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Pure Ambition by Red Nist and 3 Monkeys Publishing

Created by: Red Nist, 3 Monkeys Publishing

Pure Ambition is a streamlined Ambitious Card routine featured in the book *REDemption* by Red Nist. This trick is part of a collection of six original, impromptu, and gimmick-free card routines that emphasize psychology and subtlety. It's designed for intermediate to advanced card magicians and offers a fresh take on the classic Ambitious Card effect, with a clever move that can be adapted to other effects. The book includes backstories adding depth to the methods, making it not just a collection of tricks but a deep dive into the creative process behind them.

Key features

  • Six original card routines, all impromptu and gimmick-free

  • Strong emphasis on psychology and subtlety

  • Includes backstories adding depth to the methods

  • Best suited for intermediate to advanced card magicians

  • Available in English and French

Pros

  • Excellent value for the quality of material

  • Sleek aesthetic with clear explanations

  • Novelty, practicality, and inspirational value

  • Compact and focused content without unnecessary fluff

Cons

  • Requires foundational skills like culling and double lifts, making it less suitable for beginners

  • Some explanations could be clearer, possibly due to translation or editing gaps

Effect

Pure Ambition is a streamlined version of the classic Ambitious Card routine. The spectator selects a card, which repeatedly rises to the top of the deck despite being placed in the middle multiple times. The routine is designed to be clean and direct, with a clever move that enhances the illusion without relying on gimmicks.

Full Details

Pure Ambition is one of six routines in the book REDemption by Red Nist. It is an impromptu card trick that requires no special setup or gaffed cards. The method focuses on psychology and subtlety, making it deceptive and engaging for audiences. The routine is structured to build in impact, with each phase reinforcing the impossibility of the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is best suited for intermediate to advanced card magicians. It assumes familiarity with foundational sleights such as double lifts and culling. Beginners may find some aspects challenging, but the underlying concepts can still be valuable for learning. Magicians who enjoy psychological approaches and narrative-driven magic will appreciate Pure Ambition.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

Pure Ambition requires a solid grasp of card handling techniques. The sleights involved are not overly complex, but they must be executed smoothly to maintain the illusion. The psychological subtleties add another layer of difficulty, as timing and audience management play key roles. With practice, the routine can be performed confidently in real-world conditions.

What Magicians Say

Scott Perry describes Pure Ambition as "a streamlined Ambitious Card routine with a clever move that can be adapted to other effects." He highlights its practicality and novelty.

David from Magic Orthodoxy calls it "a streamlined, powerful Ambitious Card routine," praising its impact despite the concise explanation in the book.

Another reviewer notes that Pure Ambition is "fun to practice and perform," emphasizing its psychological depth and organic wonder.

Overall, magicians agree that Pure Ambition is a strong addition to any card worker’s repertoire, offering a fresh take on a classic effect.

What people are saying about Pure Ambition

David from Magic Orthodoxy says...

For magicians who enjoy books with dense, inventive material—and don’t mind filling in the gaps—this one’s a solid pick.

EverythingMagicPro99 says...

The book’s narrative-driven style and psychological depth, calling it a joy to read and highly recommending it for magicians seeking elegant, impactful card magic.

Scott Perry says...

A fantastic book for intermediate card magicians and above... full of novel ideas that are worth exploring.

Review videos