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12 Days of Mistletoe
How to end up in Christmas kissing lessons with your downstairs enemy…
Break apartment rules? Guilty.
Send holiday cards to the downstairs neighbor's grandma? Done.
Accidentally become said neighbor's fake girlfriend for a family Christmas photo? Wait, what?
I, Bonnie Miller, am no troublemaker. I’m just an anxious girl trying to keep my emotional support pup in a no-pets apartment building. But my downstairs neighbor is determined to be my personal Grinch and get us both evicted.
Just when I think things can’t get any worse, Elliot Eaton offers me a deal I can’t refuse. Suddenly I’m playing girlfriend and giving mistletoe kisses to my sworn enemy, all to keep my home.
Who knew that breaking one little rule would lead to a fan-mistletoe-tastic holiday?
12 Days of Mistletoe is a closed door, laugh out loud, warm your wintery heart romcom. If you need a book with all the feels, some mistletoe kisses, and lots of holiday spirit, look no further!
Break apartment rules? Guilty.
Send holiday cards to the downstairs neighbor's grandma? Done.
Accidentally become said neighbor's fake girlfriend for a family Christmas photo? Wait, what?
I, Bonnie Miller, am no troublemaker. I’m just an anxious girl trying to keep my emotional support pup in a no-pets apartment building. But my downstairs neighbor is determined to be my personal Grinch and get us both evicted.
Just when I think things can’t get any worse, Elliot Eaton offers me a deal I can’t refuse. Suddenly I’m playing girlfriend and giving mistletoe kisses to my sworn enemy, all to keep my home.
Who knew that breaking one little rule would lead to a fan-mistletoe-tastic holiday?
12 Days of Mistletoe is a closed door, laugh out loud, warm your wintery heart romcom. If you need a book with all the feels, some mistletoe kisses, and lots of holiday spirit, look no further!
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2024
174 people are currently reading
862 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 17, 2024
What an easy quick read! I loved it!
The banter was funny, the characters were deep, and the Grandma was hilarious!
It's fake dating, sweet love confessions, and cute puppies.
The anxiety rep was SO relatable to me. It added depth to the relationship and character development that would have been missing if it wasn't there.
Only kissing, no language, brief on-page panic attacks.
The banter was funny, the characters were deep, and the Grandma was hilarious!
It's fake dating, sweet love confessions, and cute puppies.
The anxiety rep was SO relatable to me. It added depth to the relationship and character development that would have been missing if it wasn't there.
Only kissing, no language, brief on-page panic attacks.
November 18, 2024
12 Days of Mistletoe by Jen Atkinson
4 Stars
A Super Cute Christmas Rom-Com!
BLOG POST WITH REVIEW GRAPHIC: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
❄️Fake Dating
❄️Cute Clean Christmas Romances
❄️Lots of Holiday Spirit
❄️Dogs
❄️Apartment Neighbors
❄️Enemies to Lovers - Done Right!
❄️Anxiety and Service Animals Represented
❄️An Awesome Meddling Grandmother
This one was super cute yall! A new fav Christmas rom-com for me! My first Jen Atkinson book and looking forward to reading more by her. I really liked this twist on Fake Dating, haven't seen this done before.
In this book, Bonnie struggles with anxiety, managed with medication and her sweet service dog, Noel. She lives in an apartment complex and life is pretty good. All until Elliot, the landlord's grandson, decides to send her several unsolicited notes threatening to turn her in for keeping a dog when she shouldn't have one. When push comes to shove, Bonnie decides to go talk to Elliot at his apartment, getting thrown in the middle of his family festivities. Elliot persuades Bonnie to pretend to be his girlfriend in front of his family but his grandmother isn't buying it. She meddles in the situation and Bonnie and Elliot end up dating for the next 12 days....the rest is history!
I loved these characters so much, seeing the anxiety rep with Bonnie and the passion she has for service animals, working in her non-profit, she was just a solid FMC. I loved seeing Elliot grow to understand Bonnie for who she was and how he truly supported her. His gran was also such a great character, one of my favs! Loved her sass! And you can't forget her precious dog Noel! She steals the show :)
Overall, a great Christmas read that shines light on mental health, also makes you laugh and has all the great spirit of the holidays you want in a book! :)
Thank you to the author for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Romance was clean with kisses only.
4 Stars
A Super Cute Christmas Rom-Com!
BLOG POST WITH REVIEW GRAPHIC: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Read if you love:
❄️Fake Dating
❄️Cute Clean Christmas Romances
❄️Lots of Holiday Spirit
❄️Dogs
❄️Apartment Neighbors
❄️Enemies to Lovers - Done Right!
❄️Anxiety and Service Animals Represented
❄️An Awesome Meddling Grandmother
This one was super cute yall! A new fav Christmas rom-com for me! My first Jen Atkinson book and looking forward to reading more by her. I really liked this twist on Fake Dating, haven't seen this done before.
In this book, Bonnie struggles with anxiety, managed with medication and her sweet service dog, Noel. She lives in an apartment complex and life is pretty good. All until Elliot, the landlord's grandson, decides to send her several unsolicited notes threatening to turn her in for keeping a dog when she shouldn't have one. When push comes to shove, Bonnie decides to go talk to Elliot at his apartment, getting thrown in the middle of his family festivities. Elliot persuades Bonnie to pretend to be his girlfriend in front of his family but his grandmother isn't buying it. She meddles in the situation and Bonnie and Elliot end up dating for the next 12 days....the rest is history!
I loved these characters so much, seeing the anxiety rep with Bonnie and the passion she has for service animals, working in her non-profit, she was just a solid FMC. I loved seeing Elliot grow to understand Bonnie for who she was and how he truly supported her. His gran was also such a great character, one of my favs! Loved her sass! And you can't forget her precious dog Noel! She steals the show :)
Overall, a great Christmas read that shines light on mental health, also makes you laugh and has all the great spirit of the holidays you want in a book! :)
Thank you to the author for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Romance was clean with kisses only.
November 29, 2024
Nothing says Christmas like your grandmother forcing you into physical intimacy with a stranger. Err.. wait. Does it? (NO)
12 Days of Mistletoe did have some fun and festive qualities, for sure. It had heartwarming moments and it had moments that made me laugh. But I just could not get past the fact that the whole premise is based upon an eighty+ year old woman forcing her never-met-before tenant to: kiss her grandson in front of her for practice, sit on his lap, attend their family gatherings, kiss her grandson some more for public display, all while dangling her dog (who is her service dog/lifeline) over her head like a carrot, when Grandma admittedly wouldn’t have had a problem with the dog anyway! Noble intentions or not, it was just a little too cringey and weird.
I liked the second half of the book more than the first, but all of that, along with so much of the book using repetitive phrases and internal dialogue, kept it from being anything more than a 3-star for me.
12 Days of Mistletoe did have some fun and festive qualities, for sure. It had heartwarming moments and it had moments that made me laugh. But I just could not get past the fact that the whole premise is based upon an eighty+ year old woman forcing her never-met-before tenant to: kiss her grandson in front of her for practice, sit on his lap, attend their family gatherings, kiss her grandson some more for public display, all while dangling her dog (who is her service dog/lifeline) over her head like a carrot, when Grandma admittedly wouldn’t have had a problem with the dog anyway! Noble intentions or not, it was just a little too cringey and weird.
I liked the second half of the book more than the first, but all of that, along with so much of the book using repetitive phrases and internal dialogue, kept it from being anything more than a 3-star for me.
December 4, 2024
5 ✨
🎄 Dislike To Lovers
❄️ Fake Dating
🎄 Mental Health Rep
❄️ Meddling Grandma
🎄 Neighbors
❄️ Dual POV
This is the first I have read from Jen and I am disappointed in myself for not reading from her before now 😭! With that said I have to say how much I loved this book! Once I started it I couldn't stop reading and I had to finish it!
I fell in love with Bonnie and Noel from the very beginning. I mean who couldnt love the four legged fluffy sweet baby who was the best baby girl that ever was? Okay I and to get that out, it was fighting to get out 😜! Bonnie was such a sweet character and I loved her from the very first scene. She had the perfect humor and I couldn't help but laugh along with her when she would have those moments. I also felt for her when she would have those vulnerable moments and shrink into herself. I couldn't help but feel for her and want to help. I was so glad that there was representation for anxiety. So many people don't understand, but with this I hope more people are able to get an insight as to what it's like.
I was especially glad to see that Jen included a service animal (Noel) in this storyline. So many people don't understand how hard it is to obtain or pay for a service animal but this sheds more light on the process.
Elliot, Elliot, Elliot. Boy did he have a way of getting under someone's skin before he even met them. All done with some notes left on Bonnie's door. Luckily with the help of his Gran he was able to undo some of his trouble. Elliot really was such a great guy he was just going about it the wrong way. He was just lucky to have a Gran who helped him find the right way to right his wrongs with the 12 Days of Mistletoe. Who knew 12 kisses over 12 Days were going to bring him someone who could possibly be the love of his life?
I truly loved this book so much. I was so sad at the end because I didn't want it to end. I couldn't let the book ending go. I had to just let it all simmer in my heart for a little bit before I could actually move on.
Thank you so much to Jen Atkinson for the complimentary copy in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
🎄 Dislike To Lovers
❄️ Fake Dating
🎄 Mental Health Rep
❄️ Meddling Grandma
🎄 Neighbors
❄️ Dual POV
This is the first I have read from Jen and I am disappointed in myself for not reading from her before now 😭! With that said I have to say how much I loved this book! Once I started it I couldn't stop reading and I had to finish it!
I fell in love with Bonnie and Noel from the very beginning. I mean who couldnt love the four legged fluffy sweet baby who was the best baby girl that ever was? Okay I and to get that out, it was fighting to get out 😜! Bonnie was such a sweet character and I loved her from the very first scene. She had the perfect humor and I couldn't help but laugh along with her when she would have those moments. I also felt for her when she would have those vulnerable moments and shrink into herself. I couldn't help but feel for her and want to help. I was so glad that there was representation for anxiety. So many people don't understand, but with this I hope more people are able to get an insight as to what it's like.
I was especially glad to see that Jen included a service animal (Noel) in this storyline. So many people don't understand how hard it is to obtain or pay for a service animal but this sheds more light on the process.
Elliot, Elliot, Elliot. Boy did he have a way of getting under someone's skin before he even met them. All done with some notes left on Bonnie's door. Luckily with the help of his Gran he was able to undo some of his trouble. Elliot really was such a great guy he was just going about it the wrong way. He was just lucky to have a Gran who helped him find the right way to right his wrongs with the 12 Days of Mistletoe. Who knew 12 kisses over 12 Days were going to bring him someone who could possibly be the love of his life?
I truly loved this book so much. I was so sad at the end because I didn't want it to end. I couldn't let the book ending go. I had to just let it all simmer in my heart for a little bit before I could actually move on.
Thank you so much to Jen Atkinson for the complimentary copy in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
November 6, 2024
Oh my goodness, this was such a fun story! Bonnie and Elliot got off on the wrong foot--- before they ever met in person! When he comes to suspect that she is secretly hiding a dog in her apartment (in a building owned by his grandma), he threatens to turn her in... until a disastrous family photo shoot leaves him needing her to act as his fake girlfriend. Fake dating is one of my favorites, and as such, I've read many of them... but this one was definitely a rather unique take on it. First of all, that photoshoot that started the whole thing? Absolutely hilarious. But more importantly, Gran's meddling was truly the absolute best. I don't want to give too much away, but it had me laughing out loud throughout the story. She was quite the character and truly the star of the story in so many ways. Mixed in with all those laughs, I also loved the anxiety representation in Bonnie. As someone who deals with anxiety and panic disorder, I love seeing characters that I can relate to in stories and this one was just done so well. With their amazing chemistry and all the holiday festivities, there truly was so much to love in this story!
While this is a standalone novel, fans of Jen's books will love seeing a few familiar characters making appearances too!
12 Days of Mistletoe is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
While this is a standalone novel, fans of Jen's books will love seeing a few familiar characters making appearances too!
12 Days of Mistletoe is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 17, 2024
This was my first Jen Atkinson book and it won’t be my last!
I 100% needed a rom com with all the Christmas Hallmark movie vibes.
What I loved:
- Faking Dating
- Anxiety Representation (spot on)
- Gran was the real MVP
- All the cozy Christmas vibes
I 100% needed a rom com with all the Christmas Hallmark movie vibes.
What I loved:
- Faking Dating
- Anxiety Representation (spot on)
- Gran was the real MVP
- All the cozy Christmas vibes
November 15, 2024
'The first threat came with a smiley face. A handwritten note taped to my apartment door.'
First line Friday for the win from 12 Days of Mistletoe: An Enemies to Lovers, Fake Dating, Holiday RomCom
Whatever trope mash-up is happening in this book, it is something I need a whole lot more of in my life.
HIGHLY ENTERTAINED, friends!
Our characters are so great together...like, someone needs to make a movie of these two! The storyline is so fun and has so many elements that make it GREAT! The side characters (especially the grandma *sigh* are amazing... well, except for Wayne...he's not so great)...the anxiety rep and service animal, Noel. I love it all!!
If you're looking for a fun, Christmas escape-grab this one immediately!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Triggers: Anxiety rep, failed past relationships, romance-kisses, make-outs (mention of tongue)
First line Friday for the win from 12 Days of Mistletoe: An Enemies to Lovers, Fake Dating, Holiday RomCom
Whatever trope mash-up is happening in this book, it is something I need a whole lot more of in my life.
HIGHLY ENTERTAINED, friends!
Our characters are so great together...like, someone needs to make a movie of these two! The storyline is so fun and has so many elements that make it GREAT! The side characters (especially the grandma *sigh* are amazing... well, except for Wayne...he's not so great)...the anxiety rep and service animal, Noel. I love it all!!
If you're looking for a fun, Christmas escape-grab this one immediately!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Triggers: Anxiety rep, failed past relationships, romance-kisses, make-outs (mention of tongue)
September 11, 2025
This was such a fun, sweet Christmas story! I loved the dual narration, too. The narrators did a wonderful job of performing this tale.
The situation that Bonnie and Elliott found themselves in, which included not only pretending to date around Elliott's family but also kissing practice and kisses that were witnessed by the family. Elliott's grandmother did an excellent job of bringing these two characters together and reminding them of the agreement they made with her to perpetuate this ruse.
But even though this story was fun and sweet, the author was also able to include Bonnie's struggle with anxiety, which was the reason she had her amazing service dog, Noel. Bonnie managing her anxiety induced panic attacks a couple of times in the novel helped to show her strength and also showed the kind and caring man that Elliott was as he did whatever was needed to lend his help as well.
I loved this story from start to finish!
The situation that Bonnie and Elliott found themselves in, which included not only pretending to date around Elliott's family but also kissing practice and kisses that were witnessed by the family. Elliott's grandmother did an excellent job of bringing these two characters together and reminding them of the agreement they made with her to perpetuate this ruse.
But even though this story was fun and sweet, the author was also able to include Bonnie's struggle with anxiety, which was the reason she had her amazing service dog, Noel. Bonnie managing her anxiety induced panic attacks a couple of times in the novel helped to show her strength and also showed the kind and caring man that Elliott was as he did whatever was needed to lend his help as well.
I loved this story from start to finish!
December 1, 2024
What a fun holiday book! It was such a delight to read. I woke up early this morning just so I could finish. I loved the banter and sweet romance between Bonnie and Elliot. My favorite part? Elliot's grandmother playing matchmaker. If you haven't added this book to your holiday tbr, you need to right now!
November 24, 2024
A story with multiple tropes, including fake dating (with a little help from Grandma 😅) and enemies to lovers. I adored watching Bonnie and Elliot go from enemies to friends then to lovers. And the banter between these two is the best!! Readers will be giggling throughout this entire story!! I also loved that this story lightly touched on mental health and that Bonny has a service dog. This is a super cute and fun holiday RomCom!!
Genre: RomCom, holiday romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 14, 2023
Number of pages: 328
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: RomCom, holiday romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 14, 2023
Number of pages: 328
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
December 29, 2024
12 Days of Mistletoe was an enemies to lovers, fake dating, closed door Christmas romance that was so much fun! With deeper emotional moments to tug at your heart, and a cast of characters that will have you laughing out loud, this adorable story was so memorable!
Elliot Eaton was an elementary PE teacher who wanted to buy his Gran’s apartment complex, and had to prove himself to her in the meantime. In the midst he found a rule breaker, and that woman was Bonnie Miller. She was a passionate woman who worked multiple jobs so she could help out a cause near and dear to her heart. With her emotional support dog, Noel, I loved the two of them right away. Yet Elloit and Bonnie got off on the worst foot ever!
A Christmas card picture, that went all kinds of wrong and had me laughing so hard I was crying, led Elliot and Bonnie to make a deal. She pretended to be his girlfriend, and in exchange she got to continue to live there with Noel. With a mischief making Gran, and side characters that popped from the pages, like Bill, I adored this book! It was filled with all the Christmas fun!
And while this book was laugh out loud funny, there was also a strong emotional side to this story too. Noel was the sweetest dog ever, and we got to watch her help Bonnie with her anxiety and panic attacks. I loved that we also got to see how Noel’s relationship with Elliot progressed, it warmed my heart. And while Bonnie and Elliot were continuing their fake dating around his family, it led to them having deep and meaningful conversations. So with fake kisses thrown in the mix, it became hard for them to tell anymore, what was real. And what was fake.
With Christmas tree adventures, sentimental ornaments, sweet kisses, drawing pictures that had me cackling out loud, and so many adorable moments, this book was so much fun. Plus, it ended with a fabulous and happy epilogue. This was my first book by Jen Atkinson, and I’m looking forward to reading another one of her books in the future!
For more of my reviews, please visit:
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She’s just a lying dog hoarder with pepper spray up her sleeve.
Beautiful faces are deceiving. Like a siren’s song.
Elliot Eaton was an elementary PE teacher who wanted to buy his Gran’s apartment complex, and had to prove himself to her in the meantime. In the midst he found a rule breaker, and that woman was Bonnie Miller. She was a passionate woman who worked multiple jobs so she could help out a cause near and dear to her heart. With her emotional support dog, Noel, I loved the two of them right away. Yet Elloit and Bonnie got off on the worst foot ever!
Elliot’s eyes draw to mine and I can’t help it—my gaze drops to his mouth. The mouth his grandmother says I must kiss to keep my dog. To keep my home.
It’s ridiculous.
It’s outlandish.
It’s a price I’m willing to pay.
A Christmas card picture, that went all kinds of wrong and had me laughing so hard I was crying, led Elliot and Bonnie to make a deal. She pretended to be his girlfriend, and in exchange she got to continue to live there with Noel. With a mischief making Gran, and side characters that popped from the pages, like Bill, I adored this book! It was filled with all the Christmas fun!
“Oh wow. Okay.” I choke on the words, a nervous tremor making its way down my back. “We’re doing this now? Like now now?”
“Yes. If it helps, I’ve placed mistletoe in every single one of my doorways for you.”
And while this book was laugh out loud funny, there was also a strong emotional side to this story too. Noel was the sweetest dog ever, and we got to watch her help Bonnie with her anxiety and panic attacks. I loved that we also got to see how Noel’s relationship with Elliot progressed, it warmed my heart. And while Bonnie and Elliot were continuing their fake dating around his family, it led to them having deep and meaningful conversations. So with fake kisses thrown in the mix, it became hard for them to tell anymore, what was real. And what was fake.
One should not be attracted to one’s fake boyfriend. It makes the word “fake” become confusing.
With Christmas tree adventures, sentimental ornaments, sweet kisses, drawing pictures that had me cackling out loud, and so many adorable moments, this book was so much fun. Plus, it ended with a fabulous and happy epilogue. This was my first book by Jen Atkinson, and I’m looking forward to reading another one of her books in the future!
“I might… need more practice.” My chest pounds with my thundering heart. Because this is more than putting myself out there. This is begging the man to kiss me.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Personal Instagram * Facebook * Twitter * Bloglovin * Feedly
November 10, 2024
Bonnie is a young woman who struggles with anxiety. She has learned how to manage it with medication and her wonderful service dog Noel. She lives in a beautiful apartment that she loves, but the problem is, technically dogs are not allowed. So she tries to keep Noel a secret.
Elliot is the landlord’s grandson and wants to buy the building from his grandmother. He wants to prove that he can handle the responsibility. He’s pretty sure Bonnie has a dog, so he writes notes and tapes them to her door asking her to get rid of her dog.
They eventually come up with a deal, with the help of Elliot’s meddling grandma, that if Elliot and Bonnie pretend to date for the next 12 days in front of his family to get them off his back, then Bonnie and Noel can stay in the apartment.
This is my favorite book by Jen Atkinson, yes I loved it that much! And that’s saying a lot because I love her Bailey Brothers series!
I love how Jen handles and represents anxiety in the character of Bonnie. Bonnie always feels like past boyfriends didn’t understand her anxiety and she felt a little lonely. Elliot doesn’t fully understand it at first either, but I loved how supportive he became as their friendship evolved.
I loved both Elliot and Bonnie separately and together. At first, I kinda thought Elliot was a jerk, but once you get to know him in the story, he turns out to be really sweet and thoughtful. I could relate so much to Bonnie’s character. I have suffered with anxiety and am still on medication to manage it, which has changed my whole life!
The romance in this one was so good! A slow burn but not too slow either! Perfect pace with the perfect amount of swoon!
Elliot’s meddling gran! I adored her! She was funny and sassy and took matters in her own hands! Someone tell me why I pictured Sheldon Cooper’s memaw from the Big Bang Theory as Elliot’s gran when I was reading this… voice and all 😆
Noel, Bonnie’s service dog was so so cute! She’s smart and does so much for Bonnie. I just love when dogs are in books. (I mean who doesn’t?) 🐶🐾
This is such a small part of the book, but Bonnie mentions a boy with lupus who is waiting for a service dog. I got diagnosed with lupus nephritis almost one year ago, so this small detail was relatable to me. I like reading about characters who I share some similar experiences with.
This one gets all the stars from me!!
Spice level- closed door kisses only
ARC review- I received a copy from the author to review, my opinions are completely my own and a good review was not necessary to receive the ARC copy.
Elliot is the landlord’s grandson and wants to buy the building from his grandmother. He wants to prove that he can handle the responsibility. He’s pretty sure Bonnie has a dog, so he writes notes and tapes them to her door asking her to get rid of her dog.
They eventually come up with a deal, with the help of Elliot’s meddling grandma, that if Elliot and Bonnie pretend to date for the next 12 days in front of his family to get them off his back, then Bonnie and Noel can stay in the apartment.
This is my favorite book by Jen Atkinson, yes I loved it that much! And that’s saying a lot because I love her Bailey Brothers series!
I love how Jen handles and represents anxiety in the character of Bonnie. Bonnie always feels like past boyfriends didn’t understand her anxiety and she felt a little lonely. Elliot doesn’t fully understand it at first either, but I loved how supportive he became as their friendship evolved.
I loved both Elliot and Bonnie separately and together. At first, I kinda thought Elliot was a jerk, but once you get to know him in the story, he turns out to be really sweet and thoughtful. I could relate so much to Bonnie’s character. I have suffered with anxiety and am still on medication to manage it, which has changed my whole life!
The romance in this one was so good! A slow burn but not too slow either! Perfect pace with the perfect amount of swoon!
Elliot’s meddling gran! I adored her! She was funny and sassy and took matters in her own hands! Someone tell me why I pictured Sheldon Cooper’s memaw from the Big Bang Theory as Elliot’s gran when I was reading this… voice and all 😆
Noel, Bonnie’s service dog was so so cute! She’s smart and does so much for Bonnie. I just love when dogs are in books. (I mean who doesn’t?) 🐶🐾
This is such a small part of the book, but Bonnie mentions a boy with lupus who is waiting for a service dog. I got diagnosed with lupus nephritis almost one year ago, so this small detail was relatable to me. I like reading about characters who I share some similar experiences with.
This one gets all the stars from me!!
Spice level- closed door kisses only
ARC review- I received a copy from the author to review, my opinions are completely my own and a good review was not necessary to receive the ARC copy.
November 28, 2024
Engaged. Expecting. Europe……Elliot
Christmas hilarity and sweetness abound.
Bonnie is just trying to keep her apartment while also keeping her dog Noel a secret.
Elliot is trying to make sure every tenant in his grandmother’s apartment complex follows the rules, which means he’s been writing passive-aggressive notes back and forth to the tenant in B4 trying to get her to admit that she has a dog.
During an uncomfortable family Christmas card photo op, Elliot surprises everyone, even himself, when he announces that Bonnie from apartment B4 is his girlfriend.
Seeing this as a great bargaining chip, Bonnie agrees to go along with this fake dating scheme as long as she can keep her dog and her apartment.
What was just going to be occasional family appearances with Elliot turns into something hilariously more when Elliot’s grandma gets involved.
I loved Bonnie and Elliot. Both of their meetings (by notes and in person) were so funny.
Bonnie is caring, selfless, and hardworking. She also suffers from anxiety that warrants a service dog. As someone who suffers from the same type of anxiety, I felt a connection to Bonnie. The explanations and situations were handled with such care.
“I've been anxious about the unknown most of my life. I don't have social anxiety. I have situational anxiety. Anxiety of the unknown. When I face a problem head-on, I truly handle it pretty well. It's the anticipation of the unknown that's always given me issues.”
Elliot is so sweet with Bonnie. He takes care of her like no one ever has before.
“While she may consider her anxiety a disability, it's helped me see her strength and how a person can rise above. She's empathic and caring.”
The Eaton family is so funny and sweet and welcoming.
I loved the cameos of Meg and Autumn. Their texting was a hilarious highlight.
Some things I loved:
May Elliot
The painting
Bingo
One-thirty
The planetarium
Dress shopping
This was an all around adorable book that made me smile.
Thank you to Jen Atkinson for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Christmas hilarity and sweetness abound.
Bonnie is just trying to keep her apartment while also keeping her dog Noel a secret.
Elliot is trying to make sure every tenant in his grandmother’s apartment complex follows the rules, which means he’s been writing passive-aggressive notes back and forth to the tenant in B4 trying to get her to admit that she has a dog.
During an uncomfortable family Christmas card photo op, Elliot surprises everyone, even himself, when he announces that Bonnie from apartment B4 is his girlfriend.
Seeing this as a great bargaining chip, Bonnie agrees to go along with this fake dating scheme as long as she can keep her dog and her apartment.
What was just going to be occasional family appearances with Elliot turns into something hilariously more when Elliot’s grandma gets involved.
I loved Bonnie and Elliot. Both of their meetings (by notes and in person) were so funny.
Bonnie is caring, selfless, and hardworking. She also suffers from anxiety that warrants a service dog. As someone who suffers from the same type of anxiety, I felt a connection to Bonnie. The explanations and situations were handled with such care.
“I've been anxious about the unknown most of my life. I don't have social anxiety. I have situational anxiety. Anxiety of the unknown. When I face a problem head-on, I truly handle it pretty well. It's the anticipation of the unknown that's always given me issues.”
Elliot is so sweet with Bonnie. He takes care of her like no one ever has before.
“While she may consider her anxiety a disability, it's helped me see her strength and how a person can rise above. She's empathic and caring.”
The Eaton family is so funny and sweet and welcoming.
I loved the cameos of Meg and Autumn. Their texting was a hilarious highlight.
Some things I loved:
May Elliot
The painting
Bingo
One-thirty
The planetarium
Dress shopping
This was an all around adorable book that made me smile.
Thank you to Jen Atkinson for the copy. All opinions are my own.
November 27, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is told from Bonnie & Elliot’s points of view
– Bonnie is Meg’s (from Her Runaway Vacation) sister; we also see Meg’s best friend Autumn (from Falling for Autumn Again); neither book needs to be read to enjoy this one however
– a character has situational anxiety & has a service dog to help with it; there is a panic attack on page during the events of the story
Review:
This story was so much fun! I loved all the Christmassy/holiday events that Elliot’s family packed into a few days for them all to attend. I loved that Elliot joined Bonnie in her visits to the nursing home and her older friend’s thoughts on Elliot XD. I loved Elliot’s grandmother and her thoughts on what Elliot & Bonnie should do as a couple for the events. I loved that Elliot came to care for Bonnie as more than just a neighbor (and she him). I loved Bonnie’s heart for others in the same boat she was in before she got Noelle. I loved that she dedicated so much time, money, and effort into it.
Summary:
Bonnie knows that pets aren’t allowed in her apartment building, but she needs her service dog Noelle and can’t fathom living anywhere else. Thankfully, Bonnie’s done pretty well living under the radar of her fellow apartment building neighbors in that respect. That is until she gets a new person right below her and he threatens to tell the owner that Bonnie has a dog in her apartment. But a twist of fate gives Bonnie a chance to keep Noelle and the apartment she so dearly loves. All she has to do is pretend to be her new neighbor’s girlfriend for the holidays…
Elliot hopes to take over his grandparent’s apartment building soon, but his grandmother wants him to have a trial run of it before handing over the reins. Things are going well until Elliot realizes that someone is taking advantage of his grandmother not being on the premises by having a dog in their apartment. He has to fix this issue, but he hasn’t found any solid proof yet. It doesn’t help that his family all has amazing life events to announce during the family Christmas photo and he’s just doing the same things he’s always done. But when Bonnie – the neighbor he suspects to have a dog – walks into the room, Elliot gets an idea. Maybe they can both get what they want this Christmas if they make a little deal…
– this is told from Bonnie & Elliot’s points of view
– Bonnie is Meg’s (from Her Runaway Vacation) sister; we also see Meg’s best friend Autumn (from Falling for Autumn Again); neither book needs to be read to enjoy this one however
– a character has situational anxiety & has a service dog to help with it; there is a panic attack on page during the events of the story
Review:
This story was so much fun! I loved all the Christmassy/holiday events that Elliot’s family packed into a few days for them all to attend. I loved that Elliot joined Bonnie in her visits to the nursing home and her older friend’s thoughts on Elliot XD. I loved Elliot’s grandmother and her thoughts on what Elliot & Bonnie should do as a couple for the events. I loved that Elliot came to care for Bonnie as more than just a neighbor (and she him). I loved Bonnie’s heart for others in the same boat she was in before she got Noelle. I loved that she dedicated so much time, money, and effort into it.
Summary:
Bonnie knows that pets aren’t allowed in her apartment building, but she needs her service dog Noelle and can’t fathom living anywhere else. Thankfully, Bonnie’s done pretty well living under the radar of her fellow apartment building neighbors in that respect. That is until she gets a new person right below her and he threatens to tell the owner that Bonnie has a dog in her apartment. But a twist of fate gives Bonnie a chance to keep Noelle and the apartment she so dearly loves. All she has to do is pretend to be her new neighbor’s girlfriend for the holidays…
Elliot hopes to take over his grandparent’s apartment building soon, but his grandmother wants him to have a trial run of it before handing over the reins. Things are going well until Elliot realizes that someone is taking advantage of his grandmother not being on the premises by having a dog in their apartment. He has to fix this issue, but he hasn’t found any solid proof yet. It doesn’t help that his family all has amazing life events to announce during the family Christmas photo and he’s just doing the same things he’s always done. But when Bonnie – the neighbor he suspects to have a dog – walks into the room, Elliot gets an idea. Maybe they can both get what they want this Christmas if they make a little deal…
December 7, 2024
Adorable, sweet, and swoony
Wow. This book was jam packed with amazingness
1. Swoony mistletoe kisses
2 meddling Grandma who I LOVE
3. Anxiety representation which was BEAUTIFUL
4. Swoony romance
I seriously loved this story and Bonnie and Elliott were amazing. Elliott was amazing for how he fell in love with Bonnie, and was so supportive and understanding of her anxiety. I wish more people took a page out of his book.
Bonnie brave and I loved the way the author portrayed her anxiety, showing the inner strength it takes to battle the mental illness. Ugh, made me cry because I feel that. My anxiety is not quite the same but this book made me feel so seen.
Love love love!!!!
💋Swoony kisses - 1 mention of tongue
⚠️Bonnie has anxiety and an amazing service animal named Noelle 😍
Wow. This book was jam packed with amazingness
1. Swoony mistletoe kisses
2 meddling Grandma who I LOVE
3. Anxiety representation which was BEAUTIFUL
4. Swoony romance
I seriously loved this story and Bonnie and Elliott were amazing. Elliott was amazing for how he fell in love with Bonnie, and was so supportive and understanding of her anxiety. I wish more people took a page out of his book.
Bonnie brave and I loved the way the author portrayed her anxiety, showing the inner strength it takes to battle the mental illness. Ugh, made me cry because I feel that. My anxiety is not quite the same but this book made me feel so seen.
Love love love!!!!
💋Swoony kisses - 1 mention of tongue
⚠️Bonnie has anxiety and an amazing service animal named Noelle 😍
December 16, 2024
This was a sweet read.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
December 15, 2024
2.5 stars
Ummm.. ok ?
While I was glad this is a clean romance, it was really off putting how it was played out
The story is about Bonnie who suffers from anxiety and needs a service dog, but the problem is that she lives in a building where pets are not allowed, at first she thinks she fooled everyone but Elliot the grandson of the landlord discovers that she own a pet and threatens to report her, but his grandmother (the real owner of the building) comes with a plan, if they pretend to be lovers for 12 days Bonnie will get to keep her dog and Elliot will be the new owner of the building .. so they pretend.. until it becomes real
I like the plots where my grandmother rules my life, but this one was taken a tad too far.. she asks a girl to kiss a stranger so she can keep her dog pretending this is cute? I fail to see the real foundation of the relationship even with the "table-ing' it just felt weird and I couldn't feel any cuteness because it was just forced proximity forced feelings romance
I really didn't like it and I didn't bother reading the bonus epilogue because I was so bored
Ummm.. ok ?
While I was glad this is a clean romance, it was really off putting how it was played out
The story is about Bonnie who suffers from anxiety and needs a service dog, but the problem is that she lives in a building where pets are not allowed, at first she thinks she fooled everyone but Elliot the grandson of the landlord discovers that she own a pet and threatens to report her, but his grandmother (the real owner of the building) comes with a plan, if they pretend to be lovers for 12 days Bonnie will get to keep her dog and Elliot will be the new owner of the building .. so they pretend.. until it becomes real
I like the plots where my grandmother rules my life, but this one was taken a tad too far.. she asks a girl to kiss a stranger so she can keep her dog pretending this is cute? I fail to see the real foundation of the relationship even with the "table-ing' it just felt weird and I couldn't feel any cuteness because it was just forced proximity forced feelings romance
I really didn't like it and I didn't bother reading the bonus epilogue because I was so bored
December 21, 2024
4.5 ⭐️. Really cute holiday read.
November 12, 2024
Tropes:
Dislike to Lovers
Fake Dating
mental health
meddling grandma
neighbors
Dual POV
First, let me say, I love Jen Atkinson's books! The last 3 I've read are all standalones but have interconnected characters and I love seeing Meg and Autumn again!
12 Days of Mistletoe follow's Meg's little sister Bonnie and her service dog Noel. While Bonnie knows she's not suppose to have Noel in her apartment, no one has said a word the last 3 years. Until this new guy moves in directly below Bonnie and starts leaving Bonnie notes on her door threatening to turn her in. What a turd!
Elliot has just moved into the Cherry Plum apartments that his grandma owns. His goal is to take over the day to day and eventually buy out the complex from Gran. But he has to prove himself to Gran first. And when he realizes the upstairs tenant has a dog, that isn't suppose to be there, well, this rul-follower has had enough.
After threatening Bonnie with eviction, Elliot's family is over to take the annual Christmas Card photo. And they're concerned about Elliot. So when Bonnie accidentally walks into the shoot, Elliot convinces Bonnie to be his fake girlfriend in exchange for not evicting her. What harm can come of pretending for 12 days?
I loved the characters in 12 Days of Mistletoe. Bonnie is great. She's got anxiety but the girl is witty and smart and caring. Elliot comes across as a bit of a pain but I quickly warmed up to him when he didn't pitty or run away from Bonnie's issues. But for me, the winner of this story was Gran. She's in on the fake dating act and has made a deal with both Bonnie and Elliot to fake date until Christmas. They have to spend every day together, and KISS every day- thus she calls this "The 12 Days of Mistletoe". Gran knows exactly what she's doing. She's spunky, funny, and I want to be Gran when I'm 85 years old!
I laughed out loud in this books numerous times. I felt the anxiousness of Bonnie, I loved Noel's ability to watch for Bonnie's triggers, and all the other emotions. A book that can make me laugh out loud is always a winner- that text convo with Meg and Autumn was hilarious.
Definitely check this one out!
Dislike to Lovers
Fake Dating
mental health
meddling grandma
neighbors
Dual POV
First, let me say, I love Jen Atkinson's books! The last 3 I've read are all standalones but have interconnected characters and I love seeing Meg and Autumn again!
12 Days of Mistletoe follow's Meg's little sister Bonnie and her service dog Noel. While Bonnie knows she's not suppose to have Noel in her apartment, no one has said a word the last 3 years. Until this new guy moves in directly below Bonnie and starts leaving Bonnie notes on her door threatening to turn her in. What a turd!
Elliot has just moved into the Cherry Plum apartments that his grandma owns. His goal is to take over the day to day and eventually buy out the complex from Gran. But he has to prove himself to Gran first. And when he realizes the upstairs tenant has a dog, that isn't suppose to be there, well, this rul-follower has had enough.
After threatening Bonnie with eviction, Elliot's family is over to take the annual Christmas Card photo. And they're concerned about Elliot. So when Bonnie accidentally walks into the shoot, Elliot convinces Bonnie to be his fake girlfriend in exchange for not evicting her. What harm can come of pretending for 12 days?
I loved the characters in 12 Days of Mistletoe. Bonnie is great. She's got anxiety but the girl is witty and smart and caring. Elliot comes across as a bit of a pain but I quickly warmed up to him when he didn't pitty or run away from Bonnie's issues. But for me, the winner of this story was Gran. She's in on the fake dating act and has made a deal with both Bonnie and Elliot to fake date until Christmas. They have to spend every day together, and KISS every day- thus she calls this "The 12 Days of Mistletoe". Gran knows exactly what she's doing. She's spunky, funny, and I want to be Gran when I'm 85 years old!
I laughed out loud in this books numerous times. I felt the anxiousness of Bonnie, I loved Noel's ability to watch for Bonnie's triggers, and all the other emotions. A book that can make me laugh out loud is always a winner- that text convo with Meg and Autumn was hilarious.
Definitely check this one out!
December 15, 2024
12 days of meh
November 14, 2024
12 Days of Mistletoe
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
📚•Book Release Date: Today, Nov. 14, 2024!•📚
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Twelve days, twelve kisses. Take the deal or leave it…
“You’re important enough to take time for.”
-Oh my goodness, 12 Days of Mistletoe is a such a delight! It is a closed door, laugh out loud, warm your wintery heart romcom, that you need to read. To put it simply, this dear story has all the feels, some mistletoe kisses, a lovely meddling fairy grandma, and lots of sparkling holiday spirit! You will love the fake dating, enemies to lovers, found family, and all the kisses, and the many adorable sweet moments all along the way that will have you sighing and smiling. Watching dear characters on their journey going from being annoyed with one another combined with the awkwardness of fake dating to something more had my full attention. What I loved most was seeing a rep of anxiety weaved throughout this tale with such compassion, understanding, and grace. Seeing others rise in attempting and in supporting how to best help was beautiful and refreshing! Also, while this dear story is a standalone novel, you will get to see a few familiar characters from some of dear Jen’s other books making appearances too, which was fun. Friends, this is another must-read this holiday season. It’s a dear story, that has me already looking forward to the rereading! This dear story is worth the read, anytime!🙌🏻📚❤️💯
“Because while this may be an odd way to start something, I like you, Bonnie Miller. I can’t deny it anymore.”
-Content: mental health-anxiety (handled so beautifully in this story), some makeouts.
“Stop worrying about being enough for the wrong person. You’re already enough for the right person.”
#12daysofmistletoe
#jenatkinson
#worthreading❤️
#allaboutthebestreads
“He has seen me at my best and at my worst. And he’s still here.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Twelve days isn’t all that long, not even half a month. But yet, it’s plenty of time to fall in love with Elliot.”
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
📚•Book Release Date: Today, Nov. 14, 2024!•📚
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Twelve days, twelve kisses. Take the deal or leave it…
“You’re important enough to take time for.”
-Oh my goodness, 12 Days of Mistletoe is a such a delight! It is a closed door, laugh out loud, warm your wintery heart romcom, that you need to read. To put it simply, this dear story has all the feels, some mistletoe kisses, a lovely meddling fairy grandma, and lots of sparkling holiday spirit! You will love the fake dating, enemies to lovers, found family, and all the kisses, and the many adorable sweet moments all along the way that will have you sighing and smiling. Watching dear characters on their journey going from being annoyed with one another combined with the awkwardness of fake dating to something more had my full attention. What I loved most was seeing a rep of anxiety weaved throughout this tale with such compassion, understanding, and grace. Seeing others rise in attempting and in supporting how to best help was beautiful and refreshing! Also, while this dear story is a standalone novel, you will get to see a few familiar characters from some of dear Jen’s other books making appearances too, which was fun. Friends, this is another must-read this holiday season. It’s a dear story, that has me already looking forward to the rereading! This dear story is worth the read, anytime!🙌🏻📚❤️💯
“Because while this may be an odd way to start something, I like you, Bonnie Miller. I can’t deny it anymore.”
-Content: mental health-anxiety (handled so beautifully in this story), some makeouts.
“Stop worrying about being enough for the wrong person. You’re already enough for the right person.”
#12daysofmistletoe
#jenatkinson
#worthreading❤️
#allaboutthebestreads
“He has seen me at my best and at my worst. And he’s still here.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Twelve days isn’t all that long, not even half a month. But yet, it’s plenty of time to fall in love with Elliot.”
November 15, 2024
Mistletoe kisses, a matchmaking grandma, enemies to lovers, and high stakes fake dating- what else could you want in a Christmas romcom?!
This book was my first book written by Jen. I'm ready for another! It had everything I was hoping for in a holiday romcom, but it also had a depth and representation to it that I appreciated. It was cool to see how Bonnie navigated her anxiety with the help of Noel, her service animal, and other mental health resources. I also loved to see how her own mental health experience led her to give back to her community.
Oh, and Elliot! His character really resonated with me because I can also be a crazy rule follower. Yet I loved how his love of rules was balanced by his genuine care for others and his loyalty to his friends and family. Elliot felt like a truly genuine character: flawed and imperfect (often with hilarious results!) but also devoted to caring for Bonnie in the way that she needed. Their enemies-to-lovers arc only upped the ante for their mistletoe moments and fake dating! Talk about sparks!(but all closed door/sweet:)
One of my favorite parts of the book was actually the texting back and forth! The hilarious exchanges between various characters really added to the story and helped it flow nicely. I also loved some of the fun Christmasy things that were strewn throughout. It was perfect for getting me into the mood for the season. Oh, and the epilogue?! 100/10 would recommend!
Overall, this is an awesome cozy holiday romcom that will fulfill your wishes for misltetoe kisses!
This book was my first book written by Jen. I'm ready for another! It had everything I was hoping for in a holiday romcom, but it also had a depth and representation to it that I appreciated. It was cool to see how Bonnie navigated her anxiety with the help of Noel, her service animal, and other mental health resources. I also loved to see how her own mental health experience led her to give back to her community.
Oh, and Elliot! His character really resonated with me because I can also be a crazy rule follower. Yet I loved how his love of rules was balanced by his genuine care for others and his loyalty to his friends and family. Elliot felt like a truly genuine character: flawed and imperfect (often with hilarious results!) but also devoted to caring for Bonnie in the way that she needed. Their enemies-to-lovers arc only upped the ante for their mistletoe moments and fake dating! Talk about sparks!(but all closed door/sweet:)
One of my favorite parts of the book was actually the texting back and forth! The hilarious exchanges between various characters really added to the story and helped it flow nicely. I also loved some of the fun Christmasy things that were strewn throughout. It was perfect for getting me into the mood for the season. Oh, and the epilogue?! 100/10 would recommend!
Overall, this is an awesome cozy holiday romcom that will fulfill your wishes for misltetoe kisses!
November 18, 2024
Elliot & Bonnie’s story was so fun! I always love a good enemies-to-lovers, fake dating combo – but add in a meddling grandma? Chef’s kiss!
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Bonnie and Elliot have gotten off on the wrong foot. She has a dog – against her apartment policy. And he's a stickler for the rules. But when he finds himself in need of a fake girlfriend, they come to an arrangement.
I just loved Elliot & Bonnie’s story! It was cute and funny and felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie. I loved the way the story portrayed anxiety and how it played such a role in Bonnie’s everyday life, including her dog Noel. And the way Elliot learned to love and support her through all of it – swoon! The greenest of green flags! His Gran was one of my favorite meddling grandmas I’ve read. You should absolutely add this to your Christmas TBR – recommend!
CW: Anxiety
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Bonnie and Elliot have gotten off on the wrong foot. She has a dog – against her apartment policy. And he's a stickler for the rules. But when he finds himself in need of a fake girlfriend, they come to an arrangement.
I just loved Elliot & Bonnie’s story! It was cute and funny and felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie. I loved the way the story portrayed anxiety and how it played such a role in Bonnie’s everyday life, including her dog Noel. And the way Elliot learned to love and support her through all of it – swoon! The greenest of green flags! His Gran was one of my favorite meddling grandmas I’ve read. You should absolutely add this to your Christmas TBR – recommend!
CW: Anxiety
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
November 6, 2024
When Elliott is tasked with a trial run at running his grandma's property, he finds out one of his tenants, Bonnie, has a dog. He gets to writing her letters and threatening her to come clean and move the dog out. 🐕 But when she shows up during a family event and he needs a fake girlfriend, they hide their negative past and come into an arrangement. She fakes being his girlfriend for just the moment, and perhaps their butting heads can end. But when Gran witnesses the fake relationship, she steps in and adds her own stipulations... 12 days of dating, family events required, kissing required. 💋 Shouldn't be too hard, right?
Except over time, these forced dates feel less forced and these kisses start to linger. And both of them wonder, where do they go from here? What's real and what's fake? Can you have a future together if you started on a lie?
This story was wonderful! I've read fake dating stories before but never when it's practically enforced by the grandma. And her "kissing lessons" were the icing on the cake in this story. I loved that anxiety and the use of a service dog are introduced and the reader gets to understand it all much better by the end of the story. Loved this ❤️ 5 stars all the way!
I received a complimentary copy, but this review reflects my own thoughts.
Except over time, these forced dates feel less forced and these kisses start to linger. And both of them wonder, where do they go from here? What's real and what's fake? Can you have a future together if you started on a lie?
This story was wonderful! I've read fake dating stories before but never when it's practically enforced by the grandma. And her "kissing lessons" were the icing on the cake in this story. I loved that anxiety and the use of a service dog are introduced and the reader gets to understand it all much better by the end of the story. Loved this ❤️ 5 stars all the way!
I received a complimentary copy, but this review reflects my own thoughts.
November 17, 2024
Loved it!
I loved reading this Christmas romcom! It was so sweet and fun, and I really appreciated the anxiety rep and how well it was written. So good!
I loved reading this Christmas romcom! It was so sweet and fun, and I really appreciated the anxiety rep and how well it was written. So good!
November 17, 2024
Gran for the Win!
This romance was brought to us by a meddling grandmother. I loved Bonnie and Elliot, and especially the way Gran pushed them into a fake relationship. Would she have followed through on her threats? I doubt it, but she used the situation to push two of her favorite people together and it was hilarious! There were some deeper heartfelt issues with Bonnie’s anxiety, but I felt like it was handled very well. This was an adorable Christmas read!
This romance was brought to us by a meddling grandmother. I loved Bonnie and Elliot, and especially the way Gran pushed them into a fake relationship. Would she have followed through on her threats? I doubt it, but she used the situation to push two of her favorite people together and it was hilarious! There were some deeper heartfelt issues with Bonnie’s anxiety, but I felt like it was handled very well. This was an adorable Christmas read!
December 10, 2024
If you’re looking a closed door, fake dating, Christmas read complete with an adorable pup and anxiety rep; look no further than 12 Days of Mistletoe.
Break apartment rules? Guilty.
Send holiday cards to the downstairs neighbor's grandma? Done.
Accidentally become said neighbor's fake girlfriend for a family Christmas photo? Wait, what?
I, Bonnie Miller, am no troublemaker. I’m just an anxious girl trying to keep my emotional support pup in a no-pets apartment building. But my downstairs neighbor is determined to be my personal Grinch and get us both evicted.
Just when I think things can’t get any worse, Elliot Eaton offers me a deal I can’t refuse. Suddenly I’m playing girlfriend and giving mistletoe kisses to my sworn enemy, all to keep my home.
Who knew that breaking one little rule would lead to a fan-mistletoe-tastic holiday?
This is an adorable fluffy read perfect for the holidays but also a fantastic and respectful insight into what it feels like to experience anxiety and panic attacks. The characters are super relatable but while the plot is anything but; it will still give you all the butterflies. Overall, this isn’t deep, thought provoking and probably not overly memorable. But it is sweet and a highly recommended holiday read.
Break apartment rules? Guilty.
Send holiday cards to the downstairs neighbor's grandma? Done.
Accidentally become said neighbor's fake girlfriend for a family Christmas photo? Wait, what?
I, Bonnie Miller, am no troublemaker. I’m just an anxious girl trying to keep my emotional support pup in a no-pets apartment building. But my downstairs neighbor is determined to be my personal Grinch and get us both evicted.
Just when I think things can’t get any worse, Elliot Eaton offers me a deal I can’t refuse. Suddenly I’m playing girlfriend and giving mistletoe kisses to my sworn enemy, all to keep my home.
Who knew that breaking one little rule would lead to a fan-mistletoe-tastic holiday?
This is an adorable fluffy read perfect for the holidays but also a fantastic and respectful insight into what it feels like to experience anxiety and panic attacks. The characters are super relatable but while the plot is anything but; it will still give you all the butterflies. Overall, this isn’t deep, thought provoking and probably not overly memorable. But it is sweet and a highly recommended holiday read.
January 8, 2025
4⭐️ ARC Review: I am on a fantastic streak with my holiday reads, so I am just absolutely content! This one was so much fun and gives you all of the things that you want in a holiday romance.
It has the most real fake relationship l've read in a book, as funny as that sounds. What I mean by that is that Bonnie and Elliot's relationship progressed realistically. They don't even like each other at the beginning, but you slowly watch them drop their walls, and it was just so sweet.
There is also lots and lots of mistletoe, a meddling granny, and the most goodest girl (dog), and if that isn't enough to get you to read this book, I don't know what is! Jen Atkinson's books are always a delight.
*Thank you to the author, Jen Atkinson, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you enjoy:
- Fake dating
- Neighbors
- Enemies-ish to lovers
- Meddling granny
- Dual POV
- Anxiety rep
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
It has the most real fake relationship l've read in a book, as funny as that sounds. What I mean by that is that Bonnie and Elliot's relationship progressed realistically. They don't even like each other at the beginning, but you slowly watch them drop their walls, and it was just so sweet.
There is also lots and lots of mistletoe, a meddling granny, and the most goodest girl (dog), and if that isn't enough to get you to read this book, I don't know what is! Jen Atkinson's books are always a delight.
*Thank you to the author, Jen Atkinson, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you enjoy:
- Fake dating
- Neighbors
- Enemies-ish to lovers
- Meddling granny
- Dual POV
- Anxiety rep
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
September 10, 2025
This book was exactly what I needed to relax and enjoy. I was immersed in this idyllic, small town, closed-door fake dating romance that was so very sweet -complete with the perfect Christmas plot, an adorable therapy dog and a grandmother that reminded me so much of my own. Daunted by demands brought upon his family’s holiday photo card, Elliott comes up with an idea to ask his neighbor Bonnie to pretend to be his girlfriend for the day…his grandmother comes up with the idea for them to calendar for 12 days. Hijinks, banter, silly side characters and a HEA…I was smiling throughout the book. It would make a great Hallmark movie for sure!
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy!
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy!
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