The Tricky Tromp (Paperback)

The Tricky Tromp by Richard Palliser is an English-language paperback chess book for players building a White repertoire after 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5. It focuses on the Trompowsky Attack and offers practical ideas for study and over-the-board play.

What this book covers

Richard Palliser presents the Trompowsky Attack as a direct way to put Black under pressure from the opening moves. The book covers the most common replies and aims to give the reader a coherent repertoire rather than a loose collection of variations.

One of the best-known ideas discussed here is the sharp continuation 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 Ne4 3.h4!?, associated with Julian Hodgson. It leads to unusual middlegames with both strategic and tactical content, while still retaining practical value in modern chess.

Why choose the Trompowsky?

The Trompowsky Attack has long appealed to players who want to move away from the most heavily trodden opening paths. It has also been used at the highest level, including by Anand in a world championship match, and as a surprise weapon by players such as Carlsen, Nakamura, Erigaisi and Praggnanandhaa.

This makes the book a good fit for players who want an active 1.d4 repertoire, prefer to reach their own positions early, and like to understand the ideas behind the opening instead of memorising long forced lines without context.

About the author

IM Richard Palliser is an experienced chess author and opening specialist. He has worked closely with Gawain Jones and Simon Williams, and he is also the editor of CHESS Magazine. His earlier book Starting Out: The Trompowsky Attack underlines his long-standing connection with this opening.

Key details

• Product type: paperback chess book
• Author: Richard Palliser
• Language: English
• Opening: Trompowsky Attack
• Repertoire side: White
• Pages: 272
• Format: paperback