This was so good! I am always on the lookout for a good sapphic romance and this one was pretty near perfect in my opinion. Definitely one of the best that I've read.

I loved the setup: new professor ends up working alongside her former professor/advisor (and former crush) ten years later only to discover her changed and beaten-down and determines to befriend her. Cue sparks. And it absolutely delivered on everything that premise promised. Even some hot student-teacher roleplay.

Do I love a student-teacher romance? Yes. This is adjacent to it -- close enough, but without the problematic parts.

I always love a good academia romance as well, and it's even better that these are art professors. And yes, the Ghost-inspired ceramics scene was hot.

*Thanks to Montlake for providing an early copy for review.

4.5⭐️

An excellent age-gap academia romance. It brings the trope of being hot for teacher/professor and carries it forward as Dr. Audrey Lind returns to her alma mater 12 years after her original arrival as a new professor in the art history department. Her reintroduction to her former mentor, career inpiration, advisor, and bisexual awakening, Dr. Michelle Thompson, however, does not go particularly well.

Audrey is not deterred. She makes it her mission to make Michelle her friend. Michelle, has become a bit of a pariah in the department since her marriage turned south, and her subsequent divorce. The way she's allowed that to permeate other areas of her life become an integral point in the interplay between them.

One of the things that I really appreciated about their exploration of their blossoming romance was Michelle's refusal to be someone who could even be seen as someone who was using her position of greater power over Audrey to her advantage, as is so common in so many places, especially with men in positions over women.

The excellent communication was also a huge positive point for me. The they made a point to make such clear, upfront communication such a paramount part of their choice to try to be together was beautiful.

The use of real world artists and artwork throughout the book, with one exception, was wonderful and leaves the reader with so much more to explore and learn in such a space that is not nearly taught to us enough. I am so thankful that Rachel did so much research into women artists and has provided some stepping off points.

Learning Curves was a book I was really excited about, but I ended up really struggling to get through it. Despite usually being my type of book, it didn't catch my attention the wayI wanted to.

Sadly, I struggle through it. It felt really slow to me (and I usually enjoy a good slow burn) but there was nothing that really kept me hooked, and it ended up being the kind of books that took me forever to read, being able to read only a few chapters at the time without wanting to put down the book.

I guess this one wasn't for me. I might try another book by Rachel Lacey, to see if it was just this book, or if she might just not be for me.

Rachel Lacey’s Learning Curves is a warm, heartfelt, and undeniably charming sapphic romance that beautifully explores connection, personal growth, and the surprising ways love can take root. At its core, the story follows two women whose paths cross first as student and professor, and later again when both are professors themselves. That initial spark, though seemingly fleeting, lingers across the years, setting the stage for a romance that is as thoughtful as it is swoon-worthy.

What makes this novel shine is the genuine chemistry between the leads. Their relationship develops naturally, moving from professional respect to friendship and ultimately into something far deeper. Lacey takes care to give their bond room to grow, showing how past experiences shape their present selves and how vulnerability becomes the bridge between them. The progression never feels rushed; instead, it unfolds with tenderness and authenticity, making the reader truly root for their happily-ever-after.

The characters themselves are compelling, each bringing her own strengths, insecurities, and hard-won lessons to the relationship. Lacey highlights not only the romantic tension but also the individual journeys of self-discovery. The story balances playful banter and flirty exchanges with thoughtful reflections on identity, ambition, and the courage it takes to embrace love when it presents itself.

Beyond the romance, Learning Curves celebrates growth—both professional and personal. Watching the characters evolve from their first meeting into who they’ve become later in life adds a richness to the story, underscoring how people change but connections can remain. It’s a narrative that resonates not only as a love story but also as a celebration of second chances and timing.

Overall, Learning Curves is a delightful sapphic romance filled with heart, wit, and emotional depth. Rachel Lacey has crafted a story that feels both deeply relatable and joyfully romantic, striking the perfect balance between heartfelt character development and the kind of chemistry that makes readers swoon. It’s a must-read for fans of queer romance who love a mix of warmth, humor, and genuine emotional payoff.

3/5 stars: This is Lacey's 2SLGBTQIA+ Steamy Romance stand-alone set in Vermont which follows a new assistant professor and the grumpy jaded British art history professor she crushed on as an undergraduate who find themselves having to suppress their growing smoldering attraction. But a wine-filled night at the pottery wheel puts their romantic truce to the test. Will they keep things on the tenure track or risk it all for love? Written in dual POV with heart and humor, Lacey's writing and character work are well done; the characters are well-rounded, complex and yet remain likable. Audrey and Michelle are great and I really appreciate seeing the two of them deal with their personal issues so that they can get their HEA together. Additionally, I really enjoyed the cast of diverse characters. I also appreciated all the pottery / art / art history discussions. This age gap (30/45) workplace romance is great, with plenty of banter and OPS scenes that are incredibly steamy.

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Montlake in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

Unfortunately I DNF'ed this one almost immediately. The writing was just not working which I found weird since I've always loved this author's books.

Delightful. Dr. Audrey Lind is thrilled to get hired back at her undergrad college as professor. She only has a one year contract but of course is hoping the position will become permanent with a tenure track. The professor who inspired her art and interest in academia is now tenured and still teaching in her mid 40s. Dr. Michelle Thompson doesn’t have the spark she once did. Her divorce has made her shy of relationships and her career has been stalling. The last straw for her is that Audrey has been hired to teach a class on women artists that she has been pitching and been denied for years.

Off to a brusk start Audrey makes it her mission to befriend Michelle. They work in the same department and have offices across from one another. While others see Michelle as guarded and unfriendly, Audrey realizes it is her British reserve. These two are lovely as they become friends sipping tea in their afternoons. Of course it helps that Audrey once had a crush on her long ago professor.

This is sweet, warm and just feels good. There is no big drama or last minute break ups. As a bonus for me, I love art and am familiar with the female artists mentioned in the book. The age gap is big but not in the ick zone. And it has the hottest pottery wheel scene since the movie Ghost. I liked their maturity and willingness to talk through issues. And the cover is perfect for this lovely story.

This was such a fun, spicy read - with perfect autumnal vibes for the coming season.

I loved the University setting and the grumpy x sunshine / black cat x Labrador trope was done so well!

Audrey is returning to the University where she was once a student to be a professor. It’s her dream job, the only issue is it’s temporary for a year so she needs to work her hardest to prove she belongs to stay. She’s working alongside the professor she once had a crush on - but Michelle doesn’t seem to be the charismatic and inspiring woman she remembers.

Michelle has lost her spark - she no longer loves teaching and just seems to be going through the motions. She’s struggling after her divorce and the fact her ex wife was pretty terrible. Sworn off relationships and pretty well established as a ‘hermit’ - everyone at the University sees her as unapproachable. That is until Audrey comes back into her life!

Audrey and Michelle has such good tension. That pottery scene!! I really liked their relationship - the way that Michelle inspired Audrey to be a professor when she was a student. And then when she joined as her colleague, Audrey inspired Michelle. They just worked so well together and inspired each other. So cute!

Overall a spicy sapphic read perfect for the autumn season.

ARC copy provided by Montlake & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.75 stars, rounded up to 4.

I enjoyed this one overall. I loved the primary romance and several scenes were quite romantic. But it was a bit more of a slow-burn than I usually like. I’d still recommend to someone who’s like for a good sapphic romance though.

Audrey is returning to her alma mater to teach ceramics and Women in Art, and is surprised to find that her new office is across from a professor whom she adored while she was a student there. And may have also had a big crush on.

I really enjoyed this sapphic, age-gap, "hot-for-teacher" vibes romance. I thought that Audrey's sunshine balanced out Michelle's grumpy and it was easy to see them becoming friends then lovers. I liked the art aspect of the story, especially how passionate both Audrey and Michelle were about lifting up women in the arts. And can we talk about *that* ceramics scene? Talk about steamy tension!
It was frustrating that Michelle continued to bring up her ex-wife throughout the entire book. I know her divorce was recent but it was discouraging that she continued to think about her and talk about her like she was still fixated on her and not the relationship. Audrey was a very supportive listener and deserves all the praise for being open about it all.

~Thank you to Montlake and Rachel Lacey for this ARC. All opinions are my own~

Audrey is starting a new job as an professor at her alma mater, and she is working alongside her favorite teacher (who she used to have a huge crush on!). Michelle has been teaching art history for years, and she is grumpy toward everyone. Audrey is shocked to see that Michelle is no longer the excited, enthusiastic teacher that she once was. As they work together, they become friends, but feelings are simmering for both of them.

Michelle is worried about their age gap, and she is concerned that Audrey was a former student. Audrey is 30, and Michelle is 45. Michelle is also getting over her divorce and working through the pain caused by her ex wife. Audrey and Michelle were so amazing together, and I loved their slow burn.

The setting of Vermont in the fall made this a perfect first read for the month of September.

It's a slow burn, but it gets spicy! I liked the slow burn nature of their relationship because they are colleagues.
I liked learning about women in art history and about pottery. There is a scene with a pottery wheel that is so amazing! There's also no third act breakup.

This was such a great autumn read! The vibes were immaculate. The imagery and descriptions were so immersive, like the apple tea and the way the car smelled. Sometimes the dialogue a little chunky though. Also, I know they were both adults and both women, but their relationship and communication was almost too healthy that it felt like story actually took place within Audrey's fantasy. I did think the college crush on her professor fantasy was fun, but there were about 10 too many mentions of the word 'fantasy.’

Now back to the things I did like! I really appreciated the message that it is important and okay to actually enjoy your life instead of just making money until you die. Preach!!! And I how much character growth Michelle had and how much she still learned about herself in her forties.

I also really enjoyed the art history facts! There was a lot of cool information tied in that didn't feel boring at all. I felt like I was actually learning from the characters rather than the author, which shows truly good writing.

This was a wonderful way to start my autumn reading!

Steam Level: 2.5/5 Explicit Open Door

Audrey Lind is the fresh-faced professor at Northshire University in Vermont. She will be teaching ceramics and “Women in Art” classes. She is excited to learn that not only is the attractive professor she had a crush on when she attended NU still teaching there, but her office is directly across from hers. She is disappointed to find out that Dr. Thompson has lost the spark that led Audrey to academics.

Michelle Thompson is a tenured professor at Northshire University. For years, she has tried to get approved to teach a “Women in Art” class, but was always turned down. Over time, the job has worn her down, and she no longer feels the same passion for teaching as she did. Then Audrey comes in and starts teaching a class she wanted. This only makes her more bitter. Will Dr. Thompson warm up to her former student that she was a mentor to?

I received this book from the Author and NetGalley for my honest review. To begin, I will eat anything up written by Rachel Lacey. She is one of those authors who is so detailed in her writing that it sucks me in and I have been reading for hours without even realizing it. She got me again with Learning Curves. I love art history. It is very fascinating to me. Both characters teach different types of art history. The author did her research and it shows and it makes my heart swoon. I actually was looking up the artists being talked about by the characters and the pieces referenced so I could follow along with what they were talking about. Because of this, it took me longer to get through the book, lol. Not complaining.

For me, I like the play on the student teacher relationship. Instead of a possible relationship happening while Audrey is a student, even though she was hot for teacher. There was no possibility of anything happening until 10 years later when Audrey, herself, is a professor. Another thing I like about this book is the dual perspective in the same chapter so you’re getting different PoVs during the same time with it not being distracting. There is also a subtle message in this book. It’s never too late to do what you want / love. This doesn’t have anything to do with the possible relationship between Audrey and Dr. Thompson. You’ll have to read it to find out 😉

✏️ Professor / Former Student
📒 Grumpy / Sunshine
✏️ College Setting
📒 Age Gap
✏️ Slow Burn
📒 Art History
✏️ Women in Art
📒 Low Angst

This took me a moment to really get into but once the relationship between Audrey and Michelle started to be explored a bit more I found myself swept away in their story. I thought the slow burn of their relationship was well explored and the road bumps that they experienced were handled with care and tenderness. I really loved the character development of Michelle in particular. Overall, a lovely read.

3.5⭐️ 3🌶️ 5🎧

This is such a sweet love story about two women professors, the challenges they face, and past wounds they heal. While a sweet story, for some reason it didn’t hit me in the feels like I like my books too. They were both pinning for each for most of the book, but I didn’t feel chemistry like I had hoped I would in the early pages. I didn’t feel the chemistry until about 50% during the pottery lesson, and then it was only ever there when they were intimate. This book is written in 3rd person POV, maybe that is the reason…🤷🏼‍♀️

Audrey had Michelle as a professor when she was getting her education degree and had a crush on her while she was in her class. Michelle was married at the time and Audrey looked up to her as a lesbian woman in education. Now that Audrey is a professor and colleague of Michelle, who is newly divorced, they become friends trying to bring change to the University. Michelle has a lot of wounds to heal from her toxic marriage, and I loved how Audrey was supportive of her healing.

Thank you NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review, I enjoyed the read, but I don’t see myself re-reading or pushing others to read asap.

I also listened to this book, narrated by Quinn Riley, through Read & Listen on Kindle Unlimited. Quinn did a great job switching between characters, I never questioned whose perspective I was listening to. I would recommend the audiobook over the eBook, it made a big difference on how much I enjoyed this story.

2.5 stars, rounded down
——————

What a let down.

I love age gap, slightly forbidden romances but this one just did not work for me. It’s not inherently bad in any way but it also wasn’t great. The plot was pretty standard, nothing really special about it. Young student with forbidden crush gets a chance with crush. We follow Audrey and Michelle, former student and professor and now colleagues in their slow burn romance. This is a SLOW burn. There is a good buildup to the romance overall timeline wise, but it just felt sort of stilted and awkward, maybe even out of character for Michelle. The characters in general were pretty one dimensional. Even the side characters didn’t add much. It focuses heavily on Michelle and Audrey so anyone else is lost. The way the POV is split was also a little confusing, shifting mid chapter.

I was pretty bored throughout and forcing myself to finish this one.

I really enjoyed this book. It took a while to warm up to the story but once it got going I was invested. I love characters that have contrast and can go deep. It was a sweet romance that was solid and satisfying. It was a hard book to put down. Definitely recommend others check it out.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc

“Smart, sexy, and unforgettable—Audrey and Michelle will steal your heart.”

If you love slow-burns with depth, sharp yet tender dialogue, and characters you can’t help but fall for, Learning Curves is absolutely for you! 

Audrey is a sunshiney, talented potter who’s just landed her dream job as an art professor at her beloved Vermont alma mater. She’s all warmth, optimism, and wide-open belief in love, laughter, and possibilities. Waiting there is Michelle—her brilliant, inspiring, very British former professor/mentor, and Audrey’s first mega crush. Only now, Michelle is burnt out, guarded, and convinced her best days are behind her. 

With the age gap, professor/former student, and new-professor/tenured-professor dynamics, this could’ve gone messy. But, instead, Rachel Lacey insightfully handles it with nuance, respect, and emotional intelligence: no contrived miscommunication, no eye-rolly third-act breakup. The real magic is Michelle and Audrey learning to truly see, trust, and love each other—and it’s beautiful.

Their relationship unfolds like spring breaking through after a long winter. Audrey’s light coaxes Michelle from her shadows, showing her that she deserves happiness and love; Michelle’s unlocked passion ignites thrilling new colors in Audrey’s world.

Their romance is a perfect mix of beyond steamy (not just from the tea) and heartfelt, with playful (yes, think Ghost ;-) ) and profound moments. Every kiss, every touch stemming from their deepening connection, makes this love story feel sexy, authentic, and deeply satisfying.

I closed this book with a huge smile, so happy for these two, and knowing Audrey and Michelle will stick with me for a long time.

Oh—and keep an eye out for some fun Easter eggs tucked in along the way.

Thank you, @RachelLacey, for sending me an advance copy of her book. However, the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

#LearningCurves, #RachelLacey, #books, #BookReview, #bookstagram, #sapphicbook, #SapphicBookReview, #NetGalley, #Montlake, #LGBTQbooks, #SapphicRomance, #Vermont, #WLWlovestories, #SapphicFiction, #wlwLoveStories, #QueerRomance, #SappphicFiction, #LisaB_ReviewsBooks, #ARC

Learning Curves by Rachel Lacey is just as fun and exciting as her previous titles.
I thought the writing was fantastic and very engaging. There are a lot of swoon worthy moments that certainly will have your heart skipping a beat. Throughly enjoyed this one!
Such a great story that I couldn't put down.

Thank You NetGalley and Montlake for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

I cannot think of a book I've read recently that has made me 1. smile so much, and 2. want to go back to reading the story instead of enjoying whatever else I am doing at the time. Learning Curves is an age-gap romance where, in my opinion, the age-difference was expressed and discussed with logic and care.

I absolutely loved the main characters of Michelle and Audrey. Their confidence and competence in the academic and art world is amazing. The chemistry between the two is palpable. I found myself rooting for them early on, and was glad that there was a balance of tension, passion, and humor.

This isn't my first Rachel Lacey book, and it certainly won't be my last.

Thank you to the author for letting me be a part of her review team in exchange for my honest review.