HarperCollins The Last Gambit

I bought this book and my 12-year old got hold of it before me and read through it in 2 sittings. She loved it so much and asked to keep the book when I am done with it. She said the story is moving and has lots of nuggets of wisdom. I thought this book was tailored more for adults but I guess not... :)

The Last GambitPre-booked this fantastic journey months back and read it at the same time, but somehow unable to write down a review, but now at last doing it with a calm mindset.
I have always been interested in fiction, as it helps reader to disconnect from current scenario and create an imaginary world of his own, always appreciated the creative storyline but, it is first time I was reading a novel(in true sense) by a Sanyasi (monk) , so when I first heard of it, I was intrigued,Few questions floated in my head:
What Swami ji is going to write in this book?How he is going to touch the sensitive subject of romance and love? 
Is it another Robin Sharma kind of inspirational book ? (to be honest I avoid reading fictional tales mixed with preaching stuff)There were so many question, but when it finally arrived, I was so engrossed that finished it in one read i.e around 8 hours, it's like I just can’t put it down, have to get to the whole story.It is so fantastically written that you will find it difficult to realise that it is by same person who is author of National Bestsellers Non-Fictions like “ A Million Thoughts: Learn All About Meditation from The Himalayan Mystic ”, “ Kundalini: An untold story ”, or “ When All Is Not Well: Depression, Sadness and Healing - A Yogic Perspective ”you will find yourself as boy who is passionate about chess and meets a great chess player and then realises their most cherished dream together.It will also give you glimpse to the relation between Mentor and Protege, Master and Disciple in true sense, how much Master Sacrifices for the well being of his Disciple and the love and bond that exists between them…it is beyond comprehension of rationalities of mind.I would suggest read it enjoy it or better savour it to last bit, there is so much in this… just read it A Million Thoughts: Learn All About Meditation from The Himalayan MysticKundalini: An untold storyWhen All Is Not Well: Depression, Sadness and Healing - A Yogic Perspective

Immature, impatient and brash to the point of losing his games. Meet Vasu- the amateur, local chess champion. Raw, but with the makings of a Grand Master. All he lacks is the poise, patience and the prescience that only a Guru can bestow upon, to achieve the unattainable.They say the master appears when the disciple is ready. While he does manifest, he has two strange conditions that must be met. His past isn’t to be questioned and he is not to accompany the disciple on his tours.Sulks as he does, Vasu is immensely attracted to his Guru and gently surrenders to his whims. As much as he is in awe of his master, his distant behavior to dissociate and withdraw at critical moments, annoys him to the point of rebelling.A relationship he is neither able to embrace nor throw away. As the story progresses what shines through is the affection and the admiration, the highs and lows, the defeat and the glory. The twin sides of a coin, that weaves the fates of these two together.Defeat is a part of the design, and the master ensures that the disciple has an abundant taste of it, until he sheds his ego, anger and impatience. Beyond which lies the treasures and wisdom of life, often dispensed one nugget at a time.But are the struggles of a caterpillar to metamorphose into a butterfly his very own?The pursuits and actions of the disciple often overshadows, the sacrifices and investments made silently by those who want him to succeed. Aka the parents, siblings, and individuals who cheer on and do their enormous bit- Not out of obligation, but out of love.As you turn the pages, the essence of the Guru-Shishya relationship is laid threadbare. Something which is hard to find in this age of instant gratification and snap judgements.But the good bit is that the master’s love and warmth seep through the book. For anyone who misses a parent, grand parent, teacher, or a loved one, this one will fill in the void and help you relive those moments momentarily, without the new-age cynicism taking over.There is definitely a sense of loss and longing when turning the last page. But it will leave you basking in the warmth of a sunny day when no dream was impossible to achieve with the master by your side.

The Last Gambit ReviewA gambit is an opening in chess in which the player risks one or more minor pieces, usually a pawn, in order to gain a favorable position. Calling the Pawn A Foot Soldier is the attitude and Voice of The Master ,Which is heard throughout The book ,as the soul of This Book. Here we are taught to look at the pawn as a foot soldier. I am an ardent reader of Swamiji’s books. This fiction is pleasantly different from all other works of Swamiji . The story beautifully unfolds the alchemy between a Master and his chosen student. The transformation of the young and restless Vasu to a Grand Master and finally how he himself puts on the costume of his dear Master to surrender completely to the footsteps of his Master is deeply touching. Swamiji’s in-depth knowledge of chess is etched in every chapter vividly. Here are a few quotes from this magnificent book which caught my mind instantly.‘’Champions make themselves’’‘’A true Grand Master never lets anything distract him’’‘’To win you must play good moves, and do so consistently’’‘’Success by design is infinitely better than a win by chance’’Humble Pranams to Swamiji for giving us this inspiring book.Thrilling, Touching, Passionate.

One of my best reads ever.... What a combination. Truly motivating and grounded. A true master finds his worthy recipient who trains to become a world champion. A typical middle class disciplined parents and their sacrifices to upbring their children who in turn become an epitome of successful careers. Tears rolled down my cheeks while I read mother-son, father-son and master - student relationship and their sacrifices to orient vaasu. M not surprised if it becomes a blockbuster movie if an elite director and esteemed actor takes it up. Its so real to be told. Its a typical success story which makes us feel ambitious and motivates us to work towards our goal persistently. One at a time☺ Great read. Thank you Swamiji for yet another pearl of wisdom. Pranams