When Audrey Lind lands a new job as a professor at her alma mater, it's a dream come true. Not only does she get to teach classes in ceramics and a new Women in Art class at her former university, Northshire, she also gets to count art history Professor Michelle Thompson among her peers. Unbeknownst to Michelle, she was Audrey's favorite professor in more ways than one: a role model who still inspires her today, and the object of Audrey's first sapphic crush. Michelle's accent, her love of tea and her many tweed blazers make up an irresistible blend of British charm. Add an age gap to that, and, well. But something is different about Dr. Thompson today... 
Feeling stuck in her career and in life after a particularly nasty divorce, Michelle doesn't exactly share Audrey's excitement: that Women in Art class was supposed to be HERS to teach. Audrey is disappointed at the cold welcome, but remains determined to break down Michelle's walls and develop (at the very least) a solid working relationship. Michelle quickly finds herself disarmed by Audrey's zest, and her own passion reigniting for the first time in years.

What draws me in about Learning Curves, is the setting first and foremost. I love stories that take place in academia, because it's also a part of my own history, and I get a little nostalgic for lectures and for that specific feeling of reverence, roaming countless halls, realizing you're in a great, and oftentimes old, institution of learning. Books set in academia are like a warm blanket, and author Rachel Lacey evokes that feeling wonderfully. She describes the various lectures given by Audrey and Michelle with a passion and a respect that translates well to the reader, and weaves in legitimately interesting factual information about Women in Arts as well as the art of ceramics, giving this work of fiction an edge, in that its realism helps readers immerse in the story even more. For example, I enjoyed learning about female quilting artists, and looked up a few quilts mentioned in the novel. Fascinating. I appreciate the research Lacey put into this book.

While I wouldn't classify Learning Curves as a cozy read (genre-wise) per se, it does have the atmosphere down pat. The book is set in Vermont, at the end of summer going into fall - and the autumnal New England vibes are so, so cozy. Developing the character of Michelle as a fervent tea lover only adds to this lovely mood; I bask in moments when Michelle and Audrey share various blends of tea in the comfort of Michelle's office, as they build on their relationship. A Halloween costume party allows the characters (Michelle especially) to get out of their comfort zones a little and let their personalities shine, and that's another great seasonal touch.

As the relationship between Audrey and Michelle begins to develop, there is a disconnect between the characters early on that I'm not entirely sure is solved by the time they engage in a romantic relationship. We've got an opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine love story here, but for me the contrast is almost too jarring. Audrey acts younger than her age, and it kind of feels like she's just coasting through life, lacking depth: a (non-manic) Pixie Dream Girl lite. I feel Audrey's attraction to Michelle is superficial (although she's clearly also attracted to her intelligence, the tweed is appreciated way too much): more lust than love. I think seeing more of them as individuals would help: who are they as people beyond Women in Arts and academia? Who are they besides Professors? Yes, Audrey does ceramics, Michelle likes hiking on her property. What else?

Michelle is dealing with many issues regarding her divorce from her ex, who put her down at every turn. Then, there's also her struggles with her family. Although I think Audrey and Michelle communicate well, I miss the follow-through, and would have liked for Michelle to find more healing individually, for her self-esteem to blossom independently from Audrey (or at least before they come together). A lot about Michelle feels unresolved and underdeveloped. There's some repetition in Michelle's inner thoughts, and although it makes sense for state of mind at the beginning of the book (feeling stagnant), I also feel she's still stagnant in ways by the end. Michelle is quite formal in her actions and conversations, and although I know she's British, it's all a bit much: the tweed, the tea and the colder demeanor. She comes across as stereotypical and that's why the attraction Audrey feels towards her feels a little superficial and the romance comes almost too soon.

Although, I'm not going to deny it, the pottery wheel scene? Hot. The sapphic spice is well done, but again... something's just missing: that deeper connection. There's a lot to like about Learning Curves: the setting, the autumnal cozy, and very important to mention: the representation / inclusivity. But it's telling that Audrey's lectures on Women in Arts are more memorable to me than the romance itself.

Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for generously providing me with a copy of this book; all opinions expressed are honest, voluntary and 100% my own.

I really loved this dynamic! I don’t read a lot of academic romance, and the last time I did it was present-(college) student/ professor. So it was very entertaining to have the characters reconnecting years after knowing each other. And they’re reconnecting as colleagues! Audrey is a fresh new professor, and Michelle has become jaded from being kept down by their department head. This is definitely a slow burn, but boy is there some steamy crushing!! There is also an INCREDIBLE pottery wheel scene a la the 1990 movie Ghost which absolutely had me grinning and kicking my feet!! It was such a fun read, and great for the fall/holiday season.

Age gap sapphic academia romance! I struggle with professor student romance, even when it's years later like this. But lacey handled it well. What bothered me was the tell-dont-show feminist 101. Like I am smart enough to get the dynamics on campus without the pedantic lesson. It's clear, focus on the story!

Learning Curves is a steamy will they/won’t they romance, set at a university in Vermont, starring a bright young professor and the jaded tenured professor she once crushed on. I get it, honestly I have a bit of a crush myself on Michelle Thompson.

Dr. Audrey Lind is about to start her dream job, teaching women’s art history and ceramics at her alma mater. Her time as an undergrad at Northshire, and her mentor Dr. Michelle Thompson’s classes, evoked her love of art and launched her career path.

After years of being stifled by the collegiate system, and her ex wife (I hate her.), Michelle has grown cold to her once loved profession. When Audrey Lind shows up teaching the class she has been pitching for years Michelle lets her jealousy stop her from becoming reacquainted. But Audrey is annoyingly patient and kind, eventually pulling down the wall between them.

This book is the definition of how grumpy/sunshine does not equal ice Queen. Michelle isn’t an Ice Queen, she is just over it and looking for a change. Audrey and Michelle’s relationship is built slowly over the course of the book. The first half feels really dedicated to creating their bond as friends and colleagues. This was important because of their previous dynamic as student/teacher. Audrey is a breath of fresh air to Michelle, able to remind her why she loved her profession in the beginning and also act as a positive force for her to move on.

As usual, Rachel Lacey’s words and Quinn Riley’s voice are a perfect match. I had already read the e-book but couldn’t help but reread the audiobook. It’s a beautiful thing when a narrator's voice elevates an already great book.

Rachel Lacey has once again delivered a story that is equal parts tender, passionate, and profoundly moving. Learning Curves is the kind of book that lingers with you long after the final page—an age-gap, academic romance that balances longing, vulnerability, and slow-burning attraction with effortless charm.
Audrey and Michelle’s dynamic is magnetic from the start. Audrey’s warmth and enthusiasm shine through every scene, while Michelle’s guarded, grumpy demeanour makes their gradual unravelling all the more satisfying. Lacey captures the ache of wanting something you’re not sure you’re allowed to have, and when the walls finally come down, the payoff is nothing short of breathtaking.
The backdrop of academia, with its pottery wheels and art history debates, adds texture and heart to the narrative. At the same time, the exploration of second chances—both in love and in career—makes the romance feel grounded and real. I adored how their connection grew organically, with every conversation, stolen glance, and moment of tension pushing them closer together until resistance was futile.
This isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about rediscovering passion, healing old wounds, and daring to choose happiness even when it feels risky. Thoughtful, sexy, and heartfelt, Learning Curves is easily one of Rachel Lacey’s most enchanting works yet.

sapphic fall academia vibes!!! Give me them all!!!!! Thanks to the author and the publisher and netgalley for this arc, i really enjoyed it and the yearning! I loved it!

Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Rachel Lacey for the chance to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

Fall. Academia. Sapphic. Age Gap. Women in Art. Creatives. Vermont. For all these reasons and vibes- yes.

The age gap trope was handled so well here and did not give me the ick that some age gaps do. There is a teacher/student dynamic that one character gets a little stuck on but let's be clear- they were teacher/student a decade ago. They are now peers.

Characters 8
Atmosphere/Setting 9
Writing Style 7
Plot 8
Intrigue 7
Logic/Relationships 8
Enjoyment 8
Average Score: 7.857142857
CAWPILE rating method used. All credit to creator Book Roast on YouTube!

Does the title make sense to the story? Yes!

Intimacy. Does it:
Add to the story/chemistry: Yes
Detract from the story: No
exist as spice for spice's sake: No
Is the intimacy skippable if desired? I think so!

Learning Curves hooked me straight away - the slow burn, the chemistry, and the way Michelle and Audrey’s relationship grew felt so natural and intentional. I loved them together (and on their own), and I really appreciated how Lacey tackled both the age gap and their past professor-student dynamic with a lot of care. The communication between them was refreshing and I loved the “Ghost” reference. That particular scene was stunning. 🔥🔥

But as much as I enjoyed the setup, I found myself losing interest as the story went on. The detail became a bit overbearing and shifted into more “tell” than “show,” which made the latter part of the book drag for me. It almost felt like everything was being spelled out, which left little mystery or space to imagine, and that lessened the impact of the romance for me.

Still, it was a decent read with a lot to love, especially if you enjoy a slow-burn sapphic romance with great communication, hot chemistry, and a sweet age-gap dynamic. I just wish the ending had stayed as strong as the beginning.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Montlake for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you so much to NetGalley for the early copy of this book!

I did really enjoy this book, but it just didn’t blow me away the way I hoped it would.

Audrey completely stole my heart! she’s such a sweetheart, and I can totally see why anyone would fall for her. Michelle, on the other hand, just didn’t quite work for me. I usually don’t mind a good grumpy/sunshine pairing, but Michelle didn’t have much depth, which made it harder for me to connect with her.

One thing I really loved was the academic setting. I thought it was so interesting to see what Audrey and Michelle taught at the university, and I appreciated how the story highlighted women being powerful, inspiring, and deserving of recognition, especially in the art world! That theme was such a win for me.

My biggest frustration, though, was the way the POVs switched mid-chapter! One minute we are in Audrey’s head and the, Michelle’s. I’m a big fan of dual POV in books, but I much prefer when it’s separated by chapter! It makes the reading flow so much smoother, atleast for me anyways.

Overall, this was a fun, easy read with a sweet FMC I adored, but it just didn’t quite hit all the marks for me.

This book was the perfect sapphic read! Michelle and Aubrey were the most exquisite match and I devoured this book in a day. I absolutely adored the university setting and the struggles that Michelle dealt with from her ex wife. It was really great to see the age gap done so well, and Audrey being super confident and sure of herself whereas the older protagonist Michelle being the one with insecurities and baggage. It was refreshing . The ceramic scene where Audrey was teaching Michelle to make a bowl!!!! It was like a sapphic version of ghost! Incredibly hot.

Slow burn sapphics with spice? In a university setting? With an age gap but in a non-creepy way? And with good communication?
This book really has everything.

I'm back trying to read a non-fantasy romance. Previous times, it hadn't worked but the synopsis of Learning Curves sounded too good not to try. And I wanted to try this author, since she writes a lot of sapphic books.
I have to admit that I didn't expect too much. And maybe that's why I loved this book so much. I was hooked from the first page, and it was probably my quickest read in months.

Learning Curves is a story of Audrey, a 30-year-old new professor at her old university, and Michelle, Audrey's 15-year-older ex-professor who she used to admire (and had a crush on).
But when they met again, Michelle doesn't seem like the bright lecturer that inspired Audrey to pursue teaching. Michelle is grumpy and sometimes even rude to her coworkers, while also being indifferent to her students. But that doesn't discourage the younger woman who just wants to become her friend. And well, they become so much more.

I love a good slow burn, and here it really is slow (their first kiss is around 50% of the book). There's a lot of tension and yearning, but also great dialogue. I could really feel the chemistry between these two women. And when they finally got together, wow. Just wow. There are quite a few sex scenes, and they're really well written and non-repetitive.
What's important to me is good communication between the characters. I hate where the only obstacle in the romance is miscommunication or secrets. And here they talk a lot. And sure, Michelle has some secrets about her reasons for treating Audrey the way she did at the beginning, but then she gets over it and doesn't let this affect their relationship. And Audrey talks about everything, making this one of the healthiest relationships I've ever read. The main obstacles aren't the characters and it's quite refreshing.

For me, it was a perfect fall romance. Not too long, with well-developed characters that weren't afraid to say what's bothering them. (There could be a little more from the background characters, especially Mercy).
And there's a whole "women in art" subplot which I loved.

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
A beautifully written sapphic romance. I love the dynamic between Michelle and Audrey with the student-teacher history. You see so much growth between the two of them, Michelle figuring out life in her mid-40s and Audrey figuring out life as a new professor. I honestly couldn't stop reading this book, it was so well written and kept me gripped the whole time. I didn't want it to end!! I truly loved the two characters and all of their interactions.

I liked the characters (and not only because I share my name with one of them!), they were both interesting and passionate about what they're teaching.
Women in art is always an interesting subject!
I liked having both points of view; Michelle was the grumpy one and Audrey the sunshine (even though it evolves).
The age gap (~10) was not problematic; they are both teachers (Michelle has been for more years than Audrey).
Audrey is 30 and used to be Michelle's student. Nothing happened before, just a crush on Audrey's part! But now, some years later: it's mutual and none of them realised it at first.
And even now that they are at the same level, Michelle thinks it's wrong to fancy a coworker.
I'm not going to tell you all that happened but:
I appreciated how they managed to communicate and resolve their issues.
The intimate scenes were pleasant and hot to read!
and also: no third act breakup!!

The author did some research on women in arts and it shows! It was interesting to learn some stuff!!

Some parts of Learning Curves really worked for me. The main positive was the academic setting - I loved reading about art and art history teaching. I also appreciated Michelle's storyline of figuring out exactly what she wants to do.

On the flip side, the writing style wasn't my favorite and felt that the forbidden nature of Audrey and Michelle's relationship was resolved too quickly.

I'd be interested in reading future Rachel Lacey work depending on the plot!

Another gem from Rachel Lacey! Grab a seat in the classroom and watch this sweet former student-professor story unfold. A glorious workplace, grumpy-sunshine, age gap that’ll have you swooning!

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Former art history student Audrey returns to her Alma Mater as a young professor. Working alongside her college crush, the gorgeous Dr. Thompson, is a dream come true. The British art historian isn’t the intriguing and passionate woman she remembers though…

I don’t know how she does it but Rachel Lacey makes me fall for her characters within the first two chapters. Their inner monologue gives such depth to them and makes them so very flawed and human, you instantly want to invite them over for dinner to get to know them more and more.

Michelle might be a closed off grump on the outside, she immediately reveals her soft insides to us as readers. She has resorted to living like a stoic recluse after her divorce, having opinions about everything but no one to ever ask for them. Bitter and resentful she is stuck in her life.

Audrey is relatable from the start. Beginning a new job, becoming peers with the people that trained you. You can just see her walk into the first team meeting:

‘Audrey checked in with her face, making sure she wore an open, friendly smile, because these people were forming critical first impressions of her right now.’

The historical and often forgotten female artists are an important side character throughout the story. Both Michelle and Audrey are passionate about their importance and influence within art history. It made me want to visit exhibits with their work and revel in their brilliance myself.

I love the way that Audrey, as an idealistic and bright eyed young professor, sweeps Michelle off her feet. She literally breathes new life into her and into the slumbering art department. Audrey reminds Michelle of why life should be a joy and that sometimes you might need an unexpected impulse to remind yourself of that. After a little grumbling she actually goes along willingly.

Lacey turns up the thermostat as soon as Audrey and Michelle succumb to their attraction. What I love most about that is that it is another opportunity to grow the connection between these characters and Lacey utilizes every moment. After such a scene you will not only fan yourself but you’ll have fallen for them even more with each page too.

Every new book Lacey publishes is a serious contender to be my favorite. Her characters are multi layered and feel like friends at the end of the book. I just can’t choose anymore! Learning Curves definitely belongs on that list. The cliche is absolutely true: pick up a Rachel Lacey story and you can’t go wrong! So, why not start with this one?

Learning Curves follows Audrey as she starts her dream job as a professor at her alma mater. There, she runs into her favorite professor and first female crush, Michelle. Michelle has lost the passion she used to have for teaching, especially when she learns that Audrey is teaching the class she has always wanted. Now forced to work in the same place, will something more brew between these two professors?

I have been a Rachel Lacey fan for a few years now and I think Learning Curves may be my favorite of hers so far. The academic setting she creates in this Vermont town was so cozy, and I loved it as the backdrop for Audrey and Michelle to fall for each other. Audrey brought out the best in Michelle, bringing passion pack into her life after her divorce. Their dynamic made sense, which can sometimes be difficult with age gap romances like this. If you are looking for a fall-vibe sapphic romance, I would recommend checking this one out!

Another endearing sapphic love story from Lacey. The wide eyed and bubbly Audrey is a perfect foil for the disillusioned Michelle as they grow together as colleagues, friends, and eventually lovers. I love the message that it's never too late to go for what you want and/or try something new which is laid out both in the career and personal lives of the characters.

Getting to read ARCs of Rachel Lacey's books is a gift, and one that I'm incredibly grateful for. She's definitely become one of my must-read authors!

Learning Curves is no exception to my love of her books, and I've got a physical copy pre-ordered as well so that I can have a copy on my bookshelves. It definitely deserves a spot there!

I loved the academic setting of the book, especially with it being set within the art department. This is not an area that I am particularly familiar with, so I definitely liked that there were mentions of real artworks that I could look up. It added a nice layer of realism, plus I got to learn something to boot.

But of course the main draw is the characters. Dr Michelle Thompson was probably my favourite of the two, and I loved learning more about her - both the woman she was during the novel but also the one that Audrey had known during her student years. It was rough at times to see how much life had worn her down in the intervening years. But I could understand so easily what made Michelle who she was. I hated that lingering effects of her ex-wife's behaviour on her. Also that Halloween costume?! I adored that! Actually the whole Halloween party scene was one that really touched me - especially the interaction between Audrey and Kayley. I found myself tearing up at that because I related a lot to Kayley.

Audrey drew me in a little less, but that isn't to say I didn't love her too. It was fun to see her rejoining her place of study as a member of the faculty. I did feel for her though as she struggled with reconciling the Dr Thompson she'd been taught by to the woman she was working with. Audrey's passion for her subject really came through though. Oh and how can I not mention the pottery scene? That was such a moment in the book and I would love to see that bought to life on screen.

I do love an age-gap romance, and I was a little bit sceptical at first about how I would find this one given that it was a lecturer and her former student but actually it really worked for me. I don't think I could do lecturer and current student though!

This is one of those books that I easily lost myself in, and I couldn't help but fall in love with the world created. If I could study at Northshire, I would in a heartbeat. I'd love to read more books set here - especially if it meant seeing Audrey and Michelle again!

Cozy fall grumpy/sunshine perfection.

I loved Audrey and Michelle immediately. I’ve always had a soft spot for hurt grumps and sunshine humans so these two burrowed straight into my heart.

Fall in Vermont was like its own character, adding to the cozy feelings, and warm burn of tension between the two MCs.

Every character leapt off the page, every moment between stoic, broken, Michelle and bubbly, eager, and passionate Audrey vibrated with emotion and possibility.

I fell in love with these two as they fell for each other. But I also feel in love with women in art, afternoon tea, pottery wheels, aloof cats, and with taking a chance on love.

What you’ll get:
•Sapphic Romance
•Tenure Professor/New Professor
•Workplace romance
•Age gap
•Grumpy/Sunshine
•Fall in Vermont
•Pinning
•Animosity (one sided) to Friends to Lovers
•Lesbian and Bi Rep.
•Tea and ceramics as love languages

“Resisting you was the hard part. Being with you has been one of the easiest things I’ve ever done.”

Thank you to Montlake & NetGalley for an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.

OMGGGGG, this book yall!! I loved Audrey and Michelle so much, they were so perfectly suited for each other. The way Audrey plowed through Michelle’s walls, to bring her out of her shell. The way they communicated so perfectly with each other, and always talked through every single one of their feelings was so refreshing. Their age gap hit perfectly, especially with the added plus of Audrey pining for Michelle for years. And they were spicyyyy as hell, seriously these two were so freaking hot together! And don’t even get me started on the perfect fall setting in Vermont, it was just chefs kiss. And I would be remiss if I didn’t include how much I loved the inclusivity and LBTQ+ representation in this story, it was heartwarming to see!

Seriously, I cannot rave about this one enough, and if you’re looking for a cozy, spicy, and romantic read you have to pick this one up!! This is definitely one I will be rereading so I can hang out with Audrey and Michelle again!

Tropes:
🧡Sapphic Romance
❤️Academic setting
🍁Age gap
🍂No miscommunication
🤍Forced proximity