce of tension, chemistry, and vulnerability in the performances. The narrators did an incredible job capturing the intensity of the story and the personalities of the characters, making it feel immersive and addictive.
The chemistry between the main characters was electric, and the banter, emotional moments, and steamy scenes all landed perfectly in audio form. It’s the kind of audiobook where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter”… and suddenly hours have passed.
If you love romance with strong characters, emotional depth, and a storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish, this audiobook is absolutely worth the listen.
🎧 Highly recommend the audiobook experience for this one! It’s a five-star listen that will keep you hooked until the very last move. ♟️✨
The narration was fantastic and really brought the characters to life. You could feel every ounce of tension, chemistry, and vulnerability in the performances. The narrators did an incredible job capturing the intensity of the story and the personalities of the characters, making it feel immersive and addictive.
The chemistry between the main characters was electric, and the banter, emotional moments, and steamy scenes all landed perfectly in audio form. It’s the kind of audiobook where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter”… and suddenly hours have passed.
If you love romance with strong characters, emotional depth, and a storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish, this audiobook is absolutely worth the listen.
🎧 Highly recommend the audiobook experience for this one! It’s a five-star listen that will keep you hooked until the very last move. ♟️✨
February 2, 2020
Blown Away.... Amazing!
Emilia Finn has done it again with the amazing conclusion to the Checkmate series! I have been anticipating this book for a very long time and it did not disappoint with great characters, dialogue and an intriguing plot that twists and turns before it ends right where it should be - with two favourite characters celebrating their love.
The story follows the lives of two lost souls who came together once for such a brief time when they were kids .... only to find their other half over two decades later. More than just a love story though, it follows these two as they search for a way to make peace with their past that keeps rearing it’s ugly head. With some awesome plot twists and appearances of beloved previous characters, I love the authors ability to tie in so many aspects and bring the whole series to an end that makes you sigh with happiness but also feel sad that you no longer are in their world - except through re-reads that will definitely come!!
I can’t recommend this series enough.... and eagerly await the next one.....
Emilia Finn has done it again with the amazing conclusion to the Checkmate series! I have been anticipating this book for a very long time and it did not disappoint with great characters, dialogue and an intriguing plot that twists and turns before it ends right where it should be - with two favourite characters celebrating their love.
The story follows the lives of two lost souls who came together once for such a brief time when they were kids .... only to find their other half over two decades later. More than just a love story though, it follows these two as they search for a way to make peace with their past that keeps rearing it’s ugly head. With some awesome plot twists and appearances of beloved previous characters, I love the authors ability to tie in so many aspects and bring the whole series to an end that makes you sigh with happiness but also feel sad that you no longer are in their world - except through re-reads that will definitely come!!
I can’t recommend this series enough.... and eagerly await the next one.....
March 13, 2020
Never a dull moment
I don't know where to start.. This book I guess. It was amazing but for this author that's nothing new! I laughed, I cried, I begged for it not to end. I have wondered about Tate since the beginning. She's a badass chick that's runs the show. I've literally lost sleep thinking up ways this series could end and still was surprised. Griffin was nothing like I thought him up but turned out so much better! Kane, Jay, Jess, Sofia, and all the characters I loved were worked in and help the story flow. Evie "smalls" is a favorite. I literally am dying for her story and refused to read it until both parts are out. Why did Checkmate have to end?!? Just one more book!! Now for the author... I've literally never read anything written as well Emilia Finn's books! She is a queen in the book word!! I stumbled into the Rolling Series and have been hooked. I have count downs to new releases and have My whole family think I'm nuts laughing and crying through each new book. I am someone who prefers reading any free time I have and Emilia is my go to.
I don't know where to start.. This book I guess. It was amazing but for this author that's nothing new! I laughed, I cried, I begged for it not to end. I have wondered about Tate since the beginning. She's a badass chick that's runs the show. I've literally lost sleep thinking up ways this series could end and still was surprised. Griffin was nothing like I thought him up but turned out so much better! Kane, Jay, Jess, Sofia, and all the characters I loved were worked in and help the story flow. Evie "smalls" is a favorite. I literally am dying for her story and refused to read it until both parts are out. Why did Checkmate have to end?!? Just one more book!! Now for the author... I've literally never read anything written as well Emilia Finn's books! She is a queen in the book word!! I stumbled into the Rolling Series and have been hooked. I have count downs to new releases and have My whole family think I'm nuts laughing and crying through each new book. I am someone who prefers reading any free time I have and Emilia is my go to.
August 17, 2020
This is book eight (and the last) of the Checkmate Series, which is a spinoff of the Survivor Series that is a spinoff of the Rollin On series all by the same author Emilia Finn. Checkmate is one of the slowest books in the series but you have to read them in order. Please just start with the Checkmate Series if you cannot go all the way back to the beginning of the Survivor Series. No need to go all the way back to the Rollin On series, but PLEASE make sure that you start with the Checkmate beginning.
The Theo and Elizabeth story, the Gunner and Libby story, are both good stories, they will make you scream, cry, laugh, and love them so very much. This book is straight-up about a pair of lonely, insecure, and hurt people, finding love in the midst of chaos. This story spans 11 years and starts with children, but ends with love.
The character development was good and well thought out, it built on the knowledge that the reader had from previous books.
This book has a HEA and it does not have a cliffhanger.
The Theo and Elizabeth story, the Gunner and Libby story, are both good stories, they will make you scream, cry, laugh, and love them so very much. This book is straight-up about a pair of lonely, insecure, and hurt people, finding love in the midst of chaos. This story spans 11 years and starts with children, but ends with love.
The character development was good and well thought out, it built on the knowledge that the reader had from previous books.
This book has a HEA and it does not have a cliffhanger.
September 3, 2020
Holy heck.... how can I even begin?
Tate, the only badass female cop, is nothing like her asshole bad cop dad. She proves it every single day.
Theo... well.... he's a man with a cause but he met Elizabeth Tate once upon a time on his worst day ever and he promised to love her forever. Now back and ready to take down any wrong doers, he finds his Libby Tate is a cop. Is she good? Is she bad? What about those Bishops? Are they good or bad because they all look guilty as hell from his eyes.
I like that this story focuses on Theo and Elizabeth and has the drama as a second to their reconnection. It truly was love first, drama second and the drama is juicy.
Some things I predicted, some I didn't. It does get a little confusing because the timeline intertwines with the last book but Theo and Tate being there was excluded in Spencer's book. Now they're filling in the gaps.
I thought it was a fantastic read to end this series... but I'd like to continue on with some of these side characters (please!)
Also, the very ending of the book 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Tate, the only badass female cop, is nothing like her asshole bad cop dad. She proves it every single day.
Theo... well.... he's a man with a cause but he met Elizabeth Tate once upon a time on his worst day ever and he promised to love her forever. Now back and ready to take down any wrong doers, he finds his Libby Tate is a cop. Is she good? Is she bad? What about those Bishops? Are they good or bad because they all look guilty as hell from his eyes.
I like that this story focuses on Theo and Elizabeth and has the drama as a second to their reconnection. It truly was love first, drama second and the drama is juicy.
Some things I predicted, some I didn't. It does get a little confusing because the timeline intertwines with the last book but Theo and Tate being there was excluded in Spencer's book. Now they're filling in the gaps.
I thought it was a fantastic read to end this series... but I'd like to continue on with some of these side characters (please!)
Also, the very ending of the book 🤣🤣🤣🤣
April 29, 2022
Checkmate
Libby and Gunner are the epitome of soul mates. Their souls permanently fused together at a young age and never broke apart. Even through all of the trials and tribulations, which included an extended separation, they were bonded by love.
This book was intense, and at times a bit over the top, which is exactly what the last book of this series needed to be. This is my favorite series so far by Emilia Finn. I love the Bishop Brothers and Sophia Solomon is my favorite Heroine of all time. The only negative about this book is that its the finale. I don't want to say goodbye to the Checkmate family. This will definitely be a series I come back to re-read.
Note: This book can be read as a standalone but it shouldn't be. Emilia Finn does an amazing job of developing her characters throughout her stories and then they continue to be included in each book. I highly suggest getting to know them by starting with the Rollin On series and reading the books in order or at the very least start with book 1 of this series.
Libby and Gunner are the epitome of soul mates. Their souls permanently fused together at a young age and never broke apart. Even through all of the trials and tribulations, which included an extended separation, they were bonded by love.
This book was intense, and at times a bit over the top, which is exactly what the last book of this series needed to be. This is my favorite series so far by Emilia Finn. I love the Bishop Brothers and Sophia Solomon is my favorite Heroine of all time. The only negative about this book is that its the finale. I don't want to say goodbye to the Checkmate family. This will definitely be a series I come back to re-read.
Note: This book can be read as a standalone but it shouldn't be. Emilia Finn does an amazing job of developing her characters throughout her stories and then they continue to be included in each book. I highly suggest getting to know them by starting with the Rollin On series and reading the books in order or at the very least start with book 1 of this series.
March 29, 2026
Publishing Date: March 23rd
Produced by: Brilliance Publishing
Received from: NetGalley
Written by: Emilia Finn
Narrated by: Audrey Obeyn
&
Dane Anderson
Rating: ♡5🎧♡5⭐♡2🌶️♡
(Same cause same series)
Tropes:
🤍Morally Grey MMC
🩶Dangerous Protector
🤍Mafia
🩶Organized Crime
Romance
🎧💜 Audrey Obeyn: Libby come to LIFE! Another bad ass FMC and you NAILED it again! It is amazing to me that you voiced all of these woman BUT I can see them as separate women/characters! Also LOVE your male character voices! I cannot wait to hear your next thing!
🎧💙 Dane Anderson: You have captured all of the MMC and the brotherhood they stand for. I was captivated from the start! You are amazing at your craft sir!
📚🩶 Emilia Finn: I am sad this is over! I am usually all about the smut - don’t judge 🤣 - this story line… HOLY SHIT! I tip my hat to you ma’am this series (although I was only able to get 3 of them) was AMAZING!
Produced by: Brilliance Publishing
Received from: NetGalley
Written by: Emilia Finn
Narrated by: Audrey Obeyn
&
Dane Anderson
Rating: ♡5🎧♡5⭐♡2🌶️♡
(Same cause same series)
Tropes:
🤍Morally Grey MMC
🩶Dangerous Protector
🤍Mafia
🩶Organized Crime
Romance
🎧💜 Audrey Obeyn: Libby come to LIFE! Another bad ass FMC and you NAILED it again! It is amazing to me that you voiced all of these woman BUT I can see them as separate women/characters! Also LOVE your male character voices! I cannot wait to hear your next thing!
🎧💙 Dane Anderson: You have captured all of the MMC and the brotherhood they stand for. I was captivated from the start! You are amazing at your craft sir!
📚🩶 Emilia Finn: I am sad this is over! I am usually all about the smut - don’t judge 🤣 - this story line… HOLY SHIT! I tip my hat to you ma’am this series (although I was only able to get 3 of them) was AMAZING!
March 18, 2026
This series improves. The writing of the author also improves. The dialogues are better and character building is detailed.
Gunner and Libby have a sparkle, though it is not quite believable that 9 year olds remember that much and stay true to someone, who do they cannot even truly know that exist. Anyway, this is a book, so init easier to accept some facts instead of digging too much into them.
Gunner (or Theo) seemed nice and agreeable. He trusted too quickly the Bishop brothers and started calling them brothers and family almost in the instant they met, which I find not so believable after years of fierce fiend.
I also thought that the author hated Libby and described her every time emphasizing one of her not so positive physical characteristics. Did someone else feel the same way?
Gunner and Libby have a sparkle, though it is not quite believable that 9 year olds remember that much and stay true to someone, who do they cannot even truly know that exist. Anyway, this is a book, so init easier to accept some facts instead of digging too much into them.
Gunner (or Theo) seemed nice and agreeable. He trusted too quickly the Bishop brothers and started calling them brothers and family almost in the instant they met, which I find not so believable after years of fierce fiend.
I also thought that the author hated Libby and described her every time emphasizing one of her not so positive physical characteristics. Did someone else feel the same way?
February 2, 2020
If you love this series then this book will happily round out the storyline for you. I LOVE this author's work and I ended up loving this novel as well... but, I had to get past several instances where I shook my head and went... nah.
The "instant" relationship between an 11 year old and 9 year old and their entire dialogue are waaaaay too grown up to be believable. I get why it's important, but still... nah. And then when they meet again as adults the stuff Gunner/Theo says to Libby to get her attention?? Nah. He's way smarter and way smoother than that. I get why it happened (the jealous dynamic and all that) but... nah.
Despite those things I truly enjoyed the book and look forward to the next series.
The "instant" relationship between an 11 year old and 9 year old and their entire dialogue are waaaaay too grown up to be believable. I get why it's important, but still... nah. And then when they meet again as adults the stuff Gunner/Theo says to Libby to get her attention?? Nah. He's way smarter and way smoother than that. I get why it happened (the jealous dynamic and all that) but... nah.
Despite those things I truly enjoyed the book and look forward to the next series.
February 12, 2020
Totally loved this series
I have totally enjoyed all the books from Emilia Finn. I am completely hooked. Her books are so full of family and love, but angst and heat and sexy characters. Truly an author you will lose sleep with as you literally can’t put it down. Just another page, just another page and next thing, it’s 3 am! There are not enough stars for this book. So sad it’s the conclusion of the series. These characters in the Checkmate series have become some of my all time favorites, and I don’t want to be at the end. However, she does tie her characters from all the series together so I’m sure there will be more glimpses of them as she builds the next generation. I can’t wait for release day!!!
I have totally enjoyed all the books from Emilia Finn. I am completely hooked. Her books are so full of family and love, but angst and heat and sexy characters. Truly an author you will lose sleep with as you literally can’t put it down. Just another page, just another page and next thing, it’s 3 am! There are not enough stars for this book. So sad it’s the conclusion of the series. These characters in the Checkmate series have become some of my all time favorites, and I don’t want to be at the end. However, she does tie her characters from all the series together so I’m sure there will be more glimpses of them as she builds the next generation. I can’t wait for release day!!!
March 24, 2026
Gunner no longer exists. He is no longer a child living on the streets. Once a child who witnessed the brutal assault and murder of his mother, he now hunts down any information he can find on his brothers. The Cain brothers are also the men who are the sons of the man that murdered his mother. Libby was once his friend when they were kids and he vowed to always be her family. Now, he finds her over twenty years later and she isnt the little kid he once knew but instead a beautiful woman.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence.
This is the final story in the checkmate series and what an ending! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. The author has a way with writing that will make you emotionally bond with each character.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence.
This is the final story in the checkmate series and what an ending! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. The author has a way with writing that will make you emotionally bond with each character.
February 4, 2020
Such a good closing book for the Checkmate series!!
As always I love Emilia’s creativity and world she has created since the Rollers! This is one of my favorites because you can literally feel all the emotions and just all the FEELS while reading! I always make the mistake of reading before bed but end up staying up all night because Emilia makes to where you have to read it all in one sitting 😅😂 Gunner and Libby’s relationship is a beautiful fairytale and so sweet and pure! I would absolutely recommend Emilias books as I’ve read All and if you haven’t you are literally missing out! 💜💜💜
As always I love Emilia’s creativity and world she has created since the Rollers! This is one of my favorites because you can literally feel all the emotions and just all the FEELS while reading! I always make the mistake of reading before bed but end up staying up all night because Emilia makes to where you have to read it all in one sitting 😅😂 Gunner and Libby’s relationship is a beautiful fairytale and so sweet and pure! I would absolutely recommend Emilias books as I’ve read All and if you haven’t you are literally missing out! 💜💜💜
February 6, 2020
The Grand Finale
This is the icing on top of the Checkmate cake. It has humor, passion, brotherhood, and most of all love in places you would never expect to find it. It is the big brother to all the Checkmate books, the wise one or missing puzzle piece that brings all the characters together as well as answering questions from the other Checkmate books. What a web and family and gangsters that are spun in these books. You have to read the other 7 books in Checkmate to really appreciate this book and who’s in it. You will once again fall in love with Emilia’s characters and be left feeling you are somehow their family. Well done Emilia, it’s a solid 5!!!
This is the icing on top of the Checkmate cake. It has humor, passion, brotherhood, and most of all love in places you would never expect to find it. It is the big brother to all the Checkmate books, the wise one or missing puzzle piece that brings all the characters together as well as answering questions from the other Checkmate books. What a web and family and gangsters that are spun in these books. You have to read the other 7 books in Checkmate to really appreciate this book and who’s in it. You will once again fall in love with Emilia’s characters and be left feeling you are somehow their family. Well done Emilia, it’s a solid 5!!!
September 5, 2020
The series was so good and exciting
This series was really good. It’s interesting and is full of angst, conflict, secrets, and loves. I’m so glad I started at the first book and read through to the end. Theo Griffin olía awesome. He is jaded and trying make up for bad people hurting his family. Still he is good. Now his love interest Libby is annoying. I liked her at first but then she became whiny and irritating. Who says would you give up your multi-million dollar company for me? Libby is thirty years old, so I expected less ridiculous things from her. The Bishops, Theo, Oz, Alex and Sophie are what kept me reading through. The end turned out right. Read On!
This series was really good. It’s interesting and is full of angst, conflict, secrets, and loves. I’m so glad I started at the first book and read through to the end. Theo Griffin olía awesome. He is jaded and trying make up for bad people hurting his family. Still he is good. Now his love interest Libby is annoying. I liked her at first but then she became whiny and irritating. Who says would you give up your multi-million dollar company for me? Libby is thirty years old, so I expected less ridiculous things from her. The Bishops, Theo, Oz, Alex and Sophie are what kept me reading through. The end turned out right. Read On!
October 30, 2023
I haven’t finished this one as it’s just doing nothing for me. The entire series has been a slog but I felt I needed to read it to be able to continue with the next series. I’m finding I’m over these cliche dormant male characters and I found l was skimming more than I was reading. And just too far fetched is the three brothers woven through the books who were all thought to be dead but were all resurrected. Yeah nah that doesn’t work for me. A real shame as I loved The Rollin On and Survivor series and I will continue on to the next series but it’s taken me a year to get through this series and I’m glad it’s over.
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