Waseca, MN ( PRWEB May 1, 2007 -- Viewers have fallen in love with the final table suspense and million dollar payouts of major poker tournaments televised from casinos around the world. They are the quintessential reality show. Every bet, raise, bluff and fold in this high-stakes arena can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Top poker tournament players have achieved celebrity status and become household names. And as their popularity increases, so do questions about their personal lives. What do these men and women do in those "off-hours" when they're not pitted against other top pros around a poker table vying for a multi-million dollar prize.

The cover article in the May issue of Midwest Gaming & Travel provides a behind-the-camera, candid glimpse into the daily routine and lifestyle of the Poker Diva as she prepares for a major tournament.

"The overwhelming popularity of poker today along with the increasing national exposure the elite players are getting, made this first-of-its-kind article an easy decision," said Managing Editor Catherine Jaeger.

Poker writer and WPT tournament color analyst Jennifer Newell accompanies Lieu for 48 hours as she juggles cash games and a major tournament with family life, marketing, fan relations and international business ventures.

"It was truly an eye-opening assignment," said Newell. "Having watched her play for hours upon hours in top tournaments across the country, I now had the opportunity to witness all the details that make up the exciting and yet exacting personal life of Liz Lieu."