78 pages 2 hours read

Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

Dangerous Liaisons

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1782

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos is an epistolary novel set in pre-revolutionary France, centered on the manipulative Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont, who use their charm to seduce and ruin others. Their schemes involve seducing the virtuous Présidente de Tourvel and the young Cécile de Volanges, resulting in a complex web of deceit and moral corruption. The book contains sensitive topics, including sexual assaults, death by suicide, and miscarriage.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ Dangerous Liaisons is often hailed for its provocative exploration of manipulation and morality within high society. Praised for its intricate epistolary format and character depth, some readers find the pacing slow and the immoral actions of characters unsettling. Overall, it remains a compelling, thought-provoking classic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Dangerous Liaisons?

Readers who appreciate intricate plots, psychological manipulation, and themes of power and deceit, similar to those in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, will enjoy Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's Dangerous Liaisons. It's perfect for fans of classic literature and social intrigue.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

French Literature

Historical Fiction

Topics

Love / Sexuality

Themes

Relationships: Marriage

Values/Ideas: Loyalty & Betrayal

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed