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The Devil Under the Table by Red Nist and 3 Monkeys Publishing

Created by: Red Nist, 3 Monkeys Publishing

The Devil Under the Table is a standout card magic trick from the book *REDemption* by Red Nist, published by 3 Monkeys Publishing. It's a psychological, impromptu card routine where the spectator performs the magic themselves under the table, eliminating all cards except their selection. This trick is part of a collection that emphasizes subtlety, psychology, and narrative-driven performances, suitable for intermediate to advanced card magicians. The book includes six original routines, all gimmick-free and designed to captivate both magicians and lay audiences.

Key features

  • Impromptu and gimmick-free card routines

  • 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

  • Novel ideas that are worth exploring

  • Narrative-driven style and psychological depth

  • Compact and focused content without unnecessary fluff

Cons

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

  • Some routines involve mental arithmetic, which may not appeal to everyone

Effect

The Devil Under the Table is a card trick where the spectator becomes the magician. A card is selected and lost in the deck. The spectator then eliminates all other cards under the table, leaving only their chosen card. The effect is strong because the spectator does the magic themselves, creating a moment of organic wonder.

Full details

The Devil Under the Table is one of six routines in REDemption by Red Nist. It requires no gimmicks and uses a standard deck. The method relies on psychology and subtle handling rather than complex sleights. The trick is designed to feel fair and impossible, with the spectator doing most of the work under the table.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is best for intermediate to advanced card magicians. It assumes knowledge of foundational skills like double lifts and culling. Beginners may find it challenging but can still learn valuable concepts. Those who enjoy psychological approaches and spectator-involved magic will appreciate this routine.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Devil Under the Table is not overly difficult but requires smooth execution. The handling is subtle, and timing matters. Magicians comfortable with psychological techniques will find it easier to perform. The trick does not rely on difficult sleights but demands confidence in misdirection and audience management.

What magicians say

Scott Perry calls REDemption "a fantastic book for intermediate card magicians and above," highlighting The Devil Under the Table as a standout routine. He notes that the spectator performing the magic themselves makes the effect particularly strong.

Another reviewer praises the trick for its psychological depth and organic feel, stating it is "fun to practice and perform." They emphasize that the spectator's involvement creates a memorable experience.

A third reviewer describes the book as "compact and focused," with The Devil Under the Table being one of the highlights. They appreciate the lack of unnecessary complexity, making the trick both practical and impactful.

All reviewers agree that REDemption offers fresh, psychology-driven card magic, with The Devil Under the Table being a strong example of Red Nist's creative approach.

What people are saying about The Devil Under the Table

EverythingMagicPro99 says...

The reviewer loved 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