A review by foldingthepage_kayleigh
Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies by Misha Popp

adventurous challenging dark funny mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

“To everyone working to dismantle the pastry-archy in their own way.”
 
Synopsis: Daisy Ellery is your friendly local vigilante pie lady, on her mission to exact justice on behalf of wronged parties through magical pies. 

I actually read this book in mid-April, but I’ve been holding off writing this review forever because I just loved this book so much and wanted to do it justice! This was such a fun read, I loved Daisy with her compassionate energy mixed with a whole lot of snark. 

This was such a unique spin on a cozy read, as there were strong feminist threads weaved throughout and an interesting examination of how principles of restorative justice could look (albeit with a magical bent). This book deals with some pretty serious issues though, so be sure to check out the content warnings. 

As well, while there are romances in this book, including some queer rep, this definitely takes a back seat to the larger storyline of Daisy’s magical pie business and mysterious blackmailer.

A final tip while reading this book: Don’t read this while you’re hungry! The descriptions of all the pies (yes, I would like a cutie pie) will have your mouth watering, and Misha Popp so graciously offers up some much needed recipes at the end. I can’t wait to see more in the Pies Before Guys series!

Pick this one up if you love: 
  • the Finlay Donovan series or quirky, murdery leads
  • Baking/baking competition shows
  • Books that blend genres 

Thanks Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for an advanced listening copy of this audiobook!
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