Brittany McCann's Reviews > The Queen's Gambit

This was such a joy to experience. You do NOT have to love chess or even know anything about chess to enjoy this book. Walter Tevis does a phenomenal job giving you enough information to enjoy the book without that knowledge. However, even with a reader such as I that has basic chess skills, it was thrilling to see how the mind of Beth and other players worked through the entire board sequences and problem-solving techniques in their minds.

Undoubtedly, a masterful player of any game can envision multiple ways to dominate a game and anticipate the other player's movements. The resultant countermoves require a uniquely analytical mind.

This book is honest and shows Beth's obsession with and love for chess as it becomes her survival in the world around her. She is not a perfect character, nor does she ever try to be. All she wants to do is feel the thrill of winning a chess game. Beth struggles to survive outside of the chessboard, and she doesn't do the greatest job, but somehow finds her self-discipline when needed.

Overall, a well-written story with excellent pacing. The narration on the audio was very well done and helped bring the story to life. And now I can finally watch the show, haha.

5 Stars from me.