The eight-episode series is based on the classic 18th-century novel of the same name, written by Harriet Warner. The story follows the narcissistic Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont, former lovers and rivals who are both adept at using seduction to control and exploit others. The series will tell the early origin stories of the two characters. The novel was the basis for the 1988 film adaptation of Dangerous Liaisons (the film was adapted from a stage play), starring Glenn Close and John Malkovich.