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Between Us

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Out of print

For twenty-something Boston school teacher Ruth, she's gotten by just fine on playing it safe, thank you very much. But now her risk-free life and nice-girl demeanor are leaving her increasingly heartsick. So when she meets bad boy Derek, she's willing to overlook her “no romance” rule and give him a chance to prove her fears wrong. Because he, also, is plagued by a sense of ennui and pointlessness, wanting to change his fast-and-loose living but not knowing how. Neither can deny the inexplicable, illogical attraction drawing them together, and they are hard-pressed to resist it. But what will their unlikely relationship cost, and who will be caught in the crossfire? The Light Between Us is a sassy and sensual romp from Beth Morey. Part love story, part comedy of errors, part and coming of age tale, The Light Between Us is a delicious read for fans of the romance and new adult genres alike.

176 pages, Paperback

First published June 11, 2014

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535 people want to read

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Beth Morey

5 books58 followers

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5 stars
30 (27%)
4 stars
31 (27%)
3 stars
30 (27%)
2 stars
8 (7%)
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12 (10%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Rossana Pereira.
110 reviews23 followers
September 26, 2015
*eye roll* - that was me throughout most of this book.
The characters felt immature and the whole thing ridiculous
The only reason i finished it was because i was stuck in the metro and didn't have anything else to do and even then i skipped most of it.
The dialogues felt forced and as much as the author tried I felt zero connection between the characters.
I usually don't mind asshole male leads but Derek just didn't do it for me.. And Ruth? Good Lord just no
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
214 reviews19 followers
June 25, 2014
Instructions:
1. Buy this book.
2. Get thee to a beach, preferably one where nice cabana boys bring you umbrella drinks so that you don't have to be bothered to get up.
3. Spend the day inhaling this book.

(I suppose you could read it at home or at work, too, if you must.)

This is a perfect beach read - fun and sappy, in the best possible way.
Profile Image for Amy Lutes.
Author 3 books11 followers
June 18, 2014
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect at first, but the characters drew me in quickly. I love how the redemptive power of love is the thread that ties the whole story together. Yes, we're all human and we all make mistakes, but love has the power to see past those mistakes and make us better people in the end.
Profile Image for Lorraine.
306 reviews3 followers
December 31, 2014
I loved this book. I sort of went into it blind, picking it on a whim from my ever expanding 'To Read' list.
It's full of angst, which personally, I love. If a book can get my stomach in a spin, then its a winner. This one did, for sure.
It's a light, uncomplicated read and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good, old fashioned love story.
Profile Image for Karen.
135 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2014
This isn't the usual love story... From the beginning this love story started out wrong... I really liked Dereck... Ruth I didn't because she contradicted herself time n time again... Padreme Ruth's BFF is a funny and caring friend...
Profile Image for Rae Fisher.
Author 2 books63 followers
July 29, 2014
Beth has taken a classic boy-meets-girl story and turned it into something fresh, something delicious, and something that will leave you grasping for more at the very last page.
Profile Image for Toni Guyton.
292 reviews12 followers
June 14, 2014
I typically don't read Romance novels but I read this one on a recommendation of a friend; it's cheesy and cute and an easy read. Not too shabby.
3,804 reviews7 followers
June 27, 2020
DNF...one word, boring.

These two were supposed to be Twenty something, I don’t think my grandparents were this formal and stuffy.
Profile Image for Stephanie Lynn.
69 reviews4 followers
July 7, 2014
Disclaimer: I received an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Light Between Us is a light-hearted romance novel about two twenty-somethings trying to find their place in worlds that no longer fit them. Upon meeting each other, Ruth and Derek encounter attraction to each other, a number of unlikely events, and lots of “figuring it out as we go along” moments. This is a perfect book to throw into your beach bag or curl up on the porch to read with a cold beverage of your choice (mine was iced tea). If you’re looking for a cute love story, or an escape into a believable modern attraction (with the confusion and crossing of wires that new technology often can create), I would recommend The Light Between Us.

Let me continue by saying, I don’t tend to read a lot of romance novels. Somehow, they aren’t the ones that end up at the top of my To Be Read pile. That said, I blew through this book in a couple of days, finding that I could not stop reading. I wanted to know how things would end up for Ruth and Derek, as unlikely a match as they were. Also, I loved the fact that the female main character, Ruth, was a strong determined woman. Throughout the novel, she begins to gain her voice and stretch beyond who she has thought she could be.

Which, that was actually one of the issues I had with The Light Between Us. I would have liked to have more time with the characters, particularly Ruth and her friends. While I totally understand specific moments catapulting us into knowing ourselves differently, I would have liked to have read more about these changes for Ruth. Also, I liked Ruth’s friends; they are cheerleaders for her to step out and take risks that are difficult for her, but they really were background props. There was a flatness to them, it felt. I would have liked to have more depth with them, much like I found with Ruth.

The major issue I had with the book while I was reading it was the typos/missing words. Beth, after her launch, noted that in many reviews, and has since updated the e-book. * Note: If you were one of the lucky downloaders of her launch freebie, be sure to update your library through Kindle. You will receive that updated version. {Read a really graceful and honest look at this process – and of the whole book launch earlier this month – on her blog.}

All in all, with the editing issues resolved – wanting more time with the characters and the story as my only other issue? That’s pretty awesome for a first release from an author. I look forward to her next release.

NB: This review originally posted on my blog.
191 reviews8 followers
August 1, 2014
4.5 out of 5 Stars
This book is a touching love story that reminds us that love knows no time, it has no boundaries and it CAN happen when you least expect it.
For Ruth she played her life safe, she is an elementary school teacher because she was told by her father that her true passion writing was a waste of time and that she would not be any good at it. Ruth has a core group of four friends; but she typically will choose to hang at home with her cat and a good book verses going out.
Her friend Padme has had enough and told her ‘you always complain about being lonely, how else are you going to meet somebody if you’re always sitting at home in your pajamas cuddling up with your cat?’ Ruth gave in and went with Padme and her two other friends out to Czar’s.
Derek was a lawyer in Boston who was getting bored with his womanizing ways, but was unsure what to do about it. His heart was wounded in the past and he vowed to never let it happen again.
One evening, Derek decided instead of sitting at home alone he would go to one of his hangouts, Czar’s and sit in his booth to drink. Unsure of what his future would hold, he didn’t know what he was going to do but knew he had to change something in his life. That night at Czar’s he saw the typical crowd, but then across the room he saw her (Ruth), he wasn’t sure why but he was drawn to her.
This is a story of two unlikely souls finding each other and discovering feelings that they are not sure what to do with. Their initial meeting and sequential days have some very big and unfortunate misunderstandings that take place, causing for a very rocky start on this new journey that they seemed to be starting with each other.
I loved the characters in this book. Derek had a sweet and crazy friend and even crazier girlfriend that gave pretty good advice. Ruth’s friends, especially Padme were amazing friends that supported Ruth wholeheartedly. This book definitely has its highs and lows on the emotional scale and it drives home the fact that you cannot take a situation at face value, because if you do, you could potentially miss out on your own happiness.
Profile Image for Angela Goodrich.
1,608 reviews102 followers
August 16, 2014
This was such a lovely read. I absolutely adore this book. It is a comedy of errors that leads to the ultimate whirlwind romance that should never be. And by no means am I implying that Ruth and Derek don't belong together, because they do - they're actually perfect for one another. It's more that they're pawns in a chess game between Fate (which keeps bringing them together) and the Universe (which seems to be determined to keep them apart).

Derek is a womanizer. He doesn't date, he sleeps around. He has his reasons and I actually understand them; I don't condone his behavior, but I won't condemn him for it either. While not a frigid prude, Ruth is the opposite of Derek as she does not sleep around with random strangers. They meet in a club after Ruth's friends drag her out for the evening and their encounter does not end well, nor does their second and while I believe their third interaction was okay, they continue the one step forward, two steps back dance throughout most of the book. Fortunately both Derek and Ruth have friends who keep encouraging them to give the other a second (and third) chance, until they finally get it right. While there is some sex in the book, Ruth and Derek don’t make it that far and oddly does not detract from the story at all for me – it’s actually perfect when all things are considered.

This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Morey, but it will not be the last. The Light Between Us is such an enjoyable read that I look forward to reading it again; it has definitely made my re-read list.

I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
Profile Image for books are love.
3,163 reviews23 followers
August 1, 2014
This is a fast paced book. We have love at first sight and two people fighting it.
Derek was a player a ladies man and than he saw Ruth. Ruth made him change. He realized that his old lifestyle wasn't what he wanted. She made him want more. She sent him into a state where all he thought of was her. But she froze after they met and walked away. He did something silly that night and had a one night stand.

He got a chance but circumstances had her meet this moment of weakness he had and she backed away. He convinced her to give him a chance and than she misunderstood something and went off half cocked. So much so that she did what she hated him for. A one night stand. She claims to be so hurt by him and how he lied to her and yet in the next breath she is in bed with someone else. Poor Sam and Derek. They were both played. Sam because he was a genuinely nice guy he did a douchecanoe thing at the end but it was understandable. Derek because Ruth just was a hypocrite at that moment. So they get things worked out and all is going great. Suddenly something happens and Derek is filled with doubts. He is brought back to high school and felt like he didn't deserve to be wanted. He becomes harsh and says a few things that were hurtful.

He ends up gravelling and she ends up being upset. They do end up with a HEA but Ruth isn't one I enjoyed. Derek yes Ruth no. Ruth to me was controlling and just too aggravating.

Overall a nice read. It shows that a once player can fall in love and love with all he is worth.
Profile Image for Lustful Literature.
1,822 reviews336 followers
August 8, 2014
** TARA's 3 STAR REVIEW **

Ruth is a first grade teacher, who’s real passion is writing. Ruth would rather be holed up at home in her pj’s with her laptop in front of her writing, rather then out on the town with her girlfriends. When her friends finally convince her to come out to a bar, she spies a sexy man watching her intently. After throwing back a few drinks, she gains the courage to approach Derek, and ask him why he has been so intently staring at her.

Derek is a player, after having his heart broken in High School, he vowed to never “date” again. He set out to change his physical appearance, and gain confidence. Derek became the king of one night stands, until Ruth crossed his path.

~~~~~~~~~~~

This was a super short afternoon read. There were some really cute parts, and the characters were realistic, although I felt the book was very rushed. Everything that occurred, happened within just a weeks time which made the situations feel unrealistic. I would have liked to see a little more from the story, and the characters.

Overall, this would make a good little afternoon read, especially if you are looking for something quirky and quick paced.

**A gifted copy was received by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Tanya Marlow.
Author 3 books37 followers
December 17, 2015
It is billed as a ‘romance’, which scared me, because my thoughts immediately went to Jilly Cooper or 50 Shades of overly-explicitness and badly-written dialogue, but I was relieved that it wasn’t like that. In fact, die-hard romance fans might think there is too little sex in there, but I thought it was right: tastefully tantalising. Perhaps this is romance for non-romance-readers? I really enjoyed the characterisation, and particularly liked the fact that it was a love story where the heroine was both quietly introverted and feisty. Beth writes redemption and forgiveness really well, and I thoroughly enjoyed this light and well-written love story. It’s cheap as an e-book (under £2), and would make excellent beach reading for the summer. (Contains swearing).
Profile Image for Julia H. Wood.
1 review5 followers
July 2, 2014
Ruth caught my attention immediately. I was drawn into the story. Love can develop quickly and I loved reading a story about that. So often it is upheld that it takes years to really know what you are looking for and longer to grab ahold. I loved how this book jumped over societal norms to embrace love when it came. Fun romantic read as the tension kept building throughout. It was real about human and relational flaws and that no love is perfect. It takes honesty, humility, and communication to make even the best of loves work. It's worth the read!
Profile Image for Maggie Wadsager.
66 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2014
I really wanted to enjoy this book and to some respect I did. The story line was predictable but in a good way. I wish there was a little more weight with the relationship Derek and Ruth, just to help make it more believable. I was able to over look the very many typos present and finish the book with a smile on my face. I think this is a great free book/read. I recommend this to anyone looking for a main stream love stories with a few twists thrown in that keeps the reader wanting to know more!
Profile Image for Angelica Dimeo.
161 reviews47 followers
August 3, 2014
I won this on goodreads.
Ruth is working a job that is not her passion.
Derek is a Lawyer who only does one night stands.
One night ruth goes with friends to Czar's and has some drinks
there Derek spots Ruth and wants more then a one night stand.
I think there could have been more that was written and the ending did not sit well with me.
Also only kissing no real sex scenes in this book.
Thanks for the opportunity.
Profile Image for Jessica Zelkovich.
843 reviews6 followers
July 14, 2014
A light-hearted read that truly needs some editing love. It has good bones but plot wasn't fully developed, characters lost their individual voices at times and I highlighted mistake time and time again.
Profile Image for Doris.
27 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2014
How I tried to get into this book. But gave up after several chapters. Exhausting to keep up with the on and off relationship.......Be together or not be together, JUST DECIDE AND LET US MOVE ON TO THE STORY!
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,469 reviews51 followers
August 5, 2014
*ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW*


Trying to fit into a place, weather in the life or your own personal life, you no longer feel you fit...yea these two will try to find their way. Will they find it? Or will they have more road blocks along the way? A sweet romance that you don't want to miss out on!
1 review
December 28, 2014
What I feel about this book ??

this book is awesome best love novel so glad I read it it really opened up my love experience, hopefully in the future I to can find my true love just like Ruth
Profile Image for What Angie Reads.
851 reviews17 followers
January 28, 2015
I was one of the first people to get a sneak peek at this book. It didn't disappoint at all.
Beth has a way with words that makes me visualize the characters. I could see this as a movie,and defiantly saw it as a series.
Profile Image for J.C. Hart.
Author 22 books52 followers
August 7, 2014
This romance is the debut novel from a writer with a lot of promise. I'm looking forward to future releases.
Profile Image for Laura.
193 reviews
August 8, 2014
Very sweet story. I enjoyed reading it. My favorite part is the girlfriend bond. #girlpower
39 reviews
June 16, 2014
CORN.....nuff said!

Silly, sappy, sorry I downloaded it, plus pelling and grammar mistakes throughout. I tried hard to like it but no way. A free book that I am deleting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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