Hacking Up The King

This Hacking Up The King is an English-language chess book on attacking the king, with a practical focus on analysing sharp, complex positions and judging when an attack is genuinely sound.

What the book covers

David Eggleston shows that general advice is not enough when a real chance to launch an attack appears on the board. What matters is accurate calculation, a clear view of the risks, and the ability to judge whether the attack can be carried through or should be abandoned.

The book looks at positions involving opposite-side castling, sharp play in the Sicilian Defence, and even mating attacks in endgames. That range gives it a broader reach than a single opening and helps build a wider understanding of attacking chess.

Why it stands out

Written by British International Master David Eggleston, the book is built around modern games from international tournament play. The examples are practical rather than abstract, and they show how initiative and king safety can decide the result. It is a strong choice for club players and ambitious amateurs who want to improve their tactical judgement and positional analysis.

The spirit of the book is well captured by Emanuel Lasker’s famous line, “Chess is a fight!” Hacking Up The King explores that fighting side of the game, where an attack on the king demands courage, but above all precision.

Key details

• Product type: chess book
• Author: David Eggleston
• Language: English
• Binding: paperback
• Page count: 225 pages
• Subject: attacking the king
• Approach: practical analysis of sharp and complex positions
• Game themes: opposite-side castling, Sicilian Defence, and mating attacks in endgames