Nick Guest is invited to stay at the home of wealthy Conservative MP Gerald Fedden just as Margaret Thatcher's government is returned to power in 1983. It's Nick's first taste of the high life and he is entranced by their privileged life, but dysfunction and glamour come in equal measure with the Feddens.

In the summer of 1986 Nick is leading the sort of life he has always dreamed of, comfortably ensconced in the Fedden household. He also has a new boyfriend who is beautiful and rich, but Nick's glamorous new life quickly turns sour when he learns that his former lover is dying.

The 1987 General Election is looming but Nick has other things on his mind. Meanwhile, Gerald is implicated in a share scandal and his affair made public knowledge. Things worsen further when Nick's affair with Wani is exposed in the national press.