The Hidden Laws of Chess Volume 2 by Nick Maatman

We all love the dynamics of chess. Spectacular sacrifices, combinations and attacks on the king never fail to enchant us. But how do we improve our understanding of dynamics? How can we recognize the ‘dynamic energy’ in a position? When can we turn 2+2 into 5, as the legendary tactician Mikhail Tal could? The answers can be found in the Hidden Laws of Chess.

We all love the dynamics of chess. Spectacular sacrifices, combinations and attacks on the king never fail to enchant us. But how do we improve our understanding of dynamics? How can we recognize the ‘dynamic energy’ in a position? When can we turn 2+2 into 5, as the legendary tactician Mikhail Tal could? The answers can be found in the Hidden Laws of Chess.

In the first volume of this series, International Master Nick Maatman explored the deeper patterns behind pawn structures. In this second volume, he explains the dynamics of chess by discussing themes such as material imbalance, calculation, and quality versus quantity. He also introduces concepts such as field of vision, the impact of error and the price of a move. These original and well-thought-out ideas are illustrated by a wealth of games from top players past and present, as well as from Maatman's own experience.

Maatman is an experienced chess coach and a graduate in business and philosophy. His books are a rich blend of science, philosophy and practicality. The Hidden Laws of Chess Volume 2: Mastering Dynamics contains plenty of useful advice, instructive chess and carefully selected exercises.

Nick Maatman (1995) is an International Master, an experienced chess coach, and a training partner of former Tata Steel winner GM Jorden van Foreest. Maatman became Dutch U20 champion in 2013 and is very active in tournaments, where he has beaten many grandmasters. He is also an acclaimed chess commentator and columnist.

Reviews

GM Matthew Sadler (New In Chess magazine)
“The subtlety of this opening phase had completely passed me by despite seeing the game multiple times over the years, so I was grateful to Maatman’s insight¬ful comments for showing me some¬thing fresh in an old game!”
(full review)

Ludo Tolhuizen (Schaaksite.nl)
“The book contains many beautiful and instructive fragments and games. The summaries at the end of the chapters are clear and instructive.“
(full review in Dutch)

ISBN : 9789083483320
Pages : 248
Publication date : Feb 13, 2025
Publisher : New In Chess