Hello - could anyone recommend an opening repertoire book on the center-counter/scandinavian defense? I have browsed through them on amazon and most seem to get mixed reviews. Does anyone know of a book that gives a good overview of the opening, perhaps with discussion of 3 ...Qa5 and 3... Qd6, as well as a thorough discussion of tactical/strategic themes found in the resulting middle games? I know this is not the most popular opening, but that's part of its appeal to me... it's a defense that tends to take white into uncharted territory right off the bat.

I don't know of any, but will submit a request to a few groups and see what they think about your question.

Andrew Martin's "Scandinavian the Easy Way" DVD from chessbase is a good source for 3. Qd6. John Emms book on the Scandinavian is another good place to look for all the lines.