France, 1967. During a hot summer's day at the Melrose chateau in Lacoste, 8-year old Patrick explores the grounds, a sanctuary of hiding places from the complex adult world.

England, 1990. Patrick Melrose, now 31, is finally clean and practicing law. Despite avoiding social situations and their inevitable temptations, Patrick is persuaded to attend a high society event in the Cotswolds by best friend Johnny.

France, 2003. Patrick, 44, is now married to Mary, with sons Robert and Thomas. Patrick may be off the heroin, but is back tackling his troubles with substance abuse.

London, 2005. Having always dreamed of being an orphan, Patrick now has his wish at the age of 46. No longer with Mary, Patrick is clean and living alone in a grim bedsit.