Dark Squares A cult leader a child prodigy and the chess revolution

This is a new book. Condition: Brand New.

Educated meets The Queen's Gambit in this extraordinary memoir by International Master and Chess.com co-founder Danny Rensch, who describes his upbringing in an abusive cult - and how chess ended up saving his life

Born into the Church of Immortal Consciousness, Danny Rensch spent his childhood navigating the isolated confines of a cult. Despite psychological manipulation, physical abuse, and neglect, he persevered. An international chess master and world-class commentator, Rensch's remarkable journey led him to being the face of Chess.com, one of the largest online gaming platforms in the world.

With unflinching honesty, Rensch recounts his life, starting from the moment he discovered chess in the summer of 1995, all the way up to being at the center of the investigation into the most explosive cheating scandal in chess history.

He chronicles the traumas of being 'special' in a cult that forced separation from his mother. Mentored by an alcoholic Russian chess master, he found solace alongside suffering in his obsession with chess - an ancient game which became his only escape.

Deeply heartfelt, keenly reflective, and haunting, Dark Squares is the never-before-told story of Danny Rensch's resilience, survival, and his enduring love for the game that saved him.

Book details and technical specifications

Format: Paperback / softback
ISBN13: 9781035404636
Published: September 2025

Number of pages: 368
Width: 152 mm
Height: 228 mm
Depth: 28 mm

Publisher: Headline Publishing Group