A Wager at Midnight

Riley follows A Gamble at Sunset with this flirty frenemies-to-lovers Regency. Scarlett Wilcox is determined to pursue scientific research and find a cure for a friend who’s losing his vision. To do so, however, she must disguise herself as a man and sneak into medical lectures. When Stephen Carew, her family physician and favorite verbal sparring partner, discovers her secret, she worries the jig is up—the older Stephen has a history of not treating her as an equal. But he surprises her by offering to help maintain her cover. As they work together, he realizes he loves her and becomes determined to marry her. Wooing Scarlet, however, means proving he’ll support her in all her endeavors. The couple’s sharp banter and sizzling chemistry keeps the pages turning. In the background to their norm-bucking courtship is a bet between Scarlett’s sister and her ex about whether Scarlett will find happiness, a running thread that will especially please returning series fans. This captivating tale of love and empowerment delights. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary. (Apr.)