Love has a way of derailing the best of plans. Wynter Thompson, divorced with a young child, struggles to balance the demands of her surgical residency with the responsibilities of motherhood—and between the two, discovers there is little time left for anything else. She manages to convince herself that she has everything she needs, because another chance at love is definitely not in her game plan. Pearce Rifkin is a woman with a plan, and it doesn’t include a serious relationship. Chief Surgical Resident is just a stepping stone to her lifelong goal—chairmanship at one of the top ten medical centers. Determined to follow in her father’s footsteps, even though she isn’t the son he dreamed of, Pearce has no time for romance. Two women with nothing in common but a shared passion for surgery clash at every opportunity, especially when matters of the heart are suddenly at stake.
Radclyffe has written over forty-five romance and romantic intrigue novels, dozens of short stories, and, writing as L.L. Raand, has authored a paranormal romance series, The Midnight Hunters. She has also edited Best Lesbian Romance 2009 through 2015 as well as multiple other anthologies. She is an eight-time Lambda Literary Award finalist in romance, mystery, and erotica—winning in both romance and erotica. A member of the Saints and Sinners Literary Hall of Fame, she is also an RWA Prism, Lories, Beanpot, Aspen Gold, and Laurel Wreath winner in multiple mainstream romance categories. In 2014, she received the Dr. James Duggins Outstanding Mid-Career Novelist award from the Lambda Literary Foundation. In 2004, she founded Bold Strokes Books, an independent LGBTQ publishing company, and in 2013, she founded the Flax Mill Creek Writers Retreat offering writing workshops to authors in all stages of their careers.
She states, “I began reading lesbian fiction at the age of twelve when I found a copy of Ann Bannon’s Beebo Brinker. That book and others like it convinced me that I was not alone, that there were other women who felt like I did. Our literature provides support and validation and very often, a lifeline, for members of our community throughout the world. I am proud and honored to be able to publish the many fine authors at Bold Strokes Books and to contribute in some small way to the words that celebrate the LGBTQ experience.”
Radclyffe lives with her partner, Lee, in New York state.
Several reviewers have noted that this may be one of Radclyffe's best books. That is certainly my opinion. Radclyffe is at her best when writing characters who are responsible for the lives of others. In this book, they are both surgery residents, and I found their story compelling. I will be reading this one again.
I enjoyed reading this book. I must say I always enjoy reading Radclyffe’s work. She has a way to draw me into a story from the beginning. I love the way she always creates a slow build romance. For me she never rushes things and therefor makes the love story more realistic and special. She takes the time, so you can to get to know the characters, their feelings and emotions.
After reading some of Radclyffe’s books you will notice that the medical world is a setting she uses in a lot of her books. I think she nails this, because in my opinion she knows how to introduce us into a world of surgeon’s and hospitals without using boring or unexplained medical terms. You don’t have to be a doctor to get the content. She creates an exciting and interesting setting that provides a nice background for a romance to evolve.
(some spoilers coming up) In this case the book is about two surgeons in training (Pearce and Wynter). It’s about two women who meet randomly. They spent an evening together, because of weird circumstances and clumsy behavior. That night they share and “almost” kiss. They immediately connect, there is a vibe between them that has a promise of much more, if only they would have a chance to see each other again. Well, life takes them both on their own paths and keeps them apart for four years. New circumstances bring them back together again. And from the instance they meet (again) you know that the spark has never left. That’s what I loved about this story. The fact that two people have only met once for maybe 2 hours, but that was enough to ignite a spark between them that didn’t disappear even after 4 years. I call that a once in a lifetime connection, and a great fact to base a great love story upon.
All by all, this is a very nice romance story. Couldn’t find anything wrong with it (not that I was searching for flaws) But the problem with this book is, Radclyffe keeps writing the same story. Okay, not exactly the same, but they feel the same. The whole medical setting, the butch/femme pairings it’s becoming very predictable. But that doesn’t change the fact that this formula works. At least for me. Yeah, I know what to expect when I open the first page and it feels the same as her other medical books. But I enjoy them every time. And that’s because she nails it every time, because her books always guarantee: Likable characters, a nice slow build romance, sensual and hot sex scenes and a high quality writing style. So basically the formula is the same, but this ensures you that it’s worth your time, every time you pick up a book that’s been written by Radclyffe.
My rating is 3.5 start rounded up to 4 stars. If the story would have been more original, I would have given it 5 stars. But If I’m honest, I have to say that even though it was a great book, it wasn’t her best. Books like” Passion's Bright Fury and Fated Love” where even more appealing, and therefor 5 star books for me.
Radclyffe class - books like this tell me why she is the best. Superbly real characters who live in the real world - in this case a hospital. Brilliant 2nd time round.
I’ve bought, and liked, nearly all of Radclyffe’s audiobooks. I’m not sure if it’s this book, the timing for me, or my disappointment with several of my recent books, but at this moment I feel that this is the best Radclyffe book I’ve experienced. I’m not really sure if I’ll re-listen to it, which is my normal criteria for 5*….but I’m rating “Turn Back Time” as 5* with no reservations.
Wynter and Pearce are both sympathetic and likeable women. While much of the book is formulaic Radclyffe, it just felt less contrived somehow….more realistic.
Haha…I do have to say, though, that even this book makes me wonder whether Radclyffe is really lesbian, or is actually a gay male writing lesbian books. I mean really, her women are so one-night-stand ready to orgasm at a wink, a touch, or thought….alone, in a shower, in a bar…anywhere at anytime with a friend, a stranger...anyone! Second date U-Haul stereotypes? Hah! Her gals eschew relationships more than any gay guy I’ve ever met!!!
Ok….rolling eyes rant over…this is a very likeable book about two very likeable women. Sure, it’s got some “am I straight?” and “but…I don’t do relationships” and “my family doesn't support me” memes….but it’s much more realistic than most books recycling these themes, and you’ll REALLY root for an HEA with Wynter and Pearce!
If you’re bored by Radclyffe but haven’t tried this book…get it! If you have never tried Radclyffe (really?!)….this is my favorite…get it! If you’ve never listened to Nicole Valencia as a narrator…get it!
re-read almost 10 years later and could not really get past the first chapter. Not sure what I read the first time 😅 - Just because you're a doctor doesn't mean you use the word henatoma for a bruised lip - jsut because you're a doctor doesn't mean you use the work labial artery when referring to a bleeding lip
it just felt a bit ridiculous really...
****
I LOVED it. It had all I look for in a romance novel:
- characters I could fall in love with, beautifully flawed, smart and strong - a relationship that grows slowly, at a realistic pace, yet a love that is very true and unstoppable - believable, witty dialogues - nice supporting characters who are there for a purpose - incredibly arousing yet romantic sex scenes - enough angst, jealousy and pain that keep you interested - a happy ending
Not just a toaster oven, a chrome-plated toaster oven.
I enjoyed listening to this Radclyffe classic. She took the time to develops solid leads in Wynter and Pearce and built a story with a lot of depth thanks to strong secondary characters and her vast knowledge of the inner workings of large hospitals.
There were times when the telling of life as a resident overwhelmed the showing of a surgeon's life. Also Wynter was too good to be true. Almost a caricature of the clueless hetero woman discovering her attraction to the lesbian Chief Resident with a reputation for being a player.
In the end, what saves the book is the growth seen in said play girl, Pearce. It was a pleasure to watch her learn to trust and to care for one woman. Her relationship with Wynter develops slowly and pushes all of the doubts, loneliness and isolation felt by Pearce into the past.
A great medical romance book. Can’t stop reading. Starting is a bit slow but pace picked up soon after. Nonetheless, I enjoyed every scene/moments in the book. And I simply loved the scene at the concert, that one moment between Pearce and Wynter which kinda blew me away and put a smile on my face (not of her leaving the concert though).
I love the ebook and paperback so I tried the audiobook. God did Nicole Vilencia mess this one up. The voices were much to similar in sound, so I most of the time didn’t know who of the mc’s was talking. And the telling voice was also similar. The voice of Pearce was much to high. It should have been husky like the story said. So nope. Returned this audio and will stick to the ebook or paperback. The audio I give 2 stars.
I just liked the story. Not a masterpiece, but a fun read. Thought Winter was a cool character and loved the medical detail:) Right on point! I love well technically researched story and if that sucks, it detracts from my attention to it. So, having a valid medical base, the story flowed seamlessly:):):) 😊🐕
A Radclyffe novel from 2006. Wynter Thompson is divorced with a three year old when she transfers into a new surgical residency. Her divorce and getting her life settled after has put her behind six months but she is skilled and ready to work. Pearce Rifkin is the senior resident in surgery and takes Wynter under her wing introducing her to the hospital. Pearce is driven and her father is head of surgery as was her grandfather before him. There is instant connection between the two. Wynter has never felt drawn to anyone like she feels toward Pearce. Radclyffe brings her medical knowledge and the writing is first rate. There is a slow build in the attraction and I enjoyed the Femme/Butch dynamic. I also thought the pacing was well balanced. (Some more recently written books can spend half the book on just a day or two.) The story holds up well considering it was written 16 years ago. A very enjoyable medical romance.
“Turn Back Time” is my absolute favourite romance novel of all time, bar none! The love story between Pearce and Wynter is written in such a deeply personal manner, it resonates within my soul. It transcends love between two women. It’s a pure, unadulterated love story between two people. Period. The icing on the cake for me is that the story revolves around my favourite medical setting - in the ER and operating rooms - with surgical procedures, doctor's rounds, shifts, the canteen, the on-call room & everything trauma/surgeries!! BRILLIANT!
An all-consuming slow-burn romance that began from 2 strangers literally bumping into each other in a bar and sharing a brief but unforgettable connection in the bathroom…The end of the 1st chapter will leave you wanting to devour the rest of the book! So intense was their connection, even during their 1st encounter!
Radclyffe’s deft weaving of Pearce & Wynter’s journey was breathtakingly touching. Such genuinely realistic emotions expressed as both tried to figure their way toward their undeniable chemistry & connection with each other. Funny and sincere dialogue, including their own monologue, made their relationship building oh-so achingly addictive. Their growing desire & intense love for each other but not knowing how to approach it, i.e. Pearce’s increasingly all-consuming yearning for Wynter, Wynter’s eventual realisation about her true feelings for Pearce & how she approached Pearce was written with such personal conviction that it felt so raw, so real. Pearce & Wynter’s characters were created so realistically, I felt like a voyeur, peering into their lives, their struggles, their intense journey, through a window!
Rad’s incredible writing of this love story enthralled me to no end. I’ve read Pearce & Wynter’s story countless times already, yet, every time I re-visit it, I come away physically & emotionally sated, with my heart filled with love and joy! Every. Single. Time. The feeling is absolutely SUBLIME.
A resounding MUST-READ for all romance readers out there!
And when you’re done with it, you should really read its mini-sequel (a short, really), “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” to get an update on how Pearce & Wynter are faring after all these years. :) It’s a quick but very satisfying read at least for me bc, obviously, Wynter & Pearce are my ALL-TIME, FAVOURITE romantic couple! :D
Awesome author, awesome book. If you like Radclyffe you'll love this. It's a kind of discovery story with a very happy ending. It screams for a sequel. Would love to know the main characters future. Hint hint
I used to enjoy medical books a lot before I joined the medical department. Now, I feel like I would rather not read about it. But the way Radclyffe writes these medical women, I just never mind the clinical part because the drama is really good and the angst is yes.
I enjoyed the instant chemistry between Pearce and Wynter. That usually makes it easier for me to enjoy stories that are character-centered.
Well, this was the last of the medical series I read & it very much reminded me of Fated Love in the plot. It was really interesting at first but then halfway through I wasn't as interested. Nevertheless great read!
With Radclyffe's medical romances, you always get -
• Great medical cases • Strong FMCs • Amazing chemistry personally + professionally • Slow burn that sizzles from the start • Exciting events • Supportive friends /family • Swoon-worthy romance
Pearce and Wynter made quite an impression on each other when they first met. Five years later, when they meet again, the memory is still vivid, but some things have changed. As they both try to sort out their feelings while working alongside each other, they can't fight their attraction.
A slow-paced story that starts with an intense vibe between the main characters but doesn't get to anything physical but has an emotional effect on both. Due to their professional lives they meet again and from that point the undeniable chemistry between them can't be ignored longer.
The first chapters of the book focus more on their professional activities, giving a very realistic atmosphere to the story in general but with some subtle glimpses at the romance. I have to say that there comes a point when it can get a bit unnerving and sometimes boring if you want the story to focus especially on their relationship. Only after several chapters you are able to see that. However, there are some very heart-warming and sweet moments in the story related to the romance and its development.
One thing to point out is that if you don't enjoy reading about medical environment stories, this may not be the right one for you since most parts of the book were sorely related to the medicine topic. In fact, sometimes it was kind of detailed about the events. Obviously the terms and knowledge portrayed in the story is interesting and gives you a nice sense of realism, surely due to Ms. Radclyffe was a surgeon herself, which gave her the enough knowledge to depicted it all very well.
In regard to the sex/love scenes I think they were okay, nothing especial but still well done. And about the Epilogue, well, I think it would've been nice to have one.
All in all this was a nice reading with an enjoyable romance, not my favorite in the genre but still a book that deserves to be read, especially if you're into medical romance books.
First of all, the names (Pearce and Wynter) are pretty cool. Both of them are intense and care deeply for their work. There comes a time when you stop and take control of your life and live for yourself and not your parents. In addition to learning about medical terms and surgical procedures, I enjoyed the story of choices and decisions people make in their lives and most importantly, the why. I enjoyed the supportive friends and the little girl, they were both funny and really added to the story.
4.7 star rating Radclyffe is very good with her medical romances but this somehow took my admiration of her work in this genre up a notch. This was bery enjoyable and i had to wonder if all the good love stories just have to have a shocking and depressing bypath... Is life really like that? 🤔
I didn't realise Radclyffe is a retired surgeon, but it makes a lot of sense given the extensive medical terminology and lifestyle ingrained in these stories. Some excellent slow burn and legitimate character growth.
Perfect pace, perfect timing, perfect chemistry. I loved Pearce, how hard she tries to put some distance, and if I have to find a “but” it would be how much time Ronnie spends at Ken and Mina’s (poor kid might not recognize her mother ;] ). Everything felt real, their attraction, their connection and their love. A great book indeed!
A book about surgeons by a surgeon which brought a lot of authenticity to the story. And, I was definitely rooting for these characters all the way through the book. Both deserved every happiness. I liked the character development and thought each of the main character's problems and issues were well described.
The story is interesting. Hospital surgical residents who meet up after some part apart only to see that they have a connection after all. It was slow to build up to Wynter and Pearce to develop their feelings or get to a point where there might be something between them. Okay to read.
English is not my first, so apologize in advance for any grammar error.
This is the first book I read from the genre. My reaction is, wonderful couple. Sometimes it was hard to feeling the chemistry between the main character, because they usually just started to know each other. But Radclyffe said " No, you can feel it from the beginning.". Damn, the chemistry is undeniable and you found its hard to imagine any main character with other person because they really are felt match to each other.
As a person--a character, both are very likeable. An independent woman and very mature.
The couple is very amazing and story flow is good. It slow but never boring. It kind of rush at the last two chapter but still very good face overall.
The story set is a hospital as both mc are surgeon which most people would found very exciting to read, and yes its exciting and detailed as Radclyffe have medical career. Amazing couple with amazing set and a good flow. It's really worth your time, doesn't it?
I really enjoy reading this author and the way she brings out the intense feelings of the characters. I am so interested in this one as it is about the way things happen in a hospital setting with so much realistic knowledge of medical situations and then how the characters actually feel deep inside themselves when they are in situations. I felt myself as in the situation with the characters and really drawn into the story and so many times I couldn't put the book down. I was so hooked. I know she makes me feel so much for all the characters in the stories she writes and the surgical ones are fantastic. I recommend this book highly along with so many other books she writes. I am in to romance and she puts me in the mood to find some one special.
Liked the first half quite a bit. Liked the second half less; spent it frowning due to a specific moment of biphobia.
You know, I'd really start enjoying lesbian romances more if these lesbian characters in them stopped acting like sleeping with women who also enjoy sleeping with men was such a gross thing. It would also be pretty great is these lesbian characters stopped calling these women they perceive as bi "straight women".
Can we also just have more bi characters in these lesbian romances?