DEVIL’S MISTRESS, THE

In this dramatic tale of intrigue and lust we follow the trials and tribulations of the manipulative Angelica Fanshawe (Andrea Riseborough – Happy-Go-Lucky, Party Animals) as she exploits a country in crisis in a bid to better her own position.

Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War, Angelica abandons her loyalties to the Royal Family following the execution of her childhood sweetheart and first husband, Harry Fanshawe. Destitute, Angelica finds herself on the wrong side of the law, suddenly embroiled in murder and misadventure in a bitter struggle for survival.

Fortune smiles on her once again in her alliance with Oliver Cromwell (Dominic West – The Wire) and her subsequent marriage to his trusted friend – the heroic revolutionary Rainsborough (Michael Fassbender – Hunger, 300) a man she adores. Angelica becomes Cromwell’s confidante as he begins his reign over England, but when her husband, protector and the father of her unborn child is murdered by Cromwell in a treacherous attempt to remain the Lord Protector, she is forced to face her demons and the disparate past set to ruin her.

With accusations of slander hanging over her, Angelica narrowly escapes death in the gallows – saved by the enigmatic mercenary Sexby (John Simm – Life on Mars). Driven mad by his love for her, he attempts a suicidal mission to assassinate Cromwell. Caught in a web of deceit and betrayal Angelica must fend for herself and her child, fleeing the country before her past catches up with her.

This sumptuous miniseries is a rich tale of love, betrayal and renewal set in a time when yesterday’s lovers could suddenly become tomorrow’s enemies.