Subject
Poker players -- Fiction Books
Best books
Randall Garrett
House Operator
"House Operator" by S. M. Tenneshaw is a sci-fi short story published in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around a skilled gambler named Rafferty who enters the Ganymede Casino, desperate to recover from a significant loss in order to pay off a gambling debt. The story explores themes of chance and skill, highlighting the dynamics of poker as a classic game against the backdrop of futuristic gambling technologies. In this tale, Rafferty faces off against Steel, a house operator at the casino who is a surprisingly adept poker player. Initially confident in his abilities, Rafferty quickly finds himself entangled in a battle of wits as he tries to read Steel's enigmatic demeanor. Despite winning several hands, Rafferty ultimately realizes that Steel is not only a formidable opponent but also shows an uncanny ability to adapt and counter Rafferty's strategies. The game culminates in a loss that leaves Rafferty with just enough chips to escape to another planet, while Steel proves to be a master of poker, capable of besting even the most seasoned players. The story concludes with a twist, revealing that Steel is a robot, adding a layer of complexity to the nature of competition and the essence of skill in the game.
David A. Curtis
Queer Luck: Poker Stories from the New York Sun
"Queer Luck: Poker Stories from the New York Sun" by David A. Curtis is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the world of poker, exploring various high-stakes games and the intriguing characters that inhabit them, often illustrating themes of chance, luck, and moral dilemmas faced by gamblers. The tales unfold in a lively and vivid setting, showcasing the excitement and tension of card games in both private clubs and broader social contexts. The opening of the collection features a tense poker game where five skilled players are deeply engrossed in their high-stakes match, revealing nuances of strategy, psychology, and camaraderie among them. As they grapple with the exceptional luck taking place at the table, the tension rises until one of the players, a lawyer, is confronted with an ethical dilemma regarding a substantial pot won using money that isn't his own. This turns into a moment of personal reckoning, leading him to step away from the game altogether while reflecting on the nature of honor and integrity in gambling. The initial chapter sets an engaging tone for the stories that follow, establishing an atmosphere rich with suspense and moral complexity.
David A. Curtis
Stand Pat; Or, Poker Stories from the Mississippi
"Stand Pat; Or, Poker Stories from the Mississippi" by David A. Curtis is a collection of fictional tales written in the early 20th century. The book primarily revolves around the gambling culture along the Mississippi River, with a particular emphasis on poker games. The characters include Long Mike, the wealthy and influential figure in the town of Brownsville, as well as Gallagher, his foreman, and a cast of colorful local personalities who partake in the highs and lows of poker. The opening of this work introduces readers to the town of Brownsville, where the local men gather at a barroom to play poker while awaiting the arrival of a riverboat. Characters like Long Mike and the one-eyed man engage in spirited games often filled with witty banter and competitive tension. The narrative highlights the comedic absurdity of their interactions, including an incident where a new deck of cards leads to an unexpected poker hand. The story sets the stage for a lively exploration of poker culture and the eccentric behaviors of its characters, establishing a firm foundation for the tales to unfold.
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