When selecting a tool for a turning operation, the tool is previewed both in the tool library and on the model while editing the operation.
The preview in the tool library is always shown as if you were holding the tool in your hand, looking down on the tool.
The preview in the model viewport rotates with the view, but corresponds to the preview in the tool library when the Z-axis (blue) points to the right, and the X-axis (red) points down.
Turning tool preview. Spindle rotation is forward.
Turning tool preview. Spindle rotation is reverse.
Note that the tool is flipped when the spindle is set to reverse.