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An understanding of Hedgehog structures is an essential component in any chessplayer’s knowledge. These structures arise when the black c-pawn is exchanged early on for the white d-pawn (as in the Sicilian Defence). White then adopts a formation with pawns on c4 and e4 and Black curls up in a Hedgehog formation with pawns on a6, b6, d6 and e6.

These structures are important as they can arise from an extraordinary variety of openings including the Sicilian Defence, the English Opening and the Queen’s Indian Defence. Play is usually highly intricate with White hoping to exploit the natural space advantage while Black remains solid and looks to break out of his or her carapace with the classical thrusts …b7-b5 and …d7-d5.”

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Endgames often give rise to the most difficult and pivotal moments of a chess game. In Sharp Endgames, International Master Esben Lund tackles this crucial topic in a unique and innovative way, focusing on the 16 Parameters involved in this type of decision-making.

The book contains more than a hundred carefully chosen exercises, with solutions linked to the 16 Parameters. The feedback is concrete and gives the player a clear way to improve his or her understanding and skill. The exercises can be played out against a partner or engine; the book even contains a step-by-step guide explaining how to configure a chess engine for this purpose.”