Author Vanessa Riley knows a lot can happen when you bet on love. I recently spoke with her about her latest release, A Wager at Midnight.
Tell me about your latest book.
A Wager at Midnight follows Scarlett Wilcox, the middle daughter of the Wilcox coal family. She’s a brilliant and unconventional woman determined to become a physician in a society that does not allow women to formally train in medicine, let alone pursue anything beyond marriage and domestic duties. Scarlett sees the pain and injustice in the world and is willing to gamble her future—marriage, reputation, and even a bit of well-placed blackmail against the powerful Duke of Torrance—to pursue her passion.
Enter Stephen Carew, a talented physician from Trinidad who understands both the medical world and the prejudices that come with being an outsider. The aunties of his immigrant neighborhood in London are tired of seeing their best and brightest absorbed into British society at the expense of their own rich community.
Scarlett and Stephen’s relationship begins in the frenemy zone, full of witty clashes and sharp debates. But as their paths continue to collide, they must decide whether love can be a partnership of equals rather than a sacrifice of dreams.
Why did you decide to write it?
I love blending true history into historical romance. The grand art exhibit where the shenanigans begin is real, and I’ve included descriptions of the artwork on display. Bridewell Prison, known for housing mostly women and prostitutes, reflects the harsh realities of the era—prostitution was widespread, gentlemen were expected to have mistresses, and a single scandal could ruin an entire family.
Colonization and its effects are also present in the story. Stephen hails from Trinidad, which has been a British colony for not quite twenty years. He’s old enough to remember life before British rule, adding another layer to his perspective. At the same time, the Regency era was one of great scientific discovery, making it the perfect backdrop to explore a woman’s fight for a place in medicine while navigating love and societal expectations.
The story also highlights the struggles of those suffering from chronic illnesses like sickle cell anemia—a disease that has existed for centuries yet still lacks adequate pain management and widespread treatment. I wanted to tackle all of this in a way that felt both real and hopeful, wrapping it in a whirlwind of foolish escapades and, of course, a swoon-worthy happily ever after.
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
Scarlett is my favorite because she’s determined, brilliant, and unafraid to challenge convention. She’s fiercely independent, yet her deep compassion for the sick and her love for her family make her vulnerable. She desperately wants to prove herself, but on her own terms—whether that means wearing ballgowns or her father’s boots.
Writing her meant balancing her sharp intellect with her emotional depth, especially in those moments when she realizes that ambition and love don’t have to be at odds. The most challenging and inspiring parts to write were when her logical mind clashed with her irrational heart, forcing her to embrace vulnerability and open herself to love.
What was the hardest part about writing the story?
The most challenging scene to write was when Scarlett has to rescue Stephen from a brothel. It’s tense, packed with emotional and physical stakes, and laced with humor—because if they’re caught together, the scandal would be catastrophic. Families would be ruined, professional reputations destroyed, and medical practices shuttered.
Balancing the tension, comedy, and romance was tricky, especially since Stephen, exhausted from nonstop patient calls and chasing after Scarlett, is at his most vulnerable. She has to save him—only to realize that a half-naked, snarky physician with a rather impressive physique is a sight to behold. That moment took a lot of finesse to get just right.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would be the title and why?
Blessed and Highly Motivated perfectly captures the way I approach life—with gratitude, purpose, and relentless drive. I believe in embracing the opportunities I’ve been given while also working hard to create new ones. Every challenge, every setback has been a lesson that fuels my determination rather than slows me down.
I’m deeply passionate about storytelling, history, and amplifying voices that have been overlooked, and that passion keeps me moving forward. I see each day as a chance to make an impact, to learn, and to grow. Being “blessed” reminds me to be thankful, and being “highly motivated” ensures I never take those blessings for granted.
What would you tell your 16-year-old self?
Your voice matters. Don’t be afraid to take up space and tell the stories that burn inside you. And yes, that book obsession? It’s going to pay off.
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
I love baking and often personalize recipes just like I do my stories—adding unexpected twists and experimenting with flavors. If I weren’t a writer, I’d probably have a side gig as a personal chef—but the kind who takes ordinary ingredients and turns them into something special!
Tell me about a book that changed your life and why.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou changed my life because it opened my eyes to the power of resilience and the importance of finding one’s voice in the face of adversity. Angelou’s story of overcoming trauma, racism, and personal struggles taught me the strength of the human spirit. Her prose, filled with beauty and pain, showed me the transformative power of storytelling, and how sharing our experiences can heal and empower others.
What’s next for you?
A Deal at Dawn is coming next—the thrilling conclusion to the wager that started it all. The stakes are higher than ever: a second-chance love story, a secret baby, family drama, and a duke facing his greatest challenge yet. Get ready for an emotional, heart-stopping ride!
Also, my next historical fiction novel, Fire Sword and Sea, will be releasing in January 2026. Think pirates, powerful women, and fire—an adventure you won’t want to miss!
And, of course, there’s always more drama to come in the Lady Worthing Mystery Series. Stay tuned for more intrigue, secrets, and plot twists!
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I truly hope readers will take a chance on any of my historicals, particularly A Wager at Midnight. I guarantee you’ll laugh, believe in the power of love once again, and, hopefully, be inspired to find the courage to forge your own path, no matter what society or family expects. Love, like life, is always full of surprises—and that’s what I aim to bring to every page.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of A Wager at Midnight.
To learn more about author Vanessa Riley, visit her website or connect with her on social media:
Website: https://vanessariley.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessarileyauthor/