The Three: A devastating, compelling historical thriller

When dressmaker Matthew falls for aristocrat Henry, he is soon forced into a terrible choice between concealing his forbidden love and saving Henry's wife, Elina.

A Times historical fiction round-up pick January 2026

1791. The dressmaker, his lover and his lover's wife. A house full of secrets where danger lies behind every door.

Matthew came from nothing. Now he is a skilled corset-maker adored by high society. But he must hide his true self from prying eyes, seeking love in the riotous underbelly of Georgian molly houses. If outed, he will face the noose.

When he falls in love with aristocrat Henry, he is hired as private dressmaker to Henry's wife, Elina, so they can continue their secret affair.

The three live together in uneasy tension inside the huge dark country mansion, and Matthew soon discovers Elina has secrets of her own. Slowly he is drawn into her dangerous world of revolutionary politics.

When the truth about Matthew and Henry threatens to explode their lives, Matthew is forced to make a devastating choice: who does he save? His lover or his friend?

A thrilling and devastating read perfect for fans of Sarah Waters, Jessie Burton and A.J. West.

Readers have fallen in love with The Three:

'A thrilling, sumptuous, and heart-wrenching novel of forbidden love, explosive secrets, and the ultimate sacrifice.' Reader Review

'Emotional to process...excellent reading.' Reader Review

'Emotionally compelling.' Reader Review

'Totally transporting page-turner that delivers on drama, plot, pace, heart and emotional depth.' Reader Review

Kelsey O'Brien is a Paris-based writer who tells stories about intriguing figures and hidden moments from the past. Her fiction, reviews, and travel pieces have appeared in print and online.