The Third Love

Having married her childhood sweetheart, Riko now finds herself trapped in a relationship that has been soured by infidelity. One day, by chance, she runs into her old friend Mr Takaoka, who offers friendship, love, and an unusual escape: he teaches her the trick of living inside her dreams.

And so, each night, she sinks into another life: first as a high-ranking courtesan in the 17th century, and then as a serving lady to a princess in the late Middle Ages.

As she experiences desire and heartbreak in the past, Riko comes to reconsider her life as a 21st century woman, as a wife, as a mother, and as a lover. She begins to ask herself whether, after loving her husband and loving Mr Takaoka, she is now ready for her third great love.

The Third Love by Hiromi Kawakami explores these poignant themes with a delicate touch, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationships and desires.