When a Lady Dares

All's Fair in Love and Racing #7

by Sofie Darling

Can she who dares…

Lady Saskia Calthorp is no stranger to secrets. Writing under a nom de plume, she’s one of England’s most popular novelists. When she agrees to write Liam Cassidy’s memoir, she’s certain she can hide the fact that he’s the inspiration for every hero she’s ever written.

Win the man of her dreams…

Liam Cassidy has life on a string. Hero to punters, irresistible to women, he’s the most famous man in British horse racing. But everything is not as it seems, and Liam carries a secret of his own.

And write her own adventure?

Then one forbidden kiss changes everything. Saskia knows she’ll never be the sort of woman to capture a man like Liam Cassidy’s heart. But when Liam’s life changes beyond his wildest imagining, he knows Saskia is the answer to everything he’s ever wanted.

A witty, emotionally charged historical romance. Darling delivers a satisfying mix of charm, heart, and romantic risk. Perfect for readers who love clever heroines, slow-burning passion, and happily-ever-afters earned through courage and trust.

Genres: Forced Proximity

Unknown Binding

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Sofie Darling’s passion for historical romance began in middle school the moment she cracked open Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. An instant and enduring love affair was born.

Sofie spent much of her twenties raising two boys and reading every romance she could get her hands on. Once she realized she simply must write the books she loved, she finished her English degree and set pencil to paper. (Ticonderoga #2 is her quill of choice.)

When she’s not writing heroes who make her swoon, Sofie enjoys a nice weekend hike, a visit to a crumbling medieval castle whenever she gets the chance, and a slightly codependent relationship with her beagle, Bosco.

You can keep up with her latest and future releases by joining her newsletter here:

https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...

Reviews

[SelinaW]

We finally get Liam Cassidy’s story in another installment of “All’s fair in love and racing” by Sofie Darling. She is one of my go-to writers for an easy and satisfying read. Saskia (Ms. Darling can be counted to entertain you with her amazing character name choices too!) is part owner of Sirens circulating library. She is also an author, writing under a pseudonym. Saskia is tasked with writing the memoirs of Liam Cassidy, a man she has long admired from afar.

Liam is an illegitimate son of Earl of Bolton, a fact that is unknown to most. He is also a winning jockey, racing for his brother-in-law, Duke of Rakesley. You will remember the Duke and Liam’s sister Gemma from one of the earlier installment of the series.

When Liam and Saskia meet, sparks fly immediately. Yet, this did not have any undertones of insta-love. In fact, their journey to each other is earned and they go through personal transformations to get to their HEA. Steam is fantastic as usual and seeing all the familiar characters was great. The racing angle has also added so much to this whole series - Sofie Darling is able to weave that and the competitive spirit seamlessly in!

[ChasingLeslie]

Liam Cassidy is the most famous man in British horse racing. Lady Saskia Calthorp is tasked with writing his memoir, but one forbidden kiss changes everything.

This is the seventh book in the All's Fair in Love and Racing series. I would recommend reading the whole series because there are plenty of interconnected characters. But if you want to jump into this story faster, I would at least read the first book, where Liam and his twin sister are introduced and the bigger picture of the racing scene is set.

I really loved this one! Saskia is already a (secret) accomplished author, and now she will be writing Liam's story for her - and her sister's - bookstore/publishing house. But she has a bit of a crush on Liam and has an encounter with him under a false name. This gets the ball rolling very quickly and the characters romance develops beautifully through some twists and turns.

Tropes: Disguised Character-ish, Working Heroine, Secret Job, Unexpected Inheritance

Steam: 3

* I received an ARC and this is my honest review

[Pam Bereznak]

This is my 20th book by Sofie Darling. I just started reading her December 31, 2024. I am so glad I asked about her in my steamy FB group because she is definitely steamy and gets such great depth with her characters and her storylines. Plus I love a good book cover and she has such pretty book covers. 😊

I liked Liam and Saskia. It took me a chapter or so to get into the story but once I did, I really enjoyed it. I liked them together. I liked their personalities and their chemistry. I also kind of like that there was no drama like a crazy ex mistress or something like that. The sex scenes were well written. Overall a good read and nice addition to the series.

[Rainelle]

Their story help to make the book a exceptional read. I devoured every word that this book churned out. I so love a fantastic page turner and my fellow readers this love story did not disappoint me. Liam and Saskia got the ball started with some steamy romance that was enticing and very scandalous. But who cares right?!
I absolutely loved the fact that this book focused on the courtship that was not there. This was love story about two generous, caring, kind and giving souls that deserves what the story has to give them. Readers my man Liam is a character that will have you remembering him for a while. He’s strong, challenging, charismatic, warm, affectionate, caring, and cheeky. His charming humor wins your affection for him immediately.
Saskia is a lady who seems to handle her own with Liam and any other gentleman who circles her perimeter. I love her boldness. The character Saskia’s develops the most as the two; Liam and Saskia get to know each other more. It’s through the meaningful conversations and passionate connections that the love story really shines through. Readers the writing in this book is just amazing.
The words and characters are simply wonderful and captivating. The parts that I absolutely loved the most is the humor and the funny conversations between Saskia and Liam. I adored this story. I give this book two snaps and a golden twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lyn D Rose]

This seventh book in the All's Fair in Love and Racing series was an engaging slowburn historical romance. It was wonderfully blended with wit, charm, strong emotions, secrets, and romance. The characters were fabulous, and their steamy love story was delightful and fun. The ending was lovely, especially the satisfying epilog. Tgis story was my favorite. I am going to miss this series. I highly recommend reading!!

[Visionary Druid]

Lady Saskia Calthorp is the co-owner of a thriving circulating library and publishing house. She secretly writes romance novels under a non de plume. When her sister urges her to write the memoir of England’s most famous jockey, Saskia reluctantly agrees. What no one knows is that Liam Cassidy has long inspired the heroes in her stories. However, an unplanned kiss changes the dynamic of their work relationship. Is Saskia brave enough to step beyond her comfort zone?

Liam Cassidy is the Duke of Rakesley’s exclusive horse jockey and brother-in-law. He is not happy about helping with the memoir of his racing career. There are parts of his past that Liam wants to remain hidden. He first meets Saskia in a tavern, where she gives him a false name. Liam senses there is more to the woman than even she realizes. And he cannot forget their unforgettable kiss. However, the secret of his birth may destroy the life he has built. Will the change in Liam’s circumstances for him to quit racing?

I found Saskia easy to relate to. I achingly know how it feels to be invisible in a crowd or overlooked. It is never a pleasant feeling and lonely. I understand why Saskia retreats into books, both reading and writing them. They are safe. They also allow her to experience life while avoiding its risks. Books are constant; they never betray or leave you.

Liam is a sweetheart to both people and horses. I adore how he puts his mount’s well-being before his own. Liam refuses to use cruel tactics to win or put his equine partner in harm way. He humbly gives the horses the credit for their wins. What I love the most about Liam is that he truly sees Saskia. He does not overlook her as others are wont to do. Liam also encourages Saskia to embrace her inner self. He helps her explore things firsthand than from secondhand knowledge in books.

WHEN A LADY DARES is the seventh and final book in Sofie Darling’s historical romance series, ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND RACING. I feel this series is best to read in order. Events from earlier books are mentioned throughout the story and previous couples appear from time to time. It is always nice to see how their happily-ever-afters continue even beyond their own novels.

And that epilogue! It made me fervently wish that Darling would consider writing the next generation. I need Maeve and Philip’s story!! ASAP! I could not help but smile at knowing who Philip’s parents are – they are after all my favorite couple.

I am saddened to say goodbye to this series. It was my first introduction to this author’s works… I have since branched out to try out another of her series. I cannot wait to see what new books and series are on the horizon.

[Marion Löw]

I really enjoyed this historical romance. The well-written plot is sweet, funny, and spicy, and has close/forced proximity and hidden secrets tropes, very likable main and supporting characters, palpable emotions, sizzling chemistry, witty banter and vivid racing scenes.

Lady Saskia Calthorp, sister of the Duke of Acaster and the Marchioness of Ormonde, is a partner in a successful circulating library and publishing house and writes romance novels under the pen name Miss Harriet LaPlume.
When her sister and business partner, Viveca, suggests diversifying their interests and publishing the memoir of the most famous jockey in all of England, Liam Cassidy, Saskia is anything but thrilled, as she has been secretly infatuated with him for years and has so far successfully avoided him, even though they move in the same social circles and he has always overlooked her. She has even used him as the inspiration for her fictional heroes, and now she would have to work closely with him—attending races… observing him in training—while being careful not to fall even more in love with this charming, charismatic man.
Liam Cassidy, the illegitimate son of an earl, is one of the most famous and sought-after men in England. He takes pride in his self-made achievements and his prowess on the turf. He rides exclusively for his brother-in-law, the Duke of Rakesley, and trains at the duke’s estate. Three years ago, he promised Viveca that he would publish his memoirs with Sirens once he had established himself more firmly, and now he is at the zenith of his career. But there are some secrets he’d rather keep to himself.
When he meets Saskia—who introduces herself under a different name during their first encounter—he is immediately captivated by her blend of innocence and allure, and his attraction to this enigmatic woman grows with every meeting as they grow closer. When his father dies and he unexpectedly becomes the newly minted Lord Liam Sutton, 4th Earl of Bolton, his life changes, and he is angry—he doesn’t want to be respected solely because of his title, nor does he want to have to give up his beloved career…

All in all, it's a heartwarming late Regency love story with wonderful characters, heart, humor, and passion—one that's a real joy to read.

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Fanosse23]

The seventh and final novel in Sofie Darling’s All’s Fair in Love and Racing series, When a Lady Dares, is a heartfelt and rewarding conclusion to a world I’ve truly loved. From start to finish, this series has been engaging, fun, and brimming with charm, and I couldn’t help but feel a bittersweet pang knowing this was the last journey with these beloved characters.

Lady Saskia Calthorp has her share of secrets—chief among them, that she is secretly the bestselling novelist Harriet LaPlume. When she agrees to write the memoir of Liam Cassidy, the most famous jockey in British horse racing, she has every intention of keeping her deepest secret safe: Liam has been the inspiration behind every hero she’s ever written. Their first meeting had me grinning, as she takes on the persona of “Arabella,” allowing herself to be freer, more playful than the ever-composed Lady Saskia.

From that very first forbidden kiss, Saskia and Liam’s story unfolds with tenderness and inevitability. Friendship blooms into something deeper, desire transforms into destiny, and we see two people who were always meant to find each other. One line in particular captures their love perfectly: “Nothing in the world holds a power over me greater than that which you wield.” The emotional weight of this journey only grows as Liam’s life takes a dramatic turn, and Saskia becomes the answer to everything he has ever wanted.

I adored the mix of witty banter, heartfelt emotion, vulnerability, and romance that Sofie weaves into every page. The characters shine with life and depth, and each moment feels both tender and rewarding. And then came the epilogue—set thirty-five years in the future—that completely stole my heart. It left me teary-eyed and deeply satisfied, a perfect reflection of why this series has meant so much to me.

Romantic, clever, touching, and memorable, When a Lady Dares is more than just a finale—it’s a love letter to fans who never wanted to leave this world. Thank you, Sofie Darling, for giving us a series and an ending I will carry with me for a long time.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nanna]

Wow, what an amazing ending to this series. You can read all the books as stand alone, but it's better to read them in order. The characters throughout the series are all known to each other. Some are family and friends; some are famous; others are not. Liam Cassidy has been in a number of the books and is one of those characters you never forget. Along with his twin sister, Gemma. He is the exclusive jockey for the Duke of Rakesly who is known for his horses. He is also his brother-in-law as his twin is now the Duchess. Liam is the most famous jockey in British history and has ladies of all ages dreaming of him and falling into his lap. Saskia and her sister own the best Circulating Library & publishing house in London. They have worked very hard to get to where they are now. Saskia is a writer not just for social events. She writes novels under the name of Miss Harriet La Plume, not your normal novels but powerful, passion ones with swoon perfect heroes. Who unknown to all her muse is Liam, she has always been attracted to him. Now her sister has trapped her into writing his memoirs! Liam doesn’t know anything about the author who is to write his story, but when he sees and meets a beautiful lady in a pub, he falls under her spell. Something about her is different them all the other ladies after him. She can’t think when he asks for her name and lies, then after a kiss she knows she is in trouble because she must meet him and tell him who she really is. Laugh out loud funny between these two, both try so hard to not let their feelings show. Tons of witty banter, family interference, secrets, twist and turns make this last book all the more special. The epilogue is priceless and wraps up many years spent reading this series. Maybe the author will give us another series using the kids of our favorite characters. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. I will be rereading this series for sure.

[Alexandra G]

This is (I think) the final book in the brilliant ‘All's Fair in Love and Racing’ series, and while I’m sorry to say goodbye, it left me with the most wonderful and satisfying full circle sensation!
Plus, this was one splendid slow-burn romance! Friends-to-lovers, but we get to witness them become true friends, confidants even, and that gave this story that little something something magical for me.

Saskia & Liam
From scandalous Siren (by association) to duke’s fearsome baby sister (at least to nobs intimidated by spectacles and brains), Lady Saskia is a proud pragmatic librarian and publisher. But... she’s also a bit of a shy creature, preferring to live her crush vicariously through the romantic novels she writes rather than in real life – and there’s the rub: her sister enlisted her to write said crush’s memoir!
Born a by-blow Liam worked his arse off to become England’s most successful jockey. His twin sister marrying Rakesley, duke & racehorse devotee, helped as well. The fame and fortune were a nice bonus, but now he somehow agreed to publishing his memoir – a prickly problem for a man who likes his past buried and undisturbed.

This story was fun, full of banter and teasing, but it also had a mesmerising vulnerable quality. She wants love and kids but is afraid to “dare” (really afraid, calls herself a coward, deservedly so), and he’s overwhelmed by a sudden dramatic change and needs to make peace with that (no spoilers!) – and through it all, they’re each other’s safe haven.
Because it follows the horse racing calendar, there were these pockets of time; together, apart, together, etc. and I loved what it did for each MC’s arc! By nature they’re polar opposites, but their souls are attuned and I could really feel their bond grow. That slower pace gave them time to deal with their own feelings, yearn – so much yearning! – and sizzle all the more when united.
There is a moment of doubt near the end, but no major TAB – it would have made no sense for these two – and finally, I loved that every single MC from the previous books stopped by – with purpose!
A gorgeous ending for an absolutely superb series!

[Winnifred D.]

Tropes: rake vs spinster
Steam level: 2-3
Part of a series, and best if read in order

3.5 stars bumped up. A sweet, low-angst entry in this series; also, unfortunately, it's the final one. MFC Saskia is a writer who's had a long-term crush on horse racer and darling of the Ton Liam (his twin Gemma was the MFC in book 1). She is planning to write his memoir, and so must spend time getting to know him in the interim, leaving herself vulnerable to his considerable charm.

The premise is appealing. The narrative is dialog and introspection heavy with some steam and, consistent with this author, plenty of research into horse racing and training during the Regency period. The writing style is also typically solid. On the downside, as likable as MMC Liam is, the storyline doesn't really stack up against the best entries in this series for conflict and tension. I also felt the emotional depth wasn't quite there, so the spark between Saskia and Liam after the zippy opening chapters never bursts into flame. The banter between them is sexy, but because of the low-angst handling of their pasts and lack of obstacles tossed in their way it's all rather mellow. Even the horse racing scenes are a bit tame. (Tbh I had similar issues with the previous book in the series.)

But the proceedings are enjoyable, and it's nice to see previous MC's reappear to help Saskia and Liam along toward their HEA. The epilogue is particularly lovely; I decided to bump up from 3 to 4 stars based on the feels at the very end.

I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest, voluntary review. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Booksprout. This book will be published June 30.

[Slwd]

The Jockey and the Lady

“When a Lady Dares” is the seventh book in Sofie Darling’s All’s Fair in Love and Racing series. This is a great historical romance series set in the world of horse racing. This book stars Liam Cassidy, twin of Gemma from an earlier book, a popular jockey who wins most of his races. Opposite Liam is Lady Saskia Calthorp, author and businesswoman, whose siblings found their loves in previous books. I liked both of these main characters, Saskia for her talent and tenacity, and Liam because he is a survivor and he made himself into a success. The chemistry between the two is electric. I loved their banter and flirting. I liked the idea of a memoir that brought these two together and that they uncovered the buried depths in each other. The open door passion is super steamy yet tastefully written. It was great to see characters from former books in the series pop up in this one. I liked seeing what these couples were up to while Liam and Saskia danced around one another and built a relationship. This wonderfully built world took a lot of organization and care, the books and characters were weaved together masterfully. I definitely enjoyed reading about Liam and Saskia, two very different characters yet they had similarities that tied them together. The plot was great and the pacing on point. The writing was superb and the characters had a lot of depth. Definitely recommended. This can be read as a standalone if you are not able to devour the entire series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Lana Birky]

𝐋𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐚 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐩 is brilliant, guarded, secretly famous, & an absolute quiet powerhouse. She agrees to write Liam’s memoir fully intending to keep her biggest secret buried: he’s the muse behind every hero she’s ever penned - which is honestly a level of self‑control I cannot relate to.

𝐋𝐢𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐲 is an irresistible "chick magnet", the most famous man in British horse racing, & a hero to gamblers everywhere - but he’s also juggling fame, pressure, & a truth of his own. One forbidden kiss detonates the façade on both sides, & suddenly they’re navigating desire, vulnerability, and the terrifying possibility that they might actually deserve each other. The story is tender, witty, & emotionally rich - it's the kind of romance where the characters earn every inch of their HEA, even though they both pretend they are not halfway in love.

And then Sofie drops that epilogue, thirty‑five years later, & it’s not just good - it’s spectacular! She delivers a finale with heart, humor, & a future so satisfying it feels like a gift. The book is romantic, clever, rewarding, & Sofie deserves every accolade for crafting world readers never want to leave.

I hope someday she gives us a second generation - Maeve and Philip are practically vibrating with story potential, & Jacob’s “never me” energy is begging for a spectacular downfall into love.
𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐞, 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐈'𝐦 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Bonnie]

Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is a continuation of the All's Fair in Love and Racing series and is the story of Lady Saskia, writer, and co-owner of Sirens circulating libary and publishing house, and Liam Cassidy, famed and successful jockey, with a rakish reputation. After sister Viveca convinced Liam to agree to a memoir being done of his life, Saskia is sent to interview him. Despite having so many connections in their lives, they had not really met before this.

Needless to say, they strike sparks off each other, which they each are intrigued by each other, but both are not sure what to expect of it, especially as it appears that they wish for different things in their lives.

But Liam's life and future are changed drastically when new information arises about his past and family. As he navigates his new circumstances, he comes to realize that the person who seems to share the most in common with him, and sees and connects with him truly, is Saskia, and what they have shared so far, is not something he wants to give up. But how does he convince her of this?

Really enjoyed Saskia and Liam as characters and there are many appearances of previous characters, as well as the overall story of horse racing. There is a wonderful and sweetly written epilogue as well, but I was left wondering what happened with Sirens, as that was such a part of Saskia's past, as well as her writing career.

4.25 stars out of 5

[Theresa25]

Lady Saskia Calthorp is a writer of novels using a different name. Liam Cassidy is a jockey and races horses. They both love their jobs and are good at them as well. How would these two ever end up meeting? Saskia’s sister has recruited her to write Liam’s memoirs. Flames burst apart when they first meet. She’s tongue tied when she finally meets him, and he’s your typical rake with a devastating smile. He’s never met anyone like her before and falls instantly, but coming from two different worlds how can he even consider a relationship with her. When his life suddenly takes a drastic turn, will they be able to consider a future together, or will his newfound life lead them in different directions.

I enjoyed this story a lot. Saskia and Liam had wonderful chemistry together. You could tell there was something between them from the beginning and eventually they would figure out that they were both in love. The twist with Liam was a great addition and added that extra something to get them both thinking about a possible future together. The author did a wonderful job with this story and the development of the main leads. I highly recommend to others.

[Rose Seals]

Very well written, full of drama, society, action, love, intrigue, mystery, secrets, emotions, races and twists. As always, the storyline is fabulous showing the feelings and thoughts of each of characters. The characters are witty, expressive, emotional and hiding their own secrets. Liam Cassidy is the best jockey in London who likes and follows things a certain way before a race. Lady Saskia Calthorp is a winter and owner of a bookstore. The only one who sells the author, Harriet LaPlume's books. She is also the sister of the Duke of Acaster, her sister Viveca and other familiar people from early stories. They all attend the races on Derby Day. Liam has won, yet some of his past shows up and talks to him. He can't believe what is told to him, so he heads to Saskia's room with a bottle. Has so many twists and turns to keep you turning the pages and loving it. The epilogue is sweet. Would recommend to everyone, this story and the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deborah Durand]

Memoirs

The author finishes this series with another author’s flourish. Darling’s fictional character Saskia Cathorp has been encouraged by her sister Viveca to write the biography of a famous jockey, Liam Cassidy. Remember how Liam and his twin sister Gemma worked in stables to hide from their father, Lord Bolton. Gemma jockeyed for the Duke of Rakesley and eventually became his wife. As fate would have it, Liam now rides for the same Duke, his brother-in-law. Read how a ladies man is captivated by a bespectacled young Lady, who’s had a crush on him for some time. All the couples from the previous novels are gathered finally for the Race of the Century. I enjoyed how the author made horses, owning and riding them, a backdrop for this series, since it was an integral part of the Englishman’s way of life. I have received an ARC from the author and have given an honest review.

[Suzette]

As part of Sofie Darling’s continuing series, this novel seamlessly builds upon the world and characters we’ve already grown to love, while introducing fresh layers to the story. The characters are as vivid and engaging as ever, each with their own depth and charm, making it impossible not to get invested in their journeys.

What truly sets this book apart is the beautifully designed plot—intricate, clever, and perfectly paced. Sofie Darling skillfully balances suspense, romance, and emotional resonance, creating a story that never falters and keeps you turning the pages. And that ending! It was both satisfying and heartfelt, the kind of conclusion that leaves you smiling long after you’ve closed the book.

This is a must-read for fans of historical romance who appreciate strong storytelling, memorable characters, and enchanting plots. I can’t wait for the next installment in the series!

[Angela]

The beginning of this story is excellent. Unfortunately, it downhill from there for me (I think it is a me problem, and not the book’s issue – which has happened to me in as many times in the past couple of weeks). In this series I gave five of the stories a 5 so can only assume it is a me issue. After the fantastic set up, I did not feel the connection between Liam and Saskia. I felt they were more friends who saw each other every so often (yep, a month or weeks went by without them even seeing each other) and happened to “want each other.” (FWB) If you really enjoy learning about horse racing during the Regency period, this is the book/series for you. The epilogue was epic and I really, really enjoyed it.

[Pat Robinson]

Saskia has her life down to a science , each day scheduled just like she likes it. Liam is a definite problem she cannot solve, with his charm, his smile, his handsome self, that has her tongue-tied-not easy for a person who deals with words all.the.time! Their first meeting is so hilarious and so very swoon-worthy. I fell in love with Liam almost immediately! I treasured this story as it left me feeling so enchanted. The characters are lovely, the plot well written and the love scenes divine. I really didn’t want this to end! I cherished the epilogue as their situation was my situation and seeing the outcome brought tears to my eyes. One I will remember for a long time!

I received this story for free and these are my own views.

[Trish]

Sofie Darling’s When a Lady Dares (book #7 in her wonderful series, All’s Fair in Love and Racing series) was dreamy and steamy!

I thoroughly enjoyed When a Lady Dares - it was an absolute dream of a historical romance! Liam and Saskia were wonderfully engaging characters (who have obviously belonged together since Wager With a Siren which was book 3 in the series). Their relationship was just so much fun to follow: the witty banter, their genuine emotions, the sensual slow burn tension, the genuine affection.
Sofie Darling’s historical romances are swoony and luscious! Her writing style just lures you into the story, and her writing style makes them linger in your heart and mind once it’s finished. I HIGHLY recommend When a Lady Dares. I also HIGHLY recommend you add every single title in the entire All’s Fair in Love and Racing series to your TBR because Sofie Darling is a MUST-READ historical romance author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ghazal]

I was fortunate to receive an ARC of When A Lady's Dares written by Sofie Darling from Booksprout. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Saskia Calthorp, sister of the Duke of Acaster, is also the novelist Miss Harriet LaPlume. She has been tasked to write the memoirs of Liam Cassidy, a winning jockey. She has also had a crush on him from when she first saw him many years ago. Meeting him again now ,she is flustered and pretends to be someone else. Sparks fly, minds meet and emotions run high. Getting to know each other, learning each other's secrets brings them closer than they ever thought possible, but marriage doesn't seem to be probable....a great sweet story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Steph N]

I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t want to put it down. From the minute Saskia & Liam meet, the pages sizzle. When it comes to these two, it’s definitely a matter of when, not if.
They’re each very accomplished, but also carrying around secrets. Neither is exactly what they appear to be. Until they meet, romance-writer Saskia has very little personal experience in the subject matter. Liam is a charming playboy, & has no need or desire to settle down. They may seem like opposites, but they actually have much in common & compliment each other perfectly.
The epilogue is fantastic.
I wish this series didn’t need to end.
Thanks to author for allowing me to read an advance copy via Booksprout.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis]

Lady Saskia Calthorp is no stranger to secrets. Writing under a nom de plume, she’s one of England’s most popular novelists.
She has been commissioned to write the memoir of her crush Liam Cassidy! These two grow close and share secrets! Saskia aka Arabella has different personas that Liam seems to bring out in her. Slowly they learn to be their most authentic selves with each other!
Liam had an adoring public because of his jockey skills but they did not know the man truly! When it seems they both want different things it will take a Daring Lady to challenge Liam aka Bolton! The chemistry and steam will fog your glasses! The Epilogue is Outstanding!
I revived an ARC copy from Booksprout for my unbiased opinion!

[Gylene]

Oh my, my, my! What a beautiful, slow-burn love story! I absolutely loved this book and thought it was fabulous!! It was so very sweet, extremely charming, and downright delightful! I instantly fell in love with Saskia and Liam and felt they were truly perfect for each other. The first meeting was incredibly fun, drawing me in immediately and making me realize how much I was going to enjoy reading it. I liked the interaction between them, and the author did a fantastic job conveying their connection. It was so well-written that the reader could really feel it, too. Overall, the book was full of witty banter, and all of the characters were extremely likable. I highly recommend this book!!

[Marilyn]

I received this book as an ARC from the publisher, and these are my opinions.
Saskia, who along with her sister owns a circulating library, a publishing house, and is an author of romance novels, where the MMC is based on Liam.
Liam has agreed to have his story written, so Saskia's sister asks her to write Liam's story.
This is such a fun read with lots of banter, humor, a few steamy scenes, and some tender moments with an undeniable attraction between Liam and Saskia.
It was nice seeing characters from previous books in the series.
The epilogue was a fantastic and surprising ending to their story.
I highly recommend this book.

[Pamela Blatter]

Another story entry into the horse racing world.
Lady Saskia is an author and book entrepreneur with a reading library.
She is committed to writing the memoir of Liam Cassidy the most celebrated jockey in England.
They meet in a tavern with Saskia initially hiding her identity and she gets her first kiss.
Steamy attraction follows as they continue their relationship as friends and lovers.
Witty with fun interchanges. Sexy scenes add to their development of their romance.
Characters from previous books in the series are intertwined in the story.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.

[Sewanee Kracalik]

At first this one didn’t feel like Sofie Darling’s love stories. I didn’t care for Saskia at all.she was always in her own head and too wordy. Her secret identity Harriet LaPlume wrote successful love stories. How do you do that without ever even been kissed? But then Arabella showed up and things got interesting. I liked Liam and remembered his “Secret” from previous stories in this series. By a third I was totally caught up in this almost love triangle and couldn’t put it down.i received a copy of this book via BookSprout and am gladly volunteering to give my review. I highly recommend this whole series.

[Dominique Englebert]

Funny, witty story
Saskia is not only partner in Sirens circulating library, she also has a secret. She writes books under a pseudonym, of course.
What is she doing alone in a coaching inn almost in the middle of nowhere?
It all began three years prior when her sister Viveca had the brilliant idea to publish the memoir of the most famous jockey in England. And who better to write the book than Saskia?
Will she be able to follow him during the horse race season, resisting the attraction between them, long enough to write the book?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terri]

Words are so beautiful and this book demonstrates that in such a wonderful manner-the phrasing and choices the author offers left me spellbound. There is humor, romance, intimacy and a lot of fun as well. Two great characters who know their own minds is always a treat and I liked both of them right from the start. I loved the focus and drive that they gave to their individual goals and still saw the other and their worth. This story is such a treat and a great addition to the “All’s Fair in Love and Racing” series.