The Tarrasch Defense - Grandmaster Repertoire 10 Paperback – December 1, 2011

I am a life long, strong chess player and I purchased this book to learn an alternative for my Black repertoire against 1.d4. The book is a masterful study of a defense that has been considered somewhat dubious for many years. The book is appropriate primarily for serious, experienced, tournament chess players and would probably be disappointing for a casual player who may be overwhelmed by the detailed analysis (which is true for the entire Grandmaster Repertoire series.) I'm writing this review only after several months of studying the materials and have concluded that the authors have made a credible case for the defense. There are several lines (especially Rubinstein's classical 9. Bg5) which can press Black hard. However, the author's have studied these positions in greater depth than you will usually see in a typical chess opening book and have presented thorough recommendations and analysis. If you choose to buy this book and invest the time to really learn this opening, you will likely be rewarded with better results over the board as the Tarrasch often leads to interesting and dynamic positions. Be aware, though, that you will need to learn/memorize longer lines and in more detail since a well prepared, very strong player of the White pieces will know how to steer Black into positions which appear close to equal - but only if Black keeps on the straight and narrow. However, if you have done the work, you will still have chances against a strong player due to your greater understanding of these positions which may allow you to pull ahead in the endgame. Highly recommended!

I am a bit disappointed, actually. I usually, only buy opening books which include complete games for analysis. I purchased the book with the assumption that it had this feature. So, when I received it, and found that it did not, I was somewhat dicouraged.

This book is so good, it almost seems silly to post a review. Just look around the world wide web, and you will find review after review praising the efforts of the two authors. From my viewpoint, there is seldom seen such an intense personal effort to analyse an opening, or defense, in chess, like this book. I do not go into multiple comments on various "lines" and I comment only on my reactions to a book. This book is only one of a few that I have seen, that can truly be called independent, thoughtful, and dare I say, heart-felt, in its effort to present an opening or defense in chess. Great book, because it represents what can be the best in a chess book. Originality, effort, thoughtfulness and pride in trying to do a good job.

I found it difficult to find a good book covering the Tarrasch Defense, but this book is absolutely exceptional! Most opening books are outdated soon after hitting the shelves, but I suspect with only a few future tweaks, this book will stand the test of time.

This was a in depth analysis of the Tarrasch Defence that was well worth the study. Very well written with easy to understand descriptions.

Im a 1700 rated player and play the Tarrasch. After reading this book I can say I know the Tarrasch better than I ever thought possible. Kudos to the authors.This is a Very very very good opening book. Well written, Good flow of possible moves, different move orders and index variation in back. Very high marks and highly recommend.

Seminal.Incredible new and original analysis, loaded with novelties and great ideas. A true work of inspiration and passion.The bar has been raised.A lot.