Greene contends that people fail at seduction because they are selfish or show their negative qualities. They should instead realize that “seduction is a process that occurs over time—the longer you take […] the deeper you will penetrate into the mind of your victim” (163).

He outlines 24 strategies, organized into four phases, based on human psychology. The strategies move from the first meeting to a successful seduction. Not all techniques are needed for all situations, and they can be applied to social, political, and sexual seductions. Each chapter includes relevant stories, discussion of key elements, and reverse techniques.

The perfect person to seduce is someone who will eventually give in, so the seducer must look for a need they can fulfill. In the novel Dangerous Liaisons, the Vicomte de Valmont seduces the Présidente de Tourvel, who is innocent, bored and seeking excitement, but thinks she cannot be seduced—making her a “perfect victim.” Greene contends that Valmont is drawn in by de Tourvel’s appearance and demeanor, and in a way, she seduces him. He explains that choosing someone to seduce is not about their physical appearance or interests but a person “who stirs you in a way that cannot be explained in words…He or she often has a quality you yourself lack, and may even secretly envy” (171).