Review of Sofie Darling's "WHEN A LADY DARES"

 

WHEN A LADY DARES
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sofie Darling

RELEASE DATE:
June 30, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0GD4PPK4S

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sofiedarling.com/

 

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.