For years players wanting to take the black side of the Ruy Lopez have had to navigate the alternative lines White can choose after 1 e4 e5. This book gives a choice of dynamic systems for Black, to counter anything White might try in order to avoid the Ruy Lopez - the Scotch, King's Gambit, Italian Game, Four Knights, etc.

Noted opening writer Sverre Johnsen has made extensive use of modern computer engines to overturn ancient assessments, and has found new paths that breathe fresh life into positions long thought to be resolved. It is striking how often in his lines Black is able to seize the initiative.

• Gives a full repertoire for Black with 1 e4 e5 when White avoids the Ruy Lopez
• ...Bc5 and ...Nf6 systems both fully covered after 3 Bc4
• Each chapter starts with a ‘Memorable Game’ to inspire and set the scene

Johnsen has chosen sound lines that are likely to surprise opponents and deny them the type of game they are seeking. He has deeply researched correspondence sources and recent books on the Open Games, and employs similar methods to those that made his earlier opening works so popular among club-level players.