All's Fair in Love and Christmas by Sarah Monzon

Mackenzie has been crushing on coworker Jeremy for two years and when their boss tells them they're both up for a promotion, they attempt to out-Christmas one another to earn the job.

Mackenzie struggles with social anxiety, which makes it difficult for her romantically. She even says all the things she wishes she could do if she didn't struggle socially:

"The person I wish I was would enjoy this one on one time with an attractive and available man. She'd look him boldly in the eye and smile. She wouldn't feel nervous or grasp for the simplest thing to say."

Mackenzie's best friend, Kari, is a great support; she's patient and encouraging. After Mackenzie has a panic attack, she gently challenges Mackenzie to seek professional help for her mental health. I thought the author's portrayal of Mackenzie's mental health felt genuine and authentic (and after reading the acknowledgements, I know it's because the author herself has struggled).

I also really liked how Mackenzie's faith was discussed; it never felt forced or like an afterthought, but always heartfelt and real. Her short pleas in prayer, Bible meditations, and discussions about faith and healing all felt so very relatable. I love a Christian book that portrays what life with God is actually like.

The romance felt like a secondary story to Mackenzie's mental health). I liked seeing Mackenzie open up to Jeremy and Jeremy's response was so touching and tender. It was also unclear if Jeremy was interested in Mackenzie, and felt a little rushed and forced near the end. I would have liked to see a few more scenes between these them to watch their relationship grow.

Honestly, I just loved so much about this book; it had heart and depth. The mental health, the promotion, the Alzheimer's, the parenting, the friendships. I didn't want it to end! I would love to read a sequel about these characters, maybe as Mackenzie