Developing an effective repertoire with 1.e4 requires extensive research, mixed with fine judgement and a good deal of creativity. In this, the second of three volumes, GM John Shaw turns the analytical spotlight on the French Defence, advocating his own favourite weapon for White, the Tarrasch Variation. The final part of the book begins the mammoth task of tackling the Sicilian Defence, by considering a number of rare but tricky options available to Black in this opening.

Just like the previous volume in the series, this book is based upon a foundation of tried and tested main lines, boosted by a number of innovative suggestions that will cause no end of trouble to your opponents. The repertoire is completed by a third volume, which covers the main lines of the Sicilian.

John Shaw is a grandmaster and three-time Scottish Champion.

384 pages - Published 30 May 2018

Paperback ISBN: 978-1-78483-070-0
Hardcover ISBN: 978-1-78483-071-7

Review of the author’s previous work:

“A fantastic publication that is clearly the result of a tremendous amount of work by Shaw, for which he deserves immense credit.”
GM David Smerdon, ChessVibes, reviewing The rey’s Gambit

Reviews

"With John Shaw in charge, the English language is pinpoint accurate, and when he adds in his dry Scottish humour you are sure to be won over with his prose. He often seems to be pointing out small, but relevant details, that others don't síe the time to notice, such as who played what and how many times and when, which signifies that... and so on. A sign that his research has been multi-dimensional."

GM Glenn Flear, New in Chess Yearbook

"I am highly recommending this series - I had used so many of these lines and have gotten good positions in virtually all the time where I have tested the theory coverage from these books. Shaw's writing style is fun to read, with flecks of dry humour littered throughout the book... these books have attained 'must-have' status for all 1.e4 players."

IM Kevin Goh (full review)

"The book contains a good mix of variations, game fragments and complete model games, and brings some new ideas into circulation.

Overall, I can warmly recommend the book to all players with a penchant for dynamic positional play, who like to play for a win from solid positions."

IM Dirk Schuh