The author provides a thoroughly researched repertoire for the popular Semi-Slav Defense. The Bibliography includes every recent book on the Semi-Slav, as well as Chess Informant, New In Chess, and several databases. The analysis has been computer-checked.
Against 5Bg5, the first 3 chapters cover the fashionable 5...h6, while chapters 4-7 provide extremely detailed analysis of the out-of-favor Botvinnik Variation 5...dc. Reading these chapters helped me understand why it is out-of-favor, but the author does include some suggested lines for any brave soul who dares to play it.
Chapters 8-10 cover the Meran Variation. Only 8Bd3 Bb7 is covered, 8Bd3 a6 is not. I found the analysis of 8Be2 and 8Bd3 Bb7 9a3, both used in the Kramnik-Topalov match, to be particulary illuminating. The main repertoire choice is the very theoretical Reynolds Variation (8Bd3 Bb7 9O-O a6), but the author includes a simpler alternative in 9...b4.
Chapter 11-12 cover the 6Qc2 variation. Against 7g4, both 7...Bb4 and 7...h6 are given thorough coverage.
Chapters 13-15 cover the Exchange Slav, the "Slow Slav" (4e3 Bf5), and various less common alternatives for White.
The book is divided into 50 complete games within 15 chapters. Each game, as well as each chapter, ends with a "Conclusions" section that sums up the key recommendations. I really like this feature. I know I will never be able to remember all the details, but I may be able to recall the "Conclusions" during the heat of battle.
The author does far more than list variations. The book is replete with useful explanatory comments. I also appreciate the many references to games from American tournaments.
This book is a must for any serious player who plays either side of the Semi-Slav. Even if you don't play the Semi-Slav, it is a useful reference work for following games of the top GMs in this popular opening.
I look forward to more books from David Vigorito.