In the beginning there was Super/System, the fi rst poker strategy book penned by a bona fide poker superstar.

Now you can’t move for poker players willing to share their secrets of success. This is a bit different. Google the author and you won’t find poker pages, but a CV that has Ms. James down as an ex-catwalk model who launched Naomi Campbell onto the world (and her poor PAs).

Her poker record is non-existent, but we’re still convinced that she can help your game immeasurably. How? As a leading expert on body language, she has turned her attention to the poker world with an insightful look at human behaviour.

The fact that she’s not talking from decades of playing poker means a lot of the information is refreshingly new and delves way beyond the weakness = strength equation thrown up by most general strategy titles. This isn’t just a book to help you spot tells in others either. Following the book you can convince yourself to think (and act) like a winner, eliminate negativity and perfect your own poker face.

There are sections devoted to poker warm-ups (breathing exercises and facial massages), how to deal with stress at the poker table and how to watch people with a purpose.

Her lack of poker prowess means you’ll have to avoid certain toe-curling statements but overall this is an excellent addition to anyone’s poker armoury.