12 Days of Mistletoe by Jen Atkinson is a unique RomCom. I’ve never read a Jen Atkinson story before, so I really had no idea what I was in for when I picked up this book. This story exceeded all expectations. I LOVED this book. It is a RomCom in the traditional sense, for sure. I experienced the warm-fuzzy moments that made me smile, and I definitely chuckled out loud. One time, I laughed so loud I woke my husband in the middle of the night. I didn’t mean to. I just wasn’t expecting the moment. So, yeah, this book is a RomCom in the traditional sense, but it is so much more. It’s an honest look into situational anxiety: what it is, how it can manifest, how frustrating it can be, what methods to mitigate anxious moments might look like, and how others can/do react to those who deal with this type of anxiety. I appreciate the attention Atkinson brings to this type of disability. She is honest and raw and real and respectful. I also really love Atkinson’s characters. I love Bonnie. She is so fierce and strong and courageous. She can get super frustrated by her anxiety, but she never, ever lets it define who she is. And I love her compassion. When one has battled something for most of her life, it is a little easier to give the benefit of the doubt and walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. Elliot is a wonderful hero. He always does the right thing. At first, the right thing is following the rules to the letter, but then he learns some pertinent information and adjusts to doing the real right thing. I like that about him. I like how patient and caring he is towards Bonnie. He allows Bonnie to be herself, and works with her to overcome anxious moments. He asks questions to understand Bonnie because he genuinely wants to know her. Elliot can see Bonnie for who she really, truly is and, boy, does he likes what he sees! Their relationship starts off rocky, but grows and blossoms into something truly wonderful. I am genuinely glad I read this book and met these characters. I love them so much!

12 Days of Mistletoe is an excellent story. I will truly miss my time with these endearing and totally relatable characters. If you’re a fan of exceptionally well-written Contemporary Romances with heart and humor and real-life depth, then you will not want to miss out on this story!