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Between #1

Between

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It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile and Scottish accent.

After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates.

Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries.

246 pages, ebook

First published April 5, 2011

16 people are currently reading
2782 people want to read

About the author

Cyndi Tefft

4 books419 followers
Cyndi Tefft lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest where the weather is overcast and rainy, much like the Highlands of Scotland. So she was right at home when she got the chance to visit Eilean Donan Castle.

A self-proclaimed Scot freak, she loved every bit about the trip to Scotland: the people, the kilts, the accents, the fish & chips, the haggis...well okay, not the haggis.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
Profile Image for  Lissa Smith Reads'~A Bookaholics Bookshelf.
5,979 reviews135 followers
December 18, 2020
Star stats:
Jaded Adult: 5 Stars
Forever Young: 5 Stars
Over All: 5 Stars

I was mesmerized by the cover the first time I laid eyes on it. The brilliant blue coloring and the sculpted “t” in the shape of cross with an eerie smoke rising from the luring sub-text, “Sometimes death is just the beginning…” and finding it was to cress the cross. I was sold and have to read the story beneath such an eye catching cover.

True to the title Lindsey was caught in the between. In a cosmos where she was not tethered to earth nor bound to heaven. Caught in a vast space that defies the logic and sets her memories free allowing her to open her heart and put her on a path that derails her from her destiny. Or does it?

After a tragic car accident Lindsey’s soul is separated from her body where Aiden MacRae a transporter assigned to accompany her to the gates of heaven. With the chains that bound her to earth and the compassion she carries in her heart loosened by the acceptance of death Lindsey finds herself falling for the very transporter taking her from her family and friends she loves. Death as scary as it sounds is peaceful, you are encircled in the ultimate love and the author successfully articulates the soul letting go what it cannot change and still mourn the loss while opening Lindsey’s heart for the true love mate God designed for her.

Time in the between cannot be measured as time in heaven has no measure. One day can feel as a thousand while one second or minute can feel as only a day. No accurate measure of time can be determined though in earthly time it may have been only seconds or minutes in Lindsey’s death. Although to Lindsey and Aiden the measure of time was not enough. The time they did spend together was intimate in the ways of truly knowing the person you are bound to. The spent time sharing their memories growing the love God ordained. Only their time together is violently ended without warning after they are bound together as husband and wife in an old fashion hand-fasting. Will Lindsey return to her husband Aiden? Will Aiden find a way to earth to be with his bride?

In this beautifully woven story of love as you read; your heart will open and your mind will soar right along with Lindsey and Aiden. You will cry, laugh and sigh while eager to turn the page. And when the story ends it will leave you wanting more of Lindsey and Aiden’s story of love that crosses the great expanse.

My only complaint is the ending felt rush compared to the rest of the story. However, I was elated to learn that Lindsey and Aiden’s story will continue in the sequel Hell Transporter.

Recommend: Adult & Young Adult Reader of Paranormal Romance & Life after Death
Profile Image for Sue.
28 reviews1 follower
June 7, 2011
I'm not a person that reads romance novels, but this book kept me spellbound or maybe I should say "book bound."

Between heaven and earth. Between the natural and the paranormal. Between old world and modern. Between going to sleep and staying up to read just one more chapter. A quick read, because you won't want to put it down.

A great debut for Cyndi Tefft.

It is June 7, 2011 and I'm reading Between for a second time.
Profile Image for Alana ~ The Book Pimp.
857 reviews192 followers
February 18, 2012
Overview:
Lindsey is torn between two worlds: in one, she is a college student with a boyfriend that loves her and divorced parents. And by accident she is catapulted into the other, a fantastical world of imaginations and a hot Scottish hunk of highlander that speaks French to boot. Aiden ferries souls from their death to heaven. As she spends time with Aiden, her love begins to grow and blossom. Can love transcend the boundaries between life and death? And what if it was until 'life' do you part?

What I Thought
This is a charming story that quickly sucks you in. I found myself eagerly reading this book, fighting sleep to get just a little more in. The main characters (and even secondary characters like her parents) are well established in the book, and very likeable. Well... her mom may have been a harder sell on the likeable, but in the end she was. I just got so caught up in the story, trips to France during the "Sun King's" reign, remembered trips to Seattle lead to interesting reactions to cars and phones and such on Aiden's part. It ended up being a sweet, heartfelt romantic story that whisks you away with it's pages.

The down side, I can find one in just about any book. In Between, it's a very vanilla romance- don't read this expecting a 'bodice ripper', although there most definitely are sexual overtones. Think of the device used in movies where you see the couple kissing and making out, then the camera slides off to a view of the curtains blowing in the wind; Between is that kind of book. There is some 'hot and heavy' time, but there is NO ... smut for lack of a better word. I still really enjoyed it, and would recommend it to others; but I admit, I wanted smut. Really I did... it had all the ingredients for a good 'roll in hey' but we would only get to see them kiss, then head off for the hey.

So if you are looking for a vanilla romance story that is life affirming, and paints a loving, kind view of God and the afterlife (for those that would go to heaven, anyway) then I highly recommend trying out this book. If you are looking solely for sex, you may need to find your highlander six elsewhere.
Profile Image for Logan.
517 reviews97 followers
July 19, 2011
First impressions: The book opens with Lindsey in a car, kissing her boyfriend and not really enjoying it all that much. Hilarious and sweet, and it made me like Lindsey a lot. Then the action picks up and before you know it, Lindsey is dead. It's a great beginning that keeps you glued to the pages.

Lasting impressions: What will stick with me the most about this book, unfortunately, is how offensive I found its moralizing.

Conflicting impressions: This book was full of inconsistency in the characters and their choices. The decisions made stretched the bounds of plausibility for me, so I wasn't able to fully invest in what was happening.

Overall impressions: I really, truly wanted to like this book. It's a Scottish boy who falls in love with his very own Sassenach (Outlander) and sort of time travels with her! Plus, Lindsey is a college student, and I'm all about more YA fiction for the college set. It had everything going for it, but just couldn't deliver.

My first problem with this story was the insta-love. MAJOR case of it going on here. Lindsey dies in a car wreck, is whisked away by Aiden to this "between" place on her way to heaven. At no time does she seem overly concerned about being dead. She's sad, sure, but not sad enough to miss the fact that Aiden is smoking hot and she kind of wants his bod. This didn't really ring true for me. If I found out I was dead, I would not automatically be concerned with the attractiveness of my reaper.

Lindsey decides that she's really upset about going to heaven still a virgin. And Aiden gets all uppity about deflowering a maiden and it really wasn't working for me. Aiden came off as more jerky than chivalrous or old timey. I get that he would find modern female behavior strange, but when he gets Lindsey make believe drunk and she starts flirting with him he basically calls her a whore. And she doesn't immediately tell him to eff off and run away to heaven. Bad move, Lindsey!

It touched a nerve. On the one hand, Aiden is skinny dipping and lusting after her, but on the other he doesn't want to take her maidenhead or have her acting too much like a floozy. I mean, what a turnoff, right? (Insert eyeroll sprain here.) Similarly, Lindsey is supposed to be a college aged nice girl virgin, but yet she jumps in naked in the lake with Aiden and sleeps with him, and later practically gives him a lap dance after some drinking. Where is the conflict here? She has no qualms about giving up her virginity in the afterlife? It seemed inconsistent with my idea of Lindsey and so I couldn't figure out who these characters were supposed to be.

I admit that I had a very personal reaction early on that may have colored my perceptions a bit. Cyndi Tefft really lost me when describing Aiden's story. Aiden explains that the reason he's spent 300 years transporting souls to heaven while not going there himself is because he committed suicide and God was mad at him. Later in the book, there's another discussion of suicide with similar blatant moralizing about how all suicide victims are selfish and cowardly.

I realize that this is almost always true, but I don't need it flung in my face. The whole concept was handled in a clunky way at best, and in an offensive way at worst. I have been personally touched by suicide, and so having the basis of Aiden's position be a punishment for his suicide just didn't sit well with me. At all. But that's just me, and it may not bother most readers.

The time travel elements were fun to read, though I had a hard time getting into them knowing they weren't actually happening and were memories instead. I did like the idea of "casting," where the characters in Between can make their own reality by just imagining what they want. It was a cool world and an interesting story of two people facing the ultimate obstacle. The story does take an interesting twist into new territory about halfway through, but a lot of the side characters and backstory didn't add much to Lindsey and Aiden's tale. If I had been able to get past the preaching and really believe in these characters and their love I may have enjoyed this book, but in the end I couldn't and I didn't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
112 reviews3 followers
April 3, 2013
Once I read the summary for BETWEEN, I immediately purchased it for my Kindle. I just felt this strong pull to the story. I started right after it downloaded and finished reading it in less than 4 hours. It's THAT good. BETWEEN is a charming tale that had me smiling one minute and weeping the next. Cyndi Tefft created a world that literally swept me off my feet (as well as a male lead who did the same). With a gorgeous style reminiscent of Diana Gabaldon's Outlanderseries, I was absolutely enthralled by this novel.


Aiden MacRae, “Grim reaper with a Scottish accent? Ohhh yes!”, had me under his spell from the very beginning. While Lindsey struggled to deal with her death and all that she'd lost, Aiden remained gentle and supportive. My heart broke for both of them as we learn more of their previous lives. Through the magic that is time travel and casting, Aiden and Lindsey were able to share pieces of their time among the living. It was awesome to go on this journey with them. Watching their relationship grow into something so beautiful.The romance scenes were executed in a very classy, yet steamy fashion. While this book is for a more mature YA audience, I appreciated the fact that these young adult characters (if you can count a 300 year old reaper as such) kept to their convictions on this subject. You'll see what I mean.


Speaking of convictions, I very much enjoyed an aspect of the story that may not be everyone's cup of tea: Aiden and Lindsey's trust in God. For me, it was so nice to see faith portrayed sincerely and not in a crazy, religious manner. I loved Aiden's description of his encounter with God after losing a family member.

“It washed all over me and through me, into the floor and then it was gone. I never cried for my Da again after that, and God's presence has been with me ever since.”

So sweet! Even when the unthinkable happens, and our couple is dealt a horrible blow, they remain strong in their faith. At this point, I couldn't read fast enough. I couldn't accept the way the story was heading. I remember it being near one in the morning, and I knew there would be no way I would sleep until the story was over. Talk about intensity!


I really could go on forever about how much I loved this story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal/supernatural romance and fantasy genres. BETWEEN was an absolute delight, and I am impatiently awaiting the next installment from Cyndi Tefft, HELL TRANSPORTER. (Hopefully my near-constant 'encouragement' tweets will speed things along.)
Profile Image for Savannah (Books With Bite).
1,399 reviews183 followers
July 6, 2011
Ok, I really loved this book! Like I am completely in love and not going back, ever! What I like most about this book are the characters. They are unique themselves that they tell their own story! The characters change before the readers eyes into a better person they ever thought they be.

The storyline is another amazing plot where the reader falls into instantly. It is easy to fall into this plot because we've all dreamed what it would be like to die. What happens afterward and such. I really like the concept of it.

The love interest in this book is amazing! You the reader really feel the love between Aiden and Lindsey. You see them struggle when they are apart and you fight for them all the way! I really like how complete these two are with each other. They see things completely different than most people and don't take things for granted. I adore that they both are on the same page. They are truly a couple who can last forever!

If you like hunky scots and a great love then read this book! I can guarantee you that you will fall in love with it. It is an amazing book that you will never forget!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Marshall.
Author 8 books119 followers
September 27, 2011
This is a great fantasy romance book.

In many ways the plot is classic and seemingly predictable but it takes some unexpected turns and ends up as a real page turner!

This is a love story with a twist.

Lindsey meets Aiden in the most unique way. Their time together is so inimitable and you become so involved in their perfect little world that what comes next is absolutely heart wrenching and shocking.

I loved Cyndi Tefft's descriptive writing, especially when Aiden and Lindsey were taking each other to all the varied and exciting places.

So many different pictures were painted in my head.

Overall a very enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read about what is in store for them in the next book.

Profile Image for Amytiger.
86 reviews23 followers
February 18, 2015

You see the words, "Young Adult Novel." What would you think of? Maybe shoulder squeezes instead of rear-end pinches? Not with Between. And that was one of many things that rather irked me with this book.
The main character, Lindsey Waters, makes me frown. First off, she is a terrible example. In this book, the Christian god is present. And Lindsey has the opportunity to go to Heaven multiple times. Yet, she is still consumed with a sexual desire. And as soon as this desire isn't filled, it isn't "Oh my gosh, I should just back off." It's, "Don't you want me?" Uhg, you've known the guy for around two days!
Not only that, but she doesn't think of others nearly as much as she should. This may be considered a spoiler, but it's in the first chapter so I'll inform you that a car crash happens and she wasn't the one driving. A young man by the name of Ravi was driving. And once her body is transported to an in between zone, somewhere between Heaven and Earth (not purgatory, that would be between Heaven and Hell), she doesn't think about how much lain and grief and guilt it would cause Ravi if she died. If I knew I was directly responsible for someone else's death, that this person was in the car with me, and I could have easily, easily avoided it had I been paying attention, the guilt would be overwhelming. Out of the TWO HUNDRED FIFTY-SEVEN PAGES, she recognizes this at page ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-SEVEN. She does, however, immediately take notice of how her dad would feel if she died. Good job, Lindsey. You even tear up. Of course, you tear up A LOT in the beginning, and you continue to giggle what feels like every two pages for the rest of the book, which also immensely irked me. I can barely imagine Katniss or Tris giggling as much as she does or saying "Ewww" as she had.
And the main male protagonist... He was okay except I hated how stereotypically Scottish he was. The author had full range of what time period to make Aiden from. Anywhere between the past and today. She chooses the time period in which they wore kilts.
He wasn't the only problem, but the relationship between Aiden and Lindsey was painfully cheesy:
“Aiden, you’re…” I stammered, trying to put into words how beautiful he was to me, how I could barely breathe when I looked at him.
“Thank you. I was about to say the same to you.”
This is even less clever:
“Wow, you look amazing,” I said, awed.
“I was just thinking the same about you,” he replied and lifted my hands to his lips.”
Gosh, that was horrid. I'm not smiling. That wasn't funny, it wasn't heart melting, it wasn't anything but bland and maybe mushy.
Oh, and I'm confused. If you can just summon ANYTHING by merely thinking it, why chop wood? Why not summon chopped wood? Why search for a camera? Why not just project one with your mind?
But this book still doesn't get a one star review. The chapter titles were nice. It could've been a whole lot worse, as a lot of young adult novels like to make the chapter titles HUGE and then put a nice, large symbol, and then skip, like, six lines and then FINALLY start the story. This one had the chapter titles normally sized in italics, and none of this one to two inch space before the story starts. Also, the way she writes is gorgeous. Just what she's writing is not my favorite. But if she were to put a good story in her own words, I'd be first to buy. And the nice, low price is part of what compelled me to purchase it.
So, all in all, it's a nicely priced novel with unlikable characters and messed up logic, but with nice chapter titles and corny lines, yet has gorgeous writing.
Profile Image for Jessica.
1,183 reviews87 followers
July 5, 2011
Oh what do I say about Between? Let's see. Hot Scottish guy named Aiden, who also happens to be the Grim Reaper. Check. Sweet, quirky and completely lovable protagonist. Check. Story that will have you devouring the pages and getting teary eyed. Triple check! There's everything to love about Between, and I only hope that my review does it even a minute amount of justice. I'll give it a shot!

First off, the characters were by far my favorite part. Lindsey was, I think, the perfect protagonist for this story. She is tough, despite her emotional side, and full of snark and sweetness mixed together. I enjoyed her voice as the narrator, and it made this book a pleasure to read. Then, of course, there is hunky and lovely Aiden. A grim reaper of sorts, Aiden transports souls between limbo and heaven. Unfortunately for him, he's so adorable and sweet that Lindsey falls for him. The chemistry between these two crackles off the page. A little sweet, a whole lot of sexy, these two are hard not to fall in love with.

My one gripe, and this is a minor one, is that Lindsey fell for Aiden so quickly! I ended up chalking it up to the fact that she was indeed dead. Perhaps it was her way of latching on to someone special, especially someone who would take such good care of her. Aiden definitely shows that he is worth falling in love with. From the way he treats her, to the way his inner thoughts are always of her, he's one amazing guy. I guess the rational part of me was slightly at war with the romantic side of me. After all, without romance what is there in the world?

Story wise, Between is expertly crafted. Cyndi Tefft draws you in with Lindsey's likability and then keeps you there with the romance between her and her sizzling protector. Just when you think you understand exactly what is going on between these two, something happens and you'll be right back to devouring each page. Oh, and the ending, oh the ending. If you are a sap, like I am, I recommend you grab yourself some tissues and perhaps even some chocolate. This is a perfectly beautiful and cathartic read. Lindsey learns so much about herself, it makes you think about your life too.

I'm not generally a romance gal. Give me fantasy, with wars and dragons, and we'll talk! However I have to admit that when Cyndi Tefft asked me to review Between what most drew me in was the idea of a grim reaper. I hadn't seen that done before, where could it lead? Add in the fact that he is a hot grim reaper, complete with Scottish accent, and you have me hooked. I cannot explain enough how much I adored this book! If there is more romance out there like this, please point me in that direction and don't come looking for me.
Profile Image for Jess - The Tales Compendium.
321 reviews26 followers
June 2, 2011
Between begins with Lindsey being involved in a car accident. When she wakes up, she finds herself in a meadow and accompanied by a gorgeous Scottish man who she feels an instant attraction to and who is to lead her to the pearly gates of heaven. I had two initial reactions in the first few chapters. One was, 'Oh no, please don't go all God preachy on me'. The second was 'Oh no, not another love at first sight, you are my one true love even though I have barely said ten words to you'. Haha not the best first impression but both were based on my own opinions of religion and love. The beginning is not bad, it's just not what I normally enjoy. This should have been enough to stop me reading, leave it in the unfinished pile and start something new. But I didn't. I kept reading, and oh my gosh, I am so glad I did because I quickly became completely absorbed in it and didn't do anything for the rest of the day.

Instead of going straight to heaven, Lindsey decides to stay with Aiden for a little while until she feels ready to move on. Being in this state of limbo, Aiden has the ability to 'cast' the two of them anywhere they want, as long as he has been there in the past (before he died). Aiden takes Lindsey through a journey of his memories from his home at Eilean Donan Castle in the Scottish Highlands to his uncle's house in Versailles, they dance in a ballroom with Louis the 14th and wander the streets of Paris in the 1700's. Lindsey quickly discovers she also has this ability to 'cast' and as their feelings for each other intensify, Lindsey shares her memories with Aiden. But as the gates of heaven call her, their time together is running out. Will their love be enough or will they lose each other forever?

And then just when I thought I knew how the story was likely to pan out...BAM! Tefft threw me a major curve-ball. In comes a contemporary twist that totally shocked me and took Between to a whole other level, something I was so not expecting!

Mixed with delicious smoking-hot scenes and total tear-jerking moments, family and personal relationships are examined, feelings voiced, insurmountable grief exposed and pain, loss, love and desire are all experienced. Between has it all.

How pretty is the cover?! Simple but effective. Also, after visiting Scotland (and Eilean Donan Castle) three years ago, I fell in love with the place so I love to find books that mention Scotland.
Profile Image for CasPerfitz~SLiTsReaD.
649 reviews41 followers
September 9, 2016
Between the blurb and the cover, well, I decided to check it out.. plus I was looking for a light read... and again, I'm really glad I did!

I would classify this as for older YA or as NA, cause even though it wasn't quite torrid, but yes, there are sex scenes, which I thought was sweet.

The protagonist, Lindsey, has this loveable character... she is sweet and passionate with a fun personality, and who just happens to fall in love with the grim ripper, Aiden.

Aiden, a grim ripper for 300 years, also has this sweet personality and is very conservative, given that he was born on the olden times... He is definitely hot and sexy, with a Scottish accent.... And Aiden, not long after meeting Lindsey, also fell in love with her.

So... they met, instant attraction and fell in love... I'm a romantic and there's a lot of that instant-love going around, so be it.



In the beginning, I was questioning where the story was going really... being that they are both just stuck in the "in between". But I did enjoy getting to know Aiden... cause then Aiden would show Lindsey his life's memory which takes us 300 years back... and Lindsey showed Aiden the present modern times. And I find Aiden's reaction to the modern times, amusing.

“Aye, for certain. But truthfully lass, I wouldn’t be surprised if you climbed the walls like a spider and hung from the ceiling like a bat, for all I’ve seen today. I cannot even describe what it’s like to go forward three hundred years in the future and to see how things have changed. I don’t understand it, but thank you for showing me your home.” - Aiden


Love it! Love him...

I also enjoyed reading Lindsey's background, her friends, her passion and family.

Then finally, there it was. That twist of the story that I know was coming but just didn't know which way it'll go?! So, now I'm intrigue!

I don't wanna say more cause then I would be telling the story. Just that it is a well written, and is captivating, romantic, sweet, and very promising start of a series that left me wondering what is next for Lindsey and Aiden?

Profile Image for Nicole.
155 reviews21 followers
January 23, 2012
Absolutely LOVED everything about this book... Aiden, kilt and Scottish accent... need I really say anything more! I was mesmerized from start to finish and can't wait to read the next book
Profile Image for Raquel Vega-Grieder.
112 reviews66 followers
December 21, 2011
When I read the blurb and excerpt of Between I knew this was a book I needed to get my hands on. When I bought this book I had such high hopes. I am so glad I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. From the first sentence this story had a hold of me and I so didn't want to let go. The way this story started totally threw me for a loop. I didn't expect what happened to happen so early on in the book. I was virtually at the edge of my seat the whole time.

Lindsey Water is your typical 19 year old who just recently started collage and who didn't have her whole life figured out. Her parents haven't been divorced all that long and her relationship with her boyfriend Ravi wasn't everything she wanted it to be. When she meets Aiden she soon discovers he is everything she ever wanted in life.

Aiden MacRae died over 300 hundreds years ago and he spends his afterlife transporting souls from earth to heaven. He is there to help then transition and accept their death so that they may be ready when God calls them to heaven. Aiden never expected to fall for Lindsey so hard and so fast.

Aiden and Lindsey share a deep connection that transcends all things. They also know that their time together can't last and so they try to make the most of the time that they do have. Aiden shares memories of Scotland and Lindsey shows Aiden all the new things that he has never been privy to while he was being a transporter.

This book had me feeling all kinds of emotions from wanting to fling my book across the room (but since it was an e-book on my Tablet I thought that wouldn't be good....lol) to crying like a little girl. To me that is the sign of an extraordinary book. If a story is able to elicit such emotions in me then that is a testament to the author's ability to tell a great story. Cyndi told a phenomenal story that keeps you wanting to read it even after it is over. On a scale from 1-10 I give Between a VERY BIG, ENTHUSIASTIC 20. I know, I know I am off my scale but you don't understand how AMAZING this story is. If you believe in destiny, true love, love conquers all, and fate you really do NEED to read this book. EVERYONE needs to run out and grab a copy of Between and let Aiden and Lindsey's story restore your faith in love. Be on the look out for Hell Transporter (Between Series Book #2) when it comes out. I know I will be one of the first people to buy it.
854 reviews45 followers
May 22, 2011
What a hidden gem! I loved Between! I have to admit that the (very short) summary did not reel me in, but boy, was it a great read.


Lindsey is a college student riding home with her sort-of boyfriend Raji when they get into a wreck. She wakes up in a meadow, but she is not alone. There is a very good-looking Scottish guy in the meadow with her. Lindsey doesn't have any idea what's going on or who he is, but they become fast friends. Soon, that friendship develops into something more---but the relationship is doomed because Aiden is there to guide Lindsey to heaven, and they cannot stay together.

Between is a love story, pure and simple. I loved that about this book! It's not a heavy story and there's no elaborate world-building to figure out and remember along the way. Sometimes it's so nice to have a mental break with a book. It makes the book a true escape, which is the main reason why I read. When I have to actively work to remember plot points and other details, I can't enjoy a book as much as when I can just relax and enjoy the story.

I loved the chemistry between Aiden and Lindsey. It was so sweet without getting overbearing. I loved the plot twists, which were totally unexpected and a great surprise.

But my favorite thing about Between was that there were Christian elements to the book. By that, I mean that Lindsey prayed to God from time to time. Her prayers were part of her internal dialogue and they were totally natural. One of my problems with a lot of Christian fiction is that the Christian elements often feel forced. The book becomes about flowery prayers instead of highlighting the protagonists' relationship with God. Lindsey is a Christian and believes in heaven, and prays for help when things get rough. If you don't feel the same personally, don't let it keep you from reading Between. There was just the right amount of a religious theme without being overbearing.

I loved Between so much. I found myself looking forward to my reading time even more than usual. I kept telling my mom and husband, "I can't wait to sit and read a while. I'm reading the best book!" I will definitely be on the lookout for another great read by Cyndi Tefft!

Profile Image for Kirsty.
477 reviews83 followers
June 24, 2011
When I read the email from Cyndi asking me whether I would review this book, I was pretty certain it would be something I'd enjoy. I love YA and I love paranormal, and the plot sounded interesting, so I accepted without hesitation. I'm really glad I did!

To start with, I loved the character of Aiden. I'm not surprised that Lindsey fell in love with him, because I'm sure if I was in her place I would too! What's not to love? He's gentle, caring, gorgeous and Scottish (I adore the Scottish accent!). He was the perfect 'hero' figure and I really enjoyed reading his interactions with Lindsey.

The plot was interesting and original and I was propelled through the book as I really wanted to know what happened next. I have to be honest and say that at the beginning, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it as it felt a little... erm... cheesy I suppose. Like a YA version of a Mills and Boon novel - love at first sight and everything. But I persevered with it and found that feeling disappeared very quickly and the real story emerged. I was rooting for Aiden and Lindsey throughout the book and, whilst I won't say too much for fear of giving spoilers, I found myself getting annoyed when things weren't working out for them! It really played with my emotions and Lindsey's grief was very real and relatable. The story was engrossing and there was a 'twist' which I didn't see coming. I didn't find it to be predictable at all and I wasn't sure how it would end.

The writing flows well and I actually came to like the fact that the book moved so quickly at the beginning. This is one reason I like YA novels - they don't take forever to build up the story at the beginning, they send you straight into the action! The characterisation of both Aiden and Lindsey was good and watching their love develop was enthralling. Although there are references to God and religion within the book, it's not preachy at all.

So I think it's fair to say that I loved this book and would definitely recommend it. At the back of the book there is a teaser for the next book in the series. I'll definitely be picking it up!
Profile Image for Paige Bradish.
337 reviews8 followers
November 10, 2011
Wow I never thought one book could make me appreciate my life and my boyfriend so much. I just finished reading Between By Cyndi Tefft and I cried so much. I cried because of sadness but I also cried because of happiness a couple of times too. When I won this book I didn’t know what it was about or if I would like it but since I’ll take anything I can get because I love reading I decided to give it a try and let me tell you I’m so so glad I did.

This book is about Lindsey the main character who gets in a car accident with her best friend/sort of boyfriend, she ends up dying and this guy Aiden comes to take her to heaven. So I guess you could call him an angel. Well they end up falling in love so instead of going to heaven Lindsey decides to stay in that little world with Aiden. I wont tell you everything because I want you to Ooo and Aww over the book if you decide to read it you should!! Please go read the book and find out what happens then come back here and talk to me about it. I want to mingle with somebody about the book right now!

Now on to the characters I was thinking about this while I was reading the last few pages of the book and I cannot pick one! I’ve been thinking about it forever now. My final decision is that I don’t have a favorite character. I loved Lindsey, and Aiden, Ravi, and Lindsey’s dad. Who by the way I felt so bad for when he was crying after the dinner he had with Lindsey and her mom. I wanted to go and be very rude to Lindsey’s mom! Throughout the whole book there was only one character who I absolutely hated. Can you guess who it is? Yep it’s Ms. Elizabeth, Lindsey’s mom. I couldn’t stand her how she got mad at her daughter when she saw her boyfriend. I mean if my mom had an affair with someone while she was married to my dad I probably would never forgive her nor would I ever talk to the man she had the affair with. Anyone agree?
So after reading this book I rate it a 5 star! I loved it and I recommend it to anyone who really needs a good cry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vicki Trask.
49 reviews3 followers
July 6, 2012
It took me a little while to actually get into the book once it got started but after that, I zoomed through the last half in less than a day.
It begins with some rather disturbing action that draws you in, instantly making you wonder "what just happened?" But right away, we get into the heart of the story and the reader begins a wirl-wind romance to rival Lindsey's (our main character who manages to find love in all the wrong places). One of things that appealed to me right away about all these characters was that she was completely and perfectly imperfect. She's not a barbie doll whom everyone loves and has angsty tantrums just for the sake of it; this is a real woman who doesn't have the best luck with relationships (lovers or otherwise) and it makes it so easy to just sort of hope that you'll find an Aiden of your own.
Aiden, now Aiden is like if Fabio had a personality and an orgasmic accent - what more could you ask for in a man? I could spend a long time just talking about how much I love Aiden but I'll leave that to the reader. As gushy as this review feels, I was completely engaged in this book because it's a feel-good book; the book that you read on the bus and everyone thinks you're crazy.
It'll bring a smile to your face, plain and simple, and that's all you can ever hope for in a book - to make you feel.
I usually stay away from first person when reading but it fit well to see this romance flurish from an inside source, to really feel with the characters as they went on this journey - and don't get me started on how beautiful the backdrop was; so serenely calm despite the world around them - like living in a love bubble.
I did say that it took me a little while to get into the book and it did; the first fifty pages or though left me on edge, just waiting for something horrible to go wrong but it just kept building up with this warm little giggle that kept me engaged the entire time. I definitely reccommend this read to any lovers of love. And Scotland!
Profile Image for Krista (CubicleBlindness Reviews).
603 reviews110 followers
May 26, 2011
The main character Lindsay dies in the first chapter. Immediately after her death a Scottish Aiden is waiting for her, to transport her to heaven. But when Lindsay shows a little compassion for Aiden's situation as a Grim Reaper. They have an immediate attraction to one another. Aiden decides they should get to know more about each other and travel through time to different parts of each others' lives, to look back on who they once were. I do not want to completely ruin the story for readers so I will stop there.
As far as my thoughts on the book go:
A very descriptive writing style and an obvious amount of details and research comes through. I was surprised to see how much time traveling was done when they were getting to know each other, because it is not mentioned in the blurb and happens in the first part of the story and takes up much of the story.
I was not very comfortable with the take on the romance in this book, I felt that it was a very mature sense of the word 'romance'. When they feel that connection that she is the one that could save him from his situation. I saw the potential for the romance, but it became an immediate lusty situation wherein I am not sure romance is the right word for their connection they felt for each other. And it happens right away in the story beginning in chapter two. So I recommend this to older, mature teens. I do want to point out here that she is in college, an adult herself, and this type of romance I felt was more suited to adults. I do not have a problem with sex in books, I have issues with the way they are written. The descriptiveness in the scenes made me very uncomfortable.
When they do the time traveling I was looking forward to learning more about them both, but yet Aiden's story was more interesting to me than the main character in their adventures.
I found it a worth-while read for all the research and informative writing style, but had a hard time connecting with the characters, or their romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kim.
531 reviews95 followers
September 7, 2013
Cyndi Tefft has created a sweet, romantic story about a young woman finding love in the place between earth and heaven; between life and death.

At the start I was a little confused about the connection between Aiden and Lindsey. The story jumps straight into their attraction to each other; their desire to be together, I thought I was missing something. There’s no doubt that there is chemistry between the two of them, especially as the book continues, it just seemed a little rushed at first. But I can’t blame Lindsey for falling for Aiden so fast; who could resist a guy who comforts you in death, wants to show you everything, and has a sexy Scottish accent?

I love how we keep going into Aiden’s past. In the Between world, Aiden and Lindsey have the ability to create a new reality, mostly by walking through memories. Aiden comes from a different time, a past unknown to Lindsey except in history books. He gives her the chance to experience his like and recreate the memories with him. It’s interesting to jump from Scotland to Versailles to Paris all just by thinking. And similarly, Lindsey is able to show Aiden our modern world. I can’t imagine how strange it would be for him seeing the world in a way you never thought possible before.

I was curious to know what direction the story was headed; could Aiden and Lindsey be lucky enough to stay in love and be happy in this in-between realm? And then we’re hit with a MASSIVE twist. I was expecting something big to happen, but I never imagined it’d be what it was. Just when you think that’s all the shock you can handle, Ms. Tefft throws another one at you. So be prepared for massive game changers in this book.

Looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2.

3/5 stars
Profile Image for Rida (Raindrop Reflections).
40 reviews23 followers
June 1, 2011
Between turned out to be pretty good; the writing flowed naturally and I could tell that lots of research was put into the book- about Scotland, about Paris, about, well, everything.

That said, I have to say that I liked the last part a lot more than the beginning and middle of the book. That twist made my heart wrench, but from there I was sucked into the novel much more deeply than I’d been before. Just to clear up things, though: Between does have a religious undertone to it, but it’s used to describe the MC Lindsey’s faith in her religion and as the means to show how she met the male lead Aiden.

The MC Lindsey was someone I immediately liked. She had that bubbly, bright attitude that everyone seems to love. And Aiden- swoon-worthy, although I’m not sure about the kilt or the long hair. You gotta see it to believe it, right?

What was different about Between was that Lindsey’s parents were shown in much more detail than is generally the norm in YA fiction. I guess it relates to the fact that we teenagers always think our parents have always been our parents and never had any life before that, but yeah. I didn’t like Lindsey’s mom one bit, but her dad was so sweet and caring.

Between is a book I enjoyed, although I couldn’t see where the story was going until that heart-wrenching twist. After that- I’m pretty sure you’ll totally enjoy yourself. There were some adult concepts that were difficult for me to grasp (marriage and the like) and there was an emphasis on religion, but I think this is a great book, something everyone should read if they want to read about romances, Scotland, and eternal love. Sounds interesting, right?
Profile Image for Jamie Canosa.
Author 25 books335 followers
April 30, 2012
Between was an impressive read for several reasons. Let's start with the characters shall we? Needless to say that the hot Scot himself, Aiden MacRae earned one of those starts all on his own. Tefft managed to write one of the sexiest characters I have read to date. While the relationship between Lindsey and Aiden seemed to bloom incredibly quickly and seeming out of nowhere at first, it does manage to turn into a convincing love, which was incredibly moving.
The settings in this book are fantastic. At times reading this felt like taking a trip back in time. The Scottish highlands were breathtaking just to read about. I had never felt the desire to visit Scotland until I finished reading Between.
The third reason I enjoyed this particular read so much was for the emotional value. It is a beautifully written, poignant story that at times was utterly heart wrenching. Towards the end I could feel Lindsey's pain and sadness and longing emanating from the pages. I fluctuated from wanting to squeeze the happy couple, to having tears in my eyes and at times I wanted to cheer. Cyndi Tefft is an impressive author who has written a beautiful story in Between.
I would definitely recommend this read to anyone looking for a touching love story with a serious degree of YUM tossed in for good measure. The action may have been a bit lacking in this particular installment, but if that's what your looking for just wait for the sequel, Hell Transporter
Profile Image for Jaime (Two Chicks on Books).
825 reviews393 followers
June 27, 2011
This was one of those books that sucks you in from the very first page! Lindsey is a very lovable character and her struggles seem so real deciding between love and loss. I fell in love with Aiden the minute he opened his mouth and I imagined him talking with a Scottish accent. I love accents especially Scottish ones. I also loved he spoke French fluently as I speak passable French so I didn't even need a translation.



The story unfolds nicely as Lindsey and Aiden fall for each other and go on adventures to Scotland, France, and a small cabin in Washington. I could see each place so vividly I felt like I was there. Then somewhere around the middle Cyndi throws a HUGE twist into the story I was ripping my hair out screaming NO at my kindle! I won't say what the twist is but be warned it's a doozy that'll make you want to read faster to see how the story ends. I loved the interaction Lindsey has with the other characters in the story as well but I can't say much there either as it would ruin a part of the story. So with that I am saying this book was frustratingly amazing and I can't wait for the next one. If you love a good YA read with a paranormal take I that's fresh and new go buy this book you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
1,025 reviews65 followers
June 4, 2011
Between was not what I had expected and I am sorry to say that it just wasn’t my cup of tea. I felt that Between was just too much on the side of romance for me to enjoy and so I found it hard to get into.

Between is classed as a YA paranormal romance novel and I would have to say that it would be more on the threshold of older YA / adult fiction because there were some sexual scenes that while they weren’t completely explicit were enough to turn me away from the book somewhat. I also have to say that this book was very heavy on the romance side of things so there wasn’t much else in the way of plot.

One thing I did like about Between was that it jumped into the story straight away and there was no beating around the bush or long-winded explanations before the story commenced. Once the story did start however, I had no idea where it was going to go. I have to say that I was really surprised by the direction it took and the ending took me well by surprise.

Between wasn’t exactly my cup of tea but it is still quite well written. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance books then I think you’ll absolutely enjoy Between by Cyndi Tefft.
Profile Image for Scarlett.
17 reviews1 follower
Read
June 12, 2011
A book about a Scottish hottie, I am so there! (I may be biased in my judgement because well my husband just so happens to be Scottish). Nevertheless, when I read the description of this novel I simply had to read it. So I devoured it in its entirety within a couple of hours because it was truly amazing and fantastic!


I loved how it just jumped into the story straight away and there was no huge build up to everything. It just happened, and then we got to learn more about Aiden and Lindsey and their lives. Oh and Aiden was just so perfect and romantic I couldn’t help but fall in love with him.

I also liked Lindsey, she was a really strong character which is really good to see because so many romance novels portray the females as meek.

I feel like I could just gush on forever about how amazing Between is but you really just have to see for yourself. Ooooh and also, in the back it mentions a sequel!!! That is so exciting. Anyway, Between is sooo awesome, if you love romance then you’ll definitely love this one!
Profile Image for Adrena Lambert.
1 review
November 30, 2011
This is a story I've been dying to read for weeks! I'm delighted to say I was finally able to indulge myself over the long Thanksgiving weekend! The action grabs you straight away...it's odd to explain, but though a horrible tragedy is how the romance in this story actually comes about. The characters are thoughtfully fleshed out and are as close to multi dimensional as can be. And not just the two mains, but many of the periphery characters as well. My personal favorite was Father O'Malley. The writer explains and describes the surroundings as if you were watching a movie- I saw, I felt, I smelled, etc. It truly felt like all my senses were being stimulated. There were theological themes relating to God, heaven and the afterlife beautifully weaved throughout the story. TO ME it didn't feel preachy; it simply left me thoughtful about those huge universal questions we all have about life. Overall, I loved the story and about 3/4 way though the story you need to grab some Kleenex. It left me satisfied and wanting more!
Profile Image for Staisha.
63 reviews9 followers
January 23, 2012
After a horrific car crash, Lindsey is whisked away by transporter Aiden into the area between Life and Heaven. Lindsey quickly falls in love with Aiden and refuses to leave him for Heaven. Aiden shares his secrets, and the curse he must face for betraying his family; only love can send him to heaven.
When Lindsey is ripped from Aiden's arms back to earth she must choose to remember or forget the man she loves. Can she save Aiden, or was it all a dream?


Honestly, this was the most mundane book I've read in along time. The first 100 pages are used to show the bond between Aiden and Lindsey, and the sexual frustration between them (this does not equal love, just lust). Then in 90 pages she wallows in self pity because she lost the best "lay" she has ever found (and only). The last 13 are her being dumb and almost burning herself alive, yet miraculously being saved by Aiden after he is pardoned by God and sent to earth to save Lindsey from becoming a roasted human. And if I ever read the word giggle again it will have been to soon.
Profile Image for Stacy.
1,335 reviews61 followers
June 7, 2011
Reviewed by http://urbanfantasyinvestigations.blo...

I gave it 3.5 stars

BETWEEN ended up being a neat, different love story that I wasn't expecting to be so emotional. I think BETWEEN would be perfect for the older YA readers as there are some adult themes involved but there isn't anything to graphic. Lindsey was a likable main character. I had no issues connecting to her and her situation. Aiden was also easy to like and get to know. Its hard to talk about this book without giving away a bit of a spoiler so read ahead at your own risk. Lindsey ends up in an accident and she ends up in an in between place where she meets Aiden and falls in love. An unseen event pulls Lindsey out of the in between place and she has to cope with losing Aiden. The story ends up being pretty emotional and heartfelt. The chapters and situations flow nicely and pull you in throughout the book. Overall I ended up enjoying the story and was really happy with how everything ended.

Profile Image for Husnaa .
105 reviews15 followers
January 24, 2012
I got this book through R2R.

I must say that when I read the synopsis, I couldn't wait to read this booK! And boy, was it a disappointment. I try to stay away from writing bad reviews but this one I had to, unfortunately.

Maybe it's just me but this book just didn't grasp me like the way other books do.. I found it really boring.. The beginning was good then with the whole Aiden and Linday thing, it just made me annoyed.. Best twist in the book? When That was the only thing that made me kinda interested but it was also predictable in a way. I love the whole forbidden romance thing, even though this wasn't forbidden but still it didn't peak my interest. This book just dragged on and on.. I actually couldn't wait till it was finished!
Profile Image for Kelsey.
16 reviews11 followers
October 11, 2011
Between is a love story in a new and beautiful place. Lindsey is a college student that died in a car accident, and thru this accident she meets Aiden. Aiden is a hunkaliscious Scottish, who's job is taking people to heaven. But meeting Lindsey they form a bond and fall for each other. Their love story is so beautiful you can't help but giggle and fan yourself with the details of their inner desire for one another. But something happens and they get separated. I have to admit, I held back tears and caught myself sobbing for them throughout the story. I'm a sucker for happy ending and I have to thank Cyndi for giving me and all us reader just that. This story is amazing if you haven't read it your totally missing out.
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