The Grandmaster Battle Manual by Vassilios Kotronias

The Grandmaster Battle Manual explains how to be a more competitive chess player. Chess grandmaster Vassilios Kotronias has been a professional player for two decades and now he explains the secrets of his success. As a writer, Kotronias has the skill to explain in words what other top players can only express in long lists of chess moves. Improve your chess with a grandmaster guide.

Vassilios Kotronias is a chess grandmaster and 9-time Greek Champion. He is a key member of the Greek team as both a player and coach. On the international tournament circuit he is a feared competitor who is particularly noted for his profound opening preparation.

ISBN - 978-1-906552-52-7 - 352 pages - Published 3 June 2011

Reviews

"The book consists of a large number of games, mostly analyzed in considerable detail ... nearly all of these annotations are a pleasure to read, particularly as there is a keen eye for aesthetics throughout the book."

"Above all, The Grandmaster Battle Manual is packed with Kotronias' personal experience, discussed with refreshing honesty. Amongst many subjects, he shares ideas on how to deal with setbacks, the best way to handle weaker opposition, and how to cope with a crucial last round game."

GM Luke McShane, New In Chess

"Engaging explanations... superb examples... a tremendous read... Another aspect I liked a lot was Kotronias' very personal and often humorous commentary. He's able to give his analysis a personal yet always relevant touch... Reading The Grandmaster Battle Manual is not only inspiring and highly enjoyable - it also emphasizes hard work (but not too hard, and not during tournaments), and the need to be practical. 'If you are a perfectionist, you will never approach really high levels', is one of Kotronias' surprising statements; in another chapter he stresses the crucial role of 'annoyance' during games. This book will provide you with food for thought until you can't stop yourself from signing up for the next Open in town."

Arne Moll, ChessVibes (full review)