A Wager at Midnight

Betting Against the Duke #1

by Vanessa Riley

The stakes are high in this dazzling and diverse Regency romance, in which a clever duke has made a wager with the now-widowed Viscountess who is the love of his life. To win a second chance with her, he will find husbands for her two sisters—or resign himself to a life of longing in this enchanting tale from award-winning author Vanessa Riley.

Scarlett Wilcox is willing to live out her life as a spinster if it means being able to continue her medical research to help a friend in need. After all, few husbands would tolerate her dressing as a man to attend lectures at the Royal Academy of Science. If the Duke of Torrance finds her such a specimen, she'll agree to a marriage in name only, much to the dismay of her elder sister, the Viscountess.
 
When she's unmasked at a lecture on ophthalmology, Scarlett prepares to be disgraced, but she's saved by Trinidadian-born physician Stephen Carew who claims her as a cousin. Dedicated to caring for his community, Stephen has no wish to marry a frivolous and privileged lady, no matter how many fall for his disarming accent and seductive charm. But Scarlett proves the opposite of any he’s ever met before. Yet the pressure to marry blinds them both to the chemistry growing between them, pitting their brilliant minds against their reluctant hearts—as the Duke and Viscountess await with bated breath to see who will win . . . A WAGER AT MIDNIGHT.
 
RAVES FOR VANESSA RILEY

“I'm a huge [Vanessa Riley] fan . . .  Her books are exquisitely written and painstakingly researched.”—Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton books
 
“Riley gifts readers a sparkling love story.” —Entertainment Weekly on A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Adult Fiction, Audiobook, Regency

1 pages, Audio CD

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

I'm Vanessa Riley, and I write Historical Fiction of dazzling multi-culture communities of the 1750s to 1830s, The Revolutionary Years. I write for readers who treasure and share with friends books that showcase women, power, strong sisterhoods, and love.

Web: https://vanessariley.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/vanessarile...
FB: https://www.facebook.com/VanessaRiley...

Reviews

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanessa Riley has a style that I find intriguing. She will let the reader be out of the loop and even a little confused, but reward your patience with information throughout a book (and series) that reveals the fascinating big picture. If you are used to being spoon-fed the “why” in books, you may be a little confused at first. Having read many of her books, I’m ready for the slow build and I enjoy the ride immensely!

This series focuses on the Wilcox sisters, with younger sisters Georgina and Scarlett each getting a book and the oldest sister Katherine’s story being a series-long one. Book 1 was Georgina’s story. Now, it’s Scarlett’s turn. These women are tight-knit and fiercely loyal. If you love a strong family saga, you'll love all of the books, not just this one!

Scarlett loves science and often dresses as a man to attend lectures at the Royal Academy. A physician, Stephen Carew, is a family friend who catches Scarlett in costume. Stephen has known the family for a long time, but time jumps are used to make it clear that Scarlett is an adult and not the teenager she was in the first book. Stephen sees Scarlett as a wife and not a fellow scientist, which frustrates Scarlett.

There are some wonderful scenes of Stephen at social gatherings of the Black community in London that had me googling recipes for cassava pone (no pumpkin or raisins for Stephen!). The “aunties” were a fun addition to the story.

The youngest Wilcox, Lydia, has been the scene-stealing charmer of the series and she has some great moments in this story.

We also get to see more of how sickle cell anemia (unnamed at the time, be recognizable to a modern reader) is affecting Lydia Wilcox, Jahleel (Duke of Torrence), and Mr. Thom, who works for the sisters' company, Wilcox Coal. There’s a bit of a cliffhanger at the end for our afflicted characters.

I can’t wait for this story to continue!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing a copy of this book in advance. This is my honest review.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!

As you all probably know by now, I will never ever read a Bridgerton book because the author is racist. To paraphrase what she said about including Black characters in her books, she said she didn't include Black characters because she writes happy endings. And don't bring up that cash grab Queen Charlotte.

If Julia Quinn has no haters, I must have died.

I have since made it my mission to seek out Black Historical Fiction. As with all books, some are good and some are good.

I enjoyed this book much more than book 1, A Gamble at Sunset. The couple in this book actually had chemistry, and I was rooting for them to be together. I will say that this book took me a while to get into... like 60 pages. I would probably read more books in this series.

It's not the best Black Historical Romance I've read, but it was quick and entertaining read.

I'm not a Romance girlie but I do enjoy reading Romance from time to time, and if you feel the same, then I think you'll enjoy this book.

[Danielle The Book Huntress · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wager at Midnight is a Regency historical romance that will give die hard romantics all the feelings they crave. There is such scintillating chemistry between the leads as they clash with and crave each other. While this is a sweet romance, the kissing scenes are nicely steamy, showing the powerful chemistry between Scarlett and Stephen. Their banter is fantastic and so engaging. Vanessa Riley is an author with a distinctive voice who uses history to create stories with diverse and engaging characters. I love historical romance, especially when the author works very hard to incorporate authentic historical facts into their stories and shines the spotlight on underrepresented cultural groups. This series is a great way to jump into her books. The next book is about the Duke of Torrance and Katherine, Lady Hampton. It should be very interesting to finally see things culminate between this pair.

Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.

Advanced Review Copy provided by Netgalley courtesy of Kensington Books.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am glad I stuck with this series and got to A Wager at Midnight because this was a substantially better book than the previous novel.

Scarlett Wilcox wants to be able to live a life of scientific freedom. Freedom to attend lectures, do medical research and publish her findings. But in Regency England, that is not an option for a woman, especially a Black woman. So Scarlett dresses in men's clothing and uses her deceased twin's name to attend lectures and conduct research. When she is at a lecture, she's recognized by Stephen Carew, her family's longtime doctor, and he immediately freaks out. This leads to all sorts of potentially scandalous situations but also causes him to see Scarlett in a new light, as an equal and someone he could potentially marry. But things get complicated when Stephen introduces Scarlett to his community, a community of immigrants that has never felt welcoming to Scarlett and her family and when Scarlett realizes that Stephen has been part of keeping a terrible Wilcox family secret, she's not sure what will come next.

I did not like the first book of this series because it was trying to do way too much. This book definitely cut down on the side quests and focused more on the main storyline, which made this a more enjoyable read. I liked Scarlett as a character– she spends this novel trying to figure out where she fits in a world that doesn't want her to be herself. A world where her twin died but she lived, a world where she's forbidden from practicing her vocation because of her gender, a world where the Black community in London doesn't want to associate with her family because there is sickle cell anemia in their genes. She's got a lot going on and I really felt for her as she tried to figure out what she wanted from life.

Stephen was a (mostly) lovable oaf. It takes him a looooong time to see what's right in front of his face. And it takes him even longer to stand up for what he actually wants, not just what he thinks the aunties want him to do.

As with the first book, the story I was still most interested in was Kathrine and Torrence's. Especially because the secret baby is not so secret anymore. I am very excited for the next book in this series because it's going to be Katherine that has some explaining to do. She never gave Torrence a chance to be who she needed him to be. She left and didn't say a word when he would have done anything for her. It's not often that a book has a heroine grovel but I think Vanessa Riley might be writing one and I can't wait.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a chapter or two to get into the rhythm of the book. Once I reach the rhythm, it's easy to follow the story with it's moments of humor and pain. Steven Carew is a physician. He's known Scarlett Wilcox for seven years, but he doesn't understand her passion for medicine. He thinks she should stay home and do what society expects from a lady. Scarlett sees her only option is to prove to Steven she's a lot more than he really understands.
Kisses only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.

[BoxerLover2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have one word to describe this book. Joy.

Stephen Carew is a man who reads Jane Austin novels to unwind from his stressful work as a physician.
Scarlett Wilcox is a spinster who dresses as her deceased twin brother in order to teach herself to perform cataract surgery.
Scarlett and Stephen are bound together by family secrets and unusual wagers. I love their banter as they learn to work together to build a better community.

I look forward to the next book and find out how Scarlett older sister, Katherine and the Duke of Torrance manage their HEA. They both deserve an HEA.

I also look forward to Scarlett managing to assist Stephen's previous love interest, Eveline. Eveline needs a champion.

[Nadia Latai (Nadiasbookishworld86) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in Betting against the Duke series is an incredible story!! The voices of these characters are so deep and relatable. I loved the dialog so much!! Vanessa Riley knows how to write regency romance where the reader can see themselves on the page. Scarlett and Stephen find themselves in a situation of mutual interest and attraction, no matter how much both of them disdain the idea .
4.5🌟

[Mindy B (reader_of_the_lost_arcs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very fascinating from a medical stand point in how far we've come. Without giving too much spoilers, the scene where the wager is placed was extremely tense and amazing. Sometimes I think we take medical technology and advancement for granted now.
Thank you to netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.

[Sally Kilpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Scarlett Wilcox. I have always been a sucker for a historical romance in which the heroine has to dress as a man. Cliche? Not in this case because Scarlett wants to be a doctor, and more than one woman had to dress as a man to learn medicine back in the day.

Naturally, the story of the Duke and Katherine also progresses. You might notice some characters from other books by Riley, too.

Favorite moments? Scarlett and Carew end up in a brothel has to be tied with Mark and Georgina channeling their inner Kendrick Lamar.

But now I have to wait for book 3?!

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I’m supposed to be a logical woman of science. I refuse to let an accent infused with peppermint distract me.”

In my review of A Gamble at Sunset, I mentioned that Vanessa Riley did a phenomenal job in that first book of setting up several recurring storylines that would play out across the rest of the series and had my full attention. So, needless to say, I was eager to pick up A Wager at Midnight and see where this new story would take those plot arcs… and I once again became caught up in the Wilcox women and their Russian duke, who is either friend or enemy to them depending on which Wilcox you ask. (To Scarlett – the focus of this book – the duke is a friend and his home a safe haven.) Not only is my interest engaged by their vivid personalities and layered relationship dynamics, but I’m also loving the cultural and historical insight woven throughout as well as perspectives we don’t often get in Regency era fiction.

The ‘are they enemies or are they friends’ battle of wits between Trinidadian-born physician Stephen Carew and Scarlett Wilcox delighted me in A Wager at Midnight, especially as their romantic awareness of each other builds into a simmering sort of tension that blurs the lines. He thinks he wants a quiet, demure, fashionable beauty with good pedigree for a wife. Yet Scarlett is instead headstrong, passionate, intelligent… and recently in the habit of posing as her late twin brother Scotland to attend medical lectures in hopes of saving a friend’s eyesight. The fact that this so needles poor Stephen entertained me (and the duke) even further, but what I really loved was watching them discover that maybe their hearts aren’t that different after all. Ok, and I loved how Riley turns typical gender roles of the day on their ear by having Scarlett be the logical academic and Stephen the romantic fan of novels by ‘A. Lady’ (aka Jane Austen). That, and the vibrantly-depicted Trinidadian culture which I don’t think I’ve seen before in Regency fiction, outside this series. And Stephen’s assistant Benny consistently left me chuckling, so I loved him too.

Bottom Line: Family secrets. Wagers. Romance. Wit. Wisdom. And cassava pone. A Wager at Midnight entertained me, intrigued me, surprised me, and has me on pins and needles for the next book! Author Vanessa Riley continues to raise awareness of little known pieces of Regency-era Black & Caribbean history as well as sickle cell anemia, and she does so through compelling stories like this one. I found myself grateful for modern medical knowledge even as I was fascinated (and a little queasy lol) by all the advances they were making even then. I loved the snappy back-and-forth between Stephen and Scarlett, as well as the warm friendships between the duke and them both. You don’t strictly have to read A Gamble at Sunset to enjoy A Wager at Midnight but I would recommend it in order to have a proper understanding of the backstory, particularly between the duke and the eldest Wilcox sister, Katherine. And ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! The ending of this one!!! Oh my goodness, when does A Deal at Dawn release? Because I need it right now!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

A Wager at Midnight by Vanessa Riley is a first person multi-POV Regency romance. Scarlett Wilcox has been using her deceased twin brother’s name so she can attend medical conferences and training to become a physician. When her family’s physician, Stephen Carew, finds her out, he starts to reconsider his impression of her. But Stephen needs a new potential wife when his aunties start to meddle and the only woman he wants is Scarlett.

I loved that Stephen is not only from Trinidad, but there’s Caribbean traditions mentioned, the reverence for older women (the aunties), and the sense of community was highlighted. I think this is the first time I have read Caribbean representation in a Regency and I’m excited to read more. Cassava pone is mentioned several times and there’s even a recipe in the back of the book. Between the Caribbean aspects and mentions of ashy skin and Black hair care, the culture and diverse care needs of the characters were given a lot of attention.

Scarlett and Stephen have some animosity towards each other when the book opens. Scarlett has a lot more frustration while Stephen doesn’t even seem to realize Scarlett is a possible love interest until the one woman he was initially pursuing is out of the picture. Some of it is because Stephen is older than Scarlett by about ten years and so has seen her grow up and been involved in several crises that have occurred in her family. Scarlett’s frustration is partially with Stephen’s desire to find a woman who is quiet and demure and she is most definitely not that. But Stephen does change his mind eventually.

The enmeshment of Stephen in Scarlett’s family and his friendship with the duke, as well as knowledge of intimate secrets even Scarlett isn’t, does make it easier and harder for him to get into Scarlett’s heart. He knows her well and she knows him well, they wouldn’t expose each other’s secrets even if they weren’t love interests, but Stephen knowing what he knows is something of a betrayal to Scarlett. We spend a lot of time with their families, which is a bit unusual for a Regency as many of the ones I have read keep the families somewhat at a distance.

I would recommend this to fans of Regency romances looking for Caribbean representation or readers of romance who prefer characters with strong familial ties

[RomanceReaderExtraordinaire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read Vanessa Riley books and highly enjoy how she always mixes romance, with untold history and a diverse cast of characters.

Scarlett is woman determined to make her own path in the world. She decides to follow her dreams and infiltrate a medical school, dressed as a man.

Her headstrong nature runs straight into Stephen Carew, a Trinidadian-born physician who works in the community.

Though, they’ve known each other for a while when the book starts it seems he’s never really considered why there is such a push and pull, and constant battle of wits between them. I loved watching them work through their feelings and finally find their HEA.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I loved that we got to see a different side to Regency London, with diverse characters who discussed their histories and cultures. It was a little slow and confusing for me at the beginning ( I hadn’t realized this was book two in a series), but once I sorted all of that out, it was easy to get into this story and invest in what was going to happen with Scarlett and Stephen. I can’t wait to go back and read book one of the series, and to see who’s up next!

Thank you so much for the ARC Kensington. 💕

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scarlett Wilcox is willing to live out her life as a spinster if it means being able to continue her medical research to help a friend in need. After all, few husbands would tolerate her dressing as a man to attend lectures at the Royal Academy of Science. If the Duke of Torrance finds her such a specimen, she'll agree to a marriage in name only, much to the dismay of her elder sister, the Viscountess. When she's unmasked at a lecture on ophthalmology, Scarlett prepares to be disgraced, but she's saved by Trinidadian-born physician Stephen Carew who claims her as a cousin.
Another very good book from the author, strong characters, well paced, well researched & it was different. I really liked both Scarlett & Stephen & immediately became invested in their story. The book highlighted how far medicine has advanced. I also love how the author combines humour in her books. I highly recommend not only this book but all of her books
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Blodeuedd Finland]

I tried a few times, but it is not catching my interest

[Smut Report]

Heat Factor: Some petting in the carriage at the halfway point

Character Chemistry: Antagonistic teasing with “rapier wit” plus pining

Plot: Uh…

Overall: DNF at 50%. I just couldn’t do it any more.

Here’s the deal. I really really want to like Vanessa Riley’s books. They always sound so awesome and I love that she’s going all in on writing well-researched books featuring Black people in Regency England. (You can read about her research here.) Plus her books always have gorgeous cover art. But this is the second one that super didn’t work for me due to a mix of the writing style and my irritation with the characters, so I suspect that Riley is not an author who works for me.

In this case, despite a rocky start, I kept going. I even got to the point where I decided that I would read to the end so I could really put my finger on what it was about the writing style that wasn’t sitting right with me. But then I got to a truly enraging interaction between the main characters and was over it.

Read our full review at The Smut Report

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.

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[LeeAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an absolute rush!

A quick-paced adventure, the perfect historical romance to read over the holidays (or anytime).

Scarlett & Stephen are the perfect opposites attract couple (can you be grumpy-sunshine if you're both grumpy?).

[LiteratiGlitterati]

DNF - I’ve read Vanessa Riley before and found her books *fine* but they didn’t wow me. Seeing so many folks I trust loving her books, I decided to give it another try! Unfortunately, this was not for me. The writing style is overwrought and chaotic. Riley clearly has a lot of ideas, and crafts intelligent, complex characters with morals and passions you love to root for as a reader. However, from chapter one, the author tries to force so many different elements, feelings, asides, and little quips into single scenes, leaving me frustrated with the frenetic, busy style. It read very much as tell rather than show. I wanted to be able to discover these individualities that made each character tick, rather than having them all jammed into one scene at once.

[Pj Ausdenmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm enjoying this new trilogy from Vanessa Riley that showcases diverse characters of color in Regency London. Riley's books are always rich in historical detail while also featuring well-developed characters who bring the time and place to life on the page.

While the battle between the Duke and Katherine continues to play out in the background of this second book, it's time for third sister, Scarlett to take center stage. I'm always up for a woman of science in historical romance who has the courage to defy the norm in pursuit of education. Scarlett is one such character and I was with her every step of her journey. She has a true calling, as well as an honorable heart, and a willingness to do whatever it takes in her quest to help others.

It took me a while to settle into Stephen as the right man for Scarlett. There's plenty of simmering chemistry in their squabbles and banter but he's as reluctant to accept her non-traditional brilliance as he is the fact that the young girl he first met is now a grown woman. He's a planner, some might say a slow plodder, with a burning need for acceptance from his community. But he grows as the story unfolds and by the end, I was rooting him on in his quest for Scarlett's heart.

Riley's books are not fast-paced. They evolve gradually, taking readers on a journey with occasional side trips, as one might experience in real life, with secondary characters - and storylines - only adding to the rich texture of the whole. While Scarlett and Stephen are the featured couple in A Wager at Midnight, I found myself drawn over and over to the Duke and the complications in his life that are at the core of this trilogy and his relationships with the Wilcox sisters. I am literally bouncing with eagerness to discover how his story will evolve when he and Katherine finally step into the romantic spotlight. A scene at the end of A Wager at Midnight leads me to believe it will not be an easy journey for either of them.

While some books within a trilogy can be enjoyed as a standalone, I do not recommend that with this one. For maximum enjoyment and complete understanding of these characters and their relationships, I strongly encourage readers to begin with A Gamble at Sunset, followed by A Wager at Midnight.

4.5 stars
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
Fair and unbiased review

[Robin Pendleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wager at Midnight by Vanessa Riley leaves the curtains wide open on the hypocrisy of the lure of assimilation in 19th Century London, England for anyone with a tinge of color, and the ambivalence of retaining cultural pride while longing to imitate those who feel they are superior. Riley meticulously excavates the nuances of the people and practices of the Regency period. In A Wager at Midnight, the Wilcox sisters, especially Scarlett, are models of thunderous defiance when women are expected to be demure.

The title itself hints at a mystique that pulsates throughout the novel. Scarlett Wilcox dares to infiltrate medical society meetings dressed as a man. Her family can’t afford another scandal, but her ache to become a physician overrules her senses. The only other ache that compares is her love-hate relationship with their older physician and family friend, Trinidadian-born Stephen Carew. Besides medicine, the only thing Carew appears to be fixated with is Sense and Sensibility, as it is mentioned often like a character begging to be seen. That is, until the scales fall from his eyes regarding Scarlett’s metamorphosis, Nevertheless, she lets her older sister, Katherine, now a widowed Viscountess, and the Duke of Torrance, know in no uncertain terms that all bets are off for marriage for her unless any prospect accepts her deception to learn medicine.

Katherine’s late husband’s gambling brings the Wilcox family business to near destitution. The Duke of Torrance intervenes, using his power to give them time to turn things around with creditors. He’s Katherine’s secret. His closely-guarded secret is the sickness in the blood that befalls even the most affluent Blackamoors and those of mixed race. The duke needs more time to win the wager with Katherine. He already has the heart of Lydia, a child and the youngest Wilcox, and the admiration of Scarlett. Katherine needs more time to release the hate she feels toward him. No one wins when lies sit at the table with truth and refuses to move.

A Wager at Midnight is another jewel by historical fiction marvel, Vanessa Riley. Thank you, Kensington Books, for providing this book for review consideration via @NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Amy J · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't read the first one in this series (cause I didn't realize it was a series when I got this from the library haha) but there wasn't much that I really missed out on, I think, other than additional context on all these characters' relationships. I am definitely most invested in the Duke and Katherine's story so I will for sure be reading the next one. From the reviews I've read about the first one, I'm not too sure if I'll be reading that, but who knows.
Anyways, on to this one! Scarlett was so much fun, I love how she really wanted to know about medicine because she doesn't want to lose her loved ones when she could do something about it. The verdict is still out for me on Stephen, but I do appreciate that he's a dedicated physician and values his community and making sure that people are cared for. The banter and arguments between Scarlett and Stephen were great and her being in love with him for so long was lovely. It was definitely a case of "she fell first, he fell harder" cause once he realized his feelings, he kept proposing to her. Honestly though, I didn't really buy that Stephen loved Scarlett, but if they're happy, then why not?
The duke was definitely to die for and I love how much he cares for the Wilcox family. I loved his relationship with Scarlett and how in the three years he's been back, he's really ingrained himself into the family, despite Katherine's wishes. The little bit that I was able to glean from his and Katherine's story is extra tragic so I am super excited for the last book in the series! Especially with that ending and what was revealed about Lydia! Also I really appreciated the history in this especially with the immigrant community in London and how they were navigating the world. I did find it a bit difficult to get oriented to this book, especially cause we started with Stephen's perspective and his thoughts being very scientific, lol. But it got better and easier to read through and I am really glad that Scarlett kept pushing Stephen's thoughts on what an ideal woman should be. I also love that Stephen reads romance novels (Jane Austen!) to relax after his long day of patients and loss.

[Roslyn Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Wager at Midnight by Vanessa Riley is a vibrant, richly layered Regency romance that surprised me in all the best ways. As my first read by Riley, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but her bold storytelling, diverse cast, and sharp wit pulled me in from page one. This isn’t your typical ballroom-and-bonnet historical—it’s a tale of intellect, independence, and unexpected love.
Scarlett Wilcox is a standout heroine: fiercely intelligent, unapologetically unconventional, and refreshingly uninterested in romantic fluff. Her passion for medicine and her refusal to conform to societal expectations make her a compelling lead. Stephen Carew, the Trinidadian-born physician, is equally well-drawn. His dedication to his community and quiet strength balance Scarlett’s fiery spirit, and their chemistry crackles with tension and mutual respect. The supporting characters—especially the meddling Duke of Torrance and Scarlett’s skeptical sister—add texture and humor, though the early chapters introduce a lot of names and backstories that can feel overwhelming at first.
The premise is delightfully offbeat: a wager involving matchmaking, medical lectures, and a brothel visit sets the stage for a slow-burn romance rooted in shared ideals rather than instant attraction. Riley’s pacing is thoughtful, allowing the emotional stakes to build gradually. The story explores themes of autonomy, cultural identity, and the cost of ambition, all while keeping the romantic tension simmering beneath the surface. It’s a clean romance, but the intensity between Scarlett and Stephen is palpable.
A Wager at Midnight is a smart, emotionally resonant romance that challenges genre norms while still delivering the swoon-worthy moments readers crave. Vanessa Riley’s voice is confident and distinctive, and I’m already looking forward to reading more from her. If you enjoy historical fiction with brains, heart, and a dash of rebellion, this one’s worth the wager.

[Milly and Mac Dashwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scarlett Wilcox is a determined, curious young heroine who is passionate about medicine and science. In fact, she is so driven in this regard that she ventures out in disguise, as her long deceased twin brother. When out in the world dressed as a man, she encounters and is protected by Dr. Stephen Carew, a physician from Trinidad who is navigating the world of medicine and London as a blackamoor. Both the hero and the heroine have a close relationship with the Duke of Torrance, a patient of Stephen’s and the decider of who will be Scarlett’s husband. The main characters must navigate societies that limit their agency, and they discover the power of truth and connection.

There were so many aspects of this book I appreciated. The attention to the discrimination, in the medical field, against doctors and patients of color is especially pertinent and important. I also loved the window into the experiences of people from the Carribean, and the lives of both the hero and heroine were fascinating.

For a romance, this book follows an unconventional plot structure. It’s a slow burn for sure, but it also moves in a unique way. At times, I was confused by the extraneous information, and I found some of the plots outside of the central relationship slow. However, I adored Stephen and Scarlett, and their scenes together shined as truly riveting.

Readers should also be aware that even though the tension in this book is notable, the intimacy is closed door. The culmination of the relationship is meaningful but not spicy.

I would read more by Vanessa Riley in the future, and I value the voice and perspective this text offers.

I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity. As with any of my reviews, these are my opinions, and you should always follow your own instincts as a reader!

[Uta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Vanessa Riley for providing this e-ARC via NetGalley!

I am not new to Vanessa’s books and her writing specifically around multicultural historical romance. This was a treat indeed! With no expectations I delve in and was truly captured into the diverse London of the 1800s following the life and adventures of Scarlett Wilcox’s tenacity and grit for agency and self advocacy in a society that held different expectations for a woman like her. In comes her family physician Trinidadian-born Stephen Carew who is quick witted, a Dr. of the people, family man and quite reserved about his heart and ambitions. When two opposites attract there is no telling who will win! Caught up in the world of aristocrats, class, familia expectations, family secrets, scandal, promise and societal expectations, these two find each other and perhaps dare to pave their own path.

With character depth, chemistry and a plot that kept the pages turning I ate up every bit of this book up. There were laugh out loud moments, swoon, drama and let’s just say the witted banter between Stephen and Scarlett will keep you charmed, entertained and wanting more.

Vanessa as always gives us fiction wrapped up in some historical truths which makes her reads extra special and informative! And let’s not forget the added bonus of recipes at times. In this case I was adventurous enough to try the famous Mrs. Ellis Cassava Pone recipe at the end of the book with a side of Sorrel drink! Love it!

Happy Reading!

[Erna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second in the series (Betting Against the Duke) - as good or better than the first book

Wow, I really enjoyed this book. It was even better than the first one in the series. I have not read any Vanessa Riley books prior to this series, but I had heard of her Regency novels, and I wanted to jump in and start reading, so I selected this recent series. Now I am wondering if I should have selected other books, as I will have to wait until next year for book 3! I read the teaser at the end of this book, and I want it to come out sooner. I am not very patient on these matters when I like a series.

The book itself was very engaging. I found it took a while to follow the format, similar to book one, with alternating chapters for the 2 POV, heroine and hero. I love that the heroines in both books, the Wilcox sisters, are strong, smart, articulate, and honest. There are many layers to the book, which really interested me, including the characters' different cultures from the West Indies. This is a friends to lovers story, with the heroine a decade younger that her beloved Stephen Carew, physician, who has a disarming accent and seductive charm. Scarlett is smart, motivated to help others, a loyal sister and friend, and beautiful! I really enjoyed how they compromised along the way to acknowledge that what they both wanted were attributes the other person had.

The medical advances and challenges of the day were also very interesting and educational to read about, such as cataract treatments, C-sections, and sick cell anemia.

[Mandy · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 60%

This was a book for a romance book club I'm in. I tried so hard to get into this, started with a physical book and then switched to the audiobook just to try and see if that would make it better (spoiler, it did not). After the ice & carriage chapter I was like, "Maybe this just wasn't for me" and then I went to book club and found out no one else in the club was able to finish either.

The premise is interesting enough. Honestly, it would've been better as a historical fiction novel from just Scartlett's POV. But the way this was written leaves a lot to be desiered. The setting has little description and if you zone out for even a second you will be lost because the author just drops the reader into different scenarios. I'm not asking to be spoon fed as a reader, but a little context would be nice.

I say this would work better as historical fiction because the main charcaters seem to have almost no chemistry. Sure, there's banter between the two of them but unfortunately...that's all there is. It's hard to tell where the banter stops and the real conversation between the characters begin. Even when we get to the romance the characters react to the idea of intimacy in such a cringe worthy way that I would have to skip sentences just to get through.

If you're into historical fiction sure, give this a try. Maybe it truly wasn't for me. But to be in a room of four other romance readers that also couldn't finish the book. It makes me seriously doubt that it was just a me problem.

[Tanesha Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance reader copy of A Wager At Midnight. I am honestly, not sure how to rate it or where to start this review.

Things I liked: I really loved the premise of the story and the idea of these opposites attracted lovers. Scarlett and Stephan's banter was so cute and it was funny getting to watch them attempt to navigate so many obstacles and precarious situations (some that they created themselves LOL). I loved the plot twist at the end with Chrysanthemum. I also feel like Scarlett's character had a good redemption arc for me. I also really loved the epilogue and how the book wrapped up. I would say that the last 50% of the book really had me hooked.

Things that didn't work for me: The writing in the first 35% was a STRUGGLE for me to get through. I really feel like if I listened to this book, I might have liked it a lot more. I also struggled with some of the descriptions of the characters - I felt like I was making up character's looks because I didn't have a good description. I feel like maybe it could be helpful to put the character list at the back of the book, because seeing that first, was overwhelming for me.

Overall, I feel mixed ways about the book. The first half had me tempting to DNF it, but the second half saved it. I would probably read another book by this author, and I am eager to learn what happens with the next sister in the story!

[Maria Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading book two, especially the playful banter between Scarlett and Stephen. Their dynamic kept things lively, and the classic enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity tropes were fun to follow. As a lover of historical romance, I found the history woven throughout—particularly of Trinidad, Jamaica, and Guyana—absolutely fascinating. The contrast between social classes added depth to the story, making it even more compelling.

Stephen’s role as a protector, educator, and healer within the community was admirable, especially in light of his own family’s reluctance to recognize his worth as a physician. His growth throughout the novel was wonderful to see, though I would have loved to watch him and Scarlett work together more to resolve their conflicts. Their witty banter was entertaining, but at times, it felt a bit overwhelming, taking up much of their story.

Lydia was an absolute delight—her precocious and sweet nature made me smile every time she appeared on the page.

At the end of book one, I was so eager to learn more about Jahleel, the Duke of Torrance, and Katherine, Lady Hampton. Their story immediately captivated me because it felt refreshingly unique compared to other historical romances I’ve read. The twist at the end was fantastic—I only wish it had come a bit earlier so we could savor it more. Now, I can’t wait to dive into their story in book three!

[S Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want a great historical fiction romance that mixes the historical climate of the time and the way a woman can navigate circumstances and still be strong and fierce, this book is for you.

This is book 2 in the Betting Against the Duke Series but can be read as a stand alone with no issues. This book finds Scarlett, one of the younger Wilcox sisters and her journey to pursue her dreams of medicine while the Duke is looking for a suitable marriage for her.
Enter the Physician, Stephen Carew. He has had an adversarial relationship with Scarlett since she was a child. He also sees her as still a child even though she is now in her twenties. What he doesn’t anticipate is that Scarlett is probably his perfect match.

I loved so much about this book. I love a good historical romance. Scarlett is just the type of heroine you want. She is resilient, smarts, resourceful, and strong. She also carries a lot of guilt from the death of her twin. That has motivated her to learn everything she can about medicine despite the odds. If you can’t tell I love me some Scarlett. Stephen Carew doesn’t start out the book as someone who deserves someone as amazing as Scarlett. During the course of the book he finally falls for Scarlett then the Duke makes it clear he needs to step up to actually deserve her. I can’t say enough good things about this book. Worth the read!!

[N.G. Peltier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a delight! Scarlett and Stephen were perfect for each other. Me a Trinidadian, loved reading a historically romance with a hero who was from Trinidad and I believe the Wilcox family have Jamaican heritage. As with the first book it was interesting learning about the Blackamoor immigrant community in London.

I think I enjoyed this one more than book 1. The banter is on point. The shenanigans they found themselves in while Scarlett is dressed as a man to sneak into some science sessions had me rolliiiing. We need a tv series I tell you! These two fight and kiss and banter some more and I ae it all the way up.

I love how the author tailored each character’s expression of their feelings based on their personalities. Like Stephen sending Scarlett some quotes from a favourite novel and Scarlett letting Stephen read her research.

Also I won’t spoil it but the way my mouth fell open at THAT reveal about 90% in.
ohhhh my god!!! This opens up a whole new level of ahhhh about what will go down in the duke and Katherine’s book??? And the ending just gutted me. I didn’t know how their story was going to play out after learning whyyy Katherine is angry with the duke and then this lil bomb of truth was dropped! Oooh boy their book is gonna be a messyyyyy. And I will eat it all up.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the second book in the Betting Against the Duke series, readers return to the Regency period where Scarlett Wilcox is prepared to never marry to be able to continue her medical research and attend lectures at the Royal Academy of Science. However, when she is unmasked at a lecture, physician Stephen Carew claims that she is his cousin, but when both Stephen and Scarlett are pressured to marry people they would totally dislike, they become more adverse to marriage than ever when the perfect partner might actually be right in front of them. As their romance unfolds against a medical backdrop and the drama of Regency England, Stephen and Scarlett reveal their personalities and complex motivations to the readers, who will love the latest book in this fun Regency series. The characters are, naturally, the stars of the book, and the chemistry between Scarlett and Stephen will really draw readers into the story. The additional backdrop of the previous book will really add some depth to the pressure on Scarlett to marry, and readers will really enjoy the chemistry and atmosphere of this new novel in a Regency romance series that fans of similar titles in the genre will love.

Thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Zebra for the advance copy.