A review by booksjenrecs
Pies and Promises by Duckie Mack

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

 Pies & Promises was an absolutely enjoyable MM single dad romance full of sweet treats and even sweeter heat. 

The first book in the Heartcraft Market series, Pies & Promises served as a great introduction to the titular weekend market that will tie all the books together, as well as some of the characters that will all get their turn in the spotlight. 

I truly enjoyed both Jason and Nico. In terms of their relationship, this was a relatively drama-free romance. Both Jason and Nico's problems stemmed primarily from their professional lives, not their personal, so it was easy to enjoy them as a couple without having to first spend hundreds of pages wondering if they will or they won't. 

Both characters were well-rounded and dynamic. Jason was a perfect balance of wanting what's best for his kids and wanting to find love again. He was adept at being able to devote time to one part of his life while simultaneously giving the other part of his life the care and attention it needed to thrive. 

I appreciated that Duckie Mack gave both main characters their own set of complications to work through, but for me, this story is truly about the love that Jason and Nico have for each other. It wasn't insta-love, but it was close. These two just fit into each other's lives so well, both personally and professionally, that it was clear they were meant for each other from the start. 

Pies & Promises was well written, giving both Nico and Jason the time and space to thrive both as individuals and as a couple. This is definitely one of the steamier Duckie Mack books I've read, made even better by Jason's nerdy persona. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this first trip to Heartcraft Market, and I can't wait to see what's in store in the next book.