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The Last Gambit
Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance. Vasu Bhatt is fourteen years old when a mysterious old man spots him at a chess tournament and offers to coach him, on two simple but strange conditions: he would not accompany his student to tournaments, and there was to be no digging into his past. Initially resentful, Vasu begins to gradually understand his master’s mettle. Over eight years, master and student come to love and respect each other, but the two conditions remain unbroken – until Vasu confronts and provokes the old man. Meanwhile, their hard work and strategy pay off: Vasu qualifies for the world chess championship. But can he make it all the way without his master by his side? Inspiring, moving and mercurial, The Last Gambit is a beautiful coming of age tale in a uniquely Indian context.
208 pages, Paperback
Published January 25, 2017
46 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Om Swami
42 books578 followersOm Swami is a mystic who lives in the Himalayan foothills. Prior to renunciation, he founded and ran a multimillion-dollar software company with offices across the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 10, 2017
The year is 1983, and Vasu has just turned fourteen. At a local chess tournament, he meets the mysterious Anand Sharma, who sees his potential and offers to teach him how to become a grandmaster. Who is this old recluse, and how does he know so much about the game? After intensive lessons and no wins against the master, Vasu becomes discouraged. Over the years, he also struggles with school works, bullying, tough teachers, mean girls, and unpleasant chess opponents. But he is rewarded by his increasing closeness to his brother, his teacher's devotion, and first love. Will Vasu persevere against the odds and become India's first world chess champion in over 50 years?
I'm not a chess player, but I found the story interesting and compelling. A glossary of Indian terms with hyperlinks would be handy, as the translate feature of the Kindle app didn't work for most words. There are some editing inconsistencies (e.g., the use of mom and mum), but the author's profession as a philosopher is apparent in his beautiful and insightful writing. Vasu's chess lessons are also important life lessons; as Vasu learns how to become a chess champion, Anand also teaches him how to become a winner in life. Vasu is lost in his own inner world, oblivious to the depth of Rea's love and devotion and the extent of his parents' sacrifices to make his dream come true. But rather than hate him, we sympathize with him, feel his guilt and self-loathing, and eventually his confidence and pride. And then there's that perfect ending in which everything comes full circle.
Simply masterful.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post (10 October): https://booksdirectonline.blogspot.co...
I'm not a chess player, but I found the story interesting and compelling. A glossary of Indian terms with hyperlinks would be handy, as the translate feature of the Kindle app didn't work for most words. There are some editing inconsistencies (e.g., the use of mom and mum), but the author's profession as a philosopher is apparent in his beautiful and insightful writing. Vasu's chess lessons are also important life lessons; as Vasu learns how to become a chess champion, Anand also teaches him how to become a winner in life. Vasu is lost in his own inner world, oblivious to the depth of Rea's love and devotion and the extent of his parents' sacrifices to make his dream come true. But rather than hate him, we sympathize with him, feel his guilt and self-loathing, and eventually his confidence and pride. And then there's that perfect ending in which everything comes full circle.
Simply masterful.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post (10 October): https://booksdirectonline.blogspot.co...
October 10, 2017
---4.5 Stars---
This is one of those books that is all about apples, but really isn’t about just apples. As you peel each layer or say page there’s actually more to the story and you’re actually learning not just about those apples or even just other fruit, but the whole food system. Okay, yes, this book has nothing to do with apples lol, but that was the first analogy I thought of.
This book’s outlined story is about a young teen boy learning to play chess from his chess grandmaster. The teen boy, Vasu, struggles at school and with bullies, but through hard work his grandmaster continues to teach him lessons that apply both on and off the chess board.
This book’s inner story touches on friendship, family, love, mentorship, hard work, second chances, strength, forgiveness, and so much more.
I have always wanted to learn to play chess. I have an app on my tablet that I sometimes play, but I’m still not very good at it lol.
Although this book has a strong chess focus, you do not need to have a chess background to understand or follow along in this book. As a total chess novice, I was able to keep up. However, I will note, that if you do come from a chess history you might enjoy the book even more and appreciate some of the passages more passionately.
I really liked the main characters. They were honest, realistic, and genuine. They were very well developed and greatly represented.
This book touches on Indian culture and customs. Sadly, I not very familiar with their traditions, so I really enjoyed reading about them in this book.
There is so much symbolism throughout this book. I enjoyed finding the different layers and multiple meaning messages throughout the book.
I believe people always have room for learning and this book not only offers up some very important and valuable lessons – it was a joy to read!
This book is engaging, enlightening, thought-provoking, stimulating, inspiring, motivating, and compelling!
This book has so much to offer its readers and I would absolutely recommend this book to readers of all ages and all genres! I was impressed with this book and I think you will be too!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
This is one of those books that is all about apples, but really isn’t about just apples. As you peel each layer or say page there’s actually more to the story and you’re actually learning not just about those apples or even just other fruit, but the whole food system. Okay, yes, this book has nothing to do with apples lol, but that was the first analogy I thought of.
This book’s outlined story is about a young teen boy learning to play chess from his chess grandmaster. The teen boy, Vasu, struggles at school and with bullies, but through hard work his grandmaster continues to teach him lessons that apply both on and off the chess board.
This book’s inner story touches on friendship, family, love, mentorship, hard work, second chances, strength, forgiveness, and so much more.
I have always wanted to learn to play chess. I have an app on my tablet that I sometimes play, but I’m still not very good at it lol.
Although this book has a strong chess focus, you do not need to have a chess background to understand or follow along in this book. As a total chess novice, I was able to keep up. However, I will note, that if you do come from a chess history you might enjoy the book even more and appreciate some of the passages more passionately.
I really liked the main characters. They were honest, realistic, and genuine. They were very well developed and greatly represented.
This book touches on Indian culture and customs. Sadly, I not very familiar with their traditions, so I really enjoyed reading about them in this book.
There is so much symbolism throughout this book. I enjoyed finding the different layers and multiple meaning messages throughout the book.
I believe people always have room for learning and this book not only offers up some very important and valuable lessons – it was a joy to read!
This book is engaging, enlightening, thought-provoking, stimulating, inspiring, motivating, and compelling!
This book has so much to offer its readers and I would absolutely recommend this book to readers of all ages and all genres! I was impressed with this book and I think you will be too!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
June 13, 2017
Inspiring! Motivating! Enthralling!
It's been a long time I have read anything fictional.I got this book directly from Swamiji's Ashram with Swamiji's personalized signature. :)
This book takes your grip right from the first page as the mystery begins there. You cannot put this book down once you start reading.Though this book is classified under 'Fiction' it can easily go under 'Self-Help' 'Motivational' section.Simple story but there are nuggets of wisdom in this book one would like to follow in life. The book also goes on showing the value of dedication and determination one need to achieve anything worthwhile in life. There are no shortcuts to success. The chess lovers and players are definitely going to love this book too. Swamiji has a profound knowledge of Chess which one can feel while reading through time to time.It would definitely help even amateur chess players to give a new ray of hope if they are confused and seriously want to consider chess as their career.Book has all the aspects one would expect in fiction like Love, drama, mystery with suspense.It was very very nice read as always like Swamiji's all other books.
Thank You so much, Swamiji.Many many Pranams at your Lotus feet. _/\_
It's been a long time I have read anything fictional.I got this book directly from Swamiji's Ashram with Swamiji's personalized signature. :)
This book takes your grip right from the first page as the mystery begins there. You cannot put this book down once you start reading.Though this book is classified under 'Fiction' it can easily go under 'Self-Help' 'Motivational' section.Simple story but there are nuggets of wisdom in this book one would like to follow in life. The book also goes on showing the value of dedication and determination one need to achieve anything worthwhile in life. There are no shortcuts to success. The chess lovers and players are definitely going to love this book too. Swamiji has a profound knowledge of Chess which one can feel while reading through time to time.It would definitely help even amateur chess players to give a new ray of hope if they are confused and seriously want to consider chess as their career.Book has all the aspects one would expect in fiction like Love, drama, mystery with suspense.It was very very nice read as always like Swamiji's all other books.
Thank You so much, Swamiji.Many many Pranams at your Lotus feet. _/\_
June 20, 2025
THE BEST BOOK I EVER READ.. I can't stop myself crying in the end.. Speechless, Literally I don't have words to express myself. Humble Pranams to Swamiji for giving us this inspiring book.
June 17, 2025
This is a tale of profound relationship between a master and his student. The love, so pure, ripens between them from Vasu’s early years and goes on to become irreplaceable and most important part of his life which revolves around chess. Vasu’s family and interpersonal relationships are also sweet. His teen age years so relatable. This story is simple and heart warming, with nuggets of wisdom interspersed throughout.
The Character building is strong and the story line is unique. The ending is heart wrenching. If you have not had a good cry recently, this book will help you with that.
According to me, none of Om Swamiji’s books should be missed,if you relate with even one. He has so much to give to all of us, that whatever we receive is just not enough yet. Thankful that he writes !
The Character building is strong and the story line is unique. The ending is heart wrenching. If you have not had a good cry recently, this book will help you with that.
According to me, none of Om Swamiji’s books should be missed,if you relate with even one. He has so much to give to all of us, that whatever we receive is just not enough yet. Thankful that he writes !
September 25, 2017
4.25 stars
“The Last Gambit” by Om Swami is, on the surface, the story of a young boy learning how to excel at chess. There are so many other levels that can be appreciated and the author’s voice effortlessly captures that of a youngster as he grows, so it is impossible to be bored even though the game of chess has never held a particular allure for me. I was fascinated to get a glimpse of Indian culture and mores even as I enjoyed the pearls of wisdom imparted to a young child who must learn to convert his passion into a work ethic that will stand him in good stead as he enters adulthood. The dynamics of family and mentorship are fascinating to learn about, even as one discovers how different life is in this country.
Watching Vasu blossom from a self-centered and indulged younger son to a disciplined and respectful adult who learns adages such as “Learn to move at the pace you are comfortable with, learn to alter it effortlessly when necessary.” and “Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance.” makes me happy I read this story and appreciative of the philosophy that permeates it. There are many great lessons to absorb as one follows the sacrifices that are required to achieve mastery and I think this is a great read for those of all ages.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
“The Last Gambit” by Om Swami is, on the surface, the story of a young boy learning how to excel at chess. There are so many other levels that can be appreciated and the author’s voice effortlessly captures that of a youngster as he grows, so it is impossible to be bored even though the game of chess has never held a particular allure for me. I was fascinated to get a glimpse of Indian culture and mores even as I enjoyed the pearls of wisdom imparted to a young child who must learn to convert his passion into a work ethic that will stand him in good stead as he enters adulthood. The dynamics of family and mentorship are fascinating to learn about, even as one discovers how different life is in this country.
Watching Vasu blossom from a self-centered and indulged younger son to a disciplined and respectful adult who learns adages such as “Learn to move at the pace you are comfortable with, learn to alter it effortlessly when necessary.” and “Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance.” makes me happy I read this story and appreciative of the philosophy that permeates it. There are many great lessons to absorb as one follows the sacrifices that are required to achieve mastery and I think this is a great read for those of all ages.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
April 19, 2019
It is difficult to put this book down midway and it had me hooked right from the first page. I liked how well placed the wise life lessons were, within the chess lessons and that one didn't need to have a chess background to empathize with Vasu.
It starts on an inspirational note with ideas such as "Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance." But the end is rather emotional with views such as "(In life) Unlike chess, it's not your opponent but your loved ones who conquer you, corner you and checkmate you". The transition, however, is smooth. Within minutes I found myself switching from cheering for Vasu to win the tournament to rooting for his teenage love.
It was a little unsettling to see the book turn extremely dramatic towards the end, like a Bollywood movie. Overall, it's a gripping player's tale which I wish gave lesser significance to fate.
It starts on an inspirational note with ideas such as "Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance." But the end is rather emotional with views such as "(In life) Unlike chess, it's not your opponent but your loved ones who conquer you, corner you and checkmate you". The transition, however, is smooth. Within minutes I found myself switching from cheering for Vasu to win the tournament to rooting for his teenage love.
It was a little unsettling to see the book turn extremely dramatic towards the end, like a Bollywood movie. Overall, it's a gripping player's tale which I wish gave lesser significance to fate.
March 20, 2020
The Last Gambit is a short book. The author here describe about how a student seeking chess meets his teacher and how he becomes a grand master. The story is beautifully depicted on how persistence, patience and faith can bring anything that you desire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2021
A fantastic read. Will make you laugh, will make you cry, Never missing out the opportunity to give you a life lesson . Don't scroll through the comments in finding out some douche criticizing the book , Grab your copy asap.
May 14, 2017
I literally cried in end 😭
July 24, 2017
Inspiring Story told in the backdrop of chess! Despite a lot of cliched bollywood movie like moments it is still a fine read .
July 25, 2017
Concise But Powerful !
Lessons Of Life Taught , while you enjoy the game of Chess.
Simple Language, Simple Story, But Strong Lessons.
Should Read ! Must Read !!
Lessons Of Life Taught , while you enjoy the game of Chess.
Simple Language, Simple Story, But Strong Lessons.
Should Read ! Must Read !!
February 4, 2020
Interesting story. Flawless writing style. Kept me on toes the entire time.
April 29, 2017
SUCCESS BY DESIGN IS INFINITELY BETTER THAN A WIN BY CHANCE
‘The Last Gambit’ is a debut fiction book by Himalayan mystic Om Swami. I have read almost all books authored by him and all of them are masterpieces. I got the signed copy of this book when I was at Sri Badrika Ashram, Himanchal Pradesh to attend Zen Meditation camp. The book cover is simple but attractive, with black background and picture of knight.
This book beautifully portrays the life of a young chess player Vasu Bhatt and his Master Anand Sharma. Book starts with slow pace introducing Vasu who is a young chess player playing in his school tournament and an old man with thick glasses and old yet clean cloths observing his casual game unaffected by the giggles and comments of the other participants. Anand Sharma offers Vasu Bhatt offer free coaching on two simple but weird conditions.
1. One he will not accompany him in any of the Chess tournaments and
2. He shall make no attempts to know about his past life.
After taking permission from his parents Vasu and his master starts the strict and ruthless training of chess. Below line says it all about the training –
‘Listen, kid,’ my teacher said to me, ‘I’ll be giving you all the knowledge I have. All my time. Are you absolutely sure that chess is what you want?
‘Chess should be the only thing on your mind. When we get tired of analysing, we’ll play; when we are tired of playing, we’ll analyse; when we are tired of both, we’ll watch others play; when we are tired of watching, we’ll do chess riddles; when done with riddles, we’ll play rapid; when tired of rapid, we’ll play blitz; when we want to take a break, we’ll play blindfold. The only rest you’ll get is either during sleep or while at school. Are you up for it?’
Vasu under the guidance of his master starts his training. His master tells him about different chess strategies, when to play attacking and when to defend quoting different names of attacking and defense strategies. If you are an ardent chess player you would understand the strategies better, author has avoided being too technical but you can’t expect a chess master and his student to talk in simple English. Trust me even though you are not a chess player, you would enjoy it as if you are playing it.
Vasu starts winning different school level and qualifies for the national level chess tournament, soon he becomes famous in his school and starts getting all attention. Book unfolds different aspects of young chess player’s life when a young and beautiful girl Rhea enters in young and make him realize that chess is not everything in life. I loved the way author has narrated different incidents between young couple, how he initially thinks and feels proud that most beutiful girl of school is taking interest in him and how his dream love gets shattered when he found out it was nothing but a mere prank and so on and so forth. I will leave the rest for you guys to read and enjoy. Author has beautifully carved Vasu’s struggle his relationship with his parents and siblings Varun and Mira, and his love with Reah, all those ups and downs in his life makes the book gripping and definitely a page turner.
What i liked the most about this book is that the author has tried to give some insight and life lessons through different incident and has made sure the books is not overwhelmed by lessons. I would like to quote some of the nuggets of wisdom which i personally liked –
To make good pots, a potter must knead hard to make the clay malleable. He must slap, pat and caress it with the right pressure at the right time or the pot will be useless.
xperience is the greatest teacher, Vasu. Always replay your own games to see where you went wrong and what made you play the way you did. People don’t lose because they make mistakes, they do so because they repeat their mistakes. The first time, it’s not a loss but a learning.
Book progresses with Vasu climbing the step of success with his hard work, dedication and his master’s ruthless training. Towards the end book takes a peek in Vasu’s Master life which explains why he is rude and insensitive and Vasu’s last match with Andre Kulikov is very well described and resists
Verdict – All in all this book is good for light reading which you can take up with a coffee and enjoy it and learn lot from the life of Vasu Bhatt. The Last Gambit has nice blend of story, and philosophy of life which start slowly but takes up the speed later on. Go buy the book and enjoy it.
If you like my review give it a thumbs up and you didn’t like vote it down. Feel free to email me at throughmyreadingeyes@gmail.com with your comments and valuable feedback.
‘The Last Gambit’ is a debut fiction book by Himalayan mystic Om Swami. I have read almost all books authored by him and all of them are masterpieces. I got the signed copy of this book when I was at Sri Badrika Ashram, Himanchal Pradesh to attend Zen Meditation camp. The book cover is simple but attractive, with black background and picture of knight.
This book beautifully portrays the life of a young chess player Vasu Bhatt and his Master Anand Sharma. Book starts with slow pace introducing Vasu who is a young chess player playing in his school tournament and an old man with thick glasses and old yet clean cloths observing his casual game unaffected by the giggles and comments of the other participants. Anand Sharma offers Vasu Bhatt offer free coaching on two simple but weird conditions.
1. One he will not accompany him in any of the Chess tournaments and
2. He shall make no attempts to know about his past life.
After taking permission from his parents Vasu and his master starts the strict and ruthless training of chess. Below line says it all about the training –
‘Listen, kid,’ my teacher said to me, ‘I’ll be giving you all the knowledge I have. All my time. Are you absolutely sure that chess is what you want?
‘Chess should be the only thing on your mind. When we get tired of analysing, we’ll play; when we are tired of playing, we’ll analyse; when we are tired of both, we’ll watch others play; when we are tired of watching, we’ll do chess riddles; when done with riddles, we’ll play rapid; when tired of rapid, we’ll play blitz; when we want to take a break, we’ll play blindfold. The only rest you’ll get is either during sleep or while at school. Are you up for it?’
Vasu under the guidance of his master starts his training. His master tells him about different chess strategies, when to play attacking and when to defend quoting different names of attacking and defense strategies. If you are an ardent chess player you would understand the strategies better, author has avoided being too technical but you can’t expect a chess master and his student to talk in simple English. Trust me even though you are not a chess player, you would enjoy it as if you are playing it.
Vasu starts winning different school level and qualifies for the national level chess tournament, soon he becomes famous in his school and starts getting all attention. Book unfolds different aspects of young chess player’s life when a young and beautiful girl Rhea enters in young and make him realize that chess is not everything in life. I loved the way author has narrated different incidents between young couple, how he initially thinks and feels proud that most beutiful girl of school is taking interest in him and how his dream love gets shattered when he found out it was nothing but a mere prank and so on and so forth. I will leave the rest for you guys to read and enjoy. Author has beautifully carved Vasu’s struggle his relationship with his parents and siblings Varun and Mira, and his love with Reah, all those ups and downs in his life makes the book gripping and definitely a page turner.
What i liked the most about this book is that the author has tried to give some insight and life lessons through different incident and has made sure the books is not overwhelmed by lessons. I would like to quote some of the nuggets of wisdom which i personally liked –
To make good pots, a potter must knead hard to make the clay malleable. He must slap, pat and caress it with the right pressure at the right time or the pot will be useless.
xperience is the greatest teacher, Vasu. Always replay your own games to see where you went wrong and what made you play the way you did. People don’t lose because they make mistakes, they do so because they repeat their mistakes. The first time, it’s not a loss but a learning.
Book progresses with Vasu climbing the step of success with his hard work, dedication and his master’s ruthless training. Towards the end book takes a peek in Vasu’s Master life which explains why he is rude and insensitive and Vasu’s last match with Andre Kulikov is very well described and resists
Verdict – All in all this book is good for light reading which you can take up with a coffee and enjoy it and learn lot from the life of Vasu Bhatt. The Last Gambit has nice blend of story, and philosophy of life which start slowly but takes up the speed later on. Go buy the book and enjoy it.
If you like my review give it a thumbs up and you didn’t like vote it down. Feel free to email me at throughmyreadingeyes@gmail.com with your comments and valuable feedback.
August 30, 2017
“The Last Gambit” is a YA coming of age novel by Om Swami, centered around Vasu, a young Indian boy training to be a master chess player.
Vasu meets a mysterious man who becomes his chess master, on two conditions: the master will never accompany his pupil to tournaments and Vasu must never pry into his master’s past. As Vasu grows into an adult and a world-class chess player, he must decide how his relationship with his master will evolve and learn where chess really belongs in his life.
In the simplest terms, “The Last Gambit” is a treasure. It’s heartwarming, full of culture and cheesy life lessons loosely veiled as chess tips. And Vasu leads the whole story with his endearing enthusiasm, growing from a (fairly annoying, I’ll admit) teenager into a passionate young adult.
It’s a classic coming of age story, one that personally struck home with me, when it came to passion and prioritizing your dream. As his master tells him from the start, Vasu must choose over and over again to continue pursuing chess above all else, in order to be successful.
And though the novel is centered around chess, and contains plenty of technical information about the game and its various gambits, it reads easily and an understanding of the game isn’t actually necessary.
From a technical standpoint, the book suffers from run-of-the-mill ESL issues; there are odd phrasings and formatting problems on every page, but it honestly adds to the authenticity and heart of the culture in the story. The Indian elements are immersive, both in the specifics of Vasu’s home life and in the characters and their relationships with each other.
The characters are all fairly cliche, but in a positive way. They work well together; family, lover, and mentor all representing virtues and institutions between which Vasu must prioritize. They grow and change with the protagonist, too, creating a well-rounded arc for the entire novel.
Vasu meets a mysterious man who becomes his chess master, on two conditions: the master will never accompany his pupil to tournaments and Vasu must never pry into his master’s past. As Vasu grows into an adult and a world-class chess player, he must decide how his relationship with his master will evolve and learn where chess really belongs in his life.
In the simplest terms, “The Last Gambit” is a treasure. It’s heartwarming, full of culture and cheesy life lessons loosely veiled as chess tips. And Vasu leads the whole story with his endearing enthusiasm, growing from a (fairly annoying, I’ll admit) teenager into a passionate young adult.
It’s a classic coming of age story, one that personally struck home with me, when it came to passion and prioritizing your dream. As his master tells him from the start, Vasu must choose over and over again to continue pursuing chess above all else, in order to be successful.
And though the novel is centered around chess, and contains plenty of technical information about the game and its various gambits, it reads easily and an understanding of the game isn’t actually necessary.
From a technical standpoint, the book suffers from run-of-the-mill ESL issues; there are odd phrasings and formatting problems on every page, but it honestly adds to the authenticity and heart of the culture in the story. The Indian elements are immersive, both in the specifics of Vasu’s home life and in the characters and their relationships with each other.
The characters are all fairly cliche, but in a positive way. They work well together; family, lover, and mentor all representing virtues and institutions between which Vasu must prioritize. They grow and change with the protagonist, too, creating a well-rounded arc for the entire novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2021
Dreams come true! ❤️
First of all, it is hard to write a review for such a Divine book like this because I don't know where to begin. This is the reason why I delayed the review even though I have read 'The Last Gambit' years ago.
'The Last Gambit' deserves tears of love and gratitude towards Om Swami. Whenever I write a review for Swamiji's books, tears flow incessantly.
Most importantly, 'The Last Gambit' hardly feels fictional and it is filled with enormous wisdom. I am sure that every one of us can relate to Vasu and all the characters as mortals. The relationship of Guru and disciple in the book is the most beautiful relationship, going beyond divinity! Rightly said, no relationship is as beautiful as the relationship of a Guru and a disciple. Being Swami's disciple and devotee, I feel like worshipping Swamiji in every other page. I thank Him immensely for writing this. Swamiji has taught us life lessons through this story and I offer my immense love to Him forevermore.
According to me, the most touching words in the book were - 'Whenever you are stuck in any tournament, simply ask yourself, “What would Master do?” and you’ll know what step to take. I promise.'
So, there you go! I'd recommend this to everyone who is seeking to lead a meaningful life full of love, passion and devotion. Dreams do come true!
PS - You can read it multiple number of times too! There's always something new each time I read it :) Priceless gem of a book :)
~ Sanjana Om
First of all, it is hard to write a review for such a Divine book like this because I don't know where to begin. This is the reason why I delayed the review even though I have read 'The Last Gambit' years ago.
'The Last Gambit' deserves tears of love and gratitude towards Om Swami. Whenever I write a review for Swamiji's books, tears flow incessantly.
Most importantly, 'The Last Gambit' hardly feels fictional and it is filled with enormous wisdom. I am sure that every one of us can relate to Vasu and all the characters as mortals. The relationship of Guru and disciple in the book is the most beautiful relationship, going beyond divinity! Rightly said, no relationship is as beautiful as the relationship of a Guru and a disciple. Being Swami's disciple and devotee, I feel like worshipping Swamiji in every other page. I thank Him immensely for writing this. Swamiji has taught us life lessons through this story and I offer my immense love to Him forevermore.
According to me, the most touching words in the book were - 'Whenever you are stuck in any tournament, simply ask yourself, “What would Master do?” and you’ll know what step to take. I promise.'
So, there you go! I'd recommend this to everyone who is seeking to lead a meaningful life full of love, passion and devotion. Dreams do come true!
PS - You can read it multiple number of times too! There's always something new each time I read it :) Priceless gem of a book :)
~ Sanjana Om
December 31, 2019
Bombarded with the chatter around cricket in India, we Indians often forget about the great honor the chess players have bestowed this nation with. While this book is not an attempt to glorify chess and demand greater attention for the sport, I personally felt moved once I got to know about the amount of hard work the chess players put with limited limelight in return.
Vasu, a boy brought up in the middle-class family in the pre-2000s, possesses raw talent for chess and is spotted by a strange old man who seems to be a chess maestro. The story unfolds following the typical "karate-kid" playbook in which the master is strict and unempathetic towards his student at first but in the process refines the student's skill to turn him into a champion. Turns out, the master is none other than the only Indian world champion of chess and has been helping the kid to fulfill his promise to his late wife. In the end, the prodigy kid emerges victorious in an intense battle against the defending champion but is unable to celebrate his success with his master who is now dead.
The storyline is similar to numerous biographies of successful sports personalities but the way Swami has sprinkled the flavors of Indian middle-class upbringing, teenage love, and emotional ups and downs of Vasu makes this book a true page-turner.
Vasu, a boy brought up in the middle-class family in the pre-2000s, possesses raw talent for chess and is spotted by a strange old man who seems to be a chess maestro. The story unfolds following the typical "karate-kid" playbook in which the master is strict and unempathetic towards his student at first but in the process refines the student's skill to turn him into a champion. Turns out, the master is none other than the only Indian world champion of chess and has been helping the kid to fulfill his promise to his late wife. In the end, the prodigy kid emerges victorious in an intense battle against the defending champion but is unable to celebrate his success with his master who is now dead.
The storyline is similar to numerous biographies of successful sports personalities but the way Swami has sprinkled the flavors of Indian middle-class upbringing, teenage love, and emotional ups and downs of Vasu makes this book a true page-turner.
March 29, 2019
This book turned out to be a surprise to me. I was not expecting much from this book but have bought it just by looking at the cover. The same cover that tempted me to purchase it was unable to tempt me to pick it up soon. Still I picked it up and then suddenly I was sucked into it.
One day. That's all I needed to read it. Although due to my busy schedule I am unable to read books enough but this one here once tasted, pulled me into it completely. This is a story about game and life but the author has made it so real that I was unable to pull myself out of this.
Even though I don't know the technical terms of chess, this book taught me a lot. Not about chess but about life. This book is an inspiration in itself. While reading it I found myself so inspired and pumped up to work that I could not even trust my own moods. I fills you with tremendous energy and hope and the path ahead suddenly seems easy.
Although I had never heard of this book or author, I was glad that I picked up this book. This filled me with explainable energy and power. Sometimes, books like these, the hidden gems, provides us so much insight upon the life that all the hype for other books seem superfluous. I will suggest you all just one thing, Do give it a try because I loved it.
One day. That's all I needed to read it. Although due to my busy schedule I am unable to read books enough but this one here once tasted, pulled me into it completely. This is a story about game and life but the author has made it so real that I was unable to pull myself out of this.
Even though I don't know the technical terms of chess, this book taught me a lot. Not about chess but about life. This book is an inspiration in itself. While reading it I found myself so inspired and pumped up to work that I could not even trust my own moods. I fills you with tremendous energy and hope and the path ahead suddenly seems easy.
Although I had never heard of this book or author, I was glad that I picked up this book. This filled me with explainable energy and power. Sometimes, books like these, the hidden gems, provides us so much insight upon the life that all the hype for other books seem superfluous. I will suggest you all just one thing, Do give it a try because I loved it.
January 5, 2018
The Last Gambit is an emotional roller coaster. Vasu's passion, dedication, and motivation are awe-inspiring and somewhat infectious. His frustration, irritability, and bouts of anger rather relatable. The beauty of this book is that it can either be a light, short Sunday read or a plethora of wisdom. It reminds me of the book the 'Little Prince' which leaves the choice up to you.
The writing style of this book is a little different from the author's usual writing style, it resembles that of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway where you are transported into the mind of the protagonist, which takes a little getting used to. I promise, stick with it and you will be hooked by the third chapter( at least, I was).
Ps: It is commendable how well the author captures the transitivity and fast pace of the human mind.
Protip: The master is a wise, wise man. Read his words carefully.
The writing style of this book is a little different from the author's usual writing style, it resembles that of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway where you are transported into the mind of the protagonist, which takes a little getting used to. I promise, stick with it and you will be hooked by the third chapter( at least, I was).
Ps: It is commendable how well the author captures the transitivity and fast pace of the human mind.
Protip: The master is a wise, wise man. Read his words carefully.
May 30, 2018
This one is a fiction by Om Swami who otherwise is master at writing non-fiction on the subject of his expertise.
Woven around chess this is the story of how a boy uncertain about his calling ends up exploring a career in chess. Honestly, I did not expect the book to be so engaging. In fact, after reading the initial few pages I felt I would not finish the book. But it engaged my attention and I found it an interesting journey to walk with Vasu, the protagonist boy. The story brought interesting twists and turns as it unfolded. In order to not spoil the fun, I would not disclose much about that here.
I knew nothing about chess and hence did not understand a word when jargons were used. Initially, I wanted to use a dictionary to decode the jargons but later found that it was not necessary. But, for someone who understands chess as a game, this will be an exciting read.
Woven around chess this is the story of how a boy uncertain about his calling ends up exploring a career in chess. Honestly, I did not expect the book to be so engaging. In fact, after reading the initial few pages I felt I would not finish the book. But it engaged my attention and I found it an interesting journey to walk with Vasu, the protagonist boy. The story brought interesting twists and turns as it unfolded. In order to not spoil the fun, I would not disclose much about that here.
I knew nothing about chess and hence did not understand a word when jargons were used. Initially, I wanted to use a dictionary to decode the jargons but later found that it was not necessary. But, for someone who understands chess as a game, this will be an exciting read.
October 6, 2017
A wonderful book! Inspiring!
It is not only a beautiful story about the young Chess player and his master, rather it draws parallels to real life. Travelling through ups and downs very much like life, the story illustrates the journey of an aspirant towards success. The wisdom of the simple looking master was imparted patiently to the young boy that slowly transformed him. Chess was the master's life, however, the master taught more on Life than on Chess. Not only, he made the young boy successful but he designed a master out of him. It has been rightly said in the book- "Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance".
It is not only a beautiful story about the young Chess player and his master, rather it draws parallels to real life. Travelling through ups and downs very much like life, the story illustrates the journey of an aspirant towards success. The wisdom of the simple looking master was imparted patiently to the young boy that slowly transformed him. Chess was the master's life, however, the master taught more on Life than on Chess. Not only, he made the young boy successful but he designed a master out of him. It has been rightly said in the book- "Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance".
July 12, 2020
There are times when some books live as an inspiration for me, and this book is one of them. This spellbinding portrait of Vasu is both a story full of chess and morals of a game and even for life. I felt that the beauty of the writing makes the book truly a "gem". One cannot put down the book in the middle if you have started once atleast I couldn't. I had to finish this without any break. The intense dialogues and the impact they create on your mind. There are hidden messages of courage, perseverance, patience, struggle and all qualities of a hero. The book totally is worth reading. and I am glad and happy that I did come across this book and actually gifted it to someone.
August 16, 2020
Entertaining, but utterly predictable. The entire first half passes with Vasu, the protagonist, arguing and being passive-aggressive towards his teacher. He learns that forgiveness is the key to everything and a few pages later gets angry that his teacher didn't accompany him to a tournament (even after the master had told him that he wouldn't, way earlier).
If I could, I'd reach into the pages and slap Vasu's face for being an annoying little brat.
Also somehow everyone responsible for proofreading the book missed that a character's surname is Joshi at one point and Verma at another point.
Other than the fact that there's chess in it, this book is nothing special.
If I could, I'd reach into the pages and slap Vasu's face for being an annoying little brat.
Also somehow everyone responsible for proofreading the book missed that a character's surname is Joshi at one point and Verma at another point.
Other than the fact that there's chess in it, this book is nothing special.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2017
Loved the story. There are different aspects to the plot and each one has been described beautifully. Each character in book has its own different shade and attitude towards life.
A recluse master paying the price of being GM. Chess was everything for him till he suffered the losses in life.
Protagonists journey to a champion, one can learn a lot from his setbacks.
A loving and protective mother. Supportive father. Caring siblings.
One thing which felt missing towards the end was his love, Rhea.
A recluse master paying the price of being GM. Chess was everything for him till he suffered the losses in life.
Protagonists journey to a champion, one can learn a lot from his setbacks.
A loving and protective mother. Supportive father. Caring siblings.
One thing which felt missing towards the end was his love, Rhea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2017
Completed this beautiful Fable with a pearl of tear shining in the corner of my eye. The first Fiction work from Om Swami and what a narration. A complete story book for a block buster movie which will motivate and inspire you to the fullest. And the life lessons shared and gently mixed with chess lessons and give us a smoothie to imbibe. "Master the basics , Know when to float verses when to swim or steer". An awesome read.
February 15, 2020
A very good book for motivation. Writing style of Om swami is truly inspirational and his grip over the concepts will definitly give you clear idea on the subject discussing. He had done a good job in incorporating chess world and self help ideas. You will truly love this if you are a chess lover also!
May 28, 2021
L'écriture était vraiment bonne, très fluide et entrainante, et ça a rendu la lecture facile malgré un sujet qui m'intéresse peu. Le problème : le personnage principal. Je n'aime vraiment pas suivre des personnages coléreux et autocentrés... surtout que son arc de caractère et son évolution sonnaient vraiment faux.
Ce fut quand même une lecture sympathique.
Ce fut quand même une lecture sympathique.
June 25, 2017
Inspiring and motivating with number of spiritual wisdom embedded in the story
Inspiring and motivating with number of spiritual wisdom embedded in the story. Gripping you with suspense and excitement to follow.
Inspiring and motivating with number of spiritual wisdom embedded in the story. Gripping you with suspense and excitement to follow.
July 18, 2017
Epic!
I liked it so much so that I bought it and will now preserve it forever. I cried in the end.
One who is in process of discovering himself\herself can only understand the importance of Master. And one who understands that, will understand this book. Kudos to the author. Awesome!
I liked it so much so that I bought it and will now preserve it forever. I cried in the end.
One who is in process of discovering himself\herself can only understand the importance of Master. And one who understands that, will understand this book. Kudos to the author. Awesome!
December 7, 2017
Awesome Story line. Best to read during leisure time or any part of the day. Very simple language and easy to go pace.
I realised the importance of my mentors and have developed more respect for them.
A good read for all.
I realised the importance of my mentors and have developed more respect for them.
A good read for all.
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