Dark Squares

A cult leader, a child prodigy and the chess revolution

By: Danny Rensch

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Paperback | 22 December 2026 | Edition Number 1

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'A powerful memoir'Garry Kasparov'Heart-breaking, hilarious, ultimately transcendent'Jeannette Wall'Compelling and unique'Ben Mezrich'I haven't been this inspired by an underdog story in a long time'Bobby Hall (aka Logic)___________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 centre 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.

Industry Reviews

A fantastic read! Danny Rensch's story is inspiring, fascinating, and at times heartbreaking. His wild ride from a difficult and traumatic childhood to becoming one of the most influential people in the history of chess will keep you turning pages way past bedtime. Compelling and unique, a deep dive into the chess world through the eyes of someone who is at the center of it all!

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