The 7-10 Split

The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee was such a vibe. This is the kind of Black sapphic romance that just slides right into your weekend and makes you feel good for the rest of the day.

Ava snatched my attention immediately because tell me why she is a teacher, queer, stressed, and still trying to have a cute little hobby like bowling. That is so real. Grace comes in with that energy that makes you squint a little like girl, what exactly is your problem with me because I feel some tension in the air. They have that light enemies to lovers spark, the kind where nobody actually hates anybody, they’re just pretending they do because the chemistry is already loud.

The whole setup is adorable. Two former friends turned rivals turned accidental co-coaches for their old high school bowling team. The small town is cozy. The queer representation feels natural. And the way Karmen writes their connection had me smiling at my screen like a fool.

Ava and Grace learning to work together is really what made the story shine. They’re messy in the cutest way, a little stubborn, a little competitive, and very into each other without wanting to admit it at first. And once the feelings start unfolding, it’s sweet, it’s playful, and it has just enough spice to keep the pages warm without turning the whole thing into a burn book.

The romance feels like watching two Black girls finally circle back to each other after years of trying to pretend the tension wasn’t there. Their banter is cute. Their growth is cute. Their chemistry is cute. And the bowling plot? Baby, it works. It really does. It adds charm without ever feeling gimmicky.

What I loved most is the queer norm vibes. The town is chill, the characters are comfortable in themselves, and nobody is dealing with trauma just for the sake of the plot. It’s just two women falling in love in a place that already feels like home.

It’s a quick read but it leaves you full. The energy is warm and funny and soft in all the right places. If you like Black sapphic romance with a dash of tension, a sprinkle of competition, a cute friend to rival to lover arc, and some light spice to season the story, The 7-10 Split is absolutely worth the read.

Karmen Lee gave us a story that feels joyful, queer affirming, and easy to fall into. I’m rooting for Ava and Grace like they are real people at this point. And honestly, I’m ready for book two.