"widely regarded as one of the most influential chess writers in the world." - IM John Donaldson, Former USA Team Captain

"arguably the most important writer in American chess history." - Pete Tamburro, Chess Life

Such has been the acclaim for John Watson's ground-breaking works on modern chess strategy and his insightful opening books, that it is only natural that he now presents a strategic opening repertoire.

It is the chess-player's holy grail: a flexible repertoire that gives opponents real problems but doesn't require masses of memorization or continual study of ever-changing grandmaster theory. While this book can't quite promise all of that, Watson offers an intriguing selection of lines that give vast scope for over-the-board creativity and should never lead to a dull draw.

The repertoire is based on 1 d4 and 2 c4, following up with methodical play in the centre. Watson uses his vast opening knowledge to pick cunning move-orders and poisonous sequences that will force opponents to think for themselves, providing a true test of chess understanding. Throughout, he discusses strategies for both sides, so readers will be fully ready to pounce on any inaccuracies, and have all the tools to decide on the most appropriate plans for White.

International Master John Watson is one of the world's most respected chess authors. In 1999, his Secrets of Modern Chess Strategy won 'Chess Book of the Year' awards in the USA and the UK. He reviews chess books for The Week in Chess and hosts a weekly radio show on the Internet Chess Club. His bestselling four-volume work Mastering the Chess Openings has reaffirmed his reputation as a perceptive and authoritative chess opening writer.

Content:
004 Symbols

004 Dedication

005 Introduction

007 1. Queen’s Gambit Declined

028 2. Tarrasch Defence

042 3. Unorthodox Queen’s Gambit

068 4. Queen’s Gambit Accepted

086 5. Slav Defence

100 6. Semi-Slav Defence

115 7. Nimzo-Indian Defence

148 8. King’s Indian Defence

178 9. Grünfeld Defence

195 10. Benoni Systems and Benko Gambit

224 11. Dutch Defence

235 12. Assorted Defences

268 Index of Variations