Originally published in 2003, 'Internet Texas Hold'em: Winning Strategies from an Internet Pro' written by Matthew Hilger, remains one of the most insightful and helpful internet Holdem poker books available. Part of what makes this text so unique is that it teaches enough poker strategy for readers to be successful at Holdem in any given setting, but also offers the playing tips and advice needed to be applied specifically to the online game.

After a brief introduction to some of the unique internet poker attributes not found elsewhere in life (i.e. high number of hands dealt per hour), the author dives into solid poker theory and playing strategy. Concepts like pot odds and bluffing are touched on followed by a detailed section devoted to the selection and play of Holdem starting hands. Analysis of how to play on the flop, turn and river takes up a large part of the book and each chapter finishes with a 'test your skills' section of practice hands and answers taken directly from internet play. There are internet tips listed throughout each Holdem strategy section of the text before Matt fully explains internet concepts such as online tells, internet promotions and collusion possibilities.

The real value of this book lays in the author's intent to teach players how to play limit Holdem well as a game before getting to involved with the abstract concepts related to online play. The many pages and content devoted to playing strategy demonstrates the necessity that in order to beat Holdem consistently online as the author suggests, players must understand the underlying math and fundamentals of the game. Matt succeeds in conveying the message that although there are times on the internet when you will vary from basic card strategy, the money really lies in playing the game with a tight/aggressive style in combination with practiced hand reading skills.

Regardless of the changes internet poker has seen in the past couple years, Internet Texas Hold'em will remain as a useful Hold'em poker tool for quite some time to come. While eventually some of the internet tips may become outdated, this book succeeds in teaching the game of poker first and foremost, enabling it to be a much greater resource to new and intermediate players than most of its kind. Compared to other internet poker publications that only seem to address online scenarios with broad ideas and advice without analytical basis, readers will appreciate this comprehensive playing guide and learning tool that fully explains each idea presented.

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