The Tryst

by Monique Roffey
The Tryst cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Thriller/Suspense
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Format • £18.95
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Paperback • £8.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3020
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780993575860
  • Published: 2017-07-06
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

In the heart of London during midsummer, Jane and Bill meet Lilah in a bar, leading to an impulsive invitation that will change their lives forever. Lilah, a ruthless predator, isolates and curses them, forcing the couple to fight for their survival and uncover hidden desires they never knew they had. The story delves into the dark corners of human nature and the lengths people will go to protect what they hold dear. The Tryst is a gripping tale of suspense and psychological tension, exploring themes of desire, isolation, and the unseen dangers lurking in everyday encounters. The novel's atmospheric setting and intense character dynamics make it a compelling read for those who enjoy thrillers with a touch of the supernatural.

Reviews
Bookish Chat · 2018-02-25
brilliant 4.75

The book is described as a brilliant and unconventional exploration of a couple's boredom with their relationship and sex life, offering a unique and captivating narrative.

The reviewer describes The Tryst as 'utterly bonkers brilliance,' highlighting its unconventional approach to storytelling. They appreciate the book's exploration of a couple's boredom with their relationship and sex life, finding it both refreshing and captivating. The reviewer notes that the book's unique blend of literary psychodrama and erotic misadventure makes it a standout read. The characters' journey is described as compelling, making the book a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

Quick quotes

    The Tryst is utterly bonkers brilliance.

    I knew going into it that it was about a married couple who are bored with their relationship and sex life.

    It's neither pure fantasy nor pure erotica, but a unique blend of both.

The Guardian · 2017-07-21
engaging 4.00

The book offers a tightly structured portrayal of a contemporary couple's relationship, with a focus on their sexual dynamics that is both intense and respectful.

The reviewer praises The Tryst for its sharp and well-structured exploration of a modern couple's relationship. They highlight the book's ability to delve into the complexities of sex and intimacy without resorting to exploitation or sadness. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and the characters' dynamics intriguing, making it a standout in contemporary literature. The book's balance of eroticism and literary depth is particularly noted, offering a fresh perspective on relationships.

Quick quotes

    This is a tightly structured, sharp portrait of contemporary coupledom doused in sex that is hot but never sadistic or exploitative.

    The Tryst is a remarkable book by any standard.

    It's marketed by the publisher, Dodo Ink, as a literary erotic novella, which sounds about right.

Lonesome Reader · 2017-07-07
moving 4.50

The book is praised for its moving portrayal of characters exploring their sexual fantasies, highlighting the nuances of human relationships.

The reviewer found The Tryst deeply moving, particularly in its depiction of characters navigating their sexual fantasies. They appreciate the book's sensitivity and the way it portrays the complexities of human relationships. The reviewer notes that the book is not just about eroticism but also about the emotional and psychological aspects of intimacy. This thoughtful approach makes the book a compelling read, offering insights into the characters' inner worlds.

Quick quotes

    I found it really moving how Roffey shows her characters' tentative relationship with their sexual fantasies.

    People so often find it difficult to reconcile their fantasies with their real lives.

    The Tryst is a remarkable exploration of the human psyche.

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