"The Devil's Staircase is a book which provides an opportunity to all discerning cardmen to meet Greg Chapman. This is Greg's first publication and it is excellent. He is a man after my own heart and this book reflects his careful and considerate evaluation on sleight of hand card magic. The subject of card magic has reached a point where information has exploded beyond all recognition, so it was delightful to read this book and discover a new card man who appreciates the "how", the "why" and more importantly, consideration for the audiences thoughts and feelings. This is an outstanding book and one which I feel all card men should study - the effects are varied and personalised handling on classic plots. This book covers a wide range of topics from Overhand Stacking Run Ups, based on Dai Vernon's seminal methodology from his "Poker Demonstration". Amazing effects with The Memorised Deck, Greg's own Stack Arrangement with fascinating features and properties. One of the highlights is Pure and Simple, a stunning effect which can look and feel like pure Mind Reading to a lay audience.

What I found most interesting was the tools of "his trade"; here, he shares the techniques which work for him and why. This appealed to me simply because, I am passionate about my students mastering the fundamentals of card magic impeccably before anything else. Greg outlines his thinking along with his tools so that we, the readers of this fine book can develop an understanding for how a dedicated practitioner approaches his craft and what works for him. When I read a new book on card magic, I am not looking for new effects, I am looking to be stimulated so that I can approach my passion for the subject from a new and refreshing angle. This book was successful on all counts. Highly recommended."

- Michael Vincent