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Justice #1
Shield of Justice
Special Crimes Unit investigator Detective Sergeant Rebecca Frye is attempting to solve a series of sexual assaults and running into dead ends at every turn. Finally, she has a break in the case–a witness–one person who may help her bring a madman to justice. But, the witness is a victim herself and Rebecca must convince the injured woman's physician, Dr.Catherine Rawlings, to assist her–a task that will force both women to confront their own personal demons. Amidst professional conflicts and a growing mutual attraction, the two women become reluctant allies in the battle to stop the perpetrator before he strikes again.
216 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
48 people are currently reading
789 people want to read
About the author
Radclyffe
142 books1,667 followersRadclyffe 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
November 23, 2025
*** 3.33 ***
A "Law and Order SVU" episode with lesbian sex - exactly what Radcliffe is good at. Yes, it is very formulaic but we all know exactly what we get with her books and keep coming back for more. She is very good at what she does and you are never left dissatisfied.
A "Law and Order SVU" episode with lesbian sex - exactly what Radcliffe is good at. Yes, it is very formulaic but we all know exactly what we get with her books and keep coming back for more. She is very good at what she does and you are never left dissatisfied.
October 20, 2020
I really love Radclyffe’s books. She’s amazing and super talented. I loved LOVED the prequel of the series. It was brilliant. But I gotta be honest and say that I felt as if this book was written by a completely different author lol I don’t know... but I just didn’t enjoy it or like it as much. Even the characters felt meh... I don’t know. So many excellent reviews and I loved the previous book, which I think was the last one to be written but it’s meant to be read as the first one. I loved that one. Super good. But this one just felt like something was missing. Let’s see if the next one makes me feel differently.
January 16, 2019
This is another excellent Radclyffe book. I am so glad it's a series. I expect to tear through it, slowed only because a few of the books I am reading in paperback, which limits my reading place and time.
June 10, 2018
Well!
What can I say? Radclyffe has done it again. In my personal opinion and against other reviewers, I actually feel Radclyffe is getting even better. Her stories grip you in a good way, her characters are very realistic but most of all her descriptions of places and people are excellent. But then I like being able to imagine what I'm reading and Radclyffe does that really well. I loved this book and now I'm off to read the next one.
I don't just love the book but the series too.
What can I say? Radclyffe has done it again. In my personal opinion and against other reviewers, I actually feel Radclyffe is getting even better. Her stories grip you in a good way, her characters are very realistic but most of all her descriptions of places and people are excellent. But then I like being able to imagine what I'm reading and Radclyffe does that really well. I loved this book and now I'm off to read the next one.
I don't just love the book but the series too.
December 13, 2021
Another amazing storyline. I really enjoyed the police plot (Tw rape, incest), two strong female lead the story and as usual with Radclyffe, the chemistry is on point. 100% recommend. I will be continuing the Justice serie.
November 10, 2022
3 stars
A run-of-the-mill Radcliffe book.
Not groundbreaking in any way, but entertaining for about ninety minutes.
No rereads necessary.
But there is a sequel, so I'm going to read it
A run-of-the-mill Radcliffe book.
Not groundbreaking in any way, but entertaining for about ninety minutes.
No rereads necessary.
But there is a sequel, so I'm going to read it
December 21, 2023
Love this first book of the series, real heart-stopping stuff. Radclyffe at her best. Need to understand why part 2 didn’t work for me 5 years ago… This is highly recommended.
January 16, 2019
I jumped into this series with number 3. So decided to start again from the beginning. Love Radclyffe as usual.
February 4, 2017
I love Radclyffe. The woman knows her way around a good lesbian love scene. Very sexy. This book does not disappoint in that area. Where it does disappoint, a little bit, is in the story and in fleshing out the two mains.
Rebecca is a hard, tough, but caring police sergeant investigating sex crimes. (The description is different, but I still couldn't help picturing Olivia Benson from Law & Order SVU.) There's not enough background given for me to learn to accept her over-the-top bitchiness and inability to control her temper in multiple scenes. This woman is supposed to be a professional. A seasoned one who has made it through the ranks to sergeant.
Catherine, the doctor, is easier to like, but she's sort of the perfect woman. Beautiful, caring, smart, yadda yadda. No flaws.
The case is a standard. Rapist/murderer on the loose, who's escalating, and leaving victims, but very little clues behind. Nothing too graphic here, so there shouldn't be any triggers.
The book is short. Probably right around 200 pages. Not enough time to properly explore the killer's motives, Rebecca's anger issues, etc. The ending seem tacked on. A tiny bit of suspense, and then bam, tidy ending. There are more books in this series and I plan to read them, so it was an okay to good read. Just not a great one. Not on par with the Honor Series.
Rebecca is a hard, tough, but caring police sergeant investigating sex crimes. (The description is different, but I still couldn't help picturing Olivia Benson from Law & Order SVU.) There's not enough background given for me to learn to accept her over-the-top bitchiness and inability to control her temper in multiple scenes. This woman is supposed to be a professional. A seasoned one who has made it through the ranks to sergeant.
Catherine, the doctor, is easier to like, but she's sort of the perfect woman. Beautiful, caring, smart, yadda yadda. No flaws.
The case is a standard. Rapist/murderer on the loose, who's escalating, and leaving victims, but very little clues behind. Nothing too graphic here, so there shouldn't be any triggers.
The book is short. Probably right around 200 pages. Not enough time to properly explore the killer's motives, Rebecca's anger issues, etc. The ending seem tacked on. A tiny bit of suspense, and then bam, tidy ending. There are more books in this series and I plan to read them, so it was an okay to good read. Just not a great one. Not on par with the Honor Series.
October 21, 2021
In book one we meet Detective Sergeant Rebecca Frye and Dr. Catherine Rawlings. This is also where Frye is partnered with Detective William Watts and we get introduced to Sandy. Both are key members of the team in later books. Catherine and Rebecca especially are the bit of glue that’s holds the team together throughout the series in my opinion. I love the two of them together. Catherine is Frye’s port in the storm after her partner Jeff is murdered. I love how Rebecca can be vulnerable with Catherine and how fiercely they love one another. In the end Frye sacrifices everything to save the woman she loves. Frye is so strong and so brave. I love this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2011
Very predictable, but also very lesbian, which was what I wanted.
:)
:)
April 26, 2015
Shockingly, this is only my 2nd Radclyffe book. Don't know why I haven't read more because I've liked her stuff (short stories), but I intend to.
I listened to this book. I think the narrator did a pretty good job although, I found the orgasm sounds a bit over the top and distracting. Yes, I know that's a weird thing to say, but I was imagining how I would have experienced the words without the sound effects and I think I would have imagined how the characters said and expressed things, differently. But that's the thing about audio. Sometimes it enhances the story sometimes it interprets in different ways.
As for the the story, I felt Radclyffe did a great job of keeping a nice balance between love story and serial killer plot. Sometimes I wished the romance had a bit more tension and a slower build. Catherine and Rebecca get it on fairly quickly-- and pretty much screw like bunnies for the rest of the book.
I felt though, that the intense desire to be with someone you're extremely attracted to, and with whom you want to be with all the time at first, was excellently portrayed.
Also, I like it when two people are falling in love that there aren't too many faux distractions, like dumb misunderstandings that drive me crazy. These two women, while having understandably cautious feelings, do push them aside fairly quickly. It's very satisfying.
The serial killer/ detective plot, while not that complex or having too much depth, did have enough mystery and suspense to keep me guessing and reading to see how it would pan out.
I'm pretty sure I'm getting the next book in this series. This was overall a really enjoyable book.
I listened to this book. I think the narrator did a pretty good job although, I found the orgasm sounds a bit over the top and distracting. Yes, I know that's a weird thing to say, but I was imagining how I would have experienced the words without the sound effects and I think I would have imagined how the characters said and expressed things, differently. But that's the thing about audio. Sometimes it enhances the story sometimes it interprets in different ways.
As for the the story, I felt Radclyffe did a great job of keeping a nice balance between love story and serial killer plot. Sometimes I wished the romance had a bit more tension and a slower build. Catherine and Rebecca get it on fairly quickly-- and pretty much screw like bunnies for the rest of the book.
I felt though, that the intense desire to be with someone you're extremely attracted to, and with whom you want to be with all the time at first, was excellently portrayed.
Also, I like it when two people are falling in love that there aren't too many faux distractions, like dumb misunderstandings that drive me crazy. These two women, while having understandably cautious feelings, do push them aside fairly quickly. It's very satisfying.
The serial killer/ detective plot, while not that complex or having too much depth, did have enough mystery and suspense to keep me guessing and reading to see how it would pan out.
I'm pretty sure I'm getting the next book in this series. This was overall a really enjoyable book.
November 6, 2014
The main characters are very interesting personalities and the story is very exciting, with unexpected twists and with much feeling. I love the spelling of Radclyffe. You can really immerse themselves in the stories.
October 8, 2023
I love this series. I read it at least once a year. The interaction of the characters can be pictured in my head.
July 11, 2021
Everything I want from a crime novel with a lesbian romance sub-plot:
Well defined character development, an interesting storyline that holds the interests all through the book, sizzeling hot attraction between the two ladies.
If you like all these things as well, this is a must read for you.
Well defined character development, an interesting storyline that holds the interests all through the book, sizzeling hot attraction between the two ladies.
If you like all these things as well, this is a must read for you.
June 11, 2022
From 2005 and first in the Justice series. This is like reading an exciting episode of Law & Order SVU. Detective Sergeant Rebecca Frye is trying working a string of murder & sexual assault cases. A potential witness to the latest victim was beaten and has amnesia about the event because of her trauma. Dr. Catherine Rawlings is director of psychiatry at the hospital. She wants to help Rebecca with her case but needs to protect her patient as well. The writing is tight and the pace unrelenting as Frye searches for leads and endures personal loss. Being with Catherine becomes the moments she can rest and let her guard down. I found the book interesting and although it took some predictable turns I couldn’t put it down.
Read
June 18, 2020It is not surprising that Radclyffe is one of the most popular lesbian authors (each of her five Justice Series novels have over 350 Goodreads ratings; Shield of Justice has over 600!) She has many strengths, none of which are very artistic, but I don’t think that Radclyffe is much interested in being artistic. As a full-time writer (she retired from medicine a decade ago), she is more interested in satisfying her fans, most of whom are romance readers and lesbians. She also has a cadre of readers that were introduced to her through her fan fiction.
Although Shield of Justice certainly qualifies as a mystery, it is heavy on the romance and not squeamish about sprinkling sex scenes throughout the book. Because Rebecca and Catherine are strong, sympathetic characters, their ultimate bonding is more important than the serial-rapist plot that brings them together. The sex scenes are steamy and satisfying but tasteful. One of the techniques the author uses—the roving point of view—is one that I frown on because it is most often done clumsily and lazily. Radclyffe, however, wants to show what each character is thinking at all times, and when Rebecca and Catherine are together we are able to see the impressions each has about the other at each step of their relationship—almost with each sentence they speak. It is easy writing, but Radclyffe uses this point of view better than most. I also need to mention here that Radclyffe, unlike lesser authors, does not feel the need to go into the rapist’s point of view, nor does she give him a backstory—in Rebecca’s mind, he doesn’t deserve one. This is refreshing, especially in a book that deals with many psychological issues.
So I enjoyed the romance and the mystery, and if it had been the only romantic suspense book in existence, that would be all I would have to say. But it isn’t, and I have to point out that Radclyffe resorts to an abundance of clichés—both in her plot and in her writing—that make it impossible to give it a high rating. For one thing, you just know for an absolute fact that no matter how carefully they plan, somehow the serial rapist will manage to capture Catherine and get her alone. This can’t be a spoiler because in these types of suspense novels it is a given. And although the sequence of events isn’t as near-slapstick as the ones in Melanie McAllester’s The Lessons, it is reminiscent enough.
And then there is the language. How about the authorial heavy-handedness of “That was the price she paid to maintain her sanity, even though people who couldn’t’ see past her cop’s eyes had accused her of being cold and uncaring.”
Then there are the scenes that set up the attraction between the two protagonists. “She tried to ignore the quickening of her heartbeat,” “Even that innocent touch sent her pulse racing,” She was aware of the quickening of her heartbeat and a low pulse of desire just from the anticipation of seeing her again,” “She flushed as heat spread over her skin.” These are just a taste.
So chalk it up as a pretty quick and easy read, even a mildly enjoyable one. Kudos for the author’s success and even more kudos for enticing romance readers into buying lesbian mysteries. But demerits for the easy, heavy-handed writing. I can’t give this one above a 3, but I will read the next book in the series to see if it is an improvement. This may be telling in itself, because most authors don’t get that second chance.
Note: I read the first printing of the Renaissance Alliance edition of this novel.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
Although Shield of Justice certainly qualifies as a mystery, it is heavy on the romance and not squeamish about sprinkling sex scenes throughout the book. Because Rebecca and Catherine are strong, sympathetic characters, their ultimate bonding is more important than the serial-rapist plot that brings them together. The sex scenes are steamy and satisfying but tasteful. One of the techniques the author uses—the roving point of view—is one that I frown on because it is most often done clumsily and lazily. Radclyffe, however, wants to show what each character is thinking at all times, and when Rebecca and Catherine are together we are able to see the impressions each has about the other at each step of their relationship—almost with each sentence they speak. It is easy writing, but Radclyffe uses this point of view better than most. I also need to mention here that Radclyffe, unlike lesser authors, does not feel the need to go into the rapist’s point of view, nor does she give him a backstory—in Rebecca’s mind, he doesn’t deserve one. This is refreshing, especially in a book that deals with many psychological issues.
So I enjoyed the romance and the mystery, and if it had been the only romantic suspense book in existence, that would be all I would have to say. But it isn’t, and I have to point out that Radclyffe resorts to an abundance of clichés—both in her plot and in her writing—that make it impossible to give it a high rating. For one thing, you just know for an absolute fact that no matter how carefully they plan, somehow the serial rapist will manage to capture Catherine and get her alone. This can’t be a spoiler because in these types of suspense novels it is a given. And although the sequence of events isn’t as near-slapstick as the ones in Melanie McAllester’s The Lessons, it is reminiscent enough.
And then there is the language. How about the authorial heavy-handedness of “That was the price she paid to maintain her sanity, even though people who couldn’t’ see past her cop’s eyes had accused her of being cold and uncaring.”
Then there are the scenes that set up the attraction between the two protagonists. “She tried to ignore the quickening of her heartbeat,” “Even that innocent touch sent her pulse racing,” She was aware of the quickening of her heartbeat and a low pulse of desire just from the anticipation of seeing her again,” “She flushed as heat spread over her skin.” These are just a taste.
So chalk it up as a pretty quick and easy read, even a mildly enjoyable one. Kudos for the author’s success and even more kudos for enticing romance readers into buying lesbian mysteries. But demerits for the easy, heavy-handed writing. I can’t give this one above a 3, but I will read the next book in the series to see if it is an improvement. This may be telling in itself, because most authors don’t get that second chance.
Note: I read the first printing of the Renaissance Alliance edition of this novel.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
July 20, 2016
Anyone who reads Radclyffe's work knows that we're dealing with the same formula here. Tough butch cop/emotionally strong doctor-femme. No surprises there so I won't even get into the complaints about it being repetitive. What I liked about it was that it was in essence a crime-drama as big fan of Law and Order SVU, this really reminded me of that series. For me, it was like watching an episode of SVU if the characters were lesbians. I liked that it had cop drama mixed with the melodrama of romance. All the nuances were there for me, right down to the ridiculously tame sex! Lol. I've complained about the lack of hot sex in Rad's book in my other reviews and my thoughts are still the same, I won't get into that here.
Rad is great at giving the reader a feel for her characters early on so you know exactly what they're about. She never lacks in that department, she actually makes you feel the intensity and passion between her leads and I LOVE that about her writing. She is an extremely intelligent author who knows how to set a different tone for every series she writes. For example, Safe Harbor (Provincetown Series) has the same kind of leads, doctor and cop. However, the tone and characters are completely different. The Justice series has a rawness too it that is not found in the Provinctown series which has softer tone. If you like Rad's work and like a good cop drama, this is it. Do not expect very hot sex though...she has not quite mastered the art of variety in that department!
Rad is great at giving the reader a feel for her characters early on so you know exactly what they're about. She never lacks in that department, she actually makes you feel the intensity and passion between her leads and I LOVE that about her writing. She is an extremely intelligent author who knows how to set a different tone for every series she writes. For example, Safe Harbor (Provincetown Series) has the same kind of leads, doctor and cop. However, the tone and characters are completely different. The Justice series has a rawness too it that is not found in the Provinctown series which has softer tone. If you like Rad's work and like a good cop drama, this is it. Do not expect very hot sex though...she has not quite mastered the art of variety in that department!
July 22, 2014
After some big, dense books, my book club decided they wanted something light, fluffy, and stupid. This book is definitely all three. It doesn't try to be anything else, so that's not a complaint.
But it is overwritten, and that is a complaint. I had to fight the urge to take a red pen and cross out at least one sentence per paragraph. Every obvious line of dialogue seemed to be reinforced with an equally obvious tag, or an even-more-obvious italicized bit of internal monologue, or just an outright statement about what the character is thinking. Sometimes all three.
I am bad at getting hints. Obscure references often go over my head. I like when the author doesn't feel the need to be overly subtle to gain literary cred. But even I was wishing Radclyffe would put the two-by-four away and stop hitting me upside the head with it.
Plus, if those sentences were removed, the book would've been about 30% shorter, and there would have been room for investigating the totally-unrelated-to-the-main-plot death of the only character I actually liked. (I would've liked Catherine, but Radclyffe was busy hitting me with a two-by-four and yelling, "You MUST LIKE CATHERINE!" and it had the opposite effect.)
But it is overwritten, and that is a complaint. I had to fight the urge to take a red pen and cross out at least one sentence per paragraph. Every obvious line of dialogue seemed to be reinforced with an equally obvious tag, or an even-more-obvious italicized bit of internal monologue, or just an outright statement about what the character is thinking. Sometimes all three.
I am bad at getting hints. Obscure references often go over my head. I like when the author doesn't feel the need to be overly subtle to gain literary cred. But even I was wishing Radclyffe would put the two-by-four away and stop hitting me upside the head with it.
Plus, if those sentences were removed, the book would've been about 30% shorter, and there would have been room for investigating the totally-unrelated-to-the-main-plot death of the only character I actually liked. (I would've liked Catherine, but Radclyffe was busy hitting me with a two-by-four and yelling, "You MUST LIKE CATHERINE!" and it had the opposite effect.)
May 14, 2019
Amazing action & attraction!
📍 “You never know what you were made of until you were tested. And Detective Sergeant Frye was being tested now.”
📍 “Her heart, her soul, had been marked by the searing intensity of Rebecca’s presence and, for the moment, her presence would have to be enough.”
📍 “She longed to abandon for just a few hours her awareness of the struggle it was merely to survive.”
📍 “You can’t possibly imagine how tender you are or you’d never let it show.”
+ • + • + • +
Absolutely beautiful!!! OMG, this story TOTALLY rocked & then some!!
An action-packed, entertaining story with interesting characters & riveting plot lines. It was a very enjoyable read. I recommend this book.
📍 “You never know what you were made of until you were tested. And Detective Sergeant Frye was being tested now.”
📍 “Her heart, her soul, had been marked by the searing intensity of Rebecca’s presence and, for the moment, her presence would have to be enough.”
📍 “She longed to abandon for just a few hours her awareness of the struggle it was merely to survive.”
📍 “You can’t possibly imagine how tender you are or you’d never let it show.”
+ • + • + • +
Absolutely beautiful!!! OMG, this story TOTALLY rocked & then some!!
An action-packed, entertaining story with interesting characters & riveting plot lines. It was a very enjoyable read. I recommend this book.
March 14, 2020
Got this delivered today and read it in a few hours. It is a quick read at just over 200 pages, and it is a page turner. I enjoyed the investigation side of the story, especially with the inclusion of psychology. The chemistry between Catherine and Rebecca worked well for me too. I Even liked Watts as a character with his gruffness and being underestimated by Rebecca. If you fancy a quick round of escapism, this is a good one, although it does involve sexual assault so some people might not be comfortable with that. It's clear in the blurb though. I'll be reading more in the series but expect the books will probably all follow a similar formula.
January 3, 2015
It was okay, but I regret that the crime plot was underdeveloped. Some threads weren't closed and questions remain: What's up with 97? Why the obsession with ? Who killed ?
March 20, 2018
I get that this is the first installment of a saga, but a more colorful characterization would have been very nice. Some more background information on the characters, more personality traits, more subtle habits, anything, because due to the thin detective plot, the characters are what keeps the novel afloat.
Maybe I'm too used to police procedurals on tv. Victim, question people related to victim, find connections, walk the scene and ponder about possible scenarios, close in on suspects, etc. I mean, the detectives patrol the red light district more often than they do the crime scenes. And I get the fact that Janet is the only witness but by god, so many seemingly useless interviews. They could have walked the scene some more, questioned some people, etc. Failing that, the red herring was nice but there needed to be more, too spare.
I would have done without a couple of sex scenes for a tighter investigation. Hell, I would have done without a couple of sex scenes for a better constructed relationship between the protagonists at this point.
I mean, without giving away any spoilers, but jeez, where's the rush, ladies.
This is the first installment, play it out on the back burner, slow burn that passion as if you had all the time in the world to tell their story, leave it under affection for the first half of the book, build up the tension, give me almost-kisses, give me intense gazes, give me buzzing skin, sweaty palms, and thudding hearbeats.
I'm not saying that the romance sub-plot (almost main plot) was bad, but the sex could have used some more emotional background to it, so many gratuitous moments popping up from seemingly nowhere.
And by god, the first time they are together is wrong on so many emotional levels. No self-respecting fan fiction writer would have submitted their character to that stuff. And many fan fiction writers nowadays are very young, in their 20s or younger.
That was very hard to read. I guess this is how they rolled in 2002.
Anyway, overall interesting characters, lots of potential.
I was about to forget: the novel gets a passing mark for the two women protagonists pooling their intelligence and professionalism together to fight the horrible crime. The scenes where they discuss the case together are empowering, thrilling, and just a joy to read. I want more of that. That was good.
Maybe I'm too used to police procedurals on tv. Victim, question people related to victim, find connections, walk the scene and ponder about possible scenarios, close in on suspects, etc. I mean, the detectives patrol the red light district more often than they do the crime scenes. And I get the fact that Janet is the only witness but by god, so many seemingly useless interviews. They could have walked the scene some more, questioned some people, etc. Failing that, the red herring was nice but there needed to be more, too spare.
I would have done without a couple of sex scenes for a tighter investigation. Hell, I would have done without a couple of sex scenes for a better constructed relationship between the protagonists at this point.
I mean, without giving away any spoilers, but jeez, where's the rush, ladies.
This is the first installment, play it out on the back burner, slow burn that passion as if you had all the time in the world to tell their story, leave it under affection for the first half of the book, build up the tension, give me almost-kisses, give me intense gazes, give me buzzing skin, sweaty palms, and thudding hearbeats.
I'm not saying that the romance sub-plot (almost main plot) was bad, but the sex could have used some more emotional background to it, so many gratuitous moments popping up from seemingly nowhere.
And by god, the first time they are together is wrong on so many emotional levels. No self-respecting fan fiction writer would have submitted their character to that stuff. And many fan fiction writers nowadays are very young, in their 20s or younger.
That was very hard to read. I guess this is how they rolled in 2002.
Anyway, overall interesting characters, lots of potential.
I was about to forget: the novel gets a passing mark for the two women protagonists pooling their intelligence and professionalism together to fight the horrible crime. The scenes where they discuss the case together are empowering, thrilling, and just a joy to read. I want more of that. That was good.
March 3, 2024
Rebecca + Catherine
Spicy: 1.5/5
Detective Sargent Rebecca Frye is part of the SVU and has been investigating what looks to be a serial rapist. A witness might have seen their attacker, but they're suffering from amnesia.
Doctor Catherine Rawlings’ is a psychiatrist that works with rape survivors. Detective Frye comes to ask questions in hopes of catching this serial attacker. While working with Detective Frye to solve this case, the attacker seems to have become fond of the doctor. Catherine is willing to put her life on the line to save the next woman from death. Detective Frye is terrified she’ll lose the woman she is falling in love with to the man she’s been hunting.
Spicy: 1.5/5
Detective Sargent Rebecca Frye is part of the SVU and has been investigating what looks to be a serial rapist. A witness might have seen their attacker, but they're suffering from amnesia.
Doctor Catherine Rawlings’ is a psychiatrist that works with rape survivors. Detective Frye comes to ask questions in hopes of catching this serial attacker. While working with Detective Frye to solve this case, the attacker seems to have become fond of the doctor. Catherine is willing to put her life on the line to save the next woman from death. Detective Frye is terrified she’ll lose the woman she is falling in love with to the man she’s been hunting.
August 24, 2021
I think it was the writing style that I give a 3 of 5. Written in 2002 so I'm not expecting super risqué, but definitely would have hoped for longer romance scenes. But, it was entertaining and I'll finish the series to see how the writing evolves.
I had very high hopes for a therapist/cop love affair.
I had very high hopes for a therapist/cop love affair.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2024
I loved reading every minute of this book to the point that when I reached its halfway, I wanted to start it all over again.
🌶️ Spice: 5/5
🕸️ Intrigue: 5/5
💋 Characters: 5000000/5000000
🔪 Ending: 3/5
"You can’t possibly imagine how tender you are or you’d never let it show."
I am truly sad that its over, yet so glad that its a series
I literally miss the characters right now as I'm writing this review.
If this book was released these days I'm sure people will go crazy over it
It's lesbian bliss, is what it is.
Mature, amazing female leads that are good at their jobs and know it, know what they want, know how to hold their boundaries and stay true to their values, but still human and yummy in every possible way.
“I just need you to get well. I love you, and I want to continue loving you for a very long time. Promise me that I’ll have that chance.”
- A really long time?? Notice how she didn't say forever, and I so appreciate that. Forevers don't work, forever is a trigger word for me after my last relationship and it feels so right and healthy to say a really long time instead of forever, because they just got together.
Characters:
"Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?" "I know how beautiful I feel with you."
This must be the most beautiful thing I have read this year, no joke.
Man.. I love angry protective lesbian queens and Rebecca is the finest of them all.
The highlight of this book is definitely the main two leads and they were every bit of gorgeous. From their own strong personalities to the heart-wrenchingly beautiful relationship they develop. I fell for them I all I wanted was more of them.
So good, so beautiful, So tender. You know how lesbians get, fuck.
“Let me get you some coffee.”
“No. I don’t want you to get up.” Rebecca pushed her gently down, then leaned to kiss her. “I want you to stay here, where we were together, so I can think of you like this until I see you again.”
You can practically hear them talking in hushed tones.
Both were strong in their own way. Both fully established and mature which was so refreshing for me to read. Non of that I-don't-know-what-I'm-doing-in-life bullshit.
10/10.
Story/writing:
Very interesting story, it's my first book to read in the genre and I loved the vibes. The writer is clearly knowledgeable on it and it wasn't hard to get what was happening. It was also very gorgous on the inimate parts and descriptions of feelings and internal struggles.
"Groaning, her skin flushed with the heat of need and loneliness and desire, she hovered on the brink."
Ending:
I thought it could use some tweaking, it was rushed and the book seemed to end abruptly, but thankfully the second book exists and as I'm reading it now it reads just like a continuation of the first book.
Problematic
The problem is when I’m with you I'm an addict
And I need some relief, my skin in your teeth
Can't see the forest through the trees
Got me down on my knees, darlin', please
I lose control
When you're not next to me
I'm fallin' apart right in front of you, can't you see?
-Lose Control by Teddy Swims
The song was a perfect vibe for the book.
Thank you Radclyffe for the amazing new-favourite book.
Please don't forget to hit a like if you found this review helpful.
🌶️ Spice: 5/5
🕸️ Intrigue: 5/5
💋 Characters: 5000000/5000000
🔪 Ending: 3/5
"You can’t possibly imagine how tender you are or you’d never let it show."
I am truly sad that its over, yet so glad that its a series
I literally miss the characters right now as I'm writing this review.
If this book was released these days I'm sure people will go crazy over it
It's lesbian bliss, is what it is.
Mature, amazing female leads that are good at their jobs and know it, know what they want, know how to hold their boundaries and stay true to their values, but still human and yummy in every possible way.
“I just need you to get well. I love you, and I want to continue loving you for a very long time. Promise me that I’ll have that chance.”
- A really long time?? Notice how she didn't say forever, and I so appreciate that. Forevers don't work, forever is a trigger word for me after my last relationship and it feels so right and healthy to say a really long time instead of forever, because they just got together.
Characters:
"Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?" "I know how beautiful I feel with you."
This must be the most beautiful thing I have read this year, no joke.
Man.. I love angry protective lesbian queens and Rebecca is the finest of them all.
The highlight of this book is definitely the main two leads and they were every bit of gorgeous. From their own strong personalities to the heart-wrenchingly beautiful relationship they develop. I fell for them I all I wanted was more of them.
So good, so beautiful, So tender. You know how lesbians get, fuck.
“Let me get you some coffee.”
“No. I don’t want you to get up.” Rebecca pushed her gently down, then leaned to kiss her. “I want you to stay here, where we were together, so I can think of you like this until I see you again.”
You can practically hear them talking in hushed tones.
Both were strong in their own way. Both fully established and mature which was so refreshing for me to read. Non of that I-don't-know-what-I'm-doing-in-life bullshit.
10/10.
Story/writing:
Very interesting story, it's my first book to read in the genre and I loved the vibes. The writer is clearly knowledgeable on it and it wasn't hard to get what was happening. It was also very gorgous on the inimate parts and descriptions of feelings and internal struggles.
"Groaning, her skin flushed with the heat of need and loneliness and desire, she hovered on the brink."
Ending:
I thought it could use some tweaking, it was rushed and the book seemed to end abruptly, but thankfully the second book exists and as I'm reading it now it reads just like a continuation of the first book.
Problematic
The problem is when I’m with you I'm an addict
And I need some relief, my skin in your teeth
Can't see the forest through the trees
Got me down on my knees, darlin', please
I lose control
When you're not next to me
I'm fallin' apart right in front of you, can't you see?
-Lose Control by Teddy Swims
The song was a perfect vibe for the book.
Thank you Radclyffe for the amazing new-favourite book.
Please don't forget to hit a like if you found this review helpful.
October 28, 2019
A 45 min book read for me. Very digestible. Potential to build up but paling to Radclyffe’s other medical series. It lacked the technicality if words which makes a visceral / vivid scene
Onto the next book though!
Onto the next book though!
February 10, 2022
I recommend this series
This is the second time I have read this book. The characters are interesting and linkable. The romance between Catherine and Rebecca is very intense. Thanks for another winner.
This is the second time I have read this book. The characters are interesting and linkable. The romance between Catherine and Rebecca is very intense. Thanks for another winner.
March 12, 2025
Insta-love and unremarkable, but still readable (as most radclyffes are for me). I'm not sure how they got from like to love and it required a lot of suspension of disbelief given we were supposed to see the characters being closed off and untrusting types.
April 28, 2025
I couldn't stop - Rebecca and Catherine are total fire and amazing women! I loved the intensity and the acknowledgement it pushed them closer together quickly.
Lovely spice. Women supporting women. Great for a throwback - 2002 publishing year. I could have used this book in that era of my life!
Lovely spice. Women supporting women. Great for a throwback - 2002 publishing year. I could have used this book in that era of my life!
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