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Peach Blossom #1
The 7-10 Split
This is how love rolls…
For teacher Ava Williams, some subjects are not up for debate. Like history—specifically, the one she has with Grace Jones, bowling pro and local celeb. Who is now, for no identifiable reason, teaching at the same small-town Georgia high school as Ava. Once upon a time, they were thick as thieves, best friends, rivals who pushed each other, and total bowling nerds. Then they shared a kiss, sweet and confusing…and after that, they split and nothing was ever the same.
Ava is pretty sure she has every reason to hate Grace. Especially when the school’s soggy potato of a principal announces—finally—that the students can have the bowling team Ava has been pushing for, for years…only to hand it to Grace.
Now they’re expected to be partners and lead their new bowling team to victory in six months. And with that, their rivalry is back. Fierce, ultracompetitive…and with an undeniable attraction that pushes, pulls and crashes together. It’s history. It’s chemistry. And it’s just a matter of time before it explodes…one way or the other.
For teacher Ava Williams, some subjects are not up for debate. Like history—specifically, the one she has with Grace Jones, bowling pro and local celeb. Who is now, for no identifiable reason, teaching at the same small-town Georgia high school as Ava. Once upon a time, they were thick as thieves, best friends, rivals who pushed each other, and total bowling nerds. Then they shared a kiss, sweet and confusing…and after that, they split and nothing was ever the same.
Ava is pretty sure she has every reason to hate Grace. Especially when the school’s soggy potato of a principal announces—finally—that the students can have the bowling team Ava has been pushing for, for years…only to hand it to Grace.
Now they’re expected to be partners and lead their new bowling team to victory in six months. And with that, their rivalry is back. Fierce, ultracompetitive…and with an undeniable attraction that pushes, pulls and crashes together. It’s history. It’s chemistry. And it’s just a matter of time before it explodes…one way or the other.
288 pages, Paperback
Published May 28, 2024
170 people are currently reading
5497 people want to read
About the author
Karmen Lee
25 books198 followersKarmen Lee is an avid reader of anything and everything. She’s a lifelong Southerner living it up in Atlanta, Georgia with her kid, her cats, and humidity. When she’s not packing lunches or working her normal nine-to-five, you can usually find her drinking coffee too late at night, watching House Hunters International and dreaming up ways to show her readers a good time. You can keep up with her on Twitter (@Author_KLee) or Instagram (@authorkarmenlee).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
June 25, 2024
this was cute and i enjoyed the rivals to lovers even if the reasoning ended up being silly but damn was this book boring! it really would’ve benefited from having more subplots going on.
January 18, 2025
The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee
Peach Blossom series #1. Contemporary sapphic romance. LGBTQ+. Harlequin Afterglow. Second chance.
Grace Jones returns to the small town of Peach Blossom, Georgia. She and Ava Williams used to be friends and they both want to repair the relationship. When the Principal of the school they teach at, approves Grace’s request for a bowling team, even though Ava has been asking for years, they put aside their past and become coaches and role models for the girls in the community. It’s not all strikes or gutter balls as they work through the past and the future looks promising.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version of this story narrated by Amina Sali. The performance is incredible for the different characters voices. I would have guessed it was at least two or three different narrators. Emotions of anger and passion came through clearly as well as secondary character voices of students and the boss. The changes were seamless and sounded almost like a live play. My problem with the distinct voices were the tonal variations where one might be sharp enough to startle and the second low and slightly husky where you needed to strain to hear the words. I played with the speed, up and down, and found the best for me was just a smidge slower than my usual 1.5, to accommodate the lower tone with a slightly higher than usual volume. I enjoyed the performance in whole, specifically because of the changes per character in the narrator’s performance. I believe the voices represented the characters which made it authentic and ultimately a feel good romance.
Glad they got their hea in this second chance romance. Both gained a little more confidence as they gave each other the support to stand up and be who they needed to be.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Harlequin Audio.
Peach Blossom series #1. Contemporary sapphic romance. LGBTQ+. Harlequin Afterglow. Second chance.
Grace Jones returns to the small town of Peach Blossom, Georgia. She and Ava Williams used to be friends and they both want to repair the relationship. When the Principal of the school they teach at, approves Grace’s request for a bowling team, even though Ava has been asking for years, they put aside their past and become coaches and role models for the girls in the community. It’s not all strikes or gutter balls as they work through the past and the future looks promising.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version of this story narrated by Amina Sali. The performance is incredible for the different characters voices. I would have guessed it was at least two or three different narrators. Emotions of anger and passion came through clearly as well as secondary character voices of students and the boss. The changes were seamless and sounded almost like a live play. My problem with the distinct voices were the tonal variations where one might be sharp enough to startle and the second low and slightly husky where you needed to strain to hear the words. I played with the speed, up and down, and found the best for me was just a smidge slower than my usual 1.5, to accommodate the lower tone with a slightly higher than usual volume. I enjoyed the performance in whole, specifically because of the changes per character in the narrator’s performance. I believe the voices represented the characters which made it authentic and ultimately a feel good romance.
Glad they got their hea in this second chance romance. Both gained a little more confidence as they gave each other the support to stand up and be who they needed to be.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Harlequin Audio.
September 23, 2024
I received an ARC from Harlequin-Romance via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
Unfortunately, this book didn't click with me. There were too many issues that I couldn't get past to be able and enjoy the romance.
1. It's way too repetitive. Between Ava and Grace talking to friends/family and their inner monologues, the readers hears the same sentiments over and over.
2. The reasoning behind Ava and Grace's friendship ending and Ava not wanting to know Grace in the present was ridiculous. It was completely immature actually makes no sense and as an adult she had no business using it as an excuse. It put her in a very bad light.
3. The miscommunication/lack of communication was used badly here. All they needed was ONE conversation and things would've been settled.
4. The worst thing, the romance was boring. There was no tension and everything felt very surface level.
Even with how this one turned out for me, I'd be interested to read something else from Karmen Lee to see if this was just a one off.
Unfortunately, this book didn't click with me. There were too many issues that I couldn't get past to be able and enjoy the romance.
1. It's way too repetitive. Between Ava and Grace talking to friends/family and their inner monologues, the readers hears the same sentiments over and over.
2. The reasoning behind Ava and Grace's friendship ending and Ava not wanting to know Grace in the present was ridiculous. It was completely immature actually makes no sense and as an adult she had no business using it as an excuse. It put her in a very bad light.
3. The miscommunication/lack of communication was used badly here. All they needed was ONE conversation and things would've been settled.
4. The worst thing, the romance was boring. There was no tension and everything felt very surface level.
Even with how this one turned out for me, I'd be interested to read something else from Karmen Lee to see if this was just a one off.
June 8, 2024
This wasn’t bad, but it was boring. I liked the bowling aspect because it’s something we don’t see everyday, and I enjoyed the fact that both of the mains are black but apart from that ….
I have to rate it as a romance because that’s the whole point of reading it, and the romance left a lot to be desired. I guess this is supposed to be “second chance” or “enemies to lovers” but I wasnt understanding why that was the chosen direction. They were bffs in high school, and Grace moves because obviously you can’t NOT move when you’re in grade school and your parents are leaving, and this causes a fallout in the friendship between her and Ava bc Ava ….thinks she’s moving to spite her??? The whole adult reasoning we get for why Ava broke off their friendship is beyond juvenile. .
So now they’re working together on for the bowling team but even that was boring. All they do is stare at each other longingly, act unprofessional at work, and generally avoid kissing until finally they do but then the romance scenes are so rushed that you ultimately don’t even care. And considering they don’t even kiss until like 75-80% into the story ……I was over it.
If you’re gonna write something as a slow burn, can we have some actual tension to build up to the payoff? I could tell they liked each other but it’s irritating to have to read about characters just NOT getting to business for “reasons”. There really was no justifiable reason for it to be dragged out. And then, to add to that, the whole story has randomly spaced time jumps so the timeline moves faster which makes the issues worse. The jump can be a week, it can be a month, it can be the next day, like there’s no rhyme or reason so then you’re like wow it’s a been a month and STILL nothing has happened ?
Anyway, the characters were also juvenile and everyone felt like a nosy caricature. Everyone was in their business which just added to the annoyance. Even some of the students at the school which…inappropriate 😭🤣. Every time I had to read about TABITHA asking if they were dating I had to roll my eyes.
This was boring, the romance was vanilla, the tropes were a bad decision, and overall the best part was that most of it happened in a bowling alley.
I have to rate it as a romance because that’s the whole point of reading it, and the romance left a lot to be desired. I guess this is supposed to be “second chance” or “enemies to lovers” but I wasnt understanding why that was the chosen direction. They were bffs in high school, and Grace moves because obviously you can’t NOT move when you’re in grade school and your parents are leaving, and this causes a fallout in the friendship between her and Ava bc Ava ….thinks she’s moving to spite her??? The whole adult reasoning we get for why Ava broke off their friendship is beyond juvenile. .
So now they’re working together on for the bowling team but even that was boring. All they do is stare at each other longingly, act unprofessional at work, and generally avoid kissing until finally they do but then the romance scenes are so rushed that you ultimately don’t even care. And considering they don’t even kiss until like 75-80% into the story ……I was over it.
If you’re gonna write something as a slow burn, can we have some actual tension to build up to the payoff? I could tell they liked each other but it’s irritating to have to read about characters just NOT getting to business for “reasons”. There really was no justifiable reason for it to be dragged out. And then, to add to that, the whole story has randomly spaced time jumps so the timeline moves faster which makes the issues worse. The jump can be a week, it can be a month, it can be the next day, like there’s no rhyme or reason so then you’re like wow it’s a been a month and STILL nothing has happened ?
Anyway, the characters were also juvenile and everyone felt like a nosy caricature. Everyone was in their business which just added to the annoyance. Even some of the students at the school which…inappropriate 😭🤣. Every time I had to read about TABITHA asking if they were dating I had to roll my eyes.
This was boring, the romance was vanilla, the tropes were a bad decision, and overall the best part was that most of it happened in a bowling alley.
December 15, 2024
Cute, slow-burn sapphic rom-com between childhood friends turned frenemies now working together as adults! Ava is a high school English teacher and she is less than pleased when Grace comes back to town and gets a job as a hotshot science teacher across the hall. She's even less pleased when Grace easily gets approval for the idea the principle has shot down many times when it came from her- a bowling team. But they end up working together to coach the team, revisit what really happened when they were teenagers, and kindle old sparks. It's a sexy small-town romance that I enjoyed and will probably pick up the rest of the series! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
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April 29, 2024This was one of my most anticipated releases of 2024, but sadly, I’m disappointed. I stopped reading at 54%.
First, let’s start with what I enjoyed. I really enjoyed the characters! Both Ava and Grace are characters that I care about and want the best for! The rivals to lovers trope can be hit or miss for me, but I enjoyed it in this novel!
But, I feel like this novel just isn’t for me. It has such a slow pace. Nothing is happening in the story. All the characters do is trade longing glances and think about each other from afar. I’m a person who needs action in my romance. I need a central plot & subplots. I need cute dates and adorable moments. I need them to have interesting conversations. And none of that was given in this novel. I also feel like the characters didn’t have chemistry. They’re having thoughts like they like each other, but I can’t FEEL it. Chemistry between characters in a romance novel is something that I take for granted until it’s not there, and it wasn’t there. And the last problem I had was a character saying that they “didn’t have the spoons for this”. That term is specifically used for the disabled community when pain/illness/fatigue keeps us from being able to do activities we need to do. This term isn’t synonymous with the word “tired”.
I think this book will be better for someone who enjoys slow burn romances with more pining than action. It just wasn’t for me.
TW: cancer, drunk driving, death of a parent
First, let’s start with what I enjoyed. I really enjoyed the characters! Both Ava and Grace are characters that I care about and want the best for! The rivals to lovers trope can be hit or miss for me, but I enjoyed it in this novel!
But, I feel like this novel just isn’t for me. It has such a slow pace. Nothing is happening in the story. All the characters do is trade longing glances and think about each other from afar. I’m a person who needs action in my romance. I need a central plot & subplots. I need cute dates and adorable moments. I need them to have interesting conversations. And none of that was given in this novel. I also feel like the characters didn’t have chemistry. They’re having thoughts like they like each other, but I can’t FEEL it. Chemistry between characters in a romance novel is something that I take for granted until it’s not there, and it wasn’t there. And the last problem I had was a character saying that they “didn’t have the spoons for this”. That term is specifically used for the disabled community when pain/illness/fatigue keeps us from being able to do activities we need to do. This term isn’t synonymous with the word “tired”.
I think this book will be better for someone who enjoys slow burn romances with more pining than action. It just wasn’t for me.
TW: cancer, drunk driving, death of a parent
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January 6, 2025
This should not be rated so lowly.
It's a delightful book—short, sweet, does what it needs to do in a short page-span. It's a Harlequin romance. It reminds me a lot of some of the other lesbian romances I've read from Bella Books. Genre conventional, not quite like a contemporary romance, so adjust expectations accordingly.
I enjoyed both Ava and Grace's characters, and their friends-to-enemies-to-lovers rivalry. Add bowling to the mix, and two Black women coaching a girl's bowling team, and it is was a hit for me. There's the gay couple besties, the conniving school girls trying to get their teachers to hook up, and the incompetently awful principal with a grudge. The ending was a bit abrupt, but it worked and book two follows Ava's older sister, Vinni.
Anywho: Black sapphic romance, small towns, bowling, an underdog sports story—what's not to love?
It's a delightful book—short, sweet, does what it needs to do in a short page-span. It's a Harlequin romance. It reminds me a lot of some of the other lesbian romances I've read from Bella Books. Genre conventional, not quite like a contemporary romance, so adjust expectations accordingly.
I enjoyed both Ava and Grace's characters, and their friends-to-enemies-to-lovers rivalry. Add bowling to the mix, and two Black women coaching a girl's bowling team, and it is was a hit for me. There's the gay couple besties, the conniving school girls trying to get their teachers to hook up, and the incompetently awful principal with a grudge. The ending was a bit abrupt, but it worked and book two follows Ava's older sister, Vinni.
Anywho: Black sapphic romance, small towns, bowling, an underdog sports story—what's not to love?
March 26, 2024
Overall 3.5
Spice: 2
This was the first book I've read by this author and it was just okay. I did like seeing the FMC in positions in education that aren't the norm for women especially bipoc woman. I did enjoy the diversity of the teach staff, but it was very surface level and as if it was just checking a book. It wasn't your typical sports romance. I still don't understand why they hadn't talked in years, and it was like once they had talked they were automatically a couple. It felt rushed and nothing developed enough.
Spice: 2
This was the first book I've read by this author and it was just okay. I did like seeing the FMC in positions in education that aren't the norm for women especially bipoc woman. I did enjoy the diversity of the teach staff, but it was very surface level and as if it was just checking a book. It wasn't your typical sports romance. I still don't understand why they hadn't talked in years, and it was like once they had talked they were automatically a couple. It felt rushed and nothing developed enough.
January 26, 2025
2.5 stars. This was... fine? I don't think there was anything about it I disliked a whole lot about it, but there also wasn't anything I really liked about it. I guess a couple of the scenes were cute, but I barely felt the chemistry. It's a sapphic second chance romance between childhood best friends who turned into rivals when they ended up on opposing bowling teams. Now, years later as adults, Grace has come back to their small town, and gets as job as a teacher in the same school as Ava, and they end up coaching a girls' bowling team together.
- The books tries to convince me that they had a connection when they were younger, and that they have one now, but I felt absolutely no romantic yearning or tension or attraction between these women. Those things are described, sure, but it's all very flat and surface level, and nothing in this book led me to believe there was anything deep between them.
- This isn't helped by the fact that certain important milestones take place off page. When it turns out that they had their first kiss (in the present timeline) but it happened off page, while one of them was drunk, I was so confused. Why in the world would you write it like that? This is a romance! If there's gonna be a first kiss, I, as the reader, wanna be present for that! This is what I'm here for! Describing in it hindsight is so much less effective, and makes me feel like the author isn't really invested in the relationship.
- The book in general feel very... flat? Like, there are hints at things that could be developped into subplots, but they never are. Like, I just kinda assumed that we could get a little subplot with their students, the inter-team relationships, friendships et cetera. But other than those scenes where the girls teased them about liking each other, there was barely anything. Like, Tabitha, the shy girl who works at the store. I kinda thought she would have a little arc of her own, where we would see her making friends and gaining confidence. But instead, we just kinda SEE the end result, where she's already made some friends and gained confidence. Very unsatisfying. Same thing when we get one scene of a conflict between the girls, and Grace and Ava resolve it in like one scene.
- From the title, the cover, and the blurb, I really expected bowling to play a bigger part of this. Like, I thought I would be able to label this as a sports romance. But we barely get any descriptions of the games; just the fact that they're happening, and the outcome. I think bowling is kinda boring, but I was expecting that the book would try to change my mind about that? It didn't.
- And once again, the romance was just lacklustre. When Grace declared that she'd never felt the same way about anyone in ten years, it felt abrupt and weird. Completely out of left field. There were a few scenes that were cute, but nothing that made me obsessed with the couple or their romance.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Anima Sali, and it was pretty good. Not my favourite, but enjoyable. Looking back at my review, my rating feels a little generous, but it was my gut reaction upon finishing, so I'll stick with it. I've already purchased the next book in this series, so I'm hoping I'll have more fun with it.
- The books tries to convince me that they had a connection when they were younger, and that they have one now, but I felt absolutely no romantic yearning or tension or attraction between these women. Those things are described, sure, but it's all very flat and surface level, and nothing in this book led me to believe there was anything deep between them.
- This isn't helped by the fact that certain important milestones take place off page. When it turns out that they had their first kiss (in the present timeline) but it happened off page, while one of them was drunk, I was so confused. Why in the world would you write it like that? This is a romance! If there's gonna be a first kiss, I, as the reader, wanna be present for that! This is what I'm here for! Describing in it hindsight is so much less effective, and makes me feel like the author isn't really invested in the relationship.
- The book in general feel very... flat? Like, there are hints at things that could be developped into subplots, but they never are. Like, I just kinda assumed that we could get a little subplot with their students, the inter-team relationships, friendships et cetera. But other than those scenes where the girls teased them about liking each other, there was barely anything. Like, Tabitha, the shy girl who works at the store. I kinda thought she would have a little arc of her own, where we would see her making friends and gaining confidence. But instead, we just kinda SEE the end result, where she's already made some friends and gained confidence. Very unsatisfying. Same thing when we get one scene of a conflict between the girls, and Grace and Ava resolve it in like one scene.
- From the title, the cover, and the blurb, I really expected bowling to play a bigger part of this. Like, I thought I would be able to label this as a sports romance. But we barely get any descriptions of the games; just the fact that they're happening, and the outcome. I think bowling is kinda boring, but I was expecting that the book would try to change my mind about that? It didn't.
- And once again, the romance was just lacklustre. When Grace declared that she'd never felt the same way about anyone in ten years, it felt abrupt and weird. Completely out of left field. There were a few scenes that were cute, but nothing that made me obsessed with the couple or their romance.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Anima Sali, and it was pretty good. Not my favourite, but enjoyable. Looking back at my review, my rating feels a little generous, but it was my gut reaction upon finishing, so I'll stick with it. I've already purchased the next book in this series, so I'm hoping I'll have more fun with it.
May 21, 2024
Ava Williams likes teaching at her small-town high school but misses the thrill of competitive bowling and knows her students would love a school team. Unfortunately, she’s almost given up on that dream since the principal has repeatedly shot it down without a second thought. However, he announces this year the school will have a bowling team, only, instead of her, the head coach will be the school’s new chemistry teacher and Ava’s childhood rival, Grace Jones. They haven’t spoken since they kissed all those years ago and her stealing the head coach spot from Ava has relit their competitive fire. But when Grace wants to forgive and forget can Ava let go of everything that happened between them to co-coach these girls? Or will old grudges and unsaid words keep Ava from her second chance at love?
Grace Jones had it all, a stunning girlfriend, a steady academic career, and a nationally ranked bowling status but she gave it up to return to her hometown, Peach Blossom. She can’t explain why she signed a two-year contract teaching high school chemistry but she knows something is missing in her life. So when she realizes her ex-best friend Ava also teaches at the school, she tries to make amends by boosting her bowling team idea. But when the principal names Grace head coach, she has to try even harder to get back on Ava’s good side. Can Grace find a way to make it up to Ava before they lose the bowling team for good? Or will Grace leave Peach Blossom again with no answers? Rivalries and small towns have met their match in, The 7-10 Split.
I enjoyed this book. A second chance romance filled with bowling and back-to-school blues. The quaint southern town was the perfect setting for Ava and Grace’s reunion. The cast of characters is small and meaningful, which I appreciate. And the humor is spot on. Karmen Lee is a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised with how charming and cozy this romance felt. If you enjoy laid-back former friends turned rivals and small-town drama, you’re in for a treat.
Ava is such an interesting character. She’s stubborn and dedicated to her students, yet her head isn’t all there. She wants more and I like how Grace is the one to draw that out of her. Not in a weird “I can’t live without you” kind of way but it shows how complimentary their relationship is and how they enhance each other’s lives. I enjoyed Ava’s fashion style as well, it gave a good depth to her character. I could picture her in her brightly colored outfits while planning lessons or pretending not to flirt with Grace. Also, I loved that she still lives with her sisters, it shows how family-oriented she is and where her priorities lie, although it is holding her back a bit.
Grace is my favorite character for sure. She is smart, accomplished, and caring. I think she has a good head on her shoulders and doesn’t easily hold grudges, which I admire. She is humble and when the principal makes her out to be cunning against Ava she is quick to put out the fire. This is refreshing in romances as so many rely heavily on miscommunication. And Grace’s commitment issues didn’t cause as much of a problem as I thought they would, which was nice.
This was a shorter romance but I don’t think that is a con. I wish we had seen more of the bowling team, especially Grace and Ava’s coaching. For such a central part of the book, it didn’t feel like it was on the page a lot. However, I did like the plot overall and thought it was great and low-stakes. Nobody's business is on the line, nobody's livelihood is at stake, and even the principal’s ultimatum didn’t seem too grandiose. It was predictable in the way that romances are, in the best of ways. You know exactly what you’re getting into and it delivers.
All in all, this heartwarming and second-chance romance is a must-read. From the bowling tension to the small-town gossip, you’ll be rooting for Ava and Grace the whole way. Not to mention wishing you could vacation in Peach Blossom. If you like cozy romances with childhood rivalry turned soulmate vibes then you are in the right place. Happy reading!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for sending this eARC for review consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For more sapphic reviews follow @the.lebian.library on Instagram, Goodreads, and Tiktok
Grace Jones had it all, a stunning girlfriend, a steady academic career, and a nationally ranked bowling status but she gave it up to return to her hometown, Peach Blossom. She can’t explain why she signed a two-year contract teaching high school chemistry but she knows something is missing in her life. So when she realizes her ex-best friend Ava also teaches at the school, she tries to make amends by boosting her bowling team idea. But when the principal names Grace head coach, she has to try even harder to get back on Ava’s good side. Can Grace find a way to make it up to Ava before they lose the bowling team for good? Or will Grace leave Peach Blossom again with no answers? Rivalries and small towns have met their match in, The 7-10 Split.
I enjoyed this book. A second chance romance filled with bowling and back-to-school blues. The quaint southern town was the perfect setting for Ava and Grace’s reunion. The cast of characters is small and meaningful, which I appreciate. And the humor is spot on. Karmen Lee is a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised with how charming and cozy this romance felt. If you enjoy laid-back former friends turned rivals and small-town drama, you’re in for a treat.
Ava is such an interesting character. She’s stubborn and dedicated to her students, yet her head isn’t all there. She wants more and I like how Grace is the one to draw that out of her. Not in a weird “I can’t live without you” kind of way but it shows how complimentary their relationship is and how they enhance each other’s lives. I enjoyed Ava’s fashion style as well, it gave a good depth to her character. I could picture her in her brightly colored outfits while planning lessons or pretending not to flirt with Grace. Also, I loved that she still lives with her sisters, it shows how family-oriented she is and where her priorities lie, although it is holding her back a bit.
Grace is my favorite character for sure. She is smart, accomplished, and caring. I think she has a good head on her shoulders and doesn’t easily hold grudges, which I admire. She is humble and when the principal makes her out to be cunning against Ava she is quick to put out the fire. This is refreshing in romances as so many rely heavily on miscommunication. And Grace’s commitment issues didn’t cause as much of a problem as I thought they would, which was nice.
This was a shorter romance but I don’t think that is a con. I wish we had seen more of the bowling team, especially Grace and Ava’s coaching. For such a central part of the book, it didn’t feel like it was on the page a lot. However, I did like the plot overall and thought it was great and low-stakes. Nobody's business is on the line, nobody's livelihood is at stake, and even the principal’s ultimatum didn’t seem too grandiose. It was predictable in the way that romances are, in the best of ways. You know exactly what you’re getting into and it delivers.
All in all, this heartwarming and second-chance romance is a must-read. From the bowling tension to the small-town gossip, you’ll be rooting for Ava and Grace the whole way. Not to mention wishing you could vacation in Peach Blossom. If you like cozy romances with childhood rivalry turned soulmate vibes then you are in the right place. Happy reading!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for sending this eARC for review consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For more sapphic reviews follow @the.lebian.library on Instagram, Goodreads, and Tiktok
May 19, 2024
If you're looking for a slow burn with a lot of feel-good moments, this might be the book for you. Karmen Lee did a lot of character work before we got to the romance, whether it was intentional or not. I think it helped combat the stereotype that lesbians move fast. You get a little something around 82%, hehe.
But I think in order for these two to really give their relationship a second chance, it made sense. Family, community, and grief were themes throughout the book, and we are left with unresolved matters. Aka, things were not tied up neatly but still satisfying. And can we talk about the nod that sometimes teachers' biggest hurdle aren't the students it's actually administrators. Ok!!! After-school activities helped build the relationship with students, help them build their confidence, and learn how to regulate emotionally. Oh, you also get the significance of the book title in the last chapter 🥹
I rounded up from a 3.5. I thought it moved a bit slow and I also wanted them to talk about why they stopped talking when they were kids. But I trust Karmen Lee's writing and I would suspect things are going to make sense as the series continues.
Thank to the author and the publisher for providing an ARC.
CN: loss of a parent (cancer and drunk driver), grief, breakup anxiety, workplace stress, being pushed out of work, microagressions, emotional pressure to perform well athletically
But I think in order for these two to really give their relationship a second chance, it made sense. Family, community, and grief were themes throughout the book, and we are left with unresolved matters. Aka, things were not tied up neatly but still satisfying. And can we talk about the nod that sometimes teachers' biggest hurdle aren't the students it's actually administrators. Ok!!! After-school activities helped build the relationship with students, help them build their confidence, and learn how to regulate emotionally. Oh, you also get the significance of the book title in the last chapter 🥹
I rounded up from a 3.5. I thought it moved a bit slow and I also wanted them to talk about why they stopped talking when they were kids. But I trust Karmen Lee's writing and I would suspect things are going to make sense as the series continues.
Thank to the author and the publisher for providing an ARC.
CN: loss of a parent (cancer and drunk driver), grief, breakup anxiety, workplace stress, being pushed out of work, microagressions, emotional pressure to perform well athletically
March 31, 2024
I appreciate NetGalley and Karmen Lee for providing me with the opportunity to read this book. We meet Ava, an English teacher, in the midst of a conversation lamenting the rejection of her proposal to start a bowling team by the principal. As her colleague mentions the arrival of a new AP teacher, Grace, next door. Ava is excited about the news.
Grace's introduction unravels a shared history with Ava; they were once college friends, but their friendship dissolved, leaving questions lingering.
As for my thoughts, I found the book enjoyable, although I anticipated a more substantial reason for their college friendship's demise. The reveal didn't quite meet my expectation of a grand mystery, but perhaps that's a reflection of being young. The slow burn of their eventual reunion tested my patience; I was rooting for them to just kiss already.
Overall, this was a good read, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it. Thank you for allowing me to read this book!
Grace's introduction unravels a shared history with Ava; they were once college friends, but their friendship dissolved, leaving questions lingering.
As for my thoughts, I found the book enjoyable, although I anticipated a more substantial reason for their college friendship's demise. The reveal didn't quite meet my expectation of a grand mystery, but perhaps that's a reflection of being young. The slow burn of their eventual reunion tested my patience; I was rooting for them to just kiss already.
Overall, this was a good read, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it. Thank you for allowing me to read this book!
June 29, 2025
I don't like bowling in real life but loved this Sapphic romance with two teachers and bowling. was hooked on the audiobook and excited to read more from the author.
February 18, 2025
Content warnings: references to past parental deaths - one cancer, one drunk driving.
Rep: Both MCs are cis, Black, and I'm not sure if both MCs are lesbians, or if only Grace is (lesbian is never used to describe either of them, but the word lesbian is used once, in a general setting), but Ava is said to have had interest or past male and female lovers, so idk. I wish people would be fucking clear lol.
I do love a good workplace romance!
I adored that they're both teachers, too. And the bowling element was an added bonus.
The story was lovely, the plot easy, and the vibes were good.
Rep: Both MCs are cis, Black, and I'm not sure if both MCs are lesbians, or if only Grace is (lesbian is never used to describe either of them, but the word lesbian is used once, in a general setting), but Ava is said to have had interest or past male and female lovers, so idk. I wish people would be fucking clear lol.
I do love a good workplace romance!
I adored that they're both teachers, too. And the bowling element was an added bonus.
The story was lovely, the plot easy, and the vibes were good.
July 3, 2024
2.5 ?
I don’t want to be mean.
I wanted to like this one. I kept forgetting to come back and read it because it was boring. A little too Netflix rom com for me personally. The first few chapters were engaging then it quickly went downhill.
Also I need authors to start making characters act their age and not their shoe size. The behaviour by Ava in this book was so huhhhh???? What are you actually on baby girl? Anyways.
There’s no tension between the main characters. A typical yet lack lustre formulaic romance. I probably won’t remember anything about this book after tomorrow.
I don’t want to be mean.
I wanted to like this one. I kept forgetting to come back and read it because it was boring. A little too Netflix rom com for me personally. The first few chapters were engaging then it quickly went downhill.
Also I need authors to start making characters act their age and not their shoe size. The behaviour by Ava in this book was so huhhhh???? What are you actually on baby girl? Anyways.
There’s no tension between the main characters. A typical yet lack lustre formulaic romance. I probably won’t remember anything about this book after tomorrow.
March 17, 2025
2025 reads: 52/300
i received an advanced listening copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
once upon a time, back in high school, ava williams and grace jones were best friends…right up until they kissed and stopped talking. now, grace is a new teacher at ava’s school, and ava just wants to avoid her as much as possible. when the principal gives grace the bowling team ava’s been wanting for years, though, they decide to set aside their differences to co-coach the team. as they coach their team, though, they begin to fall for each other once again.
this was a short and sweet read! i tend to enjoy small town romances, and i thought it was interesting how both MCs were from this small town and are kind of getting a second chance as adults. i also enjoyed the bowling aspect. this isn’t something i enjoy in real life, but i liked reading about it since it’s something different than what i normally see in books. it was interesting to see how bowling originally brought ava and grace together, and how it brought them together once again. also, they both had their own problems to work through, such as overbearing parents, and i appreciated how this was depicted.
narrator: amina sali narrated this audiobook, and i really enjoyed her narration! these characters were really brought to life through the audiobook.
i received an advanced listening copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
once upon a time, back in high school, ava williams and grace jones were best friends…right up until they kissed and stopped talking. now, grace is a new teacher at ava’s school, and ava just wants to avoid her as much as possible. when the principal gives grace the bowling team ava’s been wanting for years, though, they decide to set aside their differences to co-coach the team. as they coach their team, though, they begin to fall for each other once again.
this was a short and sweet read! i tend to enjoy small town romances, and i thought it was interesting how both MCs were from this small town and are kind of getting a second chance as adults. i also enjoyed the bowling aspect. this isn’t something i enjoy in real life, but i liked reading about it since it’s something different than what i normally see in books. it was interesting to see how bowling originally brought ava and grace together, and how it brought them together once again. also, they both had their own problems to work through, such as overbearing parents, and i appreciated how this was depicted.
narrator: amina sali narrated this audiobook, and i really enjoyed her narration! these characters were really brought to life through the audiobook.
October 25, 2024
Cute, but I failed to consider that reading about teacher life after living teacher life would be more exhausting than comforting. 3.5 rounded up bc while the pacing of the plot was a bit off, I feel like the unique plot and demographics makes up for it
February 2, 2025
this was so cute!! I love the second chance ava and grace got. i also found the story of their past believable. i found it easy to love the cast of characters and was rooting for happiness for ava & grace. toh i wish we got more at the end and got to find out what happens with them but i also like that it's up to the readers imagination
Read
December 9, 2024DNF at 130 pgs
I could not handle Ava after the revelation of why she and Grace are "enemies" and why she's been so rude to Grace. I could maybe look past it if was framed as her attitude when she was younger, but then as she got older she realized it was silly but by then she and Grace had just gone in different directions and she never reached out again because of how awkward it would be. But for her to be a full adult and still have the same attitude and rage, to the point where she dramatically huffs and walks away during their reunion and then is sulky and rude to Grace after in front of all their coworkers...she's acting like Grace killed her dog when the real reason for the rift is just silly. It made me see the character in a completely different light and I couldn't get over it. Is that a petty reason to DNF? Yes, but so is Ava, so...
spoilers below
I could not handle Ava after the revelation of why she and Grace are "enemies" and why she's been so rude to Grace. I could maybe look past it if was framed as her attitude when she was younger, but then as she got older she realized it was silly but by then she and Grace had just gone in different directions and she never reached out again because of how awkward it would be. But for her to be a full adult and still have the same attitude and rage, to the point where she dramatically huffs and walks away during their reunion and then is sulky and rude to Grace after in front of all their coworkers...she's acting like Grace killed her dog when the real reason for the rift is just silly. It made me see the character in a completely different light and I couldn't get over it. Is that a petty reason to DNF? Yes, but so is Ava, so...
spoilers below
May 30, 2024
As a Black femme lesbian, when I saw this premise come across my Twitter feed I was HYPED! Why might you wonder? Let's take a look at queer romances that have been traditionally published. Is it common for you to see two feminine Black women on the covers? I won't wait for your answer, because the answer is no. Right now, the only one coming to mind is Songs of Irie.
Needless to say, I was super excited to finally see that representation. To make a very long story short, this book fell short for me. I truly do feel like the friends to rivalries, to lovers could have been executed in a better way. There's no hiding the fact that I absolutely loathe a slow burn romance. But my dislike for this goes deeper than that.
The lack of communication irritated me, the attraction didn't seem authentic to me, almost so, if Grace didn't blurt out her feelings would Ava had the balls to say anything? And then the principals relationship with Ava pissed me off. It gave very much, you're an opinionated Black woman so I am going to put you in your place. I'm unsure if the structure of this book was the authors doing or if it was edited to be digestible for the masses.
Needless to say, I was super excited to finally see that representation. To make a very long story short, this book fell short for me. I truly do feel like the friends to rivalries, to lovers could have been executed in a better way. There's no hiding the fact that I absolutely loathe a slow burn romance. But my dislike for this goes deeper than that.
The lack of communication irritated me, the attraction didn't seem authentic to me, almost so, if Grace didn't blurt out her feelings would Ava had the balls to say anything? And then the principals relationship with Ava pissed me off. It gave very much, you're an opinionated Black woman so I am going to put you in your place. I'm unsure if the structure of this book was the authors doing or if it was edited to be digestible for the masses.
April 27, 2025
I continue to enjoy this small town series with a close knit family of queer sisters!
Also, can we get more bowling sports romances?? This was so fun.
Former childhood friends to rivals to one sided enemies to lovers situation. Both MCs bowled together in school before one left and their friendship was ended.
Years later, she returns as a new teacher at the same high school and boom - insert cute bowling montages, some communication on past events and feelings, sibling shenanigans, dealing with a shitty principle, and looooove.
The audiobook narration was unfortunate for this. The voices used for the MCs were rough, there was sound issues (went from whispering/could barely hear to shouting at times), and also fuzzy/muted at times. Unfortunate!
I read this out of order, and it was also nice seeing the other sisters show up after seeing more of their romance/developments in the second book in the series.
Also, can we get more bowling sports romances?? This was so fun.
Former childhood friends to rivals to one sided enemies to lovers situation. Both MCs bowled together in school before one left and their friendship was ended.
Years later, she returns as a new teacher at the same high school and boom - insert cute bowling montages, some communication on past events and feelings, sibling shenanigans, dealing with a shitty principle, and looooove.
The audiobook narration was unfortunate for this. The voices used for the MCs were rough, there was sound issues (went from whispering/could barely hear to shouting at times), and also fuzzy/muted at times. Unfortunate!
I read this out of order, and it was also nice seeing the other sisters show up after seeing more of their romance/developments in the second book in the series.
June 17, 2024
i'm so sad this one didn't work for me-- unfortunately my tolerance for main characters who are assholes is slim to none and even more so when they're an asshole because of a series of miscommunications & uncommunications (is that even a word. idc). plus the pacing was SO off- the last chapter felt like the author went "oh shit i gotta wrap everything up" yet somehow didn't wrap everything up completely????
the author recently announced the next book in the series and that premise sounds more promising. fingers crossed!!
the author recently announced the next book in the series and that premise sounds more promising. fingers crossed!!
February 20, 2025
A slow burn sapphic romance set in a small town and our two main characters were once friends with a budding romance but turned rivals for a very stupid reason.
Despite this being a slow burn the pacing was weird towards the end after our girls get together and then drama begins.
I’m going to continue with the next book despite the writing not being my favorite.
Despite this being a slow burn the pacing was weird towards the end after our girls get together and then drama begins.
I’m going to continue with the next book despite the writing not being my favorite.
July 10, 2025
Karmen Lee writing style in the book is a cute YA book that was just so fun to read. That is what I love about YA books. The book was based on a two teachers Grace and Ava who were teachers at the school and wanted to start another bowling team at their old school. During this book I rarely read bout anything to do with actual bowling and more about like how they felt about each other. The spicy in the book was little to none in this book but on the other hand I enjoyed the read.
Yolandas Books
Yolandas Books
August 7, 2025
just borrowed this book off of libby so now i gotta get thru “honey girl” as soon as possible to read this too!
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not my favorite from this series honestly. i skimmed thru most of the book ngl, but i can’t wait to read the 3rd book!
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not my favorite from this series honestly. i skimmed thru most of the book ngl, but i can’t wait to read the 3rd book!
May 3, 2024
I received an uncorrected proof via Goodreads giveaway.
I wish I could have liked this book, but there were critical issues that nearly prevented me from finishing it:
(1) The way romance and attraction are described feels oddly juvenile. It reminded me of how a preteen would write attraction in a fanfiction.
(2) The characters are very one note. This goes especially for the side characters (e.g., the principal) but even our main characters. It makes them feel like simple plot devices since they certainly don’t feel like real people.
(3) Both of our protagonists, but Ava especially, do not make logical connections. They leap to extreme conclusions and get angry at each other without providing much insight into how a person could possibly arrive to such a conclusion. Here’s a spoilery example
***SPOILER:
Ava not only assumes that Grace, as a TEENAGER, had a choice in uprooting her life and moving, but also that she kissed Ava to prove her superiority? It makes no sense and we never find out why on earth Ava made these assumptions, leaving me to assume that she fundamentally lacks critical thinking skills.
***** END OF SPOILERS
(4) These characters have nothing else going on in their lives except for the romance. They just bowl and talk and think about each other and talk to others about their relationship. Do they have any other things going on in their lives except bowling and each other? As for the side characters, almost every one observes that they like each other and then asks them about it. Like, do these people also have nothing better to do than to obsessively monitor every glance between Ava and Grace? I wanted to know more about things like each of them having lost a parent and the effects on their families, but these things are rarely touched on.
Anyways, I do not recommend.
I wish I could have liked this book, but there were critical issues that nearly prevented me from finishing it:
(1) The way romance and attraction are described feels oddly juvenile. It reminded me of how a preteen would write attraction in a fanfiction.
(2) The characters are very one note. This goes especially for the side characters (e.g., the principal) but even our main characters. It makes them feel like simple plot devices since they certainly don’t feel like real people.
(3) Both of our protagonists, but Ava especially, do not make logical connections. They leap to extreme conclusions and get angry at each other without providing much insight into how a person could possibly arrive to such a conclusion. Here’s a spoilery example
***SPOILER:
Ava not only assumes that Grace, as a TEENAGER, had a choice in uprooting her life and moving, but also that she kissed Ava to prove her superiority? It makes no sense and we never find out why on earth Ava made these assumptions, leaving me to assume that she fundamentally lacks critical thinking skills.
***** END OF SPOILERS
(4) These characters have nothing else going on in their lives except for the romance. They just bowl and talk and think about each other and talk to others about their relationship. Do they have any other things going on in their lives except bowling and each other? As for the side characters, almost every one observes that they like each other and then asks them about it. Like, do these people also have nothing better to do than to obsessively monitor every glance between Ava and Grace? I wanted to know more about things like each of them having lost a parent and the effects on their families, but these things are rarely touched on.
Anyways, I do not recommend.
August 24, 2024
This was soooo underwhelming—poorly written with inconsequential characters and unimaginative scenes that failed to capture my attention. Rather than waste more words on a book that isn’t worth readers’ time, I want to talk about the growing number of better options for 2020s romances about lesbians of color!!
So far, my favorites from this year have been Lavash at First Sight by Taleen Voskuni and Chencia Higgins’ A Little Kissing Between Friends. These are tonally similar to 7-10 Split, but they actually succeed at fleshing out the couple’s romantic connection, without losing sight of their other relationships.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more literary, A World Between by Emily Hashimoto is a great option. It’s steamy, whimsical, and heartbreaking at times. If you want a blend of hot mess topics and slightly more thoughtful writing, you cannot go wrong with Homebodies by Tembe Denton-Hurst. This book is one of my favorites from 2023, and it has a similar “jaded lesbian runs into former high school fling” storyline. If you wanted to see that trope executed well, turn here instead!!
So, even with the current disappointing read, I think we’re in a great season for Black/other POC lesbian romance. Even when one book turns out to be a dud, there’s a growing number of other options we can turn to. So, while I won’t be planning to read Karmen Lee’s future work, I look forward to enjoying similar stories in the near future.
So far, my favorites from this year have been Lavash at First Sight by Taleen Voskuni and Chencia Higgins’ A Little Kissing Between Friends. These are tonally similar to 7-10 Split, but they actually succeed at fleshing out the couple’s romantic connection, without losing sight of their other relationships.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more literary, A World Between by Emily Hashimoto is a great option. It’s steamy, whimsical, and heartbreaking at times. If you want a blend of hot mess topics and slightly more thoughtful writing, you cannot go wrong with Homebodies by Tembe Denton-Hurst. This book is one of my favorites from 2023, and it has a similar “jaded lesbian runs into former high school fling” storyline. If you wanted to see that trope executed well, turn here instead!!
So, even with the current disappointing read, I think we’re in a great season for Black/other POC lesbian romance. Even when one book turns out to be a dud, there’s a growing number of other options we can turn to. So, while I won’t be planning to read Karmen Lee’s future work, I look forward to enjoying similar stories in the near future.
May 6, 2024
When I was in college, I took a bowling class. I thought this will fulfill my physical education requirement and be an easy A; I was wrong. The cover of The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee transported me back to Crenshaw Lanes. The friendship between Grace and Ava is a complicated one that can simple be solved with a conversation. At times, it seems that Ava is hellbent on being mad at Grace for things beyond her control. That is annoying and very unattractive. Grace spends more time than I think is necessary apologizing and Ava doesn't apologize...enough. For an English teacher, she is horrible with words.
This was an okay story, I honestly was more interested in the drama of the bowling team than the romance between Grace and Ava. I do feel like there were a lot of additional characters added for dramatic effect that were not needed because when wrapping them up it felt rushed. Yes, all these characters centered around the bowling. I would certainly read more from Karmen Lee because this story at least made me pull out my old bowling shoes.
This was an okay story, I honestly was more interested in the drama of the bowling team than the romance between Grace and Ava. I do feel like there were a lot of additional characters added for dramatic effect that were not needed because when wrapping them up it felt rushed. Yes, all these characters centered around the bowling. I would certainly read more from Karmen Lee because this story at least made me pull out my old bowling shoes.
January 2, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this lovely book
when ava knocked on the door of the classroom opposite her to say hello to the new teacher she wasnt expecting to come face to face with grace. ava walked off in a daze....
ava and grace had been friends at school themselves and bowling buddies but things went astray and now they were nothing to each other apart from rivals who didnt like each other...
grace had been hoping for a better start with ava.... and when she heard that ava had been trying to start a bowling club in school she went right to the head and hoped he would agree.. though she hadnt quite realised he would announce it at the teachers meeting and that it was grace idea when she had tried to make it work with ava as the lead...
but as time went on and the bowling team started to come together grace could only hope that the spark she thought she saw with ava would land... only time would tell
a lovely story with hints of betrayal and rivalry cant wait to read more from this series
when ava knocked on the door of the classroom opposite her to say hello to the new teacher she wasnt expecting to come face to face with grace. ava walked off in a daze....
ava and grace had been friends at school themselves and bowling buddies but things went astray and now they were nothing to each other apart from rivals who didnt like each other...
grace had been hoping for a better start with ava.... and when she heard that ava had been trying to start a bowling club in school she went right to the head and hoped he would agree.. though she hadnt quite realised he would announce it at the teachers meeting and that it was grace idea when she had tried to make it work with ava as the lead...
but as time went on and the bowling team started to come together grace could only hope that the spark she thought she saw with ava would land... only time would tell
a lovely story with hints of betrayal and rivalry cant wait to read more from this series
August 29, 2024
this did not do it for me. nothing really happened in this book? at least for 2/3rds of it….. i wasn’t super into the characters, and they weren’t really that smart or interesting in general. the chemistry between the two was obviously there, but it just wasn’t written well. i thought it’d be fun to learn more about bowling but i really didn’t learn anything. the only thing the coaches (our two main characters) did during practice was flirt unknowingly and tell the kids to “focus in”, which, seems unhelpful. if these two just communicated in the first twenty pages, i think the author could have done a lot more with the plot and their development as characters. but nope. womp.
also need to note that this was very abbott elementary coded and i thought that would help but it didn’t.
also need to note that this was very abbott elementary coded and i thought that would help but it didn’t.
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