Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

First published in four volumes in 1782, this celebrated novel is widely regarded as one of the most important works of early French literature. Written as a series of letters exchanged between its characters, it offers a brilliantly incisive and often scandalous portrait of aristocratic society on the eve of revolution.

The narrative centres on the calculating Marquise de Merteuil and the seductive Vicomte de Valmont – former lovers turned rivals – who manipulate, corrupt, and ultimately destroy those around them for their own amusement. Through their intrigue, the work exposes the moral decay and hypocrisy of the ancien régime with remarkable psychological insight and wit.

Laclos intended to create a book that would “make a noise” and endure beyond his lifetime; its reputation has done exactly that, remaining a cornerstone of French literary history.

This copy is a first edition but Volume I only from the original four-volume set. Nevertheless it still represents a rare and attractive opportunity to own a classic of 18th-century literature at an accessible price.

Price: £65.00