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Heartcraft Market #6
Glass & Groundwork
Jasper comes from money, but money comes with expectations, something he has always challenged. Against his family’s wishes, Jasper is trying to pursue his passion for art. They expect him to come to his senses and join the family business.
Gio is a beekeeper who collects and sells honey. He’s content with his life on the farm and the people who have become his family. His home and his heart are always open to those who need it, including Jasper.
With Gio’s help, Jasper is closer than ever to his dream, but he needs access to the trust fund controlled by his parents. There’s a solution to his problem, but it’s a big ask.
The proposal seems like a win-win. To Gio, he’ll be able to help a friend. To Jasper, it will get him free of his parents.
Can this marriage of convenience lay the groundwork for something lasting and unbreakable?
Glass & Groundwork is an MM romance with a marriage of convenience, found family, and building something from the ground up.
The Heartcraft Market series features stand-alone novels that can be enjoyed on their own or read with the series to revisit your favorite characters.
Gio is a beekeeper who collects and sells honey. He’s content with his life on the farm and the people who have become his family. His home and his heart are always open to those who need it, including Jasper.
With Gio’s help, Jasper is closer than ever to his dream, but he needs access to the trust fund controlled by his parents. There’s a solution to his problem, but it’s a big ask.
The proposal seems like a win-win. To Gio, he’ll be able to help a friend. To Jasper, it will get him free of his parents.
Can this marriage of convenience lay the groundwork for something lasting and unbreakable?
Glass & Groundwork is an MM romance with a marriage of convenience, found family, and building something from the ground up.
The Heartcraft Market series features stand-alone novels that can be enjoyed on their own or read with the series to revisit your favorite characters.
- GenresGay
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2025
19 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Duckie Mack
31 books211 followersShe loves reading and writing stories that show that love isn't defined by gender. She writes sweet romance with fun heat, adorkable characters, and is a sucker for an HEA.
She lives in Southern California with her family, 2 dogs, and 3 cats, and loves to give out free hugs at pride events.
Duckie loves to interact with readers and is most active on instagram @authorduckiemack
Keep up to date on Duckie's book news by subscribing to her newsletter-
https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
She lives in Southern California with her family, 2 dogs, and 3 cats, and loves to give out free hugs at pride events.
Duckie loves to interact with readers and is most active on instagram @authorduckiemack
Keep up to date on Duckie's book news by subscribing to her newsletter-
https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
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November 24, 2025
RATING 4.5 STARS
Glass & Groundwork is book six in the Heartcraft Market series by Duckie Mack. This can easily be read as a stand alone but every book in this series is wonderful. I have loved every single one. This is a found family, marriage of convenience romance that is sweet and lovely and just wonderful.
Gio Russo is forty two years old. Gio owns a farm that specializes in bee keeping. He collects and sells the honey at the Heartcraft Market, as well as several products that are made by the byproducts. Gio is one of the most wonderful characters I’ve read about. He grew up without love but luckily found someone that acted as a father figure to him and showed him what family really meant. That blood really had nothing to do with family. Which is why Gio has five young people that he has stepped up for, that he provides a father figure and guiding light for. An open door and an open heart for any that need it. This is what brought Jasper to him.
Jasper Maldonado is twenty eight years old. He was raised by parents whose primary concern was how much money they earned. They showed no love to Jasper, only expectations, none of which Jasper has ever been able to live up to. They controlled his trust fund and tried to manipulate him with it. Jasper wanted no part of the family business. He had an artistic side and after pursuing many different mediums, he fell in love with glass blowing. In order to build the perfect workshop, he needs his trust fund. His parents are never going to loosen the ties on the money but there is one way that Jasper can get control of it and finally get out from under his parents attempts to control him. Get married!
Jasper and Gio were so perfect together. I loved the way the kids all accepted Jasper as well. He had finally found somewhere he could be himself, somewhere he felt like he belonged. When he realized he needed a husband, Gio was the perfect person to ask. But is it too much to expect from a friend?
This really was such a sweet, wonderful, swoony book. I loved the way these two just fit. Neither of them was looking for love but it found them. They found each other. This is the final book in this series but at the end, the author hints at another similar series in the same town I believe. I’m so excited to learn more and also hope there might be some appearances from these characters I’ve fallen so in love with.
Glass & Groundwork is book six in the Heartcraft Market series by Duckie Mack. This can easily be read as a stand alone but every book in this series is wonderful. I have loved every single one. This is a found family, marriage of convenience romance that is sweet and lovely and just wonderful.
Gio Russo is forty two years old. Gio owns a farm that specializes in bee keeping. He collects and sells the honey at the Heartcraft Market, as well as several products that are made by the byproducts. Gio is one of the most wonderful characters I’ve read about. He grew up without love but luckily found someone that acted as a father figure to him and showed him what family really meant. That blood really had nothing to do with family. Which is why Gio has five young people that he has stepped up for, that he provides a father figure and guiding light for. An open door and an open heart for any that need it. This is what brought Jasper to him.
Jasper Maldonado is twenty eight years old. He was raised by parents whose primary concern was how much money they earned. They showed no love to Jasper, only expectations, none of which Jasper has ever been able to live up to. They controlled his trust fund and tried to manipulate him with it. Jasper wanted no part of the family business. He had an artistic side and after pursuing many different mediums, he fell in love with glass blowing. In order to build the perfect workshop, he needs his trust fund. His parents are never going to loosen the ties on the money but there is one way that Jasper can get control of it and finally get out from under his parents attempts to control him. Get married!
Jasper and Gio were so perfect together. I loved the way the kids all accepted Jasper as well. He had finally found somewhere he could be himself, somewhere he felt like he belonged. When he realized he needed a husband, Gio was the perfect person to ask. But is it too much to expect from a friend?
This really was such a sweet, wonderful, swoony book. I loved the way these two just fit. Neither of them was looking for love but it found them. They found each other. This is the final book in this series but at the end, the author hints at another similar series in the same town I believe. I’m so excited to learn more and also hope there might be some appearances from these characters I’ve fallen so in love with.
December 29, 2025
A Cute MM romance with Glassblowing & Bees, Sweethearts, a marriage of convenience (that was a great decision), age gap (~14yrs), dreams, sweet love & found family!
This book ends this adorable series in an adorable way. I loved Jasper, Gio & the "kids". I did read my #ARC over many days, but overall within 9hrs. It's like a warm hug 🤗.
🌬️Jasper (28) is a Glassblower. He'd moved away from his rich family, to start anew but getting a place for his hot shop is proving to be difficult. J's fashionable, passionate, funny & sweet. J's lonely but never wants to intrude.
🐝Gio (42) is a beekeeper. His farm is open to all those who need it. He's been papa to kids who've needed a safe space 🥹. G's calm, gentle, caring & such an amazing person. He welcomes J too. J loves to make G blush 😉.
I liked how Gio's kids are potrayed, all unique yet a found family 🥰, & how overtime Jas becomes a part of them! G does only want to see people happy 😭, 1st with the barn (Eddie's got the best ideas 😂) & with the marriage to get J trust fund & freedom from parents. We all need a Gio in our lives 😭, he loves J's twinkling smiles 🥰. J calls G "daddy" as G's caretaking. I took it kinky 😂.
From stragers to platonic friends to more, G+J's marriage is abrupt but their love grows steadily as slowburn. It's low on steam but high on sweetness & intimacy 🥰. I'm glad J got his dream. I liked when J stood up to his parents 😏. G'd thought he'd remain partner-less but found J 😍. I adore the family they've made & the cameos of all our peeps from this series! Cute ending!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Enjoyed? —> Yes, so cute! 5/5
2) The Characters: 5❤️/5
3) Top feels: 🤭🤗😯🥹😍😏😂😳🥰😤🤔🥲😆🥵😁
4) Steamy scenes: 2/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.8/5
Angst: 1.5/5 (Slowburn!)
Dark: 0.5/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.5/5
7) Plot arc: (Cute Love, marriage of convenience, Dreams) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
This book ends this adorable series in an adorable way. I loved Jasper, Gio & the "kids". I did read my #ARC over many days, but overall within 9hrs. It's like a warm hug 🤗.
🌬️Jasper (28) is a Glassblower. He'd moved away from his rich family, to start anew but getting a place for his hot shop is proving to be difficult. J's fashionable, passionate, funny & sweet. J's lonely but never wants to intrude.
🐝Gio (42) is a beekeeper. His farm is open to all those who need it. He's been papa to kids who've needed a safe space 🥹. G's calm, gentle, caring & such an amazing person. He welcomes J too. J loves to make G blush 😉.
I liked how Gio's kids are potrayed, all unique yet a found family 🥰, & how overtime Jas becomes a part of them! G does only want to see people happy 😭, 1st with the barn (Eddie's got the best ideas 😂) & with the marriage to get J trust fund & freedom from parents. We all need a Gio in our lives 😭, he loves J's twinkling smiles 🥰. J calls G "daddy" as G's caretaking. I took it kinky 😂.
“Name it, and I'll do whatever I can to make it happen if you'll do this for me.”
“What I want… is to see you happy.”
From stragers to platonic friends to more, G+J's marriage is abrupt but their love grows steadily as slowburn. It's low on steam but high on sweetness & intimacy 🥰. I'm glad J got his dream. I liked when J stood up to his parents 😏. G'd thought he'd remain partner-less but found J 😍. I adore the family they've made & the cameos of all our peeps from this series! Cute ending!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Enjoyed? —> Yes, so cute! 5/5
2) The Characters: 5❤️/5
3) Top feels: 🤭🤗😯🥹😍😏😂😳🥰😤🤔🥲😆🥵😁
4) Steamy scenes: 2/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.8/5
Angst: 1.5/5 (Slowburn!)
Dark: 0.5/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.5/5
7) Plot arc: (Cute Love, marriage of convenience, Dreams) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
November 12, 2025
Glass & Groundwork is the 6th book in the Heartcraft Market series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of Jasper and Gio with a marriage of convenience thrown in. Like with all the books in this series Duckie pulls out all the emotions and pulls you into this world. I loved how Jasper and Gio took time to get to know each other before becoming intimate. I loved all the characters in the story. I love found family stories and this one was the chef's kiss. I can't wait for more stories in this world. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
November 15, 2025
The latest in the Heartcraft Markert series has us going back to the local beekeeper Gio, the the young man Jasper who Marley and Derek introduced us to in BOQUETS AND BELONGING. Jasper comes from money but never had a true family. Gio has a beautiful found family of kids he takes in and cherishes to show them what it is like to be loved for who they are. When Jasper needs help starting his business he seeks guidance from Gio and finds so much more. This may be a marriage of convenience story, yet its unlike ones I’ve read before. They marry for companionship and to get Jasper the freedom he so deserves. They take their time in getting to know each other and bonding with the kids before moving forward with intimacy. The slow build up is so dang sweet and endearing I caught myself swooning many times over. The love these two have for the kids first is so dang beautiful you just know they are building something lasting. I seem to say this with each addition of this series but wow this couple is everything and I cannot wait to see what comes next from this world.
January 14, 2026
'Glass and Groundwork' (Heartcraft Market, #6) written by Duckie Mack
I have to say, I really like this whole series and this is by far my absolute favorite book in the lot! And I loved both characters! And the kids!
(I'm still smiling!)
Maybe I liked it so much because I have had the good fortune in the past (before I moved out of state) to be a part of an organization very much like Heartcraft Market and I loved it! And over the years I've been super lucky to get to watch skilled glass blowers create things out of their imagination! I always appreciate their creativity and dedication to their craft; it really is like watching magic happening!
Anyway...for me, this is the best book in the series, even though I liked the others, too!
As I was saying...this is my fave book, for several reasons:
1. Liked both main characters personalities.
2. Especially liked the way they interacted with the kids who were living, on & off, at Gio's honeybee farm.
3. Love bees, so that was a huge bonus! I can definitely relate to Gio just sitting down in a field of flowers and letting the humming of the bees wash over him, calming his mind. When I've been out working in fields of flowers, I've had people ask me,
"Aren't you scared they'll sting you?" Nope! If you stay calm and just pay them no nevermind, they don't feel threatened and they leave you alone. The times when bees feel threatened is if they think you're invading their homes and/or somehow putting the hives in danger, even if you are not meaning to. That's why we blow smoke around the hives before taking the top off to harvest honey, as it calms them down.
Have I ever been stung? Sure! When I was being a little too careless about harvesting honey and/or my mind was really agitated about something else, or inadvertantly stepped on a flower with a bee inside!
But I've also sat in a garden and let curious bees walk up and down my arm, staying calm, till they satisfied their curiosity and flew away. Pretty cool!
Honestly, I'd rather deal with bees any day...but not hornets; they are just mean! They aren't like honeybees, who die after they sting someone. Wasps/hornets can repeatedly sting without losing their stinger, plus they emit a pheromone that sends outs signals to any other of their "clan" around, basically yelling for help! And then you've got a world of hurt!
(I used to work for a big botanical garden, not to mention four big family gardens growing up, so I know this stuff!)
But I digress...(lol)
This was a creative and sweet love story with the guys taking their time to get to know each other before jumping each other's bones! But it was obvious they appreciated each other from the get-go and fell for each other right away... (of course they did!)
(snarky? who me?)
I like this author, Duckie Mack, and have lots of books by them, both paperbacks & Audibles.
Unfortunately, (for me) too many authors release their books straight to Kindle, and nowhere else, and since I don't have one (or want one) I, and lots of other readers, miss out on a lot of books we'd like to read! Just sayin'...
So, this was a fun book and I loved it! Good life lessons about what it means to be a family, whether one is related by blood, or not.
Often "found families" are much more loving and supportive of each other than blood relatives. This was a safe haven for these kids who came from non-supportive and often abusive blood-related families. Good to see this support and all the myriad little, and big, ways the support played out!
PS: meant to say what a great cover and a gorgeous guy on it! Good work!
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
I have to say, I really like this whole series and this is by far my absolute favorite book in the lot! And I loved both characters! And the kids!
(I'm still smiling!)
Maybe I liked it so much because I have had the good fortune in the past (before I moved out of state) to be a part of an organization very much like Heartcraft Market and I loved it! And over the years I've been super lucky to get to watch skilled glass blowers create things out of their imagination! I always appreciate their creativity and dedication to their craft; it really is like watching magic happening!
Anyway...for me, this is the best book in the series, even though I liked the others, too!
As I was saying...this is my fave book, for several reasons:
1. Liked both main characters personalities.
2. Especially liked the way they interacted with the kids who were living, on & off, at Gio's honeybee farm.
3. Love bees, so that was a huge bonus! I can definitely relate to Gio just sitting down in a field of flowers and letting the humming of the bees wash over him, calming his mind. When I've been out working in fields of flowers, I've had people ask me,
"Aren't you scared they'll sting you?" Nope! If you stay calm and just pay them no nevermind, they don't feel threatened and they leave you alone. The times when bees feel threatened is if they think you're invading their homes and/or somehow putting the hives in danger, even if you are not meaning to. That's why we blow smoke around the hives before taking the top off to harvest honey, as it calms them down.
Have I ever been stung? Sure! When I was being a little too careless about harvesting honey and/or my mind was really agitated about something else, or inadvertantly stepped on a flower with a bee inside!
But I've also sat in a garden and let curious bees walk up and down my arm, staying calm, till they satisfied their curiosity and flew away. Pretty cool!
Honestly, I'd rather deal with bees any day...but not hornets; they are just mean! They aren't like honeybees, who die after they sting someone. Wasps/hornets can repeatedly sting without losing their stinger, plus they emit a pheromone that sends outs signals to any other of their "clan" around, basically yelling for help! And then you've got a world of hurt!
(I used to work for a big botanical garden, not to mention four big family gardens growing up, so I know this stuff!)
But I digress...(lol)
This was a creative and sweet love story with the guys taking their time to get to know each other before jumping each other's bones! But it was obvious they appreciated each other from the get-go and fell for each other right away... (of course they did!)
(snarky? who me?)
I like this author, Duckie Mack, and have lots of books by them, both paperbacks & Audibles.
Unfortunately, (for me) too many authors release their books straight to Kindle, and nowhere else, and since I don't have one (or want one) I, and lots of other readers, miss out on a lot of books we'd like to read! Just sayin'...
So, this was a fun book and I loved it! Good life lessons about what it means to be a family, whether one is related by blood, or not.
Often "found families" are much more loving and supportive of each other than blood relatives. This was a safe haven for these kids who came from non-supportive and often abusive blood-related families. Good to see this support and all the myriad little, and big, ways the support played out!
PS: meant to say what a great cover and a gorgeous guy on it! Good work!
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
November 19, 2025
Gio & Jasper
"Oh, heat isn't a problem. I'm used to standing in front of a blazing glory hole."
"If they were to look at my bone marrow, they would see a kaleidoscope of glass shards twinkling in the light of the microscope."
"What started with a frame--a building, a marriage--grew with work and a solid foundation into a permanent fixture--a shop, a family--tempered and unbreakable."
I knew before Gio's first chapter was complete that his kids would feature prominently in this story, and I'm so happy that they were. I absolutely loved the perfect found family dynamic represented in this book. Every moment Jasper & Gio spent with the kids and their Heartcraft friends were special and memorable, neither of them having to worry about saving face or maintaining an image when they have the right people in their lives.
Jasper was an incredibly inspirational character. I loved how much he wanted for himself, and while he struggled to stand up to his parents, he still never let it completely deter him from his goal. Once he was welcomed into the fold of Gio's life and family, his confidence soared and he became an unstoppable force. The relationship Jasper developed with Gio was sweet and so achingly beautiful. They both weren't sure where their marriage would take them beyond Jasper's artistic goals, but when they could no longer fight their slow burn loving attraction, they recognized that their easy friendship had steadily evolved into something much more. And into something they both fully deserved.
I absolutely loved the epilogue these guys were given. It was the sweetest and best way to say goodbye to this incredible series. Glass & Groundwork was a beautiful story, a fantastic low-angst romance to cap off an incredible group of MCs, and a perfect read. I'm so looking forward to where Duckie takes her universe next. Will we perhaps get to see some future romance for any of Gio's kids?
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
"Oh, heat isn't a problem. I'm used to standing in front of a blazing glory hole."
"If they were to look at my bone marrow, they would see a kaleidoscope of glass shards twinkling in the light of the microscope."
"What started with a frame--a building, a marriage--grew with work and a solid foundation into a permanent fixture--a shop, a family--tempered and unbreakable."
I knew before Gio's first chapter was complete that his kids would feature prominently in this story, and I'm so happy that they were. I absolutely loved the perfect found family dynamic represented in this book. Every moment Jasper & Gio spent with the kids and their Heartcraft friends were special and memorable, neither of them having to worry about saving face or maintaining an image when they have the right people in their lives.
Jasper was an incredibly inspirational character. I loved how much he wanted for himself, and while he struggled to stand up to his parents, he still never let it completely deter him from his goal. Once he was welcomed into the fold of Gio's life and family, his confidence soared and he became an unstoppable force. The relationship Jasper developed with Gio was sweet and so achingly beautiful. They both weren't sure where their marriage would take them beyond Jasper's artistic goals, but when they could no longer fight their slow burn loving attraction, they recognized that their easy friendship had steadily evolved into something much more. And into something they both fully deserved.
I absolutely loved the epilogue these guys were given. It was the sweetest and best way to say goodbye to this incredible series. Glass & Groundwork was a beautiful story, a fantastic low-angst romance to cap off an incredible group of MCs, and a perfect read. I'm so looking forward to where Duckie takes her universe next. Will we perhaps get to see some future romance for any of Gio's kids?
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
November 16, 2025
Gio and Jasper's story might just be my favorite in the Heart craft series now! They are different in a lot of ways but that's what makes them such a great pair! Their journey is an unusual and unexpected one, but it's so beautiful and wonderful.
Gio owns and runs his own honey farm that he inherited from the man who took him in and gave him a chance when he was younger. He passed that forward by opening his home and his heart to those who need solace and comfort. The family he formed is truly beautiful, and I loved reading about his relationship with his kids. And getting to see Jasper get to know them and form his own bonds with them was SO special!!
Jasper is a glassblower who's been trying to find his own space to really grow his business. Turns out that Gio can give him everything he wanted, and more than he even thought was possible. I enjoyed reading about Jasper's journey with Gio and his skills with creating glass sculptures. I adore Jasper, he's so bright and colorful and so kind as well! His parents are awful and despicable, I'm so happy Gio and his kids welcomed Jasper into their family with open arms and showed him unconditional love and support.
Something that you can look forward to with Duckie's books is the Easter eggs she incorporates into them. And she did have an Easter egg or two in this story which was extremely fitting. Gio and Jasper's love story was so beautiful and special, I think their story was the most fitting one to wrap up the end of the Heartcraft series. I'm sad that this series is over as I have absolutely loved it, but I'm looking forward to seeing what Duckie is going to create next! I'm hoping we'll get to see Gio"s kids again in the future, I'd love for them to get their own stories someday.
Oh! And having all the past characters make appearances was fabulous!!
Gio owns and runs his own honey farm that he inherited from the man who took him in and gave him a chance when he was younger. He passed that forward by opening his home and his heart to those who need solace and comfort. The family he formed is truly beautiful, and I loved reading about his relationship with his kids. And getting to see Jasper get to know them and form his own bonds with them was SO special!!
Jasper is a glassblower who's been trying to find his own space to really grow his business. Turns out that Gio can give him everything he wanted, and more than he even thought was possible. I enjoyed reading about Jasper's journey with Gio and his skills with creating glass sculptures. I adore Jasper, he's so bright and colorful and so kind as well! His parents are awful and despicable, I'm so happy Gio and his kids welcomed Jasper into their family with open arms and showed him unconditional love and support.
Something that you can look forward to with Duckie's books is the Easter eggs she incorporates into them. And she did have an Easter egg or two in this story which was extremely fitting. Gio and Jasper's love story was so beautiful and special, I think their story was the most fitting one to wrap up the end of the Heartcraft series. I'm sad that this series is over as I have absolutely loved it, but I'm looking forward to seeing what Duckie is going to create next! I'm hoping we'll get to see Gio"s kids again in the future, I'd love for them to get their own stories someday.
Oh! And having all the past characters make appearances was fabulous!!
November 20, 2025
There are some things I always know I’ll get going into a Duckie book:
-I’ll probably cry happy tears and have lol moments
-I’ll get both steamy and sweet
-I’ll meet a wonderful found family that I’ll want to move in with (I actually DMed Duckie while reading this to ask if there was room for me at Gio’s farm!)
I’ll start with Gio: he’s an actual angel. A beekeeper and farm owner who’s used his success to help kids in need, be it food insecurity or family issues. He’s one of those people who’s quiet and humble about his good deeds, but you can’t help but love because he’s such a beautiful and giving man.
Jasper learns that very quickly. He is trying to get his glass business going, but his workaholic and money obsessed parents are anything but supportive. When Gio offers him not only space for his shop but a way to cut ties with his parents, Jasper can’t believe his luck. And he is such a lucky man, because did I mention that Gio is the BEST?!
This book was a beautiful wrap up to this series, we get to see all of our old Heartcraft friends and meet an amazing new found family. This is a book you can wrap yourself up in!
Thank you so much to Duckie for this arc 😍
*arc provided in exhange for my honest review
-I’ll probably cry happy tears and have lol moments
-I’ll get both steamy and sweet
-I’ll meet a wonderful found family that I’ll want to move in with (I actually DMed Duckie while reading this to ask if there was room for me at Gio’s farm!)
I’ll start with Gio: he’s an actual angel. A beekeeper and farm owner who’s used his success to help kids in need, be it food insecurity or family issues. He’s one of those people who’s quiet and humble about his good deeds, but you can’t help but love because he’s such a beautiful and giving man.
Jasper learns that very quickly. He is trying to get his glass business going, but his workaholic and money obsessed parents are anything but supportive. When Gio offers him not only space for his shop but a way to cut ties with his parents, Jasper can’t believe his luck. And he is such a lucky man, because did I mention that Gio is the BEST?!
This book was a beautiful wrap up to this series, we get to see all of our old Heartcraft friends and meet an amazing new found family. This is a book you can wrap yourself up in!
Thank you so much to Duckie for this arc 😍
*arc provided in exhange for my honest review
November 24, 2025
Absolutely the BEST ending to a series!! Duckie writes sweet with heat and this final book of Heartcraft Market is all of that and more.
Jasper is stuck. He is stuck between his parents and the life they want for him and the freedom to choose his own future. He is a bright shining star looking for his people, for friends that will support him and his dreams. When he meets Gio Russo, he drawn to his calm and kind manner. He is drawn to his family, to the kids that open their arms to him immediately.
This story brought me to tears, happy ones but tears nonetheless. Partly because it is the end of the series. Mostly because the story is just that good. It is about finding yourself and your people. It is about acceptance and peace. Duckie Mack’s books hold a kindness that is sometimes missing from our world. Her writing is overwhelmingly about love, how to treat people, and opening your heart to accept others love and care for you.
Jasper is stuck. He is stuck between his parents and the life they want for him and the freedom to choose his own future. He is a bright shining star looking for his people, for friends that will support him and his dreams. When he meets Gio Russo, he drawn to his calm and kind manner. He is drawn to his family, to the kids that open their arms to him immediately.
This story brought me to tears, happy ones but tears nonetheless. Partly because it is the end of the series. Mostly because the story is just that good. It is about finding yourself and your people. It is about acceptance and peace. Duckie Mack’s books hold a kindness that is sometimes missing from our world. Her writing is overwhelmingly about love, how to treat people, and opening your heart to accept others love and care for you.
November 9, 2025
Received as an ARC and couldn’t put it down!
Jasper and Gio’s story is like watching two puzzle pieces finally click into place—each being exactly what the other needed. Their marriage-of-convenience turns into something deep and soul-steady, built on trust, kindness, and quiet courage.
One of my favorite Jasper lines sums it up beautifully:
“You’re not like anyone I’ve ever known. With you … I feel like I’m more than I ever thought I deserved.”
With Jasper he can finally be himself and Gio can finally have someone to care for him the way he cares for everyone else.
Duckie Mack ties everything together with warmth and grace, reminding us that sometimes love doesn’t have to be loud to be life-changing.
A beautiful, comforting end to a series that’s all heart. I will be returning to Heartcraft Market for my comfort reads!! Thank you Duckie!
Jasper and Gio’s story is like watching two puzzle pieces finally click into place—each being exactly what the other needed. Their marriage-of-convenience turns into something deep and soul-steady, built on trust, kindness, and quiet courage.
One of my favorite Jasper lines sums it up beautifully:
“You’re not like anyone I’ve ever known. With you … I feel like I’m more than I ever thought I deserved.”
With Jasper he can finally be himself and Gio can finally have someone to care for him the way he cares for everyone else.
Duckie Mack ties everything together with warmth and grace, reminding us that sometimes love doesn’t have to be loud to be life-changing.
A beautiful, comforting end to a series that’s all heart. I will be returning to Heartcraft Market for my comfort reads!! Thank you Duckie!
December 4, 2025
Jasper comes from money, with parents who want to control every inch of his life. So he ran from the OC to finally breathe, open his own studio, and chase his dream of becoming a glass artist.
Gio grew up in a home where love was never shown. Until Papa Tom from McNeely Farm took him in and showed him what family truly feels like. Now Gio is a papa himself to his own found family of five. At forty-two, he’s a big, snuggly teddy bear who will drop everything to help anyone who needs it.
This Heartcraft Market series is the absolute cutest. Every character makes you want to wrap them in a hug and never let go. Jasper and Gio’s story can be read as a standalone but honestly, why would you do that to yourself? Start from the beginning and enjoy every precious moment.
Gio grew up in a home where love was never shown. Until Papa Tom from McNeely Farm took him in and showed him what family truly feels like. Now Gio is a papa himself to his own found family of five. At forty-two, he’s a big, snuggly teddy bear who will drop everything to help anyone who needs it.
This Heartcraft Market series is the absolute cutest. Every character makes you want to wrap them in a hug and never let go. Jasper and Gio’s story can be read as a standalone but honestly, why would you do that to yourself? Start from the beginning and enjoy every precious moment.
November 22, 2025
Jasper and Gio are the sweetest couple and compliment each other perfectly. Jasper is more of an extrovert and Gio is more reserved. Except when he's with Jasper or his kids.
Gio has a big heart, using what he was given to help others. Giving love and acceptance to those who found their way into his home without expecting anything in return.
Jasper was looking for a friend, an ear to listen but got a lot more than that. He got a family. A family free of judgment and full of encouragement. A family that only asked for love in return.
A sweet story about found family to end the series.
Gio has a big heart, using what he was given to help others. Giving love and acceptance to those who found their way into his home without expecting anything in return.
Jasper was looking for a friend, an ear to listen but got a lot more than that. He got a family. A family free of judgment and full of encouragement. A family that only asked for love in return.
A sweet story about found family to end the series.
November 23, 2025
Jasper moved his glass blowing artistry business and through a previous series couple, Derek and Marley, found Heartcraft Market. Not being close to his family, he felt alone except for one special vender, Gio. Gio and his found family encourage Jasper to open his shop in their barn. Jasper is insecure and lonely. Gio is compassionate and a "Daddy" to all but something about Jasper reinforces his caretaking instincts. He is a "collector of people". When their relationship becomes real, it's romantic and loving, so much it brings tears for their happiness. My favorite couple of these crafters! I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
November 23, 2025
- series
- fake marriage
- found family
This is book 6 in the Heartcraft Market series, and the last. For me, it's one of my favourites in the series. This is low angst, fairly low heat but a really sweet story that kept me engaged all the way through. I always love catching up with previous couples in a series and it was good to see a cameo from Marley in this one, he was definitely a highlight of this series. This is Jasper and Gio's story though.
Although Jasper comes from money, those purse strings are controlled by his parents who just want Jasper to toe their line, but his life dream is something very different from that and safe to say that they don't approve of how he lives or even how he dresses. There's an instant connection with Gio, friends at first and Gio is almost too good to be true - there's a little suspension of disbelief required for sure. I did like Jasper and Gio together very much though, although they get married right away their relationship does develop organically and it's just so sweet. This is all about found family though and I'm a sucker for that. Gio has his adopted family and they all welcome Jasper with open arms.
I really enjoyed this and it's a fitting finale for a series I really liked.
- fake marriage
- found family
This is book 6 in the Heartcraft Market series, and the last. For me, it's one of my favourites in the series. This is low angst, fairly low heat but a really sweet story that kept me engaged all the way through. I always love catching up with previous couples in a series and it was good to see a cameo from Marley in this one, he was definitely a highlight of this series. This is Jasper and Gio's story though.
Although Jasper comes from money, those purse strings are controlled by his parents who just want Jasper to toe their line, but his life dream is something very different from that and safe to say that they don't approve of how he lives or even how he dresses. There's an instant connection with Gio, friends at first and Gio is almost too good to be true - there's a little suspension of disbelief required for sure. I did like Jasper and Gio together very much though, although they get married right away their relationship does develop organically and it's just so sweet. This is all about found family though and I'm a sucker for that. Gio has his adopted family and they all welcome Jasper with open arms.
I really enjoyed this and it's a fitting finale for a series I really liked.
November 25, 2025
This was so lovely and sweet. A friends to lovers romance with a lot of heart. Gio and Jasper personalities were oh so different but they made it work...opposites attract and all that. I really love Jasper fighting for what he believes in and Gio being there for support and care...the "daddy" roll really worked for Gio...wonderful HEA... I highly recommend if you enjoy this series.
I really enjoyed this series and hate to see it end but it ended on a happy send off.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this series and hate to see it end but it ended on a happy send off.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2025
Found family that loves unconditionally
Loved, loved, loved Jasper and Gio. Jasper with his love of glassblowing (which also makes things interesting in other blowing), vintage clothing and thrift shops. Gio a bit older who has a bee farm and a found family of young adults (hopefully they may show up in Duckie’s new series coming soon). From an impromptu will you marry to everlasting love as Duckie is so good at it kept me reading just one more page… sad that this is the last book in this series, but sure that some of the characters in this series will show up in the next.
Loved, loved, loved Jasper and Gio. Jasper with his love of glassblowing (which also makes things interesting in other blowing), vintage clothing and thrift shops. Gio a bit older who has a bee farm and a found family of young adults (hopefully they may show up in Duckie’s new series coming soon). From an impromptu will you marry to everlasting love as Duckie is so good at it kept me reading just one more page… sad that this is the last book in this series, but sure that some of the characters in this series will show up in the next.
November 16, 2025
4.25/5. Fluff boooooomb! I shipped it. Ooey-gooey and precious as all fuck. I was here for the gentle, nurturing vibes and the calm, peaceful energy of their love story. The whole series was truly a comforting reading experience throughout every book. Sometimes that’s what you need, and knowing there’s an already-full niche of stories for those occasions is a simple but meaningful nugget of knowledge.
November 15, 2025
4.25 stars. The last in this lovely series, it fits seamlessly in with the other books. Seeing all sorts of crafts and produce was a highlight of this series. The instant found family Jasper fell into in Gio's farm was amazingly supportive and worked well, even though Jasper wasn't much older than some of the "kids." I look forward to seeing some of the characters again in the next series.
November 17, 2025
I loved Gio and Jasper's story.
It was very sweet and the spice was just right.
Gio is a beekeeper who loves his bees and his kids. Jasper is a glassblower who eventually realizes that he needs a found family and finds it in Gio and his kids.
If you haven't read this book yet, I highly recommend it.
It was very sweet and the spice was just right.
Gio is a beekeeper who loves his bees and his kids. Jasper is a glassblower who eventually realizes that he needs a found family and finds it in Gio and his kids.
If you haven't read this book yet, I highly recommend it.
December 2, 2025
Great ending to the Heartcraft Market series. At the outset, I wasn’t sure about Gio…is anyone really that open and loving and giving? But Mack’s portrayal of Gio was consistent throughout and I ended up loving him as much as Jasper and his kids do. And if he is modeled on anyone in Mack’s life, then she is blessed, indeed. Highly recommend.
November 15, 2025
Oh, I wanna live on the farm with Gio and the family and the bees and the love!
Jasper and Gio, such a cute couple and wow Jasper parents are complete buttholes - love that he makes his own family and the glory holes are perfect!
Jasper and Gio, such a cute couple and wow Jasper parents are complete buttholes - love that he makes his own family and the glory holes are perfect!
November 16, 2025
Wonderful!
I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book. I was not disappointed. I have loved and cherished each Heartcraft story. Cannot wait to see what is next from this author.
I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book. I was not disappointed. I have loved and cherished each Heartcraft story. Cannot wait to see what is next from this author.
November 24, 2025
Jasper & Gio
I love this series. Each story has been so good and Jasper and Gio's story fits right in. I appreciated how things developed for them and I loved their happily ever after.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I love this series. Each story has been so good and Jasper and Gio's story fits right in. I appreciated how things developed for them and I loved their happily ever after.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
December 16, 2025
Duckie saved the best for last
This series is awesome, but this last book in the series is beyond incredible. I don't have words for everything this story made me feel, so I'm not even going to try. Perfection.
This series is awesome, but this last book in the series is beyond incredible. I don't have words for everything this story made me feel, so I'm not even going to try. Perfection.
November 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Heartcraft Market series is like reading a warm hug with a hot drink and snuggly blanket. So many good feels! I enjoyed this couple so much along with 'the kids'. Great read.
The Heartcraft Market series is like reading a warm hug with a hot drink and snuggly blanket. So many good feels! I enjoyed this couple so much along with 'the kids'. Great read.
November 14, 2025
Glass and Groundwork by Duckie Mack is the 6th book in her Heartcraft Market series. It is the sweet story of two men who had problem parents that lead them to the lives they have today as they help each other and find love. Jasper Maldonado has very rich parents who try to control his life in every way they can. They own a business that they want him to enter but he has a creative soul and knows that he will slowly die if he does what they say. He took an interest in glass blowing and got trained in Venice from experts there and his sole ambition is to open his own studio. He knew he had to get away from his parents so he left Orange County and went to Inland Empire to start his own life and find independence. His mother reluctantly had called a friend who led him to Derek who had an in with local artists in the community through his boyfriend Marley and they took him to the Heartcraft market. It was there that he saw a place where he could make and sell his glass creations and be able to support himself and show his parents that he could succeed. He had money from his allowance from his quite large trust fund and a storage container full of all the equipment he would need to start his business once he found a place to open it. But that was the problem, there were no places available that could meet the needs of housing a glass blowing business. While at the market he also met Gio Russo who had a bee farm and sold honey and other products made from bees who was warm and kind. He had given him his number and told him to call any time. After not having any luck in finding a place for his shop, Kiss my Glass, he was depressed and decided to call Gio who promptly invited him to have dinner with him and his kids. Gio’s parents had been party going addicts and he tried to stay away from home as much as possible while growing up. He answered an ad for seasonal farm work and found Papa Tom, the owner of McNeely Honey. Papa Tom was everything his parents weren’t and taught him about life, caring, and sharing what you have. His door was always open and Gio found himself wanting to be just like him, especially when he was given the means when Papa Tom left the honey farm to him. Gio had opened his door to many children and offered them a place to stay, food to eat, and care and comfort, and if they left they were always welcomed back. He currently had 5 kids from 17 to 24 with him and they always had family dinner every night. Gio invited Jasper to dinner where he met the kids and told them about his dream of owning a glass shop and one of them said they may have a place for him. They have a barn that isn’t being used and after looking at it Gio offers it to him. Jasper is dumbfounded but so excited to accept and offers to pay Gio but he only wants his friendship. Jasper gets a contractor and has the money to get started so they do. He goes over every day and while he doesn’t stay for family dinner, even though he was invited, he is getting to know Gio and the kids. He finds Geo safe, welcoming, genuine, and caring and also a collector of people. Things are progressing but Jasper is fast approaching the time his money will run out and he will have to face his parents to get an advance on his trust to finish. When he does, they turn him down and he is broken hearted until he remembers a stipulation in the trust where he could get all of it at once. He approaches Gio about it he agrees because they have been growing closer, since that is the kind of person he is and he wants Jasper to be authentic to himself and do what he wants to do with his life. They follow through and start life together and their attraction grows until they kiss and eventually have some hot love scenes and declare their love. Jasper is able to get what he wants and needs and they have a wonderful future together. I really enjoyed this sweet book. Jasper is bubbly and fun and is trying to achieve his dream so he can be out from under his parents’ controlling dominance. Gio is so wonderful and kind, trying to live up to the standards of Papa Tom and doing a great job with both Jasper and his kids. His willingness to give all he can to others is a testament to Papa Tom’s influence. It was inevitable that he would help Jasper and that they would fall in love. The kids and their friends play a big part in the story and they all help each other. I also enjoyed learning about glass blowing from the details that Ms. Mack gives throughout the story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about very caring men trying to help each other to get past people who try to control them to find their dreams and fall in love along the way.
November 9, 2025
I absolutely loved Gio and Jasper. I liked that they were opposites in a lot of ways but still managed to come together and build a relationship. Things happened fast between them in what most would consider a backwards way, but I think it worked for them. I would have liked for them to have had a little more interaction and connection before jumping to marriage, but I think it worked okay. Gio was such a sweet man and watching him open up to Jasper and allow himself some happiness was wonderful. I was also happy to see Jasper gain confidence and chase his dreams while also finding a real connection with Gio. I liked how much Gio genuinely cared for Jasper and wanted him to succeed. Pretty much everything about their relationship was fun to watch.
I also loved all the little bees, from the ones on clothing, to glass bees, to the real bees. I do wish we could have seen more of the Heartcraft Market, but the little glimpses of the other characters was nice, especially when they all came together at the end.
The only thing that really felt off to me was the age gap, and no, not the one between Jasper and Gio but the one between Jasper and the "kids." Having Jasper so close in age to the kids and still having him being a parental figure felt awkward. I could see him maybe stepping in a parental figure for Nicky and maaaaaybe Noah, but with the others it felt forced. He was too much of a peer to the others and I just don't see a twenty-year-old or twenty-four-year old or really anyone who's not a high-schooler really looking to a stranger who just stepped into their lives as someone other than a peer, no matter if their Papa was dating or married to him. And on that note, Jasper calling Gio "Daddy" also felt a little forced. Occasionally as a joke, sure, but as often as he did given he was only 4 years older than someone Gio literally saw as a son type figure, it just didn't land for me. (It didn't feel inappropriate in any way, it just fell kind of staged and not organic.)
Overall, I did enjoy the book. I also enjoy Duckie Mack's writing style, and this was no exception. The story moved along at a reasonable pace and had pretty good flow. If you've liked other books in this series, this one is also a win.
Thank you to Duckie Mack for an ARC of this book!
I also loved all the little bees, from the ones on clothing, to glass bees, to the real bees. I do wish we could have seen more of the Heartcraft Market, but the little glimpses of the other characters was nice, especially when they all came together at the end.
The only thing that really felt off to me was the age gap, and no, not the one between Jasper and Gio but the one between Jasper and the "kids." Having Jasper so close in age to the kids and still having him being a parental figure felt awkward. I could see him maybe stepping in a parental figure for Nicky and maaaaaybe Noah, but with the others it felt forced. He was too much of a peer to the others and I just don't see a twenty-year-old or twenty-four-year old or really anyone who's not a high-schooler really looking to a stranger who just stepped into their lives as someone other than a peer, no matter if their Papa was dating or married to him. And on that note, Jasper calling Gio "Daddy" also felt a little forced. Occasionally as a joke, sure, but as often as he did given he was only 4 years older than someone Gio literally saw as a son type figure, it just didn't land for me. (It didn't feel inappropriate in any way, it just fell kind of staged and not organic.)
Overall, I did enjoy the book. I also enjoy Duckie Mack's writing style, and this was no exception. The story moved along at a reasonable pace and had pretty good flow. If you've liked other books in this series, this one is also a win.
Thank you to Duckie Mack for an ARC of this book!
November 24, 2025
This entire series has been a feel good read for me and this latest and final addition was just what I needed to break me out of my stress filled anxiety fueled book slump. This is the last book in the Heartcraft Market series featuring Jasper, the glass artist and Gio, the beekeeper and they were the sweetest couple.
Jasper is new to the area and looking to develop his business and open his own glassblowing studio. It takes money and space and a chance dinner with Gio and his family gives him the opportunity to secure the location. Complications arise from Jasper’s unsupportive family and the story takes a twist from here (love a marriage of convenience plot).
I loved the found family aspect of this story as Jasper becomes part of Gio’s found family. The slow burn aspect of the story goes well with the storyline as it gives time for them to develop their friendship and then eventually their relationship.
The stories are all standalone within the series but I love seeing cameos like catching up with old friends and I love how Duckie always manages to include them in the stories.
Jasper is new to the area and looking to develop his business and open his own glassblowing studio. It takes money and space and a chance dinner with Gio and his family gives him the opportunity to secure the location. Complications arise from Jasper’s unsupportive family and the story takes a twist from here (love a marriage of convenience plot).
I loved the found family aspect of this story as Jasper becomes part of Gio’s found family. The slow burn aspect of the story goes well with the storyline as it gives time for them to develop their friendship and then eventually their relationship.
The stories are all standalone within the series but I love seeing cameos like catching up with old friends and I love how Duckie always manages to include them in the stories.
November 17, 2025
When Jasper first meets Gio at Heartcraft Market, he didn't think he would be a shoulder to cry on or even his husband.
Gio had a big heart, which showed in every scene he had with his kids, quick to give hugs, offer support or just be an ear to listen to them vent. Jasper whilst had a wealthy upbringing, had no freedom, everything he wanted he had to fight for.
This was a sweet quick read as you follow Jasper with the support of Gio to open his own glasswork business. Whilst their marriage was a rush, their relationship wasn't. They take the time to get to know each other and I loved that Jasper got his found family and the love he deserved. It was good to catch up with the other stallholders of the Heartcraft Market and with more of this world promised I am eager to see who else will get adopted into this large found family
Gio had a big heart, which showed in every scene he had with his kids, quick to give hugs, offer support or just be an ear to listen to them vent. Jasper whilst had a wealthy upbringing, had no freedom, everything he wanted he had to fight for.
This was a sweet quick read as you follow Jasper with the support of Gio to open his own glasswork business. Whilst their marriage was a rush, their relationship wasn't. They take the time to get to know each other and I loved that Jasper got his found family and the love he deserved. It was good to catch up with the other stallholders of the Heartcraft Market and with more of this world promised I am eager to see who else will get adopted into this large found family
November 25, 2025
Another awesome book in the Heartcraft Market series by the awesome Duckie Mack. I have loved the first 5 books and this one certainly did not disappoint! The only grrrr part in the story would be when it comes to dealing with one character’s parents. Of course, a book has to have an antagonist and the parents are it! The minor characters are wonderful and I am glad D.M. made them human with feelings of having their guards up when a new person comes into the picture. The MCs are awesome with different personalities and different preferences in their attires. This one is not to be missed! I’ll be sad when the series ends because I’ve loved the journey from the first book! Thank you D.M. for writing an awesome story!
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