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Channel 20 Something #1
Channel 20 Something
22-year-old Heidi Haynes is almost one year into her “real life." She has her first reporting job, her first apartment, and a comfortable relationship with her college sweetheart. But for some reason she’s not as eager to talk about walking down the aisle as he is.
Heidi secretly longs for big cities, big-market breaking news, and real independence from her way-too-close-by helicopter parents. Problem is, the last time she left the security of home for new places and new people, things didn’t go so well. Disastrously, in fact, and she came running back to a local college and a “safe” boyfriend.
Aric Serrano is definitely not safe.
He’s six-feet-four-inches of missing-Hemsworth-brother-hotness and plans to stay in small-market-Southern-Hell just long enough to grab a cup of coffee and put together a kick-ass “escape tape." He’ll serve his one-year contract, then he’s taking off for a higher rung on the TV sports ladder—alone—the way he likes it. Then he meets his new co-anchor.
Heidi would be so much more comfortable if she could simply ignore Aric—he’s just her type—the type she’s so careful to avoid these days. But that becomes impossible when she's forced to work closely with him on the weekend news. Now the attraction between them is growing even faster than the ratings, and what happens behind the scenes is the real news.
Heidi secretly longs for big cities, big-market breaking news, and real independence from her way-too-close-by helicopter parents. Problem is, the last time she left the security of home for new places and new people, things didn’t go so well. Disastrously, in fact, and she came running back to a local college and a “safe” boyfriend.
Aric Serrano is definitely not safe.
He’s six-feet-four-inches of missing-Hemsworth-brother-hotness and plans to stay in small-market-Southern-Hell just long enough to grab a cup of coffee and put together a kick-ass “escape tape." He’ll serve his one-year contract, then he’s taking off for a higher rung on the TV sports ladder—alone—the way he likes it. Then he meets his new co-anchor.
Heidi would be so much more comfortable if she could simply ignore Aric—he’s just her type—the type she’s so careful to avoid these days. But that becomes impossible when she's forced to work closely with him on the weekend news. Now the attraction between them is growing even faster than the ratings, and what happens behind the scenes is the real news.
ebook
First published July 30, 2014
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573 people want to read
About the author
Amy Patrick
41 books626 followersI love writing, and I love LOVE. I've been writing seriously since 2010 and have written 35 books (and counting!) Most of them are YA and NA romantic fantasy. There's a dash of paranormal and dystopian romance in my book list as well.
I'm honored to be an Amazon bestseller and multi-award winning author of the bestselling Hidden Saga, which is a 10-book Fae fantasy romance series, the heart-pounding Crimson Accord vampire romance series.
My new Romantasy series, Age of Fae, begins with A Court Bright and Broken, which released on Valentine's Day 2025. Book 2, A Kingdom Ruthless and Radiant comes out May 23rd 2025!
I live in Rhode Island where I write in my car at the beach year round and sometimes crave the heat and humidity of Mississippi, where I grew up. I love hearing from my readers! Reach out and say hi anytime.
I'm honored to be an Amazon bestseller and multi-award winning author of the bestselling Hidden Saga, which is a 10-book Fae fantasy romance series, the heart-pounding Crimson Accord vampire romance series.
My new Romantasy series, Age of Fae, begins with A Court Bright and Broken, which released on Valentine's Day 2025. Book 2, A Kingdom Ruthless and Radiant comes out May 23rd 2025!
I live in Rhode Island where I write in my car at the beach year round and sometimes crave the heat and humidity of Mississippi, where I grew up. I love hearing from my readers! Reach out and say hi anytime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 1, 2014
2.5 STARS
it's sometimes hard when you read a book and not feel strongly one way or the other. 3 stars for me is a book I liked and enjoyed reading. So I wouldn't say that here, yet I didn't dislike it either. It was very okay for me. It flowed alright, although it took 18% in for me to get hooked somewhat, but it did keep pace after that.
Heidi is a 22 year old girl trying to make it in the reporting world. After being burned in college by a very bad event, she returned home to the safety of what she knew. There she met Hale at the local college, an heir to a farming business and took a job as a reporter at the local news agency. 5 years later she's on a break with Hale and longs for the pursuit of her dreams. But she's scared to venture out into the big world of reporting and leave security behind.
Until Aric Serrano gets a job as a sports reporter at her agency, then everything changes and Heidi faces her dreams and insecurities head on.
What I liked:
The background of a news station was refreshingly different. Aric was a great guy, very patient and understanding, sexy and intelligent. The minute he saw Heidi he wanted her. I really liked him. I liked how Heidi eventually faced her fears and decided to stop letting her past dictate her future. The steam was good and didn't take over the book.
What didn't work for me:
After awhile, the scenes of the main characters reporting the news lagged for me. I honestly wasn't into those coverage moments, I was more interested in the relationship between Aric and Heidi. There wasn't a lot of drama or anything, something unheard of in NA these days, but there were things that bothered me. Heidi was immature and selfish at times. She was also indecisive and cold to Aric when she should have been more kind and gentle. Her past screwed her up a little but she started giving me whiplash with her constant 'should I or shouldn't I' inner dialogue. I understood her insecurities but she started to treat Aric the same way her ex treated her--very uncool.
Heidi also got involved with AricSheand I was left wondering, how does she do that? It could have been resolved at the time but she stretches the situation in order to avoid hurting him. The other thing that really bothered me, was she. That was a huge problem for me. I felt like she didn't acknowledge the brevity of the situation at all. It should have been dealt with immediately. Those issues mixed with the fact that I hard a time feeling something, anything...propelled my rating.
The ending was sweet and left the door open for further developments with the main characters, whom we'll see in the other books I'm sure, about various secondary characters.
Other people may read this and not feel the same way, especially those that love NA, so I encourage anyone interested in this book to give it a go, you may love it.
**Copy provided by Amy Patrick for review **
it's sometimes hard when you read a book and not feel strongly one way or the other. 3 stars for me is a book I liked and enjoyed reading. So I wouldn't say that here, yet I didn't dislike it either. It was very okay for me. It flowed alright, although it took 18% in for me to get hooked somewhat, but it did keep pace after that.
Heidi is a 22 year old girl trying to make it in the reporting world. After being burned in college by a very bad event, she returned home to the safety of what she knew. There she met Hale at the local college, an heir to a farming business and took a job as a reporter at the local news agency. 5 years later she's on a break with Hale and longs for the pursuit of her dreams. But she's scared to venture out into the big world of reporting and leave security behind.
Until Aric Serrano gets a job as a sports reporter at her agency, then everything changes and Heidi faces her dreams and insecurities head on.
What I liked:
The background of a news station was refreshingly different. Aric was a great guy, very patient and understanding, sexy and intelligent. The minute he saw Heidi he wanted her. I really liked him. I liked how Heidi eventually faced her fears and decided to stop letting her past dictate her future. The steam was good and didn't take over the book.
What didn't work for me:
After awhile, the scenes of the main characters reporting the news lagged for me. I honestly wasn't into those coverage moments, I was more interested in the relationship between Aric and Heidi. There wasn't a lot of drama or anything, something unheard of in NA these days, but there were things that bothered me. Heidi was immature and selfish at times. She was also indecisive and cold to Aric when she should have been more kind and gentle. Her past screwed her up a little but she started giving me whiplash with her constant 'should I or shouldn't I' inner dialogue. I understood her insecurities but she started to treat Aric the same way her ex treated her--very uncool.
Heidi also got involved with AricSheand I was left wondering, how does she do that? It could have been resolved at the time but she stretches the situation in order to avoid hurting him. The other thing that really bothered me, was she. That was a huge problem for me. I felt like she didn't acknowledge the brevity of the situation at all. It should have been dealt with immediately. Those issues mixed with the fact that I hard a time feeling something, anything...propelled my rating.
The ending was sweet and left the door open for further developments with the main characters, whom we'll see in the other books I'm sure, about various secondary characters.
Other people may read this and not feel the same way, especially those that love NA, so I encourage anyone interested in this book to give it a go, you may love it.
**Copy provided by Amy Patrick for review **
September 11, 2014
*ARC provided from publisher on Netgalley*
This book was so not what I was expecting! I expected some light, cute, fluffy, somewhat predictable New Adult book, we get the cute and fluffy part (also lots of sexual tension and hot scenes) BUT IT WASN'T PREDICTABLE! Not at all, it's actually one of the best New Adult books I've read, it's awesome in all the ways that make this genre awesome and more becase you can never get bored and then when you think life's all figured out BOOM! There's another plot twist or problem I didn't see coming and I loved that! In short, I NEED MORE OF AMY PATRICK!
This book was so not what I was expecting! I expected some light, cute, fluffy, somewhat predictable New Adult book, we get the cute and fluffy part (also lots of sexual tension and hot scenes) BUT IT WASN'T PREDICTABLE! Not at all, it's actually one of the best New Adult books I've read, it's awesome in all the ways that make this genre awesome and more becase you can never get bored and then when you think life's all figured out BOOM! There's another plot twist or problem I didn't see coming and I loved that! In short, I NEED MORE OF AMY PATRICK!
July 17, 2014
I went into reading Channel 20Something (The first book in the 20Something series) by Amy Patrick expecting your standard recipe for a new adult romance (You know how it is, troubled bad boy, good girl, put them together and voila right?) and was really pleasantly surprised!
Welcome to the story of Heidi and Aric. Firstly let me start by saying Heidi is a great character. Although she's been bought up well and correctly, she is still a very funny, down to earth girl. I loved her when she let her hair down, but also saw aspects in her that I see in myself, where she tries to please everyone but struggles at times to strive for what she wants (Or have the confidence to do it). She's a real character and more than once her antics had me laughing out loud, but also sympathising with her. Yes at times her actions were a little 'crazy' but we all have our mad moments right?
Then we have Aric, hot sexy Sports guy Aric. Let's just take a moment to appreciate how his name rolls off your tongue when you say it... Aric. He's gorgeous, he's smart and also a bit of a joker at times. He also felt like a real character to me and although he had the looks of a God, seemed to not quite fit the mould else where, making him slightly imperfect and more real.
The story has a great pace, it kept me reading and not wanting to put the book down (I read this in 2 sittings). There was just the right amount of ups and downs, not too much drama but enough to keep things interesting and don't even get me started with her fiance or the ex!
I really enjoyed Channel 20Something and definitely will be looking to read the other books in the series. If this one is anything to go by, I can see it being uber popular with the 20 something market and those who enjoy a good New Adult romance with some humour and fun to it!
I gave Channel 20Something 4 stars and recommend it highly!
Review also featured on my blog - http://www.bewitchedbooks.co.uk/
Welcome to the story of Heidi and Aric. Firstly let me start by saying Heidi is a great character. Although she's been bought up well and correctly, she is still a very funny, down to earth girl. I loved her when she let her hair down, but also saw aspects in her that I see in myself, where she tries to please everyone but struggles at times to strive for what she wants (Or have the confidence to do it). She's a real character and more than once her antics had me laughing out loud, but also sympathising with her. Yes at times her actions were a little 'crazy' but we all have our mad moments right?
Then we have Aric, hot sexy Sports guy Aric. Let's just take a moment to appreciate how his name rolls off your tongue when you say it... Aric. He's gorgeous, he's smart and also a bit of a joker at times. He also felt like a real character to me and although he had the looks of a God, seemed to not quite fit the mould else where, making him slightly imperfect and more real.
The story has a great pace, it kept me reading and not wanting to put the book down (I read this in 2 sittings). There was just the right amount of ups and downs, not too much drama but enough to keep things interesting and don't even get me started with her fiance or the ex!
I really enjoyed Channel 20Something and definitely will be looking to read the other books in the series. If this one is anything to go by, I can see it being uber popular with the 20 something market and those who enjoy a good New Adult romance with some humour and fun to it!
I gave Channel 20Something 4 stars and recommend it highly!
Review also featured on my blog - http://www.bewitchedbooks.co.uk/
July 29, 2014
Chanel 20 Something was everything I expected and more--fun and romantic.
What I loved most was the protagonist's witty voice. She's a southerner at heart but yearns for life in the big city as an up-and-coming TV reporter. The girl may be losing her southern accent, but she's totally on top of her southern culture, including college football and sweet tea.
I found myself rooting for Heidi and Aric, the seriously hot sports reporter at CTS, to get their happily-ever-after and thoroughly enjoyed learning the ins and outs of TV broadcasting.
One word--FUN!
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
What I loved most was the protagonist's witty voice. She's a southerner at heart but yearns for life in the big city as an up-and-coming TV reporter. The girl may be losing her southern accent, but she's totally on top of her southern culture, including college football and sweet tea.
I found myself rooting for Heidi and Aric, the seriously hot sports reporter at CTS, to get their happily-ever-after and thoroughly enjoyed learning the ins and outs of TV broadcasting.
One word--FUN!
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
July 15, 2014
3 - 3.5 Stars
Hmmm, I liked this book.
Maybe it just wasn't for me though ..
Heidi is a 22 year old news reporter in Mississippi where there isn't a whole lot going on with that, and she's okay with that because its safe and that's what Heidi likes.
Close to her family, and dating a perfectly safe guy who wants nothing more than to stay on his cattle farm for the rest of his life.
That pretty much sums up Heidi's life safe
Until Aric (mind you I had such a hard time reading his name in my head .. I wish it was just spelt Eric because I nearly stopped reading I kept reading it wrong)
Aric is the new sports news reporter and a total hottie, taking an instant liking to Heidi. Even with her bold choice to go on a break with her boyfriend Heidi doesn't want to get mixed up with Aric because its obvious he's a player. With his good looks and charm Heidi is reminded of her first semester at college. The college she only lasted one seamster before running home to where its safe
Leading Aric to believe she still has a boyfriend doesn't seem to help either, he still pursues her. The two begin helping each other out on their stories and grow closer until Heidi confesses she doesn't have a boyfriend.
Aric wants to start something but Heidi is still unsure because of her past relationship. Then the whole company policy of no dating co workers.
But eventually they do start dating, Aric pushes Heidi to stop choosing the safe route and do something for herself for a change. Heidi isn't to keen on his idea of hero and decided to go out to dinner with her ex to piss Aric off only to have her ex propose and instead of saying no she says yes so he doesn't get embarrassed. Needless to say Aric isn't happy and Heidi has to decide if she wants to stay safe or take a chance
-----
I think my main problem with this book was Heidi, I wanted to shake her a good majority of the book. You had to read about 35% into the book just for the two of them to hang out, and for her to stop lying to him about having a boyfriend. Then the whole back and forth between he's cute but I could never date him he's just like Josh bit got old super quick. There was way to much of it, it got so repetitive.
Then Heidi basically accuses him of being a player which is why she could never be with him, only for him to tell her he's only been with like 2 girls or something.
OS then they're dating, I guess but it has to be a secret. And when Aric helps her out by sending out her reel she freaks out, And throws going out to dinner in his face by agreeing to go out with her ex boyfriend, Who randomly just shows up every once in a while, more as added drama than anything else to be honest. Anyway Heidi doesn't see why Aric's so annoyed that she's going out with her ex …. oh I don't know.
This book was alright, I didn't really care for Heidi at all. But I loved Aric (minus the name spelling) he seriously saved the book, for me anyway. I thought her mom was super funny too.
Honestly it wasn't a bad book, It was cute, Just maybe not for me in terms of the female lead
Hmmm, I liked this book.
Maybe it just wasn't for me though ..
Heidi is a 22 year old news reporter in Mississippi where there isn't a whole lot going on with that, and she's okay with that because its safe and that's what Heidi likes.
Close to her family, and dating a perfectly safe guy who wants nothing more than to stay on his cattle farm for the rest of his life.
That pretty much sums up Heidi's life safe
Until Aric (mind you I had such a hard time reading his name in my head .. I wish it was just spelt Eric because I nearly stopped reading I kept reading it wrong)
Aric is the new sports news reporter and a total hottie, taking an instant liking to Heidi. Even with her bold choice to go on a break with her boyfriend Heidi doesn't want to get mixed up with Aric because its obvious he's a player. With his good looks and charm Heidi is reminded of her first semester at college. The college she only lasted one seamster before running home to where its safe
Leading Aric to believe she still has a boyfriend doesn't seem to help either, he still pursues her. The two begin helping each other out on their stories and grow closer until Heidi confesses she doesn't have a boyfriend.
Aric wants to start something but Heidi is still unsure because of her past relationship. Then the whole company policy of no dating co workers.
But eventually they do start dating, Aric pushes Heidi to stop choosing the safe route and do something for herself for a change. Heidi isn't to keen on his idea of hero and decided to go out to dinner with her ex to piss Aric off only to have her ex propose and instead of saying no she says yes so he doesn't get embarrassed. Needless to say Aric isn't happy and Heidi has to decide if she wants to stay safe or take a chance
-----
I think my main problem with this book was Heidi, I wanted to shake her a good majority of the book. You had to read about 35% into the book just for the two of them to hang out, and for her to stop lying to him about having a boyfriend. Then the whole back and forth between he's cute but I could never date him he's just like Josh bit got old super quick. There was way to much of it, it got so repetitive.
Then Heidi basically accuses him of being a player which is why she could never be with him, only for him to tell her he's only been with like 2 girls or something.
OS then they're dating, I guess but it has to be a secret. And when Aric helps her out by sending out her reel she freaks out, And throws going out to dinner in his face by agreeing to go out with her ex boyfriend, Who randomly just shows up every once in a while, more as added drama than anything else to be honest. Anyway Heidi doesn't see why Aric's so annoyed that she's going out with her ex …. oh I don't know.
This book was alright, I didn't really care for Heidi at all. But I loved Aric (minus the name spelling) he seriously saved the book, for me anyway. I thought her mom was super funny too.
Honestly it wasn't a bad book, It was cute, Just maybe not for me in terms of the female lead
August 9, 2014
Does that gif hopefully sum the whole thing up? I hope so. I was reluctant to review this book because I hated it so much. Apologies in advance, to whoever is reading this. I just have to get my opinion out there. :/
WRITING:
This was the only part of the book that I could tolerate ( and I mean the writing stlye ). It could've used a few touch-ups, but overall pretty good. BUT THE NON-EXISTENT DESCRIPTIONS. UGH. There was NO descriptions of the characters except for Aric, and that was about 55% into the book when we finally got a full-on description! Could've helped a lot if I could actually PICTURE EVERYONE IN THE FREAKING BOOK.
IDEA:
This book...no plot. Not a single conflict or anything. You know. Other than the fact that Heidi has "problems" and a "dark past".
Dark past my butt. Come on, really? With her "incident", she could have easily gave the main cause the finger and walked right past with her head held high. But NOOOO. She had to spend four years with her "safe boyfriend", whom she basically used so she didn't have to face the situation ever again. Can I just point out how idiotic and super sensitive this chick is? Is there people actually like this? And she spent four years with her boyfriend, and they haven't even done the freaking deed?! HOW IS THIS EVEN POSSIBLE? I mean, come on. Seriously?
CHARACTERS:
The characters were just plain flat. The reader barely knows ANYTHING about the characters! Heck, I don't even know what they look like! EVERYONE WAS SO FLAT! I wanted to know more about them! BUT NO. THE BOOK HAD TO STAY FOCUSED ON POOR DENFESELESS HEIDI AND HER "ISSUES".
Overall, I am giving this book one star. My advice to the author: Your writing style is very nice. Use that to your advantage. But think about the storyline and your characters more. It will help you in the end.
*Thank you to All Night Reads for supplying me with this book to read and review!*
While you're at it, go check out my friend Aly's review of this book! She writes awesome reviews! Why not go and read them! :)
Aly's review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Want more? Make sure to check out my blog, Books of Fascination!
November 21, 2014
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
My Thoughts:
I was super stoked to get my hands on this book. There was just something about it that intrigued me and I figured I'd better check it out. And it was a nice story, and worth checking out.
Heidi is that girl who wants to feel safe, as all girls do. The idea of being with someone unknown, someone you can't know for sure is a good choice, is scary. So, she's "with" a guy who makes her feel safe...then she meets Aric and sees all these things that are missing. Aric is everything she can't help but be drawn to, and who can blame her? He's kinda awesome. There were some aspects that had me wanting to slap Heidi, especially when it came to choices that weren't well thought out. But the ending redeemed her and the story.
Channel 20Something was a good start to this new adult series. While I enjoyed the story, it didn't blow me away, BUT it did make me want to read more by Amy Patrick. And isn't that the more important part--that you want to read more by an author based on a little taste of their work? It was well written and I loved the characters, so yeah--worth picking up, worth checking out more!
My Rating: Pretty Good
My Thoughts:
I was super stoked to get my hands on this book. There was just something about it that intrigued me and I figured I'd better check it out. And it was a nice story, and worth checking out.
Heidi is that girl who wants to feel safe, as all girls do. The idea of being with someone unknown, someone you can't know for sure is a good choice, is scary. So, she's "with" a guy who makes her feel safe...then she meets Aric and sees all these things that are missing. Aric is everything she can't help but be drawn to, and who can blame her? He's kinda awesome. There were some aspects that had me wanting to slap Heidi, especially when it came to choices that weren't well thought out. But the ending redeemed her and the story.
Channel 20Something was a good start to this new adult series. While I enjoyed the story, it didn't blow me away, BUT it did make me want to read more by Amy Patrick. And isn't that the more important part--that you want to read more by an author based on a little taste of their work? It was well written and I loved the characters, so yeah--worth picking up, worth checking out more!
My Rating: Pretty Good
April 13, 2015
Chanel 20Something is the first book in the 20Something series by Amy Patrick. It is in the NA class, which I personally love.
Heidi is a true Southern Belle with attitude. She is a reporter who is trying to leave her small town broadcasting gig to a major network. She is witty, bold, and afraid to move on.
Aric is a Northerner who is taking the small town sports news to the next level. With tons of potential, this is just a stepping stone on his way to the top.
When the couple team up to work on their employment reels, the real story starts.
I love this book and if the rest of the series is as good as this then this will be a series to follow. The characters are witty and bold. There was just enough drama, but not too much. And the chemistry was there.
Being from the south, I loved the setting. It was spot on! Heidi’s feelings reminded me of myself and most true Southern girls that I know. And who doesn’t love a hot sports enthusiast. I can’t wait for more!
Heidi is a true Southern Belle with attitude. She is a reporter who is trying to leave her small town broadcasting gig to a major network. She is witty, bold, and afraid to move on.
Aric is a Northerner who is taking the small town sports news to the next level. With tons of potential, this is just a stepping stone on his way to the top.
When the couple team up to work on their employment reels, the real story starts.
I love this book and if the rest of the series is as good as this then this will be a series to follow. The characters are witty and bold. There was just enough drama, but not too much. And the chemistry was there.
Being from the south, I loved the setting. It was spot on! Heidi’s feelings reminded me of myself and most true Southern girls that I know. And who doesn’t love a hot sports enthusiast. I can’t wait for more!
August 2, 2014
Loved it! This book is exactly what I have been looking for in the romance genre. It lets you feel the intimacy and anticipation of the relationship, but leaves something to the imagination when the author closes the bedroom door. The main characters, Heidi and Aric, are well developed, exposing their funny and sexy sides throughout. The storyline draws you in, and then keeps you wanting more. I recommend “Channel 20something” to a reader who is looking for a well-written, fast-moving romantic story without gratuitous eroticism.
August 9, 2014
I think that Amy Patrick captured the TV news business in a small market and the conflicted heart of a motivated 20 something....perfectly! Having done my time at small news shops, I could feel the pain Heidi was experiencing. As a young reporter with your eyes on a bigger market, it's so easy to ignore the here and now and simply not live in the moment. I was so glad in reading this book that Heidi made the decision to enjoy , in a big way, the here and now.
August 15, 2014
I highly recommend this book. I read it while on vacation and it's fun, romantic story kept me engaged and wanting to read more. If you are planning a trip and want a good diversion to bring with you, this is your book!
August 9, 2015
Cute story.
May 25, 2017
Funny and relatable
First of all, I loved how knowledgeable the author seemed about working in TV news. Considering how much the plot centered around their jobs, that was really important and I appreciated feeling like it was real, too, rather than some semi-researched, made up version of it.
My biggest complaint about the book is probably also my biggest compliment, and that's that Heidi's issues drive me batty to the point of almost disliking her for them. I think this is mainly because at her age I went through similar discovery that hiding from my problems only make them worse, and seeing someone go through that lesson was a bit painful.
But in between the painful parts, the story is funny and interesting. And Aric is a saint. To the point of disbelief. I want one, too!
First of all, I loved how knowledgeable the author seemed about working in TV news. Considering how much the plot centered around their jobs, that was really important and I appreciated feeling like it was real, too, rather than some semi-researched, made up version of it.
My biggest complaint about the book is probably also my biggest compliment, and that's that Heidi's issues drive me batty to the point of almost disliking her for them. I think this is mainly because at her age I went through similar discovery that hiding from my problems only make them worse, and seeing someone go through that lesson was a bit painful.
But in between the painful parts, the story is funny and interesting. And Aric is a saint. To the point of disbelief. I want one, too!
September 7, 2018
This book is the tale of the romance between a girl and a guy who work at a very small town TV station. It deals with their goals and aspirations for the future, their growing attraction to each other, and how they handle all this. It also deals with a traumatizing incident from the girl's past and how it affects her present day relationships. It deals with the guy she's on a break from when she meets the new guy. All in all, it's not a half bad book.
The sex scenes are rather mild .
The violence is very, very mild. There is one scene reporting on a very bad traffic accident, and that's the extent of the violence.
The sex scenes are rather mild .
The violence is very, very mild. There is one scene reporting on a very bad traffic accident, and that's the extent of the violence.
July 25, 2019
Great Story
Great, interesting characters, although I thought Heidi was a bit cowardly. I can't imagine not speaking up when something isn't right. But the story was really good. It held my attention and I kept turning the pages. I couldn't put it down. Good job. I loved it.
Great, interesting characters, although I thought Heidi was a bit cowardly. I can't imagine not speaking up when something isn't right. But the story was really good. It held my attention and I kept turning the pages. I couldn't put it down. Good job. I loved it.
July 21, 2014
TITLE: CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING
AUTHOR: Amy Patrick
GENRE: New Adult, Romance
RATING: 1.5/5
**NOTE: I received this title as an eARC via NetGalley. This book will be released August 12th, 2014.
Despite its interesting premise—a woman dealing with advancing her career, getting past her own fears, and experiencing romance—CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING was disappointing. I had started the novel anticipating a funny, romantic story and while, this novel does tick off these boxes, nothing is done exceptionally well. That is to say that throughout the novel, the story felt lacking in excitement and tension. While there was clearly a defined conflict and series of events that held the plot together, nothing really engrossed me. Neither our protagonist, Heidi, nor her story captivated me and the result was something of a flat, predictable story.
Character development, in particular, felt rushed. Heidi was given emotional ties: she had a back story with trauma, a well-meaning, but frustrating family, even some friends at the station she works at. However, these connections that Heidi should’ve had with the secondary characters, that could’ve given her depth and dimension, seem to really only serve as accessories. At the start of CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING, Patrick introduces a slew of characters from the news station, but the few sentences here and there that are placed throughout the novel do little to make these people real. As a result, even the best friend heart-to-heart that Heidi has with Mara comes off as an obvious, necessary plot device to alert Heidi to her problem than it does an organic, well integrated moment of realization. Additionally, the fast pace of the novel also contributes to this lack of depth that surrounds the novel overall. Because Heidi’s characters has these sort of landmarks that she has to hit to get to her story’s conclusion, a lot of the process of getting to these moments feels underdeveloped. As a result, Heidi’s growth seems unearned at times.
Another issue I had with CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING was the creepy consent factor surrounding the moments of intimacy between the two characters. While there are moments in which the characters stop what they’re doing and say they’re not ready for it, there are also moments in which “Heidi’s body consents, but she’s trying to say no for some reason or another.” I’m paraphrasing of course, but I just find these situations frustrating. Heidi, of course, as a character who is mimicking real life and therefore real confusion that people can face, is not always perfect, but it just worries me. The stalking joke that she and her love interest make several pages later about him being so attracted to her that he engaged in stalkerish behavior also seriously worried me.
While CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING had its humor and fun lightheartedness, overall, I would say that I didn’t particularly enjoy the read. However, this is simply my opinion and there are people who, from their comments on NetGalley, I can say would definitely disagree with me. Read the novel for yourself if you’re curious and message me afterwards! I love discussing books and listening to other people’s opinions.
Best wishes & happy reading,
Arielle
AUTHOR: Amy Patrick
GENRE: New Adult, Romance
RATING: 1.5/5
**NOTE: I received this title as an eARC via NetGalley. This book will be released August 12th, 2014.
Despite its interesting premise—a woman dealing with advancing her career, getting past her own fears, and experiencing romance—CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING was disappointing. I had started the novel anticipating a funny, romantic story and while, this novel does tick off these boxes, nothing is done exceptionally well. That is to say that throughout the novel, the story felt lacking in excitement and tension. While there was clearly a defined conflict and series of events that held the plot together, nothing really engrossed me. Neither our protagonist, Heidi, nor her story captivated me and the result was something of a flat, predictable story.
Character development, in particular, felt rushed. Heidi was given emotional ties: she had a back story with trauma, a well-meaning, but frustrating family, even some friends at the station she works at. However, these connections that Heidi should’ve had with the secondary characters, that could’ve given her depth and dimension, seem to really only serve as accessories. At the start of CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING, Patrick introduces a slew of characters from the news station, but the few sentences here and there that are placed throughout the novel do little to make these people real. As a result, even the best friend heart-to-heart that Heidi has with Mara comes off as an obvious, necessary plot device to alert Heidi to her problem than it does an organic, well integrated moment of realization. Additionally, the fast pace of the novel also contributes to this lack of depth that surrounds the novel overall. Because Heidi’s characters has these sort of landmarks that she has to hit to get to her story’s conclusion, a lot of the process of getting to these moments feels underdeveloped. As a result, Heidi’s growth seems unearned at times.
Another issue I had with CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING was the creepy consent factor surrounding the moments of intimacy between the two characters. While there are moments in which the characters stop what they’re doing and say they’re not ready for it, there are also moments in which “Heidi’s body consents, but she’s trying to say no for some reason or another.” I’m paraphrasing of course, but I just find these situations frustrating. Heidi, of course, as a character who is mimicking real life and therefore real confusion that people can face, is not always perfect, but it just worries me. The stalking joke that she and her love interest make several pages later about him being so attracted to her that he engaged in stalkerish behavior also seriously worried me.
While CHANNEL 20 SOMETHING had its humor and fun lightheartedness, overall, I would say that I didn’t particularly enjoy the read. However, this is simply my opinion and there are people who, from their comments on NetGalley, I can say would definitely disagree with me. Read the novel for yourself if you’re curious and message me afterwards! I love discussing books and listening to other people’s opinions.
Best wishes & happy reading,
Arielle
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2014
Channel 20 Something, 20 Something Series - Book 1, Amy Patrick.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I don't usually look at covers, but sometimes they catch my eye and they can make a book appealing - or as in this case - offputting for me. I thought this looked a bit flimsy from the cover, a kind of updated 70's M&B read. Still, the premise sounded intriguing so I requested it....
I was suprised, it was a fun read but with some real life, reality type scenes. Those where we see how other people influence our lives, with incidents that have happened to us or our freinds. It gives the book a realistic feel. Heidi had certainly let the jerk who took her virginity, and then boasted about it online, affect her subsequent years. She thought they were in love, he was a typical good looking jock, out for a good time and willing to say anything to get it. Since turning tail and returning home she's been in a romance - and I use that term loosely - with Hale. He's a sweet guy, but there's no passion between them, no fire and yet her family are convinced they are on the cups of getting engaged. They're currently on an agreed break, with Heidi hoping Hale will find someone else and let her out without having to upset anyone. She hasn't told her family, they are very protective, overly so at times, and she knows they think Hale is perfect for her.
Then new hire to the company Aric comes in. He's so much like the jerk that spurned her she dislikes him on principle. She knows his type, knows she'll get dropped like a stone once he's had enough so she rebuffs any attempts by him to be friends. I loved Aric, he's a real man, goodlooking but not bigheaded, genuine, caring and helpful. I'm amazed at how rude Heidi was to him and yet he kept coming back for more...To be honest I know Heidi had been badly hurt, but she was really unfair in letting that colour her views of Aric. I disliked her much of the time simply because she was so unfair, and then she'd do something like arrange that interview for Aric, and my view would change again. Things happen at work though, and they end up working togehter and getting closer, and closer.....then just as she begins to let herself relax mayhem hits and it all goes badly wrong. Can she make amends? will Aric understand and what about her family, and her job...
There's passion and drama here in situations that are very real. Who hasn't thought "should I do this?" Who hasn't let past incidences colour their decisions? I loved Aric, had mixed feelings about Heidi. Her friends - we don't see that much of them but what we do shows they are loyal and solid to her. They're subjects in later books, and I'd be happy to read their stories too.
Stars: Four, a fun one off read.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I don't usually look at covers, but sometimes they catch my eye and they can make a book appealing - or as in this case - offputting for me. I thought this looked a bit flimsy from the cover, a kind of updated 70's M&B read. Still, the premise sounded intriguing so I requested it....
I was suprised, it was a fun read but with some real life, reality type scenes. Those where we see how other people influence our lives, with incidents that have happened to us or our freinds. It gives the book a realistic feel. Heidi had certainly let the jerk who took her virginity, and then boasted about it online, affect her subsequent years. She thought they were in love, he was a typical good looking jock, out for a good time and willing to say anything to get it. Since turning tail and returning home she's been in a romance - and I use that term loosely - with Hale. He's a sweet guy, but there's no passion between them, no fire and yet her family are convinced they are on the cups of getting engaged. They're currently on an agreed break, with Heidi hoping Hale will find someone else and let her out without having to upset anyone. She hasn't told her family, they are very protective, overly so at times, and she knows they think Hale is perfect for her.
Then new hire to the company Aric comes in. He's so much like the jerk that spurned her she dislikes him on principle. She knows his type, knows she'll get dropped like a stone once he's had enough so she rebuffs any attempts by him to be friends. I loved Aric, he's a real man, goodlooking but not bigheaded, genuine, caring and helpful. I'm amazed at how rude Heidi was to him and yet he kept coming back for more...To be honest I know Heidi had been badly hurt, but she was really unfair in letting that colour her views of Aric. I disliked her much of the time simply because she was so unfair, and then she'd do something like arrange that interview for Aric, and my view would change again. Things happen at work though, and they end up working togehter and getting closer, and closer.....then just as she begins to let herself relax mayhem hits and it all goes badly wrong. Can she make amends? will Aric understand and what about her family, and her job...
There's passion and drama here in situations that are very real. Who hasn't thought "should I do this?" Who hasn't let past incidences colour their decisions? I loved Aric, had mixed feelings about Heidi. Her friends - we don't see that much of them but what we do shows they are loyal and solid to her. They're subjects in later books, and I'd be happy to read their stories too.
Stars: Four, a fun one off read.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
November 26, 2015
Heidi Haynes is comfortable in her hometown, living near her parents, and with a job at a small market TV station. The days where she longed for more for herself are long gone, thanks to an incident her first semester of college that sent her running back home. With nearly a year of experience in front of and behind the camera, she should be sending out her reel to find a better job, yet she just can’t bring herself to do it.
Aric Serrano is a sexy hunk of a sports reporter, and Heidi finds herself drawn to him even though she’s only on a break from her college sweetheart. Aric’s patience and persistence are even more attractive, and when Heidi allows herself to be friends with him, she finds there’s a lot more to him than the pretty exterior.
But Aric wants more from Heidi than she’s able to give. She’ll have to make some tough decisions about not only her love life, but her career and dreams as well.
Channel 20 Something is a new adult romance that is relatively clean, a refreshing change from most of what’s out there these days. The sexual situations are kept to a minimum and not detailed, and even cursing is very minor. In fact, one of the things I love about Heidi’s character is that she didn’t even curse in her mind.
Having Heidi, Aric, and the secondary characters work at a TV station was interesting. The author did a good job of incorporating the details of their jobs into the plot of the story without boring me. I was quickly hooked in to finding out more of what happened with Heidi’s ex while the attraction between Heidi and Aric grew. Heidi’s confusion about life and love in general made it believable she would constantly be pushing Aric away.
Along the same lines, Heidi’s insistence on not having a relationship and her insecurities did get old after a while. Aric was patient and understanding, even if he did show frustration at times. His frustration was completely understandable. This character trait of Heidi’s was at least consistent, even if it made me not love her as much after a while.
There were some grammatical errors in the book, but for the most part the story was well written. One thing I would have liked to see more of was Heidi’s accent. It only came out to play when Aric mentioned it, and at times I forgot one of her issues with getting a better job was that she had an accent.
Overall, the story was cute and kept me reading. I enjoyed it and would definitely read more from this author and more of this series.
For more of my reviews, please visit http://rachlawrencebooks.wordpress.com/.
Aric Serrano is a sexy hunk of a sports reporter, and Heidi finds herself drawn to him even though she’s only on a break from her college sweetheart. Aric’s patience and persistence are even more attractive, and when Heidi allows herself to be friends with him, she finds there’s a lot more to him than the pretty exterior.
But Aric wants more from Heidi than she’s able to give. She’ll have to make some tough decisions about not only her love life, but her career and dreams as well.
Channel 20 Something is a new adult romance that is relatively clean, a refreshing change from most of what’s out there these days. The sexual situations are kept to a minimum and not detailed, and even cursing is very minor. In fact, one of the things I love about Heidi’s character is that she didn’t even curse in her mind.
Having Heidi, Aric, and the secondary characters work at a TV station was interesting. The author did a good job of incorporating the details of their jobs into the plot of the story without boring me. I was quickly hooked in to finding out more of what happened with Heidi’s ex while the attraction between Heidi and Aric grew. Heidi’s confusion about life and love in general made it believable she would constantly be pushing Aric away.
Along the same lines, Heidi’s insistence on not having a relationship and her insecurities did get old after a while. Aric was patient and understanding, even if he did show frustration at times. His frustration was completely understandable. This character trait of Heidi’s was at least consistent, even if it made me not love her as much after a while.
There were some grammatical errors in the book, but for the most part the story was well written. One thing I would have liked to see more of was Heidi’s accent. It only came out to play when Aric mentioned it, and at times I forgot one of her issues with getting a better job was that she had an accent.
Overall, the story was cute and kept me reading. I enjoyed it and would definitely read more from this author and more of this series.
For more of my reviews, please visit http://rachlawrencebooks.wordpress.com/.
August 1, 2014
Man behøver egentlig kun ét ord for at opsummere Heidi og hendes tilværelse: Sikker. Alt i hendes liv er tilrettelagt efter hvad der er sikkert og mest fornuftigt, og hvad hendes forældre og hendes kæreste synes. Hun drukner fuldstændig i overbeskyttende råd fra forældrene, en kæreste fra high school der er det sikre kort på hånden, og en tilværelse der generelt står fuldstændig stille. Indtil sportsreporteren Aric kommer dumpende.
Inden man sætter sig ned med denne bog, så bliver man nødt til at gøre sig klart, at der er absolut intet nyt i den. Den er fuldstændig ligesom alle andre film og bøger der er lavet efter det samme plot, og bliver du overrasket over noget som helst undervejs, så må du have boet under en sten. I så fald anbefaler jeg dig at grave dig ud til os andre.
Det være sagt, så er bogen egentlig sød nok. Historien om den usikre pige og den hotte fyr er jo en udødelig klassiker og det fungerer ganske udmærket i dette tilfælde også. Man er ikke blæst bagover af begejstring og benovelse, men det er en sød historie, den er fluffy og cute, et par timers let underholdning, og det er dét.
En del af tiden havde jeg desværre lidt et problem med Heidi en del af tiden. Hun er sød nok, som person, men hun er så forsigtig, grå og falden-i-et-med-tapetet. Det er mig en gåde hvordan hun nogensinde blev reporter, for umiddelbart ville jeg tro at den slags krævede noget mere udadvendthed og ”aggressivitet”. Jeg forstår simpelthen ikke hvordan hun formår at få udført sit job så tilfredsstillende, hvis hun altid er så evigt forsigtig og velovervejet. Man burde tro at branchen krævede et minimum af eventyrlyst og hurtige-handlinger.
Så havde jeg det alligevel noget bedre med Aric der virkede ret sød, men dog ikke havde den store bad boy opførsel i mine øjne, hvilket jeg ellers synes at han bliver gjort lidt til i løbet af bogen. Det var bare sjældent han levede op til det, og når han gjorde, så virkede scenen bare virkelig kunstig og påfaldende. Men han var en sød fyr, og jeg kunne godt lide ham.
Som sagt var der intet nyt over denne historie, og sprog og spændingskurve passede også glimrende til beskrivelsen af Heidi; sikker. Det er en letlæst sommerbog, men hvis serien rigtig havde skullet fange mig videre, så skulle jeg have set noget nyskabelse og lidt mere power undervejs.
Læs alle anmeldelser her
Inden man sætter sig ned med denne bog, så bliver man nødt til at gøre sig klart, at der er absolut intet nyt i den. Den er fuldstændig ligesom alle andre film og bøger der er lavet efter det samme plot, og bliver du overrasket over noget som helst undervejs, så må du have boet under en sten. I så fald anbefaler jeg dig at grave dig ud til os andre.
Det være sagt, så er bogen egentlig sød nok. Historien om den usikre pige og den hotte fyr er jo en udødelig klassiker og det fungerer ganske udmærket i dette tilfælde også. Man er ikke blæst bagover af begejstring og benovelse, men det er en sød historie, den er fluffy og cute, et par timers let underholdning, og det er dét.
En del af tiden havde jeg desværre lidt et problem med Heidi en del af tiden. Hun er sød nok, som person, men hun er så forsigtig, grå og falden-i-et-med-tapetet. Det er mig en gåde hvordan hun nogensinde blev reporter, for umiddelbart ville jeg tro at den slags krævede noget mere udadvendthed og ”aggressivitet”. Jeg forstår simpelthen ikke hvordan hun formår at få udført sit job så tilfredsstillende, hvis hun altid er så evigt forsigtig og velovervejet. Man burde tro at branchen krævede et minimum af eventyrlyst og hurtige-handlinger.
Så havde jeg det alligevel noget bedre med Aric der virkede ret sød, men dog ikke havde den store bad boy opførsel i mine øjne, hvilket jeg ellers synes at han bliver gjort lidt til i løbet af bogen. Det var bare sjældent han levede op til det, og når han gjorde, så virkede scenen bare virkelig kunstig og påfaldende. Men han var en sød fyr, og jeg kunne godt lide ham.
Som sagt var der intet nyt over denne historie, og sprog og spændingskurve passede også glimrende til beskrivelsen af Heidi; sikker. Det er en letlæst sommerbog, men hvis serien rigtig havde skullet fange mig videre, så skulle jeg have set noget nyskabelse og lidt mere power undervejs.
Læs alle anmeldelser her
September 11, 2014
2.5-3 stars.
It took me a while to finish this one, I don’t know why. It wasn’t bad, but I didn’t love it either.
I liked Heidi, I thought she had a lot of potential, but she held back all the time. She went down the safe road and after a while it got a little boring that she kept whining about it. At least she did something about it in the end.
My biggest no-no for her character was the fact that she didn’t break up with Hale, her boyfriend of years. I mean, yeah I get her hesitation for not wanting to hurt him, but it got ridiculous after a while. And it ended up hurting him WAY worse in the end. Taking a break might work at first, but then you HAVE TO make a decision about the relationship . It really bothered me that she had no back bone in regards to everything, but particularly about Hale.
Then we have the relationship with Aric. It was great and all, they had great chemistry; but starting something with him, while still technically dating Hale, was really crappy of her. Again, just END IT with Hale. I also wasn’t a fan of Aric going forward with Heidi, knowing that she was with someone else (even if she was on a break with Hale).
I’m a firm believer that when you’re on a break, it’s a time to think on the state of your relationship and whether you want to continue or not. It’s not a time to start dating other people and see ‘what’s out there’, and then maybe come back to your original partner. It wasn’t exactly like this with Heidi, but she certainly started something with Aric while on a break with Hale, knowing that she wasn’t going back to him. She just didn’t tell Hale about her decision. :-(
Like I said, this was the biggest issue I had with these guys. Their relationship was great when we remove the thing with Hale. Romantic, cute, funny. They were great for each other. I just wished thinks with Hale had ended before that, because she ended up really hurting him, and even hurting Aric in the process at one point.
I’ll still read the rest of the series, since it looks fun with the other characters.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
It took me a while to finish this one, I don’t know why. It wasn’t bad, but I didn’t love it either.
I liked Heidi, I thought she had a lot of potential, but she held back all the time. She went down the safe road and after a while it got a little boring that she kept whining about it. At least she did something about it in the end.
My biggest no-no for her character was the fact that she didn’t break up with Hale, her boyfriend of years. I mean, yeah I get her hesitation for not wanting to hurt him, but it got ridiculous after a while. And it ended up hurting him WAY worse in the end. Taking a break might work at first, but then you HAVE TO make a decision about the relationship . It really bothered me that she had no back bone in regards to everything, but particularly about Hale.
Then we have the relationship with Aric. It was great and all, they had great chemistry; but starting something with him, while still technically dating Hale, was really crappy of her. Again, just END IT with Hale. I also wasn’t a fan of Aric going forward with Heidi, knowing that she was with someone else (even if she was on a break with Hale).
I’m a firm believer that when you’re on a break, it’s a time to think on the state of your relationship and whether you want to continue or not. It’s not a time to start dating other people and see ‘what’s out there’, and then maybe come back to your original partner. It wasn’t exactly like this with Heidi, but she certainly started something with Aric while on a break with Hale, knowing that she wasn’t going back to him. She just didn’t tell Hale about her decision. :-(
Like I said, this was the biggest issue I had with these guys. Their relationship was great when we remove the thing with Hale. Romantic, cute, funny. They were great for each other. I just wished thinks with Hale had ended before that, because she ended up really hurting him, and even hurting Aric in the process at one point.
I’ll still read the rest of the series, since it looks fun with the other characters.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 12, 2014
Read this and other reviews at my blog: The Library Princess blog
**This was an ARC from Netgalley. The title is releasing August 12, 2014.
I have been reading a lot of New Adult titles lately and was getting a little weary and feeling like they were all the same. While Channel 20 Something does have the themes that are ever-present in New Adult books– sexual tension, some sex scenes, people falling in love even though they don’t want to– it was a good, easy read. The story is about Heidi, a young news reporter trying to work her way up in the news world. Her contract with her current station (also her hometown) is coming to an end and she is determined to find a job in a bigger market. When the weekend sports reporter leaves the station, Aric is brought in as a replacement. He is the typical good-looking, egotistical playboy…or so Heidi thinks. Throughout the story, Heidi struggles to stay away from getting involved with Aric for several reasons while also juggling a previous/kind of current relationship; but, of course, they can’t resist one another. Heidi learns more about the kind of person Aric really is as they develop a romance. I will not spoil the end, so I can’t say much more. I am interested in reading the other books in the series as they release. Overall, I was pleased with the plot and writing style of this book.
My rating: 4/5
Who would I recommend this book to? Though I wouldn’t recommend this to my high school students because of sexual content, I would recommend it to my friends who also enjoy these kinds of stories.
Language: Since it is a New Adult title, there is certainly some language, but it does not stand out to me.
Sexual content: There is lots of sexual tension and, of course, a few sexual scenes are present.
Drugs/Alcohol: There is quite a bit of mention of going out and drinking, but no drug-related content.
**This was an ARC from Netgalley. The title is releasing August 12, 2014.
I have been reading a lot of New Adult titles lately and was getting a little weary and feeling like they were all the same. While Channel 20 Something does have the themes that are ever-present in New Adult books– sexual tension, some sex scenes, people falling in love even though they don’t want to– it was a good, easy read. The story is about Heidi, a young news reporter trying to work her way up in the news world. Her contract with her current station (also her hometown) is coming to an end and she is determined to find a job in a bigger market. When the weekend sports reporter leaves the station, Aric is brought in as a replacement. He is the typical good-looking, egotistical playboy…or so Heidi thinks. Throughout the story, Heidi struggles to stay away from getting involved with Aric for several reasons while also juggling a previous/kind of current relationship; but, of course, they can’t resist one another. Heidi learns more about the kind of person Aric really is as they develop a romance. I will not spoil the end, so I can’t say much more. I am interested in reading the other books in the series as they release. Overall, I was pleased with the plot and writing style of this book.
My rating: 4/5
Who would I recommend this book to? Though I wouldn’t recommend this to my high school students because of sexual content, I would recommend it to my friends who also enjoy these kinds of stories.
Language: Since it is a New Adult title, there is certainly some language, but it does not stand out to me.
Sexual content: There is lots of sexual tension and, of course, a few sexual scenes are present.
Drugs/Alcohol: There is quite a bit of mention of going out and drinking, but no drug-related content.
October 1, 2014
This started off really strong for me - I loved that career was such a focus of the book, and I found Heidi to be really relatable as a "new adult." I empathized with the whole thing of having a fear of ending a relationship that seems stable and is with a nice guy but just doesn't have sparks, and I understood the idea of wanting to be close to home and being a little afraid to leave the nest, and especially of being rejected upon trying. I loved that she had fun friends who didn't just feel like props, and how genuinely fresh-out-of-college everyone felt, and all of that was great.
And then it all just kinda gave way for me after a while, and slipped into all the cliches I thought it'd done a really nice job avoiding: the friends disappeared, to the point where a later mention of one brought zero recollection of who she was; miscommunications that of course get to the necessary parties ASAP and are followed by avoiding each other instead of conversations. And all of a sudden we kept being told that Heidi's father had to do with why she wouldn't leave, because of his bossy nature, but none of the few scenes with him really gave me that impression at all - it made me want to scribble "Show, don't tell!" on the page in red ink. (Well, on the kindle in e-ink, I guess.) And Hale... for so many scenes, I understood why she couldn't let go, why the idea of letting such a safety net go was scary. But what was the excuse once she was fully into Aric and Hale wasn't a safety net at all? As soon as that happened, I started believing Heidi as a character a whole lot less. And Aric never actually did it for me - he felt a little too scripted in his chivalry. Though he never punches anybody, and I don't recall a single usage of "slick folds" (this is romantic NA, not erotic), so some definitely bonus points for that.
So, ultimately, a totally fine book, but not the love match I'd hoped for.
And then it all just kinda gave way for me after a while, and slipped into all the cliches I thought it'd done a really nice job avoiding: the friends disappeared, to the point where a later mention of one brought zero recollection of who she was; miscommunications that of course get to the necessary parties ASAP and are followed by avoiding each other instead of conversations. And all of a sudden we kept being told that Heidi's father had to do with why she wouldn't leave, because of his bossy nature, but none of the few scenes with him really gave me that impression at all - it made me want to scribble "Show, don't tell!" on the page in red ink. (Well, on the kindle in e-ink, I guess.) And Hale... for so many scenes, I understood why she couldn't let go, why the idea of letting such a safety net go was scary. But what was the excuse once she was fully into Aric and Hale wasn't a safety net at all? As soon as that happened, I started believing Heidi as a character a whole lot less. And Aric never actually did it for me - he felt a little too scripted in his chivalry. Though he never punches anybody, and I don't recall a single usage of "slick folds" (this is romantic NA, not erotic), so some definitely bonus points for that.
So, ultimately, a totally fine book, but not the love match I'd hoped for.
July 9, 2014
I was super excited to read the synopsis for this book and to be approved for an ARC on NetGalley. Being a journalist myself, there aren't enough romance heroines in journalism - we live exciting lives!
So I delved into this book with maybe some high expectations and overall, this was a nice book. Nice was a good word to describe the plot, the heroine, the hero, everything. Sometimes it felt too nice - at least, halfway through, everyone seemed too good to be true. Even Heidi, with her relationship hangups and loveless "on a break" relationship with Hale (what a name!) was ultimately innocent and didn't seem to have too much depth.
I think I would have liked to see Heidi be more feisty, especially for a news reporter. It's a tough job where you're chasing some unpleasant stories sometimes with some unpleasant people to deal with. I think in the real world Heidi would get eaten alive in the news industry. I was never quite sure why Aric was so drawn to her except for that he thought she was beautiful - and her reasons for resisting him were hard to grasp for half of the book since the details of her previous relationship that broke her heart were vague. (The reveal does make her easier to sympathize with). As for Aric, he was Mr. Perfect - I kind of pictured a Ken doll when picturing him. Did he have a single flaw?
Despite the qualms I did have, this was well written, the characters are likable, and the romance is sweet. It is very light reading and great for a day when you don't want something heavy, just a mindless romance.
So I delved into this book with maybe some high expectations and overall, this was a nice book. Nice was a good word to describe the plot, the heroine, the hero, everything. Sometimes it felt too nice - at least, halfway through, everyone seemed too good to be true. Even Heidi, with her relationship hangups and loveless "on a break" relationship with Hale (what a name!) was ultimately innocent and didn't seem to have too much depth.
I think I would have liked to see Heidi be more feisty, especially for a news reporter. It's a tough job where you're chasing some unpleasant stories sometimes with some unpleasant people to deal with. I think in the real world Heidi would get eaten alive in the news industry. I was never quite sure why Aric was so drawn to her except for that he thought she was beautiful - and her reasons for resisting him were hard to grasp for half of the book since the details of her previous relationship that broke her heart were vague. (The reveal does make her easier to sympathize with). As for Aric, he was Mr. Perfect - I kind of pictured a Ken doll when picturing him. Did he have a single flaw?
Despite the qualms I did have, this was well written, the characters are likable, and the romance is sweet. It is very light reading and great for a day when you don't want something heavy, just a mindless romance.
October 15, 2014
"Channel 20 Something" is the 1st book in Amy Patrick's series 20 Something", and it can be read as a stand-alone book. This story features Heidi Haynes and Aric Serrano.
I'm a little conflicted with this book. I read this series out of order reading the 2nd and 3rd books first then I went back and read this book, which is the 1st in this series. I was so interested in seeing how Heidi and Aric's relationship started because I enjoyed them in the later books.
Heidi and Aric both work in the same news station in Mississippi. Heidi's contract is almost up, so she's been sharing her tape reel with news stations hoping to get an anchor position. The problem is, she is hesitant to go to a news station that's far from home. Aric, meanwhile, was a sports reporter who transferred from the north. He transferred because he realized he would be a backup if he stayed where he was. He wanted his opportunity to shine.
They constantly would work together and help each other film their segments. Much like Amy's other books in this series, the hero is charming and so swoonworthy! I adored Aric! He really cares for Heidi, but how much rejection can one person take? Heidi was both hot and cold. She constantly gave him mixed feelings. I honestly was getting annoyed with her, sadly to say. My issue was she wouldn't let go of her fears, and wouldn't give Aric a real chance until she almost lost him.
"Channel 20 Something" was still a good book. I read it in 1 day, but honestly, the series gets better with the books that follow this.
I'm a little conflicted with this book. I read this series out of order reading the 2nd and 3rd books first then I went back and read this book, which is the 1st in this series. I was so interested in seeing how Heidi and Aric's relationship started because I enjoyed them in the later books.
Heidi and Aric both work in the same news station in Mississippi. Heidi's contract is almost up, so she's been sharing her tape reel with news stations hoping to get an anchor position. The problem is, she is hesitant to go to a news station that's far from home. Aric, meanwhile, was a sports reporter who transferred from the north. He transferred because he realized he would be a backup if he stayed where he was. He wanted his opportunity to shine.
They constantly would work together and help each other film their segments. Much like Amy's other books in this series, the hero is charming and so swoonworthy! I adored Aric! He really cares for Heidi, but how much rejection can one person take? Heidi was both hot and cold. She constantly gave him mixed feelings. I honestly was getting annoyed with her, sadly to say. My issue was she wouldn't let go of her fears, and wouldn't give Aric a real chance until she almost lost him.
"Channel 20 Something" was still a good book. I read it in 1 day, but honestly, the series gets better with the books that follow this.
August 15, 2014
Overall, this is a cute book. I liked this author's voice. I enjoyed the southern slant and the North Mississippi setting, especially because I grew up in that area. I found the behind the scenes view of the television industry interesting. However, there wasn't really a plot and I never fully connected with the characters.
Character development never went beyond the superficial. I feel that I learned very little about Aric. Heidi was very immature. I couldn't respect her, from her indecisiveness, her lack of confidence in all things, and her inability to act like an adult, especially in regards to her parents. The way she ran hot and cold w/Aric, all based on assumptions influenced by her prior bad guy experience years before, was incredibly frustrating. She knew it was cruel to string her ex Hale along, yet she continued to do so. She allowed Hale and her parents to run her life. She wanted to strike out on her own, but remained mired in the good daughter dependent role. Now, she is only 22, maybe I should cut her some slack. Perhaps these things are just tropes of the new adult genre. But my irritation with characters like this further reinforces why I generally stay away from new adult themed books.
Again, I found the actual writing enjoyable, especially considering this is a debut book, but I found the character development lacking. I would give this author another chance, but probably not in this genre.
*ARC provided by Netgalley*
Character development never went beyond the superficial. I feel that I learned very little about Aric. Heidi was very immature. I couldn't respect her, from her indecisiveness, her lack of confidence in all things, and her inability to act like an adult, especially in regards to her parents. The way she ran hot and cold w/Aric, all based on assumptions influenced by her prior bad guy experience years before, was incredibly frustrating. She knew it was cruel to string her ex Hale along, yet she continued to do so. She allowed Hale and her parents to run her life. She wanted to strike out on her own, but remained mired in the good daughter dependent role. Now, she is only 22, maybe I should cut her some slack. Perhaps these things are just tropes of the new adult genre. But my irritation with characters like this further reinforces why I generally stay away from new adult themed books.
Again, I found the actual writing enjoyable, especially considering this is a debut book, but I found the character development lacking. I would give this author another chance, but probably not in this genre.
*ARC provided by Netgalley*
July 10, 2014
More Sweet than Spicy
This is a very sweet romance with an absolutely fantastic (almost too good to be true!) hero. I have to be honest, I never really understood what he saw in Heidi. I actually never really understood Heidi. She was a paper thin romantic heroine to me.
But Aric, Hale, and Heidi's sister lived and breathed for me.
Now, the next bit is a little spoilery.
*
*
*
-*-*-*-*-* Spoilery Bit *-*-*-*-*-
I have to warn you…the author is kind of a tease. When Heidi and Aric start to get close, it gets very, very steamy. Kind of "oh my god should I be reading this in public" steamy. The foreplay is very, very hot. So I naturally expected the sex when they finally got together to be just as hot. Nope. They go inside and have sex away from the reader. You never, ever read it. I mean the author literally says something like, "They had sex."
This is about the romance, not the sex.
-*-*-*-*-* Spoilery Bit Over *-*-*-*-*-
Overall, although I felt like I needed a little more depth to Heidi, the book is a very sweet romance. There are a few laughs as well - I loved the fraternization scene! The book is an easy pleasant read. And I'd love a little Aric in my life. ;-)
This is a very sweet romance with an absolutely fantastic (almost too good to be true!) hero. I have to be honest, I never really understood what he saw in Heidi. I actually never really understood Heidi. She was a paper thin romantic heroine to me.
But Aric, Hale, and Heidi's sister lived and breathed for me.
Now, the next bit is a little spoilery.
*
*
*
-*-*-*-*-* Spoilery Bit *-*-*-*-*-
I have to warn you…the author is kind of a tease. When Heidi and Aric start to get close, it gets very, very steamy. Kind of "oh my god should I be reading this in public" steamy. The foreplay is very, very hot. So I naturally expected the sex when they finally got together to be just as hot. Nope. They go inside and have sex away from the reader. You never, ever read it. I mean the author literally says something like, "They had sex."
This is about the romance, not the sex.
-*-*-*-*-* Spoilery Bit Over *-*-*-*-*-
Overall, although I felt like I needed a little more depth to Heidi, the book is a very sweet romance. There are a few laughs as well - I loved the fraternization scene! The book is an easy pleasant read. And I'd love a little Aric in my life. ;-)
February 18, 2015
As someone who likes journalism and reading books about reporters , I was interested to read Amy Patrick's new series 20 Somethings, also being 20-Something myself intrigued me even further as often being in your twenties can be a crucial time of self-discovery. This book surrounds the daily life of news reporter Heidi Haynes who is in her first year of interning for the TV news. She dreams of making it big one day , but life keeps getting in the way - mainly its the guys that keep getting in her way of plans. First , Josh - the one she trusted and ended up having to transfer colleges , now Hale - her smalltown boyfriend who is happy being a farmer on his parent's plantation and newcomer Aric - who reading this I kept picturing the guy who plays Alcide on True Blood. Aric arrives at the station as the new Sports Reporter and instantly there is an attraction between Heidi and Aric , but of course station policy forbids office romances and also there is Hale to think of on the side. Does Heidi want safe or is she prepared to take a risk for once and choose Aric ? Will she let another guy get in the way of her dream or will being in her 20-Somethings make the world of difference ?
Find out in Channel20Something and follow Heidi's journey into the world of Channel News Reporting.
Find out in Channel20Something and follow Heidi's journey into the world of Channel News Reporting.
August 18, 2014
Channel 20Something has sweet romance, a great story line, and strong character development. I will admit the first chapter didn't hook me as well as I would have liked, but I kept reading and found myself not wanting to put it down. In the story, Amy Patrick's news background shines through and it was fascinating to see the work that goes on behind the scenes of a news show. Aric and Heidi were a great couple and Amy did an amazing job of portraying REAL people. Yes, real people with a believable romance! Aric was down to earth, handsome and nice. Heidi was pretty, a little insecure and nice. Did you see how they were both NICE?? I loved that these characters didn't have rough, horrible backgrounds. They were characters that you could relate and connect with. I did feel Heidi was a little too indecisive when it came to her feelings about Aric, but I think it contributed to making her a believable character going through real emotions. The angst was light, nothing was blown out of proportion and events were handled in a mature honest way. Steamyness is light/moderate and very tasteful. This is a series that I cannot wait to read more of!
July 24, 2014
-Advanced copy provided by NetGalley-
It's the first NetGalley book I've dropped since they started asking for reviews. Channel 20 something starts with a good pace: it's all about being part of a TV crew. I was enjoying the news references, the explanations on how that complicated world works. As the daughter of someone who works on TV and has grown on a set, I saw every explanation as very compelling and accurate, even if all I know is Spanish TV and not American, they seem to roll on a symilar style.
But, almost a 100 pages in, I had to stop, because as much as I like the informative part, the love story is just 'blah'. Maybe I'm just outgrowing the conventions of the genre, but I found the story simple and simply emulating what's been done before. People with haunted backstories that can't get together until the big misudertanding is solved and they let out all that sexual energy that has been built up.
Again, maybe it's not the book's fault, it's just me being tired of romance troupes, but I could not keep myself interested anymore. Such a pity, though.
It's the first NetGalley book I've dropped since they started asking for reviews. Channel 20 something starts with a good pace: it's all about being part of a TV crew. I was enjoying the news references, the explanations on how that complicated world works. As the daughter of someone who works on TV and has grown on a set, I saw every explanation as very compelling and accurate, even if all I know is Spanish TV and not American, they seem to roll on a symilar style.
But, almost a 100 pages in, I had to stop, because as much as I like the informative part, the love story is just 'blah'. Maybe I'm just outgrowing the conventions of the genre, but I found the story simple and simply emulating what's been done before. People with haunted backstories that can't get together until the big misudertanding is solved and they let out all that sexual energy that has been built up.
Again, maybe it's not the book's fault, it's just me being tired of romance troupes, but I could not keep myself interested anymore. Such a pity, though.
October 11, 2014
This is a lighthearted read that a lot of twentysomethings should be able to relate to. I know I did. The balance between being close to your parents, while being an independent adult. Living at the bottom rung of the ladder at work and scrambling to move up. Evaluating relationships, wanting to be serious but feeling too young to be too serious. These are all thoughts going through my head pretty frequently.
I really liked it. It was cute. But I didn't quite love it and I can't pin down why. If I had to venture a guess, I think I could have used some more depth. But I would rather have a story that's consistently lighthearted than have an author say "Oh here, I need depth and angst. Here you go!" and do it poorly. You know this. A lot of my reviews talk about fake depth and angst. So I'd rather have something like this than something like Smoldering.
Full review: http://bit.ly/1pudUYH
I really liked it. It was cute. But I didn't quite love it and I can't pin down why. If I had to venture a guess, I think I could have used some more depth. But I would rather have a story that's consistently lighthearted than have an author say "Oh here, I need depth and angst. Here you go!" and do it poorly. You know this. A lot of my reviews talk about fake depth and angst. So I'd rather have something like this than something like Smoldering.
Full review: http://bit.ly/1pudUYH
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