Michael Konik Knihy

One of a select band of the world's greatest professional cheats, Richard Marcus toured the gambling cultures of Las Vegas, London and Monte Carlo, winning huge sums of money from casinos by elaborate sleight-of-hand tricks with gaming chips. He and his gang were great tacticians, backing up their moves with psychological set-ups to convince pit bosses that they were watching legitimate high rollers getting lucky, while in fact their casinos were being robbed blind. Here, for the first time, Richard Marcus tells his outrageous tale of a lifetime spent cheating casinos. This insider story of how one very smart man and his small band were able to beat some of the biggest casinos at their own game opens a window on to a hidden world of intriguing personalities, tense situations and very close shaves. While Marcus devised the most effective casino-gambling trick of all time, what becomes clear is that his success was down not only to technical wizardry but his ability to stay cool under pressure. Compulsive reading.

Part travelogue and part tribute to a beloved pet, this narrative chronicles writer Michael Konik’s enchanting six-week journey through Europe with his dog, Ella. This homage reflects the profound bond between them, showcasing a friendship that has brought comfort during sadness, joy during happiness, and companionship during loneliness. Konik, a Los Angeles writer, has always shared his life with dogs, but Ella, a gentle Lab mix, stands out as something truly special. From their first meeting, it was clear that Ella was meant to be his. Her charm captivated everyone she encountered, leading Konik to enroll her in a program that brings therapy dogs to hospitals, nursing homes, and shelters, allowing her to share her unique gifts. As Ella turned ten, Konik planned a trip to Europe to express gratitude for the unconditional love that had enriched his life and brought joy to others. Their adventure through Europe’s stunning and dog-friendly cities deepened their bond. Highlights included celebrating July Fourth in Vienna with Ella in an American flag scarf, dining in Paris, swimming in the Danube, taking a gondola ride in Venice, sunbathing in St. Tropez, and navigating Monte Carlo. Ultimately, this journey of love and discovery transformed both dog and owner forever, serving as a testament to the power of unconditional love and the special connection between humans and their dogs.