What do you think?
Rate this book
Soulmate #1
Soulmate
An alternate cover edition can be found here and here.
Most people search for decades to find their soulmate; Rachel Masterson was born with hers. Sharing her body with another soul has had its ups and downs for 15 year old Rachel, but there’s no one she’d rather share her life with than her soulmate, Rider. Fiercely devoted to him, Rachel has ostracized herself from most of her peers and gained a reputation as someone just a little too far gone on the wrong side of crazy. Her family’s sudden move, however, gives her a chance at a fresh new life, without the stigma of her “imaginary friend.” Hit with the triple-whammy stress of trying to make new friends (and her first boyfriend) in a new school, in a new town, far away from the only other person who has ever understood her, Rachel’s relationship with Rider is strained by the choices that she makes, choices that ultimately lead to their separation. When a tragic accident tears them apart, can Rachel learn to live and love again?
Most people search for decades to find their soulmate; Rachel Masterson was born with hers. Sharing her body with another soul has had its ups and downs for 15 year old Rachel, but there’s no one she’d rather share her life with than her soulmate, Rider. Fiercely devoted to him, Rachel has ostracized herself from most of her peers and gained a reputation as someone just a little too far gone on the wrong side of crazy. Her family’s sudden move, however, gives her a chance at a fresh new life, without the stigma of her “imaginary friend.” Hit with the triple-whammy stress of trying to make new friends (and her first boyfriend) in a new school, in a new town, far away from the only other person who has ever understood her, Rachel’s relationship with Rider is strained by the choices that she makes, choices that ultimately lead to their separation. When a tragic accident tears them apart, can Rachel learn to live and love again?
161 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2015
218 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Kellie McAllen
32 books320 followersKellie McAllen is a USA Today Bestselling author who has her nose in a book whenever she can. When she's not reading or writing, she's usually hanging out at the beach, guest judging on DWTS (from her living room), or watching cute cat videos. She lives in North Carolina.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 6, 2015
'Most people search for decades to find their soulmate; Rachel Masterson was born with hers. Sharing her body with another soul has had its ups and downs for 15 year old Rachel, but there’s no one she’d rather share her life with than her soulmate, Rider. Fiercely devoted to him, Rachel has ostracized herself from most of her peers and gained a reputation as someone just a little too far gone on the wrong side of crazy. Her family’s sudden move, however, gives her a chance at a fresh new life, without the stigma of her “imaginary friend.” Hit with the triple-whammy stress of trying to make new friends (and her first boyfriend) in a new school, in a new town, far away from the only other person who has ever understood her, Rachel’s relationship with Rider is strained by the choices that she makes, choices that ultimately lead to their separation. When a tragic accident tears them apart, can Rachel learn to live and love again?'
(I have been trying to think of another way to come up with my own summary and have had no luck, I really like how this summary was worded, though I will come back and create my own when I have the chance)
First off I want to say well done to Kellie, it is hard writing your first book (trust me I know), but to get is out there is a massive step so congratulations! Now to the review.. I will be completely honest here, I did find it hard at the start to get into the book. All the long chapters about Rachel and Rider growing up kind of put me off the story, however at the same time I was grateful for it. You got the chance to understand a bit of their bond. After a bit more reading when Rachel had her accident, it became much more interesting and I couldn't put it down, I was so interested to see what became of Rachel and Rider. I don't want to spoil it for anyone too much because I do recommend that people read this book! But I must say I like the concept of Rider; an infant soul given a second chance to live, even if it means sharing the body with another soul. It is something different and refreshing, I like it. And I will say I was very happy that Rider got the chance to be his own person (but such a sad way to gain that). The way the book ended I was happy and sad, happy because they finally get the chance to be together the way they deserve to be but sad because it ended. I am actually looking forward to reading the next book.
(I have been trying to think of another way to come up with my own summary and have had no luck, I really like how this summary was worded, though I will come back and create my own when I have the chance)
First off I want to say well done to Kellie, it is hard writing your first book (trust me I know), but to get is out there is a massive step so congratulations! Now to the review.. I will be completely honest here, I did find it hard at the start to get into the book. All the long chapters about Rachel and Rider growing up kind of put me off the story, however at the same time I was grateful for it. You got the chance to understand a bit of their bond. After a bit more reading when Rachel had her accident, it became much more interesting and I couldn't put it down, I was so interested to see what became of Rachel and Rider. I don't want to spoil it for anyone too much because I do recommend that people read this book! But I must say I like the concept of Rider; an infant soul given a second chance to live, even if it means sharing the body with another soul. It is something different and refreshing, I like it. And I will say I was very happy that Rider got the chance to be his own person (but such a sad way to gain that). The way the book ended I was happy and sad, happy because they finally get the chance to be together the way they deserve to be but sad because it ended. I am actually looking forward to reading the next book.
September 21, 2015
This is a sweet, charming, quick read. When Rachel first met Rider that was so precious. Right away I could feel the connection that they shared. Than as Rachel and Rider grew up into teenages, I could see the connection between them slowly coming apart. Yet, at this point I still only saw Rider as a best friend and not a true soulmate in the romantic sense. However, as I got to know the guy that Rachel was crushing on in school, I definitely say that Rider is the better guy. When the sad, tragic event happened I did not experience a change in my emotions towards either Rachel or Rider. There was no big surprise on what happened next. I was just surprised that it took the character that long to figure out what had happened. The ending is a nice lead into the next book in this series. Which I read the quick snippet of the next book and this is where the story will pick up more with depth to the storyline. This book can also be read by the teenage audience but mature readers as it does deal with high school and sex.
December 23, 2020
So charming! Will make your heart rejoice as you speed toward the end.
January 30, 2016
OK SO LETS BEGIN THIS REVIEW !!!
First of this book is awesome and very original for an author writing her first book, this book soulmate triggered everything that a 15 year old will think. The main character who is Rachel is a quite unique character who was born with another soul living inside her head (his name is Rider) because .... (read the book)
This book is quite funny at times, this book brought a smile to my face everytime Rider make his silly jokes.
Apart from that this book made me almost cry, the only reason i held my tears is because i was in a public place.
I would totally recommend this book who is new to young adult books !!! so if you are a 13 year old I'd defiantly recommend this book, also you can read this book if your a 20 year old because you'll have a nostalgic memories on how you acted as a 15 year old girl.
A message to the author: you a one hell of an author!! for a first time publishing a book. keep it up !!!!
First of this book is awesome and very original for an author writing her first book, this book soulmate triggered everything that a 15 year old will think. The main character who is Rachel is a quite unique character who was born with another soul living inside her head (his name is Rider) because .... (read the book)
This book is quite funny at times, this book brought a smile to my face everytime Rider make his silly jokes.
Apart from that this book made me almost cry, the only reason i held my tears is because i was in a public place.
I would totally recommend this book who is new to young adult books !!! so if you are a 13 year old I'd defiantly recommend this book, also you can read this book if your a 20 year old because you'll have a nostalgic memories on how you acted as a 15 year old girl.
A message to the author: you a one hell of an author!! for a first time publishing a book. keep it up !!!!
August 6, 2023
3 stars
This book was kind of alright for me. The concept was unique, and the characters were likeable. However, there was still room for improvement.
● Rider, as we have come to know him, had a seriously messed-up beginning. That kid must still have some trauma to deal with. Instead, it was never addressed by the author.
● Rachel was the only person Rider was interested in. He knew literally EVERYTHING about her, and I really found that creepy.
● I think I thought a little too hard, but I can't help but shudder at the thought of all the scenarios that may have been awkward. What did they do when she had her periods or bathed?
● Getting perspectives from all the characters was OK but not necessary.
I still have a lot of questions about the book, and I'm sure if I read the next book, I'll find out the answers and much more, but this book is clearly not for me. As a result, I will not be continuing this series.
This book was kind of alright for me. The concept was unique, and the characters were likeable. However, there was still room for improvement.
● Rider, as we have come to know him, had a seriously messed-up beginning. That kid must still have some trauma to deal with. Instead, it was never addressed by the author.
● Rachel was the only person Rider was interested in. He knew literally EVERYTHING about her, and I really found that creepy.
● I think I thought a little too hard, but I can't help but shudder at the thought of all the scenarios that may have been awkward. What did they do when she had her periods or bathed?
● Getting perspectives from all the characters was OK but not necessary.
I still have a lot of questions about the book, and I'm sure if I read the next book, I'll find out the answers and much more, but this book is clearly not for me. As a result, I will not be continuing this series.
May 13, 2017
Soulmates? Two souls, one body.
Poor Rachel, not only does she have to navigate the normal teenage growing pains, but she has a boy living in her head. Rider has his own personality and desires so he is NOT an imaginary friend. After making the mistake of trying to explain about Rider in grade school, Rachel quickly learns to keep him a secret from everyone, except her bestie Paige. After a tragic accident it seems Rider is just gone. How can Rachel every find him or accept the fact that she may never hear from Rider again. The support of her friends and family help her get through the heartbreak. This story also delves into the very real consequence of teenage drinking and drug use as well as peer presure. Great story all around, but does jump around a little with a loss of continuity but not enough to interrupt the story line.
Poor Rachel, not only does she have to navigate the normal teenage growing pains, but she has a boy living in her head. Rider has his own personality and desires so he is NOT an imaginary friend. After making the mistake of trying to explain about Rider in grade school, Rachel quickly learns to keep him a secret from everyone, except her bestie Paige. After a tragic accident it seems Rider is just gone. How can Rachel every find him or accept the fact that she may never hear from Rider again. The support of her friends and family help her get through the heartbreak. This story also delves into the very real consequence of teenage drinking and drug use as well as peer presure. Great story all around, but does jump around a little with a loss of continuity but not enough to interrupt the story line.
April 2, 2016
I loved this book. I am intrigued by souls so from the beginning of the story I was gripped by the idea and it still has me wondering about imaginary friends and voices in our heads :o) The beginning of this story is beautifully written, it touched my heart and as I was beginning to think Rachel is just stir crazy whilst typically being influenced by peer pressure, the unthinkable happens, but out of this horrible thing something good happened - and without the something bad there wouldn't be this something good (my kind of story!!!) Before I gush on nonsensical - this story is a really nice story and I recommend it to anyone who is fascinated with souls and all things that causes good feelings.
July 16, 2018
I saw this in a newsletter as a recommendation and decided that I would give it a chance. I had heard of this book before, but it was a time that I already had too much on my plate. Now it has come around again I did get to read it. Rachel has been born with another soul in her body with her. They have always been close and more of best friends. She does not like how others say she is talking to herself when they don't understand her life and what a special gift she has been given. She moves and begins a new start to life. She meets a new guy and this causes Rider to do things because he thinks that he is losing Rachel. What did the accident cause and will it ever be the same between Rachel and Rider? I know but you will need to read it for yourself.
September 13, 2015
Such a cute story!
Absolutely loved this book! Rider is so funny and likeable, my inner teen couldn't help but develop a little crush lol. Rachel and Paige's friendship was sweet and relatable for anyone with a best friend that just gets you :) . Writing was great. Story kept me intrigued until the very end. Such a creative story overall! I can't wait to read the next installment! If you're looking for an entertaining and heartwarming story, look no further! Well done Kellie McAllen!
Absolutely loved this book! Rider is so funny and likeable, my inner teen couldn't help but develop a little crush lol. Rachel and Paige's friendship was sweet and relatable for anyone with a best friend that just gets you :) . Writing was great. Story kept me intrigued until the very end. Such a creative story overall! I can't wait to read the next installment! If you're looking for an entertaining and heartwarming story, look no further! Well done Kellie McAllen!
August 1, 2015
This is a very interesting and unique story. The concept is original and the characters are endearing. Rachel is an typical 15 year old girl, except for the fact that she has another soul living in her body. She struggles for acceptance by her peers and tries to hide Rider's existence. I love Rider!! He is an amazing character and I found myself praying for a way for them to be together. Great story, Kellie! I can't wait for book two!
May 24, 2017
Is Rachel's invisible friend her soulmate?
Invisible friend, that is what Rider was for Rachel. He was always with her. He knew her thoughts, her likes, her dislikes. Rider's sarcastic comments on her life keep her company at all times. But now at 15, she seems to be moving on without him. Boys who can hold her hand, can embrace her, even kiss her, have captured her interest. What is her soulmate to do?
Invisible friend, that is what Rider was for Rachel. He was always with her. He knew her thoughts, her likes, her dislikes. Rider's sarcastic comments on her life keep her company at all times. But now at 15, she seems to be moving on without him. Boys who can hold her hand, can embrace her, even kiss her, have captured her interest. What is her soulmate to do?
September 25, 2017
A very different story from all others!! I really enjoyed reading about a unique story about one body but two souls! Rachel has control of the body she inhabits, but Rider is another soul that inhabits her mind. This is truly one story that you will remember because you wonder if it's possible! I couldn't wait to finish the book. Of course as one would except tragedy must happen before they can truly become soulmates.
Read
April 5, 20163.5/5.0
This adorable YA novel puts a new spin on souls and what might happen to them in the event of death.
Read full review in the 2016 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This adorable YA novel puts a new spin on souls and what might happen to them in the event of death.
Read full review in the 2016 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 14, 2017
Book Review- Soulmate by Kellie McAllen
Rachel has a special friend inside her head. His name is Ryder. He has been with her since she was born. They share Rachel’s body. She talks to him and he talks to her. Everyone thinks Rider is an imaginary friend. The only person that believes Rachel about Rider is her best friend Paige. The three become best friends. Rider is always included and always has an opinion. He is accepted but wishes he had his own body. It is also hard to watch Rachel participate in her life when he can’t.
Rachel’s dad gets a job transfer and she moves away from Paige. She gets a fresh start in a new school where no one knows her or about Rider. She meets a nice group of friends and even catches the eye of Jason who belongs to the popular group. Rachel likes how Jason makes her feel special. She wants to fit in. However her actions lead to devastating consequences. Ones she never thought possible until they do. She loses her best friend.
This story was unique. The author uses the soulmate term in the literal form in this story. Rachel and Rider share the same body. Rider is an interesting character. He is just a voice in Rachel’s head and presence that she feels. It’s hard to imagine what it feels like. I guess you can’t be lonely. You understand his frustration since he isn’t a separate person in his own body. That adds to the dynamic of the story.
You also have Rachel trying to be accepted at her new school where she only had Paige as her friend in her old one. It’s sad to read the extremes she will go to in order to achieve that status. She learns her lesson at a huge cost. Her devastation afterwards is realistic. You can feel her panic when she realizes the truth.
I like how things comes together in the end. It’s a cute story for young readers. It is a definite lesson learned story. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Rachel has a special friend inside her head. His name is Ryder. He has been with her since she was born. They share Rachel’s body. She talks to him and he talks to her. Everyone thinks Rider is an imaginary friend. The only person that believes Rachel about Rider is her best friend Paige. The three become best friends. Rider is always included and always has an opinion. He is accepted but wishes he had his own body. It is also hard to watch Rachel participate in her life when he can’t.
Rachel’s dad gets a job transfer and she moves away from Paige. She gets a fresh start in a new school where no one knows her or about Rider. She meets a nice group of friends and even catches the eye of Jason who belongs to the popular group. Rachel likes how Jason makes her feel special. She wants to fit in. However her actions lead to devastating consequences. Ones she never thought possible until they do. She loses her best friend.
This story was unique. The author uses the soulmate term in the literal form in this story. Rachel and Rider share the same body. Rider is an interesting character. He is just a voice in Rachel’s head and presence that she feels. It’s hard to imagine what it feels like. I guess you can’t be lonely. You understand his frustration since he isn’t a separate person in his own body. That adds to the dynamic of the story.
You also have Rachel trying to be accepted at her new school where she only had Paige as her friend in her old one. It’s sad to read the extremes she will go to in order to achieve that status. She learns her lesson at a huge cost. Her devastation afterwards is realistic. You can feel her panic when she realizes the truth.
I like how things comes together in the end. It’s a cute story for young readers. It is a definite lesson learned story. I give it a 4 out of 5.
May 24, 2017
This story although a total fiction, is within the realm of believable possibilities in so far as that kids can be that cruel as to tease. Thanks for the escapism read. Looking forward to more.
Rachel would have been more likely forced to undergo psychiatric evaluation by the well meaning staff and drug treatment strongly encouraged. Social services would intrude by putting the entire family under their microscope in search of the blame for this «problem» leaving this once loving family with an imaginative child in ruins. Bleak, but more likely.
*Voluntary positive feedback of purchased title. EPUB requested from author to use TTS accommodation for reading impaired. Thanks
November 3, 2017
What a touching and heart wrenching tale Kellie McAllen has told in this first book of her Soulmate series. I really enjoyed the back and forth between Rider and Rachel, as it contributed to the lighter side of the story. It was of course also a story about all the emotions related to a girl's first kiss, first date, and maybe first love, as well as the trials and tribulations of being the new kid in school. I look forward to reading the next books in the series.
May 15, 2018
Their lives change as tragedy strikes them both an separates them both from each other physically do miracles really happen .
A young girl has a friend she talks to inside her head he’s not imaginary he’s like a another human being living inside her head a constant companion she also has a best friend that knows about her companion inside her head an treats both the same inside an out equally .
A young girl has a friend she talks to inside her head he’s not imaginary he’s like a another human being living inside her head a constant companion she also has a best friend that knows about her companion inside her head an treats both the same inside an out equally .
July 30, 2017
Delightful and Unusual
Though this book begins and ends with a death, it is a gentle story with a HFN ending. In fact if it had not been for the second death, Rider would not have had a life of his own. Whilst I am hardly the target audience, I love Ms McAllen's books and recommend this as a charming read.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read as a standalone.
Though this book begins and ends with a death, it is a gentle story with a HFN ending. In fact if it had not been for the second death, Rider would not have had a life of his own. Whilst I am hardly the target audience, I love Ms McAllen's books and recommend this as a charming read.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read as a standalone.
July 2, 2018
Delightful and Unusual
Though this book begins and ends with a death, it is a gentle story with a HFN ending. In fact if it had not been for the second death, Rider would not have had a life of his own. Whilst I am hardly the target audience, I love Ms McAllen's books and recommend this as a charming read.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read as a standalone.
Though this book begins and ends with a death, it is a gentle story with a HFN ending. In fact if it had not been for the second death, Rider would not have had a life of his own. Whilst I am hardly the target audience, I love Ms McAllen's books and recommend this as a charming read.
This book is part of a trilogy but can be read as a standalone.
May 21, 2017
Different
Interesting and different. An intriguing idea about souls and what part of the personality they are. I have a problem with these reviews because they require a certain amount of words when I don't always have that much to say.
Interesting and different. An intriguing idea about souls and what part of the personality they are. I have a problem with these reviews because they require a certain amount of words when I don't always have that much to say.
May 27, 2017
The author triggered everything that a 15 year old feels like, she made anybody nostalgic about my ways of how i used to decide things, for example a crush on someone I used to be silly when i was a 15 year old, I would defiantly recommend this book who is new to young adults.
June 4, 2017
Fun, cute read
I felt this was a well written, plotted out book. Rachel's life did seem a little rushed, but realistic. I loved the fact that Paige stayed in the picture. Very well done. Enjoy this one, you will be back for more!
I felt this was a well written, plotted out book. Rachel's life did seem a little rushed, but realistic. I loved the fact that Paige stayed in the picture. Very well done. Enjoy this one, you will be back for more!
November 17, 2017
Good clean YA
This isn't your typical paranormal book. This one is about Rachel and Ryder....two sojls...in one body...growing up together.
When something happens to change everything.....can it ever be the same? Do they want it to be the same?
Great book...Cannot wait for book 2
This isn't your typical paranormal book. This one is about Rachel and Ryder....two sojls...in one body...growing up together.
When something happens to change everything.....can it ever be the same? Do they want it to be the same?
Great book...Cannot wait for book 2
September 13, 2017
A sweet, clean romance book. Loved it so much! Full review coming soon.
Mirella
Mirella
January 6, 2018
Loved this series. I can honestly say I hadn't read anything like it before. It is original and fresh!
January 12, 2018
Ik vond het niet een heel bijzonder goed boek of slecht boek.. de serie zal ik niet verder lezen omdat het boek me toch net iets te kinderlijk is.
February 12, 2018
Teen age paranormal fiction. Two souls in one body. Supports teens making good choices; consequences of wrong choices are shown.
March 29, 2018
Quick read and a sweet story of teenage relationships with just a touch of intrigue. Left me wanting to find out more, which is great as with past series I rarely want to go further. Thanks!
March 30, 2018
Good lesson on drinking and driving! But sweet
April 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to start the next book in the series. I found it was a good mix of sweet and angst. Worth a read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews