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PMC Hospital Romance #4
Passionate Rivals
Onetime lovers, unexpected rivals...
Emmett McCabe never expected to see Sydney Stevens—a woman with whom she'd shared a brief, incendiary connection before it all went up in flames—again. Luckily, ascending the cutthroat ladder of a high-pressure surgery residency to reach the top spot makes it easy to ignore what's missing in her life. Then Sydney reappears after nearly five years. Emmett is barely over her shock when she discovers Sydney is her new competition for the coveted chief's position everyone, including Emmett, expects will be hers.
Professional rivalry and long-simmering passions create a combustible combination when the two are forced to work together, especially when past attractions won't stay buried.
Emmett McCabe never expected to see Sydney Stevens—a woman with whom she'd shared a brief, incendiary connection before it all went up in flames—again. Luckily, ascending the cutthroat ladder of a high-pressure surgery residency to reach the top spot makes it easy to ignore what's missing in her life. Then Sydney reappears after nearly five years. Emmett is barely over her shock when she discovers Sydney is her new competition for the coveted chief's position everyone, including Emmett, expects will be hers.
Professional rivalry and long-simmering passions create a combustible combination when the two are forced to work together, especially when past attractions won't stay buried.
Audible Audio
First published September 11, 2018
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About the author
Radclyffe
142 books1,671 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 123 reviews
August 21, 2018
This is another enjoyable book by Radclyffe. While this is the fourth book in the PMC Hospital Romance series, you could start right here. I’m very anal about reading book in order. If you are like me, I would suggest reading Fated Love first. The two mains from that book, Quinn and Honor, have a small role in this book. I read Fated Love ages ago and barely remembered the characters and I was fine reading this book. The main group of characters this book focuses on are all new.
Sydney is about to enter the finale year in her surgery residency program. She is at the top of her class in and in line for the chief resident position. When her hospital’s program suddenly closes, she finds herself at a new hospital competing with their number one resident Emmett. As if having to adjust to a new hospital and possibly losing her shot at chief wasn’t hard enough, Emmett and Syd have a history together. Can Syd make it in the new program without losing her heart to Emmett?
I enjoyed this read and found myself hooked into the book instantly. It is a very fast paced read and the pages were flying by. Radclyffe knows how to write medical scenes and they were all really well done. While technical terms are flying, the book never bogs down and it keeps up a level of excitement I really enjoyed.
When it came to the romance I must admit it was not my favorite of Rad’s. It’s a very slow burn for most of the book, then it heats up at the end a little too fast for my liking. There is some chemistry there and the two mains are both very likeable, I just thought the pace felt a bit off. What was also a bit odd for me is I found the fast-paced hospital scenes so enjoyable that it almost felt like a let-down when the book shifted to romance time. I found myself wanting to be back in the middle of surgery again. I love a good romance so this was an odd feeling for me.
While this is not a short book, the ending came too soon. I felt like Emmett and Syd’s stories were not finished yet so I hope we spend more time with them in future books. This series will continue and I’m looking forward to it. If you are a fan of doc books, especially fast paced, good action ones, I think you will enjoy this.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
Sydney is about to enter the finale year in her surgery residency program. She is at the top of her class in and in line for the chief resident position. When her hospital’s program suddenly closes, she finds herself at a new hospital competing with their number one resident Emmett. As if having to adjust to a new hospital and possibly losing her shot at chief wasn’t hard enough, Emmett and Syd have a history together. Can Syd make it in the new program without losing her heart to Emmett?
I enjoyed this read and found myself hooked into the book instantly. It is a very fast paced read and the pages were flying by. Radclyffe knows how to write medical scenes and they were all really well done. While technical terms are flying, the book never bogs down and it keeps up a level of excitement I really enjoyed.
When it came to the romance I must admit it was not my favorite of Rad’s. It’s a very slow burn for most of the book, then it heats up at the end a little too fast for my liking. There is some chemistry there and the two mains are both very likeable, I just thought the pace felt a bit off. What was also a bit odd for me is I found the fast-paced hospital scenes so enjoyable that it almost felt like a let-down when the book shifted to romance time. I found myself wanting to be back in the middle of surgery again. I love a good romance so this was an odd feeling for me.
While this is not a short book, the ending came too soon. I felt like Emmett and Syd’s stories were not finished yet so I hope we spend more time with them in future books. This series will continue and I’m looking forward to it. If you are a fan of doc books, especially fast paced, good action ones, I think you will enjoy this.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
September 1, 2018
PMC has a sudden influx of interns from nearby Franklin Medical Centre when budget cuts force the closure of their internship programme. Emmett, a fourth year and in line for chief resident realises she might have to fight for her position and runs straight into her opposition. She met Sydney five years ago and her confusion and sense of loss never quite left her.
This is another fast-paced medical drama from Radclyffe. The trauma scenes are nail-biting, vibrant and it’s hard not to get caught up in the frenzy. It was great that Quinn and Honor from Fated Love made an appearance because they’re one of those fiction couples I liked. The romance between Emmett and Syd is good but there were times I felt the drama of the surgeries overshadowed their connection and that the balance was a little off.
I would have liked a little more depth to Syd’s character and background and a stronger sense of what their first meeting was all about and how it came into being. That said, it was still an good read and fulfilled my medical fiction craving.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This is another fast-paced medical drama from Radclyffe. The trauma scenes are nail-biting, vibrant and it’s hard not to get caught up in the frenzy. It was great that Quinn and Honor from Fated Love made an appearance because they’re one of those fiction couples I liked. The romance between Emmett and Syd is good but there were times I felt the drama of the surgeries overshadowed their connection and that the balance was a little off.
I would have liked a little more depth to Syd’s character and background and a stronger sense of what their first meeting was all about and how it came into being. That said, it was still an good read and fulfilled my medical fiction craving.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
September 1, 2018
They always say write about what you know and when it comes to medical romance, nobody knows her material like Radclyffe does. Passionate Rivals (A PMC Hospital Romance #4) is a veritable wet dream when it comes to medical procedures, so if that’s your bag this is a must read.
There’s no need to get acquainted with the other books in the series before reading this one (not unless you want to of course) because I didn’t and I was able to read it without feeling lost. Honor and her wife Quinn from the first book Fated Love play a role but they come with their own little backstory so no worries there.
So yes, it’s heavy on the hospital part. We get a detailed view on what happens in the life of a resident – or better residential hell - a relentless rat-race where only the strongest survives to make it to the top. I loved to get a chance to watch over the shoulders of these capable people and to get a whiff of what it takes to be a medical superstar, but also what sacrifices they have to make in order to get there. Radclyffe is meticulous in her hospital scenes and it makes for a brilliant experience.
Emmett and Syd have tons of chemistry, that much is clear after they are unexpectedly thrown together by fate. There’s no denying something’s got to give. Emmett has a lot of questions and Syd is not willing to tell what made her do the thing she did 5 years ago. It is some major buried hurt that she is unwilling to dredge up (for now). I loved the drama and their mutual pining. The romance was what I’d come to expect from a Radclyffe novel. You have your dark-haired blue-eyed butch (noble, brooding and handsome – usually a player) falling hard for the fair-haired femme. It’s always somewhat bordering on the twee side and the sexy times are semi explicit (as in not in your face but more poetic). Not always something I’m in the mood for but hey, this time I was.
Radclyffe fans will buy this unseen. Romance readers who would like to find out what happens on a trauma ward and dip their toes into medical romance, this is a perfect book to get yourself started.
f/f
Themes: competition, A-type personalities, hospital life, the noble butch, surgeon superstars, what happens in the on call room hardly ever stays in the on call room.
4 stars
* A free copy was provided by Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for an honest review.
There’s no need to get acquainted with the other books in the series before reading this one (not unless you want to of course) because I didn’t and I was able to read it without feeling lost. Honor and her wife Quinn from the first book Fated Love play a role but they come with their own little backstory so no worries there.
So yes, it’s heavy on the hospital part. We get a detailed view on what happens in the life of a resident – or better residential hell - a relentless rat-race where only the strongest survives to make it to the top. I loved to get a chance to watch over the shoulders of these capable people and to get a whiff of what it takes to be a medical superstar, but also what sacrifices they have to make in order to get there. Radclyffe is meticulous in her hospital scenes and it makes for a brilliant experience.
Emmett and Syd have tons of chemistry, that much is clear after they are unexpectedly thrown together by fate. There’s no denying something’s got to give. Emmett has a lot of questions and Syd is not willing to tell what made her do the thing she did 5 years ago. It is some major buried hurt that she is unwilling to dredge up (for now). I loved the drama and their mutual pining. The romance was what I’d come to expect from a Radclyffe novel. You have your dark-haired blue-eyed butch (noble, brooding and handsome – usually a player) falling hard for the fair-haired femme. It’s always somewhat bordering on the twee side and the sexy times are semi explicit (as in not in your face but more poetic). Not always something I’m in the mood for but hey, this time I was.
Radclyffe fans will buy this unseen. Romance readers who would like to find out what happens on a trauma ward and dip their toes into medical romance, this is a perfect book to get yourself started.
f/f
Themes: competition, A-type personalities, hospital life, the noble butch, surgeon superstars, what happens in the on call room hardly ever stays in the on call room.
4 stars
* A free copy was provided by Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for an honest review.
December 6, 2021
Surgeries.
This is the fourth book of A PMC Hospital Romance series and I didn't like this book as much. There's a lot of hospital scenes and focus on medical procedures and surgeries which will appeal to some readers but I felt it took a lot of time away from the romance. Emmett and Syd are suppose to be rivals competing for the position of Chief Resident but I didn't see much rivaling going on, possibly because they have personal history together but we don't exactly know much about their history until the end. I also don't think they have much chemistry together for most parts.
I generally find it hard to enjoy books when characters are best friends with benefits with other people. In this book, Emmett shares this type of relationship with another character called Zoey. Zoey is Emmett's housemate too but while Zoey doesn't appear too often, this still bugs me because Zoey appears to have a little bit of feelings for Emmett.
Honor and Quinn from Fated Love (Book 1) appear once again but they have little private time together in this book. This is unfortunate because they're the highlight of this series.
This is the fourth book of A PMC Hospital Romance series and I didn't like this book as much. There's a lot of hospital scenes and focus on medical procedures and surgeries which will appeal to some readers but I felt it took a lot of time away from the romance. Emmett and Syd are suppose to be rivals competing for the position of Chief Resident but I didn't see much rivaling going on, possibly because they have personal history together but we don't exactly know much about their history until the end. I also don't think they have much chemistry together for most parts.
I generally find it hard to enjoy books when characters are best friends with benefits with other people. In this book, Emmett shares this type of relationship with another character called Zoey. Zoey is Emmett's housemate too but while Zoey doesn't appear too often, this still bugs me because Zoey appears to have a little bit of feelings for Emmett.
Honor and Quinn from Fated Love (Book 1) appear once again but they have little private time together in this book. This is unfortunate because they're the highlight of this series.
June 4, 2021
Three stars. Liked the book, but not as much as most other books by Radclyffe. It didn’t flow as effortlessly for me. I had to work a little at reading the first third of the book. Maybe it’s all the characters that had to be introduced. The whole story was a bit too superficial for me and all the problems were very easily resolved. Emmett and Syd are nice, but this will not be one of Radcliffe’s books that I will read every few years or so.
Nice to read about Quin, Honor and Linda. What happened though to Honor’s mother in law, Phyllis I think? She lived next door to them and was part of their family but isn’t mentioned in the family scenes in this book.
Well written and edited okay read.
Read this book again in anticipation of Unrivaled the next one. Good romance but not as good as the others in this series. My comment and thoughts about this book from the first time read it still apply.
Nice to read about Quin, Honor and Linda. What happened though to Honor’s mother in law, Phyllis I think? She lived next door to them and was part of their family but isn’t mentioned in the family scenes in this book.
Well written and edited okay read.
Read this book again in anticipation of Unrivaled the next one. Good romance but not as good as the others in this series. My comment and thoughts about this book from the first time read it still apply.
September 26, 2018
This book is in my recommended books of the month
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is book 4 in the PMC Hospital romance series of standalone novels set in Philadelphia. For some reason, the author left a big gap between each book's publishing date with the first one written in 2004. 'Fated love' was the first of this series and one of my favourite lesfic books ever. The main characters, Honor and Quinn, are very important secondary characters in this book and it's nice to see them interacting with a new generation of leads. Even though you don't need to read 'Fated love' to enjoy this novel, I highly recommend it.
Emmett McCabe is about to start the last year of her surgery residency and is the most likely candidate to get the coveted Chief Resident position. That is, until someone from her past arrives unexpectedly. Sydney Stevens has lost a lot in her life and now she has to finish her residency in another hospital.
At PMC she meets Emmett with whom she shares the past she's trying to forget.
Radclyffe is hands down the best writer of medical romances in lesfic. Her inside knowledge of the profession, adquired as a surgeon, plus her perfect depiction of the fast-paced world of hospital emergency services are always reflected in her novels. It's not necessary to know anything about medicine to read this book, things are either explained or not relevant to the plot. Radclyffe is unapologetic in using medical terminology and describing surgical procedures but, at the same time, balances that content very well with the personal struggles and conflicts of the characters. Additionally, the author works well in setting the contrasting paces of the fast emergency services as opposed to the slow-burn romance. Life or death and love or loss are frequent dichotomies in her novels.
In 'Passionate rivals' Radclyffe creates a perfect set of main characters: Emmett, the dark, handsome and stoic butch and Sydney, the beautiful and strong femme. At the beginning, the reader knows little about their shared past but, as we learn about them, their strong chemistry takes over and we can only hope that they'd act on that. My only criticism is that the slow-burn romance is a bit rushed at the end, somehow altering the beautiful pace set until the last few chapters. There is a new generation of doctors presented in this novel, some with potential of becoming great leads for future books in this series. One of them is Dani, a blunt but loyal friend of Sydney's. So there's a promise of more good stories to come. For the moment, with 'Passionate rivals' Radclyffe doesn't disappoint and delivers an entertaining and enjoyable read.
Overall, an enjoyable slow-burn medical romance in a fast-paced emergency hospital environment. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is book 4 in the PMC Hospital romance series of standalone novels set in Philadelphia. For some reason, the author left a big gap between each book's publishing date with the first one written in 2004. 'Fated love' was the first of this series and one of my favourite lesfic books ever. The main characters, Honor and Quinn, are very important secondary characters in this book and it's nice to see them interacting with a new generation of leads. Even though you don't need to read 'Fated love' to enjoy this novel, I highly recommend it.
Emmett McCabe is about to start the last year of her surgery residency and is the most likely candidate to get the coveted Chief Resident position. That is, until someone from her past arrives unexpectedly. Sydney Stevens has lost a lot in her life and now she has to finish her residency in another hospital.
At PMC she meets Emmett with whom she shares the past she's trying to forget.
Radclyffe is hands down the best writer of medical romances in lesfic. Her inside knowledge of the profession, adquired as a surgeon, plus her perfect depiction of the fast-paced world of hospital emergency services are always reflected in her novels. It's not necessary to know anything about medicine to read this book, things are either explained or not relevant to the plot. Radclyffe is unapologetic in using medical terminology and describing surgical procedures but, at the same time, balances that content very well with the personal struggles and conflicts of the characters. Additionally, the author works well in setting the contrasting paces of the fast emergency services as opposed to the slow-burn romance. Life or death and love or loss are frequent dichotomies in her novels.
In 'Passionate rivals' Radclyffe creates a perfect set of main characters: Emmett, the dark, handsome and stoic butch and Sydney, the beautiful and strong femme. At the beginning, the reader knows little about their shared past but, as we learn about them, their strong chemistry takes over and we can only hope that they'd act on that. My only criticism is that the slow-burn romance is a bit rushed at the end, somehow altering the beautiful pace set until the last few chapters. There is a new generation of doctors presented in this novel, some with potential of becoming great leads for future books in this series. One of them is Dani, a blunt but loyal friend of Sydney's. So there's a promise of more good stories to come. For the moment, with 'Passionate rivals' Radclyffe doesn't disappoint and delivers an entertaining and enjoyable read.
Overall, an enjoyable slow-burn medical romance in a fast-paced emergency hospital environment. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
October 7, 2018
I love Radclyffe's stories, especially all the series. This one was no exception. It's one without much angst and drama but a sweet romance during the stressful time being a resident at a hospital.
The story is about Sydney and Emmett, who have met five years before. Back then, they had an affair which ended Syd abruptly. When they meet again at the hospital both should serve as fifth-year residents, the sparks fly again. Especially Emmet is smitten with Syd from the first run in. Is Emmett able to crack the shell Sydney hat built around her heart?
It's always obvious that Radclyffe has worked in the medical world herself, she knows how the hospitals are functioning and what kind of stress and competition the students and residents have to endure. Her writing is flawless.
My rating 4.25
The story is about Sydney and Emmett, who have met five years before. Back then, they had an affair which ended Syd abruptly. When they meet again at the hospital both should serve as fifth-year residents, the sparks fly again. Especially Emmet is smitten with Syd from the first run in. Is Emmett able to crack the shell Sydney hat built around her heart?
It's always obvious that Radclyffe has worked in the medical world herself, she knows how the hospitals are functioning and what kind of stress and competition the students and residents have to endure. Her writing is flawless.
My rating 4.25
August 27, 2018
Radclyffe does stellar medical romances. The detail, the characters are always out of the park good. Passionate Rivals is the fourth in the PMC Hospital Series. You will see Honer and Quinn again as well as a new dynamic due Sydney and Emmett.
Sydney Stevens in nearing the end of her fourth year of her surgical residency. She is at the top and slated to be the next chief resident at Franklin Health Center Hospital. Her world and her career get spun into chaos when Franklin announces it has lost federal funding for their surgical program. Now Syd and a handful of other doctors are headed to a new program across town at PMC. To start all over with new mentors and new co-workers.
Emmett McCabe is the very best in her program, she knows it as well as everyone else. She is easily slated be be PMC's chief resident. Well that is until Sydney Stevens comes back into her life. Emmett knows Sydney from way back when and she is the one women Emmett has never been able to forget.
I loved the details of this book. You truly feel as if your standing on the hospital floor with Emmett and Sydney and their fellow doctors. The medical drama is done to perfection. However the romance I felt was a bit lacking. Still good mind you, Radclyffe's always are. I just would have liked more heat and tension.
You know unequivocally you are going to get your money's worth when you read Radclyffe. This is no exception, not my favorite but a quality read nonetheless. 3 stars
Sydney Stevens in nearing the end of her fourth year of her surgical residency. She is at the top and slated to be the next chief resident at Franklin Health Center Hospital. Her world and her career get spun into chaos when Franklin announces it has lost federal funding for their surgical program. Now Syd and a handful of other doctors are headed to a new program across town at PMC. To start all over with new mentors and new co-workers.
Emmett McCabe is the very best in her program, she knows it as well as everyone else. She is easily slated be be PMC's chief resident. Well that is until Sydney Stevens comes back into her life. Emmett knows Sydney from way back when and she is the one women Emmett has never been able to forget.
I loved the details of this book. You truly feel as if your standing on the hospital floor with Emmett and Sydney and their fellow doctors. The medical drama is done to perfection. However the romance I felt was a bit lacking. Still good mind you, Radclyffe's always are. I just would have liked more heat and tension.
You know unequivocally you are going to get your money's worth when you read Radclyffe. This is no exception, not my favorite but a quality read nonetheless. 3 stars
October 16, 2024
What can I say? Just sheer class - Stunning in It's simplicity - the ideal book to while away a day. If in doubt, read a Radclyffe and be seduced into another world. Thank you.
September 17, 2018
this was an amalgam of the two tropes lovers-to-strangers-to-lovers and enemies-to-lovers, both of which i really like. however, this book just didn't particularly work for me. there didn't seem to be enough of a connection between emmett and syd, which is definitely a missed opportunity when you think about all the potential incendiary tension there was simmering between the two of them. it felt like interactions between the two were weirdly sparse, skipped over in favour of interactions with more minor characters.
October 29, 2021
It's by Radclyffe - you either like it or not.
Ratings: 3.5 ⭐️ - Rounding it up cos I liked reading medical romance.
Ratings: 3.5 ⭐️ - Rounding it up cos I liked reading medical romance.
February 16, 2019
This should be 5*, just because we see a lot of Quinn and Honor (my favourite couple from Radclyffe's books). But, focusing on Emmett and Syd, as this is their story, I really did enjoy the book. Not being a doctor, reading about the intricacies of medical residencies and the hierarchies within the hospital are fascinating. The details of various medical procedures are also interesting. Just like watching medical dramas on tv, almost feel like if need be, I might be able to perform the procedures in the book. Hehe....jk!
As always, the love story is wonderful. I read recently that a good romance is when the reader is rooting for the MC's to get their HEA. That's what I always feel reading Radclyffe's books.
As always, the love story is wonderful. I read recently that a good romance is when the reader is rooting for the MC's to get their HEA. That's what I always feel reading Radclyffe's books.
September 10, 2018
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rad bills this as a “new” series set in the PMC universe, but it read as part of that series to me. This one features Emmett as the PMC resident who is destined to become chief resident in her 5th year, and Syd, who works at another hospital and is also slated to be chief. A spanner gets thrown into the works when Syd’s hospital has to close their residency program (would it really happen that quickly and mid year?) and is thrust into PMC with her buddies. This leads to all sorts of angst amongst both sets of doctors and is supposed to set up a rivalry between Syd and Emmett for the chief spot (or they could end up sharing it). The other spanner is they know each other (intimately) and Emmett has never understood why Syd just disappeared.
I liked both Syd and Emmett, didn’t really like any of the other supporting characters, but did enjoy catching up with Quinn, Honor and Arly. The supposed rivalry amounts to not much, given that they both are very respectful of the other, and the solution is forecast well before the end, so it lacks any heat. The main problem is that we don’t find out why Syd left Emmett and what the big trauma in her life was until the 88% mark, although there are hints earlier. This book would have been way better if they’d cleared the air earlier, and if Rad had cut down some of the medical scenes to show the the two of them getting to know each other again, the fact that they didn’t know each other at all in the past is evident by what Syd reveals and Emmett’s lack of knowledge about it.
Rad also does that thing where one character (Emmett in this case) is sleeping their way around the hospital, in this day and age, I sincerely doubt that would be tolerated, especially in someone being groomed for a chief position where said behaviour could definitely come back to bite them.
This is a fairly typical Rad story, it’s not my favourite, but I did enjoy it, just would have liked more of a connection between the leads other than ‘we have amazing chemistry’. 3.5 stars
Rad bills this as a “new” series set in the PMC universe, but it read as part of that series to me. This one features Emmett as the PMC resident who is destined to become chief resident in her 5th year, and Syd, who works at another hospital and is also slated to be chief. A spanner gets thrown into the works when Syd’s hospital has to close their residency program (would it really happen that quickly and mid year?) and is thrust into PMC with her buddies. This leads to all sorts of angst amongst both sets of doctors and is supposed to set up a rivalry between Syd and Emmett for the chief spot (or they could end up sharing it). The other spanner is they know each other (intimately) and Emmett has never understood why Syd just disappeared.
I liked both Syd and Emmett, didn’t really like any of the other supporting characters, but did enjoy catching up with Quinn, Honor and Arly. The supposed rivalry amounts to not much, given that they both are very respectful of the other, and the solution is forecast well before the end, so it lacks any heat. The main problem is that we don’t find out why Syd left Emmett and what the big trauma in her life was until the 88% mark, although there are hints earlier. This book would have been way better if they’d cleared the air earlier, and if Rad had cut down some of the medical scenes to show the the two of them getting to know each other again, the fact that they didn’t know each other at all in the past is evident by what Syd reveals and Emmett’s lack of knowledge about it.
Rad also does that thing where one character (Emmett in this case) is sleeping their way around the hospital, in this day and age, I sincerely doubt that would be tolerated, especially in someone being groomed for a chief position where said behaviour could definitely come back to bite them.
This is a fairly typical Rad story, it’s not my favourite, but I did enjoy it, just would have liked more of a connection between the leads other than ‘we have amazing chemistry’. 3.5 stars
September 27, 2018
Once again Radclyffe being Radclyffe. It was a nice reading for me, although the book is terrible heavy on medical and surgical acronyms, terms and procedures. Thank God there's Google. I want to give my special thanks to medicinenet.com for its life-saving medical terminology dictionary. It simply is a must for a Spaniard like me who happens to know nothing about medicine.
October 11, 2025
Passionate Rivals
I can't get enough of sapphic medical romances!
This is book 4 in Radclyffe's PMC Hospital Romance series. It was intense, exciting, the medical cases were very interesting.... and there was a bit of a rivalry amongst the interns. It got a bit catty there - awesome!
Above all that were Emmett and Sydney - professional rivals as well, with a past that neither of them had forgotten. Their attraction couldn't be hidden, and it was hott! Slow burn for sure, but the lead-up was quite steamy! This book was so good!
I can't get enough of sapphic medical romances!
This is book 4 in Radclyffe's PMC Hospital Romance series. It was intense, exciting, the medical cases were very interesting.... and there was a bit of a rivalry amongst the interns. It got a bit catty there - awesome!
Above all that were Emmett and Sydney - professional rivals as well, with a past that neither of them had forgotten. Their attraction couldn't be hidden, and it was hott! Slow burn for sure, but the lead-up was quite steamy! This book was so good!
June 7, 2022
5/10
its definitely better than some books in the series but still not as good as the first one was
i mostly just couldnt get the mcs attraction tbh and thats the biggest problem i guess since it is supposed to be a romance book
and for some reason most of the characters were annoying in it
its definitely better than some books in the series but still not as good as the first one was
i mostly just couldnt get the mcs attraction tbh and thats the biggest problem i guess since it is supposed to be a romance book
and for some reason most of the characters were annoying in it
September 2, 2018
A solid Radclyffe medical drama with her signature cast of strong-willed protagonists and well-rounded supporting characters.
This one's not quite 4 stars for me because, like what other reviewers are saying, the romance between Emmett and Syd feels slightly underdeveloped. I suspect this is mainly because Syd's arc feels a little thin. We aren't always invited into her growing self-awareness. It's not a bad thing to not totally know what's going on with the characters (I mean, I kind of like the mystery) but we do need to be invited into Syd's inner thoughts when it counts and I think there's one big emotional beat that we missed before we are hurtled straight to HEA (I can't tell if this is a spoiler so I'm just gonna click the little box just in case).
Even so, I actually couldn't put this book down, probably because the medical scenes made me queasy in a good way. I fell asleep afterwards with terms like "ex-lap" and "v-tach" running around in my brain. Always a good time. Like all Radclyffe hospital dramas, I'm surprised by how quickly I care about the patients in the trauma unit, even if they show up for just a chapter. I guess I'm a sucker for good procedurals.
Two errant thoughts:
- love how Radclyffe doctors stay hot on a steady diet of beer and cheesesteaks
- "Passionate Rivals" = great effin' title
This one's not quite 4 stars for me because, like what other reviewers are saying, the romance between Emmett and Syd feels slightly underdeveloped. I suspect this is mainly because Syd's arc feels a little thin. We aren't always invited into her growing self-awareness. It's not a bad thing to not totally know what's going on with the characters (I mean, I kind of like the mystery) but we do need to be invited into Syd's inner thoughts when it counts and I think there's one big emotional beat that we missed before we are hurtled straight to HEA (I can't tell if this is a spoiler so I'm just gonna click the little box just in case).
Even so, I actually couldn't put this book down, probably because the medical scenes made me queasy in a good way. I fell asleep afterwards with terms like "ex-lap" and "v-tach" running around in my brain. Always a good time. Like all Radclyffe hospital dramas, I'm surprised by how quickly I care about the patients in the trauma unit, even if they show up for just a chapter. I guess I'm a sucker for good procedurals.
Two errant thoughts:
- love how Radclyffe doctors stay hot on a steady diet of beer and cheesesteaks
- "Passionate Rivals" = great effin' title
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2018
When former lovers are thrown together in a high intensity and competitive environment anger and sparks are bound to fly. Emmett and Sydney are suddenly on the same track, same year and same expectations of being the best, but there is only ever one chief.
Radclyffe’s Quinn and Honor series was always one of my favourites, and now they are back, albeit as the mentors to a new generation of medical students, and the overseas of the trauma and surgical patients at the centre of the story. We have a whole new cast of friends, lovers and rivals but set in the familiar backdrop, and it’s great to be back.
The medical drama is excellent as always, the characters are a good mix, the main characters and their closest friends realistic in their hopes and fears, and the sexual tension is perfectly held as Emmett and Sydney fight the pull of their attraction.
I'm delighted Radclyffe has revisited this excellent series, and look forward to many more if they are as good as this. Most enjoyable way to spend time with old friends.
October 18, 2018
3.5 Stars.
I feel like Radclyffe has become my go-to audiobook preference. I share an audible account and I just stumble across these when one finishes without care or concern for series order and get interested in them immediately. Radclyffe books almost always have two things I adore, medical or police/military characters, and steamy sex scenes. The plots are always believable and compelling, and her characters are always personable and have some sort of past to overcome, which I find important considering the world.
This particular book centered around Emmett McCabe and Sydney Stevens. Both surgical residents in their 4th year, with a past that still lingers in their present. Now thrown together in the same hospital, they have to navigate professional duties and their renewed attraction for one another taking their history into consideration.
I found both characters interesting, Emmett being the stereotypical player that is never shy from a bed and keeps herself from falling for anyone, and Sydney, who always seems distant and cautious about forming connections with anyone but her two roommates. The dynamics between both Sydney and Emmett and their collective roommates and friends are great, there is they typical miscommunication laden in every lesfic, but it's as always very well written and not cliche.
While they always follow a pattern, Radclyffe writes exceptionally well written books and I am powerless to not read them especially when I know I want something GOOD.
I feel like Radclyffe has become my go-to audiobook preference. I share an audible account and I just stumble across these when one finishes without care or concern for series order and get interested in them immediately. Radclyffe books almost always have two things I adore, medical or police/military characters, and steamy sex scenes. The plots are always believable and compelling, and her characters are always personable and have some sort of past to overcome, which I find important considering the world.
This particular book centered around Emmett McCabe and Sydney Stevens. Both surgical residents in their 4th year, with a past that still lingers in their present. Now thrown together in the same hospital, they have to navigate professional duties and their renewed attraction for one another taking their history into consideration.
I found both characters interesting, Emmett being the stereotypical player that is never shy from a bed and keeps herself from falling for anyone, and Sydney, who always seems distant and cautious about forming connections with anyone but her two roommates. The dynamics between both Sydney and Emmett and their collective roommates and friends are great, there is they typical miscommunication laden in every lesfic, but it's as always very well written and not cliche.
While they always follow a pattern, Radclyffe writes exceptionally well written books and I am powerless to not read them especially when I know I want something GOOD.
November 15, 2018
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love Radclyffe. I love that most of her books are set in hospitals dealing with doctors. As a medical student this is so so exciting for me.
I'm not gonna rant about the plot. It's a fairly simple plot, and it's almost similar to the synopsis albeit with a happy ending. Just what you need after a taxing day.
There isn't much in terms of relationship drama. It's mostly a side plot I'd say, as the main story is about the two residents settling into their hectic life as they compete for the same thing. There are a few annoying supporting characters but meh, ignore them.
The real deal for me was the medical jargon used. Somehow, I manage to learn more from anything but a textbook 😂. Though this was mostly about surgery it was fun. I was quite intrigued by the way they handled cases.
I'm not sure if I've read all the books in this series, but I could make out characters popping up from the previous books. So a word of caution, if you wanna read this and hate spoilers then you might want to stick to the order of books in the series.
I love Radclyffe. I love that most of her books are set in hospitals dealing with doctors. As a medical student this is so so exciting for me.
I'm not gonna rant about the plot. It's a fairly simple plot, and it's almost similar to the synopsis albeit with a happy ending. Just what you need after a taxing day.
There isn't much in terms of relationship drama. It's mostly a side plot I'd say, as the main story is about the two residents settling into their hectic life as they compete for the same thing. There are a few annoying supporting characters but meh, ignore them.
The real deal for me was the medical jargon used. Somehow, I manage to learn more from anything but a textbook 😂. Though this was mostly about surgery it was fun. I was quite intrigued by the way they handled cases.
I'm not sure if I've read all the books in this series, but I could make out characters popping up from the previous books. So a word of caution, if you wanna read this and hate spoilers then you might want to stick to the order of books in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2018
Reading this book was like visiting old friends you haven't seen for a while. I know it's about the new generation of doctor's but meeting Quinn and Honor again was really nice.
In this book we meet Emmett who seems to be a rising star and boy does she know it. We also meet Syd who transfers into the program, who seems to also be a rising star. An interesting rivalry develops. On and off the speed so to speak.
Radclyffe has an excellent writing style which makes it really easy to read. I also love the how easy it is to read. When I'm reading one off her books I really seem to connect to the story. The time and book flies by.
So, Yes I will definitely be recommended this book to anyone who will listen. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
In this book we meet Emmett who seems to be a rising star and boy does she know it. We also meet Syd who transfers into the program, who seems to also be a rising star. An interesting rivalry develops. On and off the speed so to speak.
Radclyffe has an excellent writing style which makes it really easy to read. I also love the how easy it is to read. When I'm reading one off her books I really seem to connect to the story. The time and book flies by.
So, Yes I will definitely be recommended this book to anyone who will listen. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
July 11, 2019
A good read, I would definitely recommend it. The characters where great, especially Emmet, and I loved the way they interacted.
It’s just that lately, I’ve become very frustrated with books that wrap up right after the mains have finally gotten together. It usually leaves the feeling of everything being rushed as the end, and this time was no different.
I also had a problem getting the point of view. There’s a chance I may have misunderstood, but it seemed as if the books jumped between third person limited, third person multiple and third person omniscient? Did anyone else notice this? None the less, it was confusing and kinda threw a wrench in my wheels.
Final rating 3*
It’s just that lately, I’ve become very frustrated with books that wrap up right after the mains have finally gotten together. It usually leaves the feeling of everything being rushed as the end, and this time was no different.
I also had a problem getting the point of view. There’s a chance I may have misunderstood, but it seemed as if the books jumped between third person limited, third person multiple and third person omniscient? Did anyone else notice this? None the less, it was confusing and kinda threw a wrench in my wheels.
Final rating 3*
November 25, 2018
Can’t go wrong with a romance set in medical background! Not when Radcliffe is the author. Lots of medicine and Dr things. Lots of romance, some jealousy, some on call room play time! Just a fun read
December 27, 2018
I was so excited to read this book as I’ve followed the PMC Hospital Series from the moment I read ‘Fated Love’. I love Quinn and Honor (Fated Love) so to know I would get another book with them in the story had me reading this book the moment it hit my kindle.
As well as an update on all the loveliness that is Honor and Quinn, the plot centres around two new characters, Emmett and Sydney. Emmett and Sydney meet again under unexpected circumstances and are pitted against each other for the role of Chief resident in PMC Hospital. The problem is that the attraction they feel to one another is still strong… Can they work together/ against each other when their feelings are still so strong?
This book is definitely more a of slow burn for most of the book and then it really speeds up from 75% in which really finished the book nicely for me.
I adore how after four books in the series Honor and Quinn are just as much in love if not more than in ‘Fated Love’. There is something about those two (and also Tori and Reese from Ptown series) that makes me measure all of Radclyffe’s protagonists against them. So to see them still as madly in love made me incredibly happy.
Sydney and Emmett’s back-story intrigued me from the beginning, how did they know each other? Were they lovers? Or was it a fling?
The more we got to know them the more I couldn’t believe they hadn’t gotten serious the first time they met but Sydney’s story develops into all the reasons why and I have to say, it was an interesting twist in their story.
I saw a lot of Quinn in Emmett and I think that’s what made her my favourite character in this book. She was really something special and characters like her are one of the many reasons I keep returning to reread Radclyffe’s books.
The secondary characters in the book really made for some interesting moments and I really hope they are continued into this new phase of the PMC romance series. Especially Dani and Zoey, who I really hope Radclyffe writes a story around as I reckon them as a couple could be explosive on the page.
One of my issues was the cover of the book. I’m not a fan of people on the front covers of books because I like to have an image in my mind of what I think the character looks like and I can never really do that when there is quite a defined picture of the protagonists on the front. It’s a personal thing though but I wanted to mention it as it throws me a bit off.
Not my favourite from Radclyffe but another great hospital romance I’ll read again.
4 stars
As well as an update on all the loveliness that is Honor and Quinn, the plot centres around two new characters, Emmett and Sydney. Emmett and Sydney meet again under unexpected circumstances and are pitted against each other for the role of Chief resident in PMC Hospital. The problem is that the attraction they feel to one another is still strong… Can they work together/ against each other when their feelings are still so strong?
This book is definitely more a of slow burn for most of the book and then it really speeds up from 75% in which really finished the book nicely for me.
I adore how after four books in the series Honor and Quinn are just as much in love if not more than in ‘Fated Love’. There is something about those two (and also Tori and Reese from Ptown series) that makes me measure all of Radclyffe’s protagonists against them. So to see them still as madly in love made me incredibly happy.
Sydney and Emmett’s back-story intrigued me from the beginning, how did they know each other? Were they lovers? Or was it a fling?
The more we got to know them the more I couldn’t believe they hadn’t gotten serious the first time they met but Sydney’s story develops into all the reasons why and I have to say, it was an interesting twist in their story.
I saw a lot of Quinn in Emmett and I think that’s what made her my favourite character in this book. She was really something special and characters like her are one of the many reasons I keep returning to reread Radclyffe’s books.
The secondary characters in the book really made for some interesting moments and I really hope they are continued into this new phase of the PMC romance series. Especially Dani and Zoey, who I really hope Radclyffe writes a story around as I reckon them as a couple could be explosive on the page.
One of my issues was the cover of the book. I’m not a fan of people on the front covers of books because I like to have an image in my mind of what I think the character looks like and I can never really do that when there is quite a defined picture of the protagonists on the front. It’s a personal thing though but I wanted to mention it as it throws me a bit off.
Not my favourite from Radclyffe but another great hospital romance I’ll read again.
4 stars
May 18, 2020
3.5⭐
September 1, 2018
Wow! It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Radclyffe book. I was craving for a Medical drama and I know I could count on this one. I blame binge watching The Good Doctor.
Thank God I’ve read The Fated love, the first book from this series. It’s nice to see Quinn and Harley here.
Frankly, I think this is my favorite from the Author. Less cocky. :))
Emmet is a very likable character. She’s confident but not over the top like most butch character, she’s also a reliable team leader.
For Syd, I like the build up on what happened to her, why her romance with Emmet was cut short. I find the reason solid and I bought it. Which it good, it’s worth the wait.
A lot of interesting secondary characters,
I’d like to read Zoey’s story.
Also I’ve noticed Dani called almost everyone hot yet when it comes to Jerry their best friend, he’s the not. Man hate vibe. Hmmm?
I also don’t like that they refer Quinn as next to God. Maybe that’s why I kinda dislike the first book because of too much hype on Quinn.
Slow burn, but a lot of sexual tension.
3.75 :)
Thank God I’ve read The Fated love, the first book from this series. It’s nice to see Quinn and Harley here.
Frankly, I think this is my favorite from the Author. Less cocky. :))
Emmet is a very likable character. She’s confident but not over the top like most butch character, she’s also a reliable team leader.
For Syd, I like the build up on what happened to her, why her romance with Emmet was cut short. I find the reason solid and I bought it. Which it good, it’s worth the wait.
A lot of interesting secondary characters,
I’d like to read Zoey’s story.
Also I’ve noticed Dani called almost everyone hot yet when it comes to Jerry their best friend, he’s the not. Man hate vibe. Hmmm?
I also don’t like that they refer Quinn as next to God. Maybe that’s why I kinda dislike the first book because of too much hype on Quinn.
Slow burn, but a lot of sexual tension.
3.75 :)
September 13, 2018
This book is the 4th in the PMC Hospital series, which is located in Philadelphia. The first of this series, being Fated Love, which I loved and besides I strongly advise you to read it before starting this one, since we find here characters from Fated Love. These four books are standalone.
Emmett, butch and handsome, is a surgeon resident at the PMC hospital, and is standing up to Syd, a beautiful woman, with whom she had a relationship that did not go well. The pressure to get the position of chief of residents is gaining momentum when Syd and Emmett compete. Passion and rivalry between them two will be full twists.
Okay, Radclyffe does Radclyffe, but that's what I like about her : very good writing, strong women characters, passionate about their work and their feelings.
Everything goes fast in this book, no downtime, we learn as the book details on the relationship between Emmett and Syd. Regarding the medical theme, everything is orchestrated to put us in suspense.
We thus find in background, Honor and Quinn of the first book of this series, Fated Love, from where the interest to read it before. We also have other minor characters who play an important role both from a medical and sentimental point of view.
Just a small detail, everything related to medical seems too important compared to the romance, whose outcome is too fast for my taste.
I highly recommend this book, even if it is not the best of Radclyffe. But Radclyffe remains a pioneer of writing and publishing lesbian books - no, no, no I did not say that she's old - her books are all breathtaking, and for all that, go for it!
Emmett, butch and handsome, is a surgeon resident at the PMC hospital, and is standing up to Syd, a beautiful woman, with whom she had a relationship that did not go well. The pressure to get the position of chief of residents is gaining momentum when Syd and Emmett compete. Passion and rivalry between them two will be full twists.
Okay, Radclyffe does Radclyffe, but that's what I like about her : very good writing, strong women characters, passionate about their work and their feelings.
Everything goes fast in this book, no downtime, we learn as the book details on the relationship between Emmett and Syd. Regarding the medical theme, everything is orchestrated to put us in suspense.
We thus find in background, Honor and Quinn of the first book of this series, Fated Love, from where the interest to read it before. We also have other minor characters who play an important role both from a medical and sentimental point of view.
Just a small detail, everything related to medical seems too important compared to the romance, whose outcome is too fast for my taste.
I highly recommend this book, even if it is not the best of Radclyffe. But Radclyffe remains a pioneer of writing and publishing lesbian books - no, no, no I did not say that she's old - her books are all breathtaking, and for all that, go for it!
September 5, 2018
Emmett and Sydney are in their final rear of surgical residency. A lack of funding at Sydney's hospital sends her and her follow colleagues to PMC where Emmett is vying for chief resident spot. When Sydney arrives, she is suddenly Emmett's main competition. The two women work to balance their positions as colleagues and as rivals, and their attraction towards each other.
You can never go wrong with a book by Radclyffe, they're always solid, dependable good reads. I always enjoy reading their books and I can't resist a good medical romance. And the medical details are amazing, I don't know if they're correct, but as a reader they're exciting and the drama keeps the pages flying by. I haven't read Fated Love, that I'm seeing in other reviews is connected to this book, and I had no trouble losing myself in the book!
I. Love. Slow. Burn. The slower the better. It was balanced out by their high pressure, high stress, fast paced environment of residency which kept the book going.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can never go wrong with a book by Radclyffe, they're always solid, dependable good reads. I always enjoy reading their books and I can't resist a good medical romance. And the medical details are amazing, I don't know if they're correct, but as a reader they're exciting and the drama keeps the pages flying by. I haven't read Fated Love, that I'm seeing in other reviews is connected to this book, and I had no trouble losing myself in the book!
I. Love. Slow. Burn. The slower the better. It was balanced out by their high pressure, high stress, fast paced environment of residency which kept the book going.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2018
This was ok for me. It was the first in a new series so lots of introductions to new people. But I found the romance and chemistry lacking. This was disappointing as it's always something Radclyffe does very well.
All in all it's a solid read just not a great one. Of course a solid read by Radcliffe is still a good thing!!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
All in all it's a solid read just not a great one. Of course a solid read by Radcliffe is still a good thing!!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2019
I really enjoy Radclyffe books. I love her Rivers series, and listen to her audiobooks often. I own this one in audiobook format, and I just didn’t love it as much as some of her other books. It started slow for me. It got better as it went, but I did struggle in the beginning just getting into the story. It was nice to catch up to some of those characters from previous books. I thought it was a good listen, just not as good as some of Radclyffe’s other books. I do love the hospital setting, and enjoyed the chemistry between the two mains. Secondary characters were good additions and I overall enjoyed the book. If you are a fan of Radclyffe’s previous books you will enjoy this one. If it isn’t broke no reason to fix it.
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