Rock Solid Chess volume2 - Paperback

This Rock Solid Chess Volume 2 is an English-language paperback chess book by Sergei Tiviakov and the second volume in the Rock Solid Chess series. It focuses on piece activity and unusual positions, showing how even a small change in placement can alter the evaluation of a position.

What this book covers

After the first volume on pawn structures, Tiviakov turns to the practical value of the pieces and the ideas that matter most over the board. Drawing on his experience as a grandmaster, he discusses themes with direct relevance to real play.

The book looks at topics such as the bishop pair, opposite-coloured bishops, piece centralisation and the less frequently discussed question of when to castle and when it may be better not to. It also shows that piece value is not fixed: it depends on the exact placement of the pieces, their cooperation with pawns and the character of the position.

Why this volume stands out

Tiviakov highlights practical details that are often left out of standard chess manuals. He shows how moving a single pawn one square can completely change the evaluation of a position and the plan that follows.

Later chapters also cover play in cramped and passive positions, ways to fight for a win with Black, and how to choose a plan according to the opponent’s style and psychological factors. The book is illustrated with examples from classic games and from the author’s own tournament practice, and it includes exercises that help turn the ideas into practical decisions at the board.

Who it is for

This is a strong choice for players who want to understand strategy more deeply and evaluate positions with greater confidence, rather than simply memorising patterns. The material is suitable for club players as well as very advanced chess players, including those at master level.

Key details

• Product type: paperback chess book
• Author: Sergei Tiviakov
• Series: Rock Solid Chess
• Volume: 2
• Language: English
• Binding: paperback
• Subject: chess strategy, piece activity and positional evaluation
• Content: examples from classic games, the author’s tournament practice and exercises