Milos Pavlovic – författare

Two great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Fighting the Ruy Lopez by Milos Pavlovic and Open Ruy Lopez by Glenn Flear, brought together in one volume. The Ruy Lopez is a hugely popular opening, and anyone who plays 1 e4 e5 as Black needs to have a reliable answer ready. This book provides a solution. Drawing upon his years of experience facing the Lopez, Grandmaster Milos Pavlovic devises a sound yet ambitious repertoire for Black based on the legendary Marshall Attack. The Marshall is a perfect counter-attacking weapon, as it avoids passive positions and the so-called 'Spanish torture'. Furthermore, Black's tactical and positional goals are usually clear-cut and often involve a direct attack against White's king. The effectiveness of the Marshall is clear if you consider that the last two world champions have both suffered crushing defeats on the white side (Kramnik vs Leko, Brissago 2004; Anand vs Aronian, Morelia 2008) whilst Garry Kasparov always avoided it with White. The Open Ruy Lopez (also known as the Open Spanish) has always been a popular choice at both club level and at grandmaster level, where it has withstood the test of time after decades of close scrutiny. It offers both sides the opportunity for a sharp clash of forces in which the better prepared player will often come out on top. It is therefore no surprise that fighting players such as Victor Korchnoi and Jan Timman have always used the Open Ruy Lopez as an important weapon in their armoury.

A complete opening repertoire based on 1 d4 and adhering to fundamentally strategic principles.

The Sicilian Sveshnikov arises after the opening moves 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 e5, and is an ideal weapon based on sound principles of fast development and seizing central space. Decades of practical testing and analysis have proved the theoretical soundness of Black’s system, and its dynamic counterattacking potential makes it a popular choice among club players and top grandmasters alike.Serbian chess grandmaster Milos Pavlovic is a lifelong Sveshnikov player as well as an experienced trainer, making him the ideal guide to this opening. Playing the Sveshnikov offers a complete repertoire for Black in the Sveshnikov, including secondary recommendations against certain key variations. With top-class analysis, novelties galore and thoughtful explanations, this book provides everything you need to learn and play the Sveshnikov with success.

The Sicilian Sveshnikov arises after the opening moves 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 e5, and is an ideal weapon based on sound principles of fast development and seizing central space. Decades of practical testing and analysis have proved the theoretical soundness of Black's system, and its dynamic counterattacking potential makes it a popular choice among club players and top grandmasters alike.Serbian grandmaster Milos Pavlovic is a lifelong Sveshnikov player as well as an experienced chess trainer, making him the ideal guide to this opening. Playing the Sveshnikov offers a complete repertoire for Black in the Sveshnikov, including secondary recommendations against certain key variations. With top-class analysis, novelties galore and thoughtful explanations, this book provides everything you need to learn and play the Sveshnikov with success.

Many players approach the opening with a desire to learn sharp lines and out-prepare their opponents. This is an exhausting task, which gets more difficult by the day. However, there is a different strategy which is more practical and designed for longevity. This is to develop an advanced understanding of typical positions. Such a policy is the best approach against different move orders and new ideas.

Milos Pavlovic’s 1 e4 repertoire is based on lines where an understanding of plans and strategic ideas is more important than rote memorisation. The focus is on important positional considerations such as:

How to make the pieces work most effectively with a given pawn structureHow to spot weak points and exploit themHow to limit the opponent’s counterplay

Opening Repertoire: Strategic Play with 1 e4 guides the reader through a complete repertoire for White. Pavlovic examines the key aspects of each line and provides the reader with well-researched and fresh analysis. Every annotated game is a lesson on typical middlegame plans, based on the instructive question-and-answer method.

Milos Pavlovic devises a sound and yet ambitious repertoire for Black against the Ruy Lopez, the basis of which is provided by the legendary and ever-popular Marshall Attack.

A Fearless, Dangerous Chess Opening for Black! Step into the world of high-level, aggressive chess with the much anticipated Second Revised and Extended Edition of the Benoni by Milos Pavlovic. This updated volume takes you deeper into the strategies and tactics of one of the most daring defenses in chess. The Benoni, known for its bold imbalance and sharp counterattacking potential, is the weapon of choice for players looking to challenge White from the very start. This expanded edition not only revisits the fundamental ideas of this opening but also introduces cutting-edge theory, new variations, and insightful commentary from top-level play.

I have returned to my book from a few years ago, to an opening that at the time was a rare guest among books as a topic—and not only among books, but also in tournament practice. In the intervening years it has become very popular to use this old and somewhat forgotten method of playing and I have found lots of interesting new games.This time though I have focused mainly on Colle-Zukertort type positions, plus some transpositions to Queen’s Indian-type play, so this is not a repertoire book like the previous one, but rather you can look at it as an opening book. Of course, Slav reactions with …c6 are covered as well, and also early and quick …c5 and …g6 reactions.Due to increased popularity, I have dived into specifics which we can consider now as a renaissance of this old line.Another important thing, and it is indeed an especially important detail, is the organization of material into logical sections, because this system is often transpositional. Therefore, it is important to do this because reading this book should be an easy and joyful experience.There are positions in this book that have stood the test of time, but I have also focused on the most recent ideas as I didn’t want to simply repeat the same ideas as before—I wanted to include as much as possible new plans. I also tested these ideas numerous times in my own practice.So, what you have here is a completely redesigned and modernized system compared to only a few years ago, when this system was virtually forgotten.One very important thing to have in mind is that chapters 1 to 4 start with the following move order so that readers can more easily assimilate follow-up material:1.d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. e3 e6 4. Bd3 From here you will find a further branch in the following chapters.—Milos Pavlovic

A Solid and Reliable Opening: The Petrov’s DefenseThe Petrov’s Defense (also known as the Russian Defense) is an underrated gem in classical chess, offering solid play and excellent counterattacking opportunities. While it might not enjoy the same spotlight as the Ruy Lopez or Sicilian Defense, it’s a highly respected opening for players who seek consistency, strategic depth, and resilience. The hallmark of Petrov’s Defense is its symmetrical pawn structure after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6. It emphasizes equalizing early without the chaos of sharper lines, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer calm and strategic maneuvering over immediate tactical fireworks. Black’s goal is not just to survive the opening but to gradually turn equality into an advantage through careful piece placement and timely counterplay. What stands out most about this opening is its reliability at all levels of play—from club players to elite grandmasters. Former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik has used it successfully in high-stakes games, demonstrating that it’s not just a drawing weapon but also a fighting choice for ambitious players. The Petrov’s Defense can lead to rich middlegame positions, especially in less explored lines, offering plenty of scope for creativity and independent thought. In summary, the Petrov’s Defense is a rock-solid choice for players who value structure, deep understanding, and long-term plans. Whether you’re aiming for a quiet positional struggle or waiting to unleash a tactical shot at the right moment, this opening has something for everyone. Give it a try—you might just fall in love with its subtle charm!

The Open Spanish, Ruy Lopez is a variation that never givesa boring struggle. It’s one of the most active and dynamic defenses you willfind around. If Black is willing to learn the ideas and tactical twists thatunderpin this line, he has every chance to enjoy his winning chances. Our wellknown theoretician and grandmaster Milos Pavlovic will be your guide!

Do you relish the prospect of setting youropponent awkward problems from the early start of the game? If so, you shouldjust continue reading, for in the Mar Del Plata and King's Indian, it’s every man for himself,and only the best informed and most creative resourceful player survive. This variationgives both colors very dangerous attacking ideas, and you really needs to knowa precise defense to come out of this variation alive. This book providesweapons that are ideal choices for those who revel in forcing opponents intochaotic and uncomfortable positions.

This book is about the Nimzo-IndianClassical line 4.Qc2 (also known as the Capablanca Variation) and the 4.Bd2-line, for which basically I couldnot find an established name. The 4.Bd2 linehas never been covered in such a comprehensive way in any book before. In thetext I suggest that this line should have the combined name ofTartakower-Duchamp line because Tartakower played it often, while to mysurprise Marcel Duchamp (who was also a famous French artist) played it too inthe 1930s and indeed in a very good positional fashion against strong players. Some of those games are in the book.Now this line enjoys greater popularitythan ever before. About the Classical line with 4. Qc2 there isnothing much to add, except for the fact that it has become hugely popular, butunfortunately from my point of view it involves too much engine-style chess.

This book is about the Nimzo-IndianClassical line 4.Qc2 (also known as the Capablanca Variation) and the 4.Bd2-line, for which basically I couldnot find an established name. As far as I know, the 4.Bd2 linehas never been covered in such a comprehensive way in any book before. In thetext I suggest that this line should have the combined name ofTartakower-Duchamp line because Tartakower played it often, while to mysurprise Marcel Duchamp (who was also a famous French artist) played it too inthe 1930s and indeed in a very good positional fashion against strong players. Some of those games are in the book.Now this line enjoys greater popularitythan ever before. About the Classical line with 4. Qc2 there isnothing much to add, except for the fact that it has become hugely popular, butunfortunately from my point of view it involves too much engine-style chess.

Although known for a long time, the London started to catch up in popularity just in the last decade or so.I guess the reason for this is probably the desire of many players to focus more on the practical side of chess, with less use of engines and less memorization of long theoretical lines, and more about positional understanding of game. I must say, it received a huge boost not only in the number of games but also in a deeper understanding of the positions arising from the opening. In the past it was used from time to time, but only a few players employed it on a regular basis, such as grandmasters from former the Yugoslavia, Milorad Knezevic and Vlado Kovacevic, and the English GM Tony Miles, who used it often.Today, Kamsky is one of the players who uses it very often, and of course Magnus Carlsen, but we have many other grandmasters and non-grandmasters who now have it in their repertoire on a regular basis. I must say that it’s also important to emphasize the move orders of the line, and due to that we have an immense number of transpositions, which you don’t find so much in other openings.

The Semi-Slav Defense transcends its classification as a mere defensive response to 1.d4.It embodies a dynamic and multifaceted system that offers Black not only solidity in defense but also active counterplay and strategic flexibility. Here's why the Semi-Slav is more than just a defense:Rather than passively defending, the Semi-Slav allows Black to counterattack in the center and on the flanks. Moves like ...e6-e5 and ...c6-c5 often lead to sharp, tactical positions where Black can seize the initiative.By delaying the development of the knight to f6, Black achieves a solid pawn structure with pawns on d5, e6, and c6. This structure provides a firm foundation for Black's pieces and restricts White's options for pawn breaks.The Semi-Slav leads to strategically rich positions with multiple pawn breaks and piece maneuvers. Both sides must navigate intricate plans, making it a fertile ground for creative play and deep strategic understanding. Within the Semi-Slav, there are numerous variations and sub-variations, each with its own unique characteristics and strategic ideas. Players can tailor their repertoire to suit their style and preferences, whether they prefer solid, positional play or aggressive, tactical battles.The Semi-Slav has been embraced by many top-level players, including World Champions like Vladimir Kramnik and Viswanathan Anand. Their success with the opening at the highest levels of competition demonstrates its effectiveness and versatility.In essence, the Semi-Slav Defense transcends its classification as a defensive system by offering Black a rich tapestry of strategic possibilities and dynamic play. It is a complete repertoire choice that can suit a wide range of playing styles and preferences.

The Nimzo-Indian and Queen's Gambit Declined are amongst black's soundest and most universal answers to 1.d4. In his trademark style, Milos investigates the most positional ways to proceed after 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6. He analyses all the critical lines whilst also taking a close look at all the sidelines and gives Black many new possibilities to spice up the game. We are convinced that this book will bring you inspirational games and results.

In his sixth book for Thinkers Publishing, Milos Pavlovic has taken a serious look at the recent developments within the Scotch Game. Drawing upon his considerable opening experience, he investigates the most interesting and dynamic lines for White and Black, making this book a complete repertoire one. He found many novelties and highlights the most important positional and tactical themes this opening provides.We are quite convinced this 'complete repertoire book' will give you an extra boost to play this fascinating opening being one of the old-time favorites of Garry Kasparov.

In his seventh book for Thinkers Publishing, Milos Pavlovic examines the Stonewall set-up in detail. Drawing upon his years of playing experiences and opening study, Milos highlights the key aspects and covers the most recent developments in this most solid line of the Dutch Defense. This book will provide you a great new arsenal of weapons when playing with the black pieces.

This book is about the Marshall Attack and the lines which can be grouped together under the banner of the so-called Anti-Marshall. The theory has developed so much in the last decade that there is more than enough material to be going on with just in those areas, but I also decided to include a detailed look at an important line in the Exchange Variation. Black’s key concept in the Marshall is giving up a central pawn in return for activity, and I have tried to give as many lines as possible which adhere closely to this principle. Why is this so significant? Well, for starters, usually in the Ruy Lopez Black is looking for long, slow games in solid, closed positions. The Marshall flips this on its head and Black tries to accelerate the play and radically change the character of the game at an early stage. Let’s briefly discuss the material of the book itself and the lines that I have decided to give. First of all, I started off with the standard Marshall Attack, after the initial moves: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 0-0 8.c3 d5. I have given direct analysis wherever possible and I have tried to cover all the essential lines. Of course, with the passing of the years and the continual development of theory we can see how the popularity of some positions has shifted and, in some cases, how certain lines have simply been rendered obsolete. I also discovered, to my surprise, that there are still new, unexplored, and interesting paths for further analysis.

All the lines presented in this book are very old, some even dating back to medieval times!Lots of things were known about these systems before chess engines started to become very strong, but now we have completely new ideas from not only a tactical, but also a positional, point of view on positions that have simply resurfaced in recent times. The rebirth of these lines has become so popular that during my work on this book I was amazed to see such a level of popularity. To make this book readable we broke some positions into smaller files wherever we could. In all our opening books we tried to present at least the basics of many openings and lines: the problem is that basic knowledge about openings is growing even bigger, and it is not an easy job to comprehend and assimilate all that material. That’s why we have also tried in this book to be as concise as possible. After all, reading a book should not only be an aesthetic/interesting endeavor, but also a practical/useful thing at the same time.

Battling the Slow Italian Game dives deep into one of modern chess’s most fascinating battlefields. As the Italian Game has evolved from a quiet classical opening into a rich strategic arena, players are increasingly confronted with a critical choice: strike with sharp precision or maneuver with a refined positional touch.This book explores that crossroads in detail. From dynamic pawn breaks and tactical ideas to subtle maneuvering plans and long-term structural considerations, it reveals how both approaches shape the struggle in the "slow" Italian. Each chapter contrasts concrete, forcing lines with more flexible setups, helping you understand not just what to play, but why different styles succeed in different positions.Packed with modern theory, instructive model games, and practical recommendations, Battling the Slow Italian Game equips ambitious players with the tools to confidently face one of today’s most popular openings. Whether you thrive on calculation or prefer deep strategic planning, this book will sharpen your understanding and elevate your results in the Italian Game.

This book is part of a new series from Quality Chess examining the cuttingedge of opening theory. The idea is to identify the most importanttheoretical battlegrounds and then analyse as deeply as possible in search ofimprovements. Thus the reader will be ahead of the current state-of-the-art,rather than lagging behind trying to memorize old games.The Cutting Edge 2 considers the Sicilian Najdorf – a favourite opening ofambitious players at every level. This book concentrates on lines where Whitechooses 6.Be3, heading for the English Attack. The variations covered are:• Topalov: 6...e6 7.f3 b5 8.Qd2 b4 9.Na4 Nbd7• Topalov: 6...e6 7.f3 b5 8.g4 h6 9.Qd2 b4 10.Nce2 e5• Perenyi Attack: 6...e6 7.g4 e5 8.Nf5• Perenyi Attack: 6...e6 7.g4 h6 8.Bg2• Perenyi Attack: 6...e6 7.g4 h5 8.g5 Ng4 9.Bc1 Qb6 10.h3 Ne5 11.Nb3• Main line: 6...e6 7.f3 b5 8.g4 h6 9.£d2 Nbd7 10.0–0–0 Bb7 11.h4 b4 12.Na4 Qa5 13.b3 Nc5 14.a3• Main line: 6...e6 7.f3 Nbd7 8.£d2 b5 9.g4 Nb6 10.a4• Scheveningen: 5...Nc6 6.Be3 e6 7.Qd2 Be7 8.0–0–0 0–0 9.f3 d5 10.Be2!?• 6...e5: Positional line: 7.Nf3• 6...e5: Vallejo Pons variation: 7.Nb3 Be6 8.f3 Be7 9.Qd2 0–0 10.0–0–0 Nbd7 11.g4 b5 12.g5 b4 13.Ne2 Ne8 14.f4 a5 15.f5• 6...e5: line with 10...a5: 7.Nb3 Be7 8.f3 Be6 9.Qd2 0–0 10.0–0–0 a5• 6...e5: Topalov variation: 7.Nb3 Be6 8.f3 Nbd7 9.Qd2 h5• 6...e5: f2-f4 linesThe Najdorf with 6.Bg5 will be covered at a later stage in The Cutting Edge: Sicilian Najdorf 6.Bg5.