Not since Murray in 1913 has there been a seriously researched history of chess which is also readable. Eales concentrates on what can be identified through archaeological and written evidence. The key text for lovers of chess history.

Based on the private papers of the Harley family of Brampton Bryan and in particular on the letters of Lady Brilliana Harley (1598 - 1643), which contain an unparalleled account of the development of civil war parties in an English county.