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Aurora Bakery #2
Pastries and Pints: A Small-Town, Rivals to Lovers Romance
As the wildcard middle sister, Sydney is more used to hearing words like chaotic and sarcastic to describe her than responsible. But when her family’s small-town bakery is selected for a business initiative to attract customers, she sees a chance to finally prove she’s more than just flaky pastries and quick comebacks.
What she doesn’t expect? To be partnered with the town’s newly renovated bar—or its broody, frustratingly attractive owner, Pierce. Especially not after overhearing him say he’s not interested.
After inheriting his late grandfather’s bar, Pierce is barely holding his head above water figuring out how to manage it—let alone the rest of his life. He doesn’t have time for distractions. Especially not ones with sharp wit, killer baking skills, and a habit of getting under his skin.
But as beer meets dessert and the lines between bickering and banter begin to blur, Sydney and Pierce find themselves mixing more than just business. As the town rallies behind their unlikely partnership, they need to decide if they’re willing to let go of old hurts—and take a chance on the kind of connection that doesn’t follow any recipe.
What she doesn’t expect? To be partnered with the town’s newly renovated bar—or its broody, frustratingly attractive owner, Pierce. Especially not after overhearing him say he’s not interested.
After inheriting his late grandfather’s bar, Pierce is barely holding his head above water figuring out how to manage it—let alone the rest of his life. He doesn’t have time for distractions. Especially not ones with sharp wit, killer baking skills, and a habit of getting under his skin.
But as beer meets dessert and the lines between bickering and banter begin to blur, Sydney and Pierce find themselves mixing more than just business. As the town rallies behind their unlikely partnership, they need to decide if they’re willing to let go of old hurts—and take a chance on the kind of connection that doesn’t follow any recipe.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2025
3 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Allie Winters
19 books186 followersAllie lives in sunny Florida with her husband, daughter, and two cats. A librarian by day, she spends her nights writing happily ever afters. She enjoys reading, playing video games, and all things Disney.
Find out more at alliewinters.com
Find out more at alliewinters.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 12, 2025
3.5 stars.
I enjoyed "Pastries and Pints" by Allie Winters, the second book in the Aurora Bakery series. It is a lighthearted, fluffy romance that dips a little into the serious. Sydney, the middle sister and worker at her family's bakery, has been paired up with Pierce, the owner of the local brewery, who just inherited it from his recently deceased grandfather. The idea is to come up with something that can help cross-promote their two businesses while creating a fun event for the town. Their vision is to make a dessert and beer pairing event where people can come and try out some new sweets and spirits. Unfortunately, Sydney overheard Pierce saying something unkind about her the first night they met, so she has been standoffish ever since. A little communication would have gone a long way, but no, that's not what happens! The more they work together, the more drawn to one another they become. Pierce comes from money, is Ivy League educated, and is eventually going to leave Aurora once, or rather, if, he sells his grandpa's bar. Sydney is a people-pleasing bakery wonderkind who will never leave Aurora. Even though they are polar opposites, they eventually try to make it work. I liked Pierce and Sydney together for the most part. They have good banter and chemistry with one another, but they are their own biggest enemies. They (particularly Sydney) both frequently take things way too seriously or misread situations and don't ever ask for clarification or follow-up. Their enemy-ship, friendship, and subsequent romantic relationship frustrated me to no end at times. I wish they had a lot fewer miscommunications with one another! The longer the book goes on, and the more they actually talk to one another, the more they get out of their own way, creating a successful kinship. This book is a little long, but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of it. All in all, this is a solid read!
Thank you to Allie Winters for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I enjoyed "Pastries and Pints" by Allie Winters, the second book in the Aurora Bakery series. It is a lighthearted, fluffy romance that dips a little into the serious. Sydney, the middle sister and worker at her family's bakery, has been paired up with Pierce, the owner of the local brewery, who just inherited it from his recently deceased grandfather. The idea is to come up with something that can help cross-promote their two businesses while creating a fun event for the town. Their vision is to make a dessert and beer pairing event where people can come and try out some new sweets and spirits. Unfortunately, Sydney overheard Pierce saying something unkind about her the first night they met, so she has been standoffish ever since. A little communication would have gone a long way, but no, that's not what happens! The more they work together, the more drawn to one another they become. Pierce comes from money, is Ivy League educated, and is eventually going to leave Aurora once, or rather, if, he sells his grandpa's bar. Sydney is a people-pleasing bakery wonderkind who will never leave Aurora. Even though they are polar opposites, they eventually try to make it work. I liked Pierce and Sydney together for the most part. They have good banter and chemistry with one another, but they are their own biggest enemies. They (particularly Sydney) both frequently take things way too seriously or misread situations and don't ever ask for clarification or follow-up. Their enemy-ship, friendship, and subsequent romantic relationship frustrated me to no end at times. I wish they had a lot fewer miscommunications with one another! The longer the book goes on, and the more they actually talk to one another, the more they get out of their own way, creating a successful kinship. This book is a little long, but it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of it. All in all, this is a solid read!
Thank you to Allie Winters for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
December 17, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
In this story, you’ll meet Sydney, the middle child who is far more likely to be described as chaotic and sarcastic than responsible. Constantly comparing herself to her older sister Rachel and knowing she doesn’t have the same natural ease with people as her younger sister, Sydney desperately wants to prove to her family that she can be relied on, especially when it comes to the family business. However, she struggles with being overly hard on herself and has a tendency to jump to the worst conclusions.
Pierce, on the other hand, feels caught between two worlds. He’s running a small-town bar he renovated after his grandfather’s passing, while also being expected to return to a fast-paced billionaire lifestyle. For now, he’s enjoying the slower life and using the time to figure out what he truly wants. That balance is disrupted when a sassy, talented, and undeniably attractive baker walks into his bar, and the two are forced to work together on a town business project.
This book delivers all the best grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and slow-burn romance vibes, along with strong themes of self-discovery, understanding, and just the right amount of spice. The plot is fun and easy to follow, and I loved watching Sydney’s sharp sarcasm bounce off Pierce’s calm, thoughtful personality. Their banter had me smiling and laughing throughout the book, and the slow-burn romance was perfectly paced—even if it was almost painful to wait for it.
I really appreciated how Pierce recognizes when Sydney starts spiraling in her own thoughts and steps in to ground her. While there is a moment of miscommunication, it’s handled quickly and maturely, without being dragged out, which I loved. These two may be very different, but their connection feels natural and genuine, and they complement each other beautifully.
The pacing is steady and engaging, with smooth, flowing writing that makes the story fly by. The chemistry between the characters is strong while still allowing the cozy small-town atmosphere to shine. Although this is part of a series and can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first book—you’ll want more of this world once you finish.
I want to thank Allie Winters for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
In this story, you’ll meet Sydney, the middle child who is far more likely to be described as chaotic and sarcastic than responsible. Constantly comparing herself to her older sister Rachel and knowing she doesn’t have the same natural ease with people as her younger sister, Sydney desperately wants to prove to her family that she can be relied on, especially when it comes to the family business. However, she struggles with being overly hard on herself and has a tendency to jump to the worst conclusions.
Pierce, on the other hand, feels caught between two worlds. He’s running a small-town bar he renovated after his grandfather’s passing, while also being expected to return to a fast-paced billionaire lifestyle. For now, he’s enjoying the slower life and using the time to figure out what he truly wants. That balance is disrupted when a sassy, talented, and undeniably attractive baker walks into his bar, and the two are forced to work together on a town business project.
This book delivers all the best grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and slow-burn romance vibes, along with strong themes of self-discovery, understanding, and just the right amount of spice. The plot is fun and easy to follow, and I loved watching Sydney’s sharp sarcasm bounce off Pierce’s calm, thoughtful personality. Their banter had me smiling and laughing throughout the book, and the slow-burn romance was perfectly paced—even if it was almost painful to wait for it.
I really appreciated how Pierce recognizes when Sydney starts spiraling in her own thoughts and steps in to ground her. While there is a moment of miscommunication, it’s handled quickly and maturely, without being dragged out, which I loved. These two may be very different, but their connection feels natural and genuine, and they complement each other beautifully.
The pacing is steady and engaging, with smooth, flowing writing that makes the story fly by. The chemistry between the characters is strong while still allowing the cozy small-town atmosphere to shine. Although this is part of a series and can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first book—you’ll want more of this world once you finish.
I want to thank Allie Winters for the opportunity to review this book.
November 8, 2025
I was provided an ARC of this book via the author, all opinions are my own.
This is the second book in the Aurora Bakery series, however it reads as a complete standalone. This follows Sydney, one of three sisters who run the family owned baker in their small town. Sydney, doesn't have a fancy college degree like her older sister, but she is one heck of a baker. She wants to prove that she can do more than bake, so when the town's small business association pairs the bakery with the local bar to work on a mutually beneficial event to bring in customers, Sydney is determined to make it a success. She has to work closely with Pierce, local bar owner who also has a fancy business degree and recently renovated his grandfather's bar. He inherited the local bar and is in town trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He comes from a background much different than Sydney's and while he isn't sure that life is for him, he hasn't been in town long enough to know if small town life is either. Working closely with Sydney on their project Pierce has to deal with her sarcasm, wit, and ability to bring chaos everywhere she goes. Their partnership quickly turns into more than just beer and pastries, but it also makes them face their vulnerabilities and opens old wounds.
I really liked Pierce and Sydney together. Sydney is always jumping to conclusions with little to no information, and it is usually the worst conclusion. She also doesn't like to talk to people about her feelings or set the record straight. This is counter to her fierce personality in other aspects of her life and her confidence when it comes to baking. Pierce on the other hand doesn't flaunt his wealth, yeah sure he wears nice shirts, but he always has a way of bringing Sydney back to a calmer place when she spins out of control. While they may not have gotten off on the right foot, once they cleared the air and the communication started flowing between them they had great banter and worked really well as a team.
This was a great addition to the series and I can't wait to see what Aurora has next to offer. I wish there was a real tasting event like this near me, I would buy tickets in a heartbeat. I loved this story and hope you do as well!
This is the second book in the Aurora Bakery series, however it reads as a complete standalone. This follows Sydney, one of three sisters who run the family owned baker in their small town. Sydney, doesn't have a fancy college degree like her older sister, but she is one heck of a baker. She wants to prove that she can do more than bake, so when the town's small business association pairs the bakery with the local bar to work on a mutually beneficial event to bring in customers, Sydney is determined to make it a success. She has to work closely with Pierce, local bar owner who also has a fancy business degree and recently renovated his grandfather's bar. He inherited the local bar and is in town trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He comes from a background much different than Sydney's and while he isn't sure that life is for him, he hasn't been in town long enough to know if small town life is either. Working closely with Sydney on their project Pierce has to deal with her sarcasm, wit, and ability to bring chaos everywhere she goes. Their partnership quickly turns into more than just beer and pastries, but it also makes them face their vulnerabilities and opens old wounds.
I really liked Pierce and Sydney together. Sydney is always jumping to conclusions with little to no information, and it is usually the worst conclusion. She also doesn't like to talk to people about her feelings or set the record straight. This is counter to her fierce personality in other aspects of her life and her confidence when it comes to baking. Pierce on the other hand doesn't flaunt his wealth, yeah sure he wears nice shirts, but he always has a way of bringing Sydney back to a calmer place when she spins out of control. While they may not have gotten off on the right foot, once they cleared the air and the communication started flowing between them they had great banter and worked really well as a team.
This was a great addition to the series and I can't wait to see what Aurora has next to offer. I wish there was a real tasting event like this near me, I would buy tickets in a heartbeat. I loved this story and hope you do as well!
November 5, 2025
Aurora Bakery's middle sister is up and she's HARD on herself. Seriously hard. She uses her older sister Rachel as her yardstick and can clearly see all the ways she doesn't measure up. In her mind, even the smallest of mistakes is a glaring mark against her and she jumps to the worst possible conclusion (sometimes based on incomplete information) when she starts spiraling.
Pierce is a man caught between two worlds. Renovating and then running his late grandfather's bar gives him something to focus on and he doesn't know how to tell his family that he doesn't want what they want anymore. He likes making the bar work. He likes using his business degree to make something concrete with the bar. And he likes Sydney.
Of course, he doesn't tell her that (in fact he says the exact opposite while trying to deflect with one of his employees and ends up pricking the tender parts of Sydney with his words when she overhears) and, frankly, Sydney comes out swinging when they're paired together for a small business collaboration. yeah, our girl doesn't pull her punches. It isn't until she sees the unguarded side of Pierce that she starts to unthaw a little.
But it takes a lot to reach that point. On both their ends. Sydney always thinks she's not enough and Pierce can't see how he fits into this new town doing something he enjoys when his family doesn't approve and keeps pushing for different things.
A little snark, a few steamy encounters on a desk, an event that gets people talking, and two people who need to work through their issues before they can make things happen in the long term. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Pierce is a man caught between two worlds. Renovating and then running his late grandfather's bar gives him something to focus on and he doesn't know how to tell his family that he doesn't want what they want anymore. He likes making the bar work. He likes using his business degree to make something concrete with the bar. And he likes Sydney.
Of course, he doesn't tell her that (in fact he says the exact opposite while trying to deflect with one of his employees and ends up pricking the tender parts of Sydney with his words when she overhears) and, frankly, Sydney comes out swinging when they're paired together for a small business collaboration. yeah, our girl doesn't pull her punches. It isn't until she sees the unguarded side of Pierce that she starts to unthaw a little.
But it takes a lot to reach that point. On both their ends. Sydney always thinks she's not enough and Pierce can't see how he fits into this new town doing something he enjoys when his family doesn't approve and keeps pushing for different things.
A little snark, a few steamy encounters on a desk, an event that gets people talking, and two people who need to work through their issues before they can make things happen in the long term. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 22, 2025
This is an adorable light hearted small town romance. I loved the banter between Pierce and Sydney. Their slow burn chemistry was perfect! I can also absolutely relate to Sydney as someone who is also unable to take a compliment! I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next in this small town series.
December 9, 2025
4 ⭐️ * Arc Review*
(📱; KU)
Pastries and Pints is a warm, small town romance with all the cozy vibes you’d expect from a book that pairs baked goods with craft beer, and it delivers exactly that. Allie brings plenty of charm, chemistry, and heartfelt character growth to the table (or bar counter).
The banter is sweet with just the right edge, and the dynamic between Sydney and Pierce feels authentic, two people figuring themselves out while trying (and failing) not to fall for each other.
Winters does a fantastic job blending humor with real emotional depth, especially when exploring themes of vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to want more. The setting is a standout, rich, comforting, and almost sensory enough to smell the fresh pastries and hops. The ending is as satisfying as a warm croissant after a long day.
If you love small town romance, foodie vibes, and a couple you genuinely want to root for, this book will absolutely hit the spot. A charming, heartfelt read that leaves you smiling and a little hungry.
(📱; KU)
Pastries and Pints is a warm, small town romance with all the cozy vibes you’d expect from a book that pairs baked goods with craft beer, and it delivers exactly that. Allie brings plenty of charm, chemistry, and heartfelt character growth to the table (or bar counter).
The banter is sweet with just the right edge, and the dynamic between Sydney and Pierce feels authentic, two people figuring themselves out while trying (and failing) not to fall for each other.
Winters does a fantastic job blending humor with real emotional depth, especially when exploring themes of vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to want more. The setting is a standout, rich, comforting, and almost sensory enough to smell the fresh pastries and hops. The ending is as satisfying as a warm croissant after a long day.
If you love small town romance, foodie vibes, and a couple you genuinely want to root for, this book will absolutely hit the spot. A charming, heartfelt read that leaves you smiling and a little hungry.
November 24, 2025
Pastries and Pints is the 2nd book in the Aurora Bakery series and focuses on Sydney, the middle sister and the local bar owner. They meet in the bar one evening and hit it off, or so she thinks, until she overhears him telling his employee that he's not interested. She feels like he misled her and resigned to never see or speak to him again. That is until her family's bakery is selected for a business initiative to attract customers and they are paired with none other than the town's newly renovated bar and it's owner, Pierce. Despite getting off on the wrong foot, the two of them actually work really well together and manage to plan an event that will be mutually beneficial. Between the planning and the bickering, the both start to develop feelings for one another and things take off from there.
Sydney can be a... difficult personality with a very abrasive sense of humor. It creates distance between her and the other characters in the book sometimes where it could be avoided, but she's sweet and thoughtful and she really just wants to please everyone. Pierce was broody and distracted by the life he left behind and unobservant to how his actions and words effected other people. Sydney was constantly misinterpreting his words and his actions without allowing for any explanation, and he didn't put enough thought into how it would effect her so it caused some issues in the beginning. Miscommunication is a trope I don't particularly like because most of it can be resolved quickly with a simple conversation, and I feel like a lot of the issues between Sydney and Pierce could have easily been avoided or resolved more quickly if they just talked to each other instead of assuming they knew what was happening because it was very clear how clueless the two of them were - especially when it came to one another. lol
However, when things were going well between them, the banter was actually really cute and funny. They forced each other to relax and unwind, and once they did, it was easy to see how well they fit together. They gave each other the space to just BE around each other. Pierce's style of flirting kinda came in as a surprise. Once he made his move, I really enjoyed his playful seductive side. It was unexpected and sexy, and I liked that he wasn't totally predictable. They played off of one another and easily slipped into flirting without trying very hard. I think Sydney's fiery personality is exactly the kind of person he needed to shake him off his axis and get him on track to what he really wanted.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I'm very interested to see what Hailey's story will be like. She's the quiet observant one, and I'm ready to see her get her HEA too. 😊
Thank you to Allie Winters for an advanced readers copy of this book.
Sydney can be a... difficult personality with a very abrasive sense of humor. It creates distance between her and the other characters in the book sometimes where it could be avoided, but she's sweet and thoughtful and she really just wants to please everyone. Pierce was broody and distracted by the life he left behind and unobservant to how his actions and words effected other people. Sydney was constantly misinterpreting his words and his actions without allowing for any explanation, and he didn't put enough thought into how it would effect her so it caused some issues in the beginning. Miscommunication is a trope I don't particularly like because most of it can be resolved quickly with a simple conversation, and I feel like a lot of the issues between Sydney and Pierce could have easily been avoided or resolved more quickly if they just talked to each other instead of assuming they knew what was happening because it was very clear how clueless the two of them were - especially when it came to one another. lol
However, when things were going well between them, the banter was actually really cute and funny. They forced each other to relax and unwind, and once they did, it was easy to see how well they fit together. They gave each other the space to just BE around each other. Pierce's style of flirting kinda came in as a surprise. Once he made his move, I really enjoyed his playful seductive side. It was unexpected and sexy, and I liked that he wasn't totally predictable. They played off of one another and easily slipped into flirting without trying very hard. I think Sydney's fiery personality is exactly the kind of person he needed to shake him off his axis and get him on track to what he really wanted.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I'm very interested to see what Hailey's story will be like. She's the quiet observant one, and I'm ready to see her get her HEA too. 😊
Thank you to Allie Winters for an advanced readers copy of this book.
October 29, 2025
This sweet and spicy romance was exactly what I needed 🙂↕️
🥐 If you are someone who tends to take the chaotic path in all that you do, then Sydney is a character that you will definitely resonate with. A sassy, fierce middle child, Sydney is someone that I would absolutely love to have in my corner. She knows how to stand her ground and look out for others, even if the odds are against her. I love seeing female characters portrayed in realistic settings such as this. It makes the characters even more relatable, and I think that’s something that Allie Winters does really well!
🍺 Just because our MMC Pierce comes from a family of millionaires doesn’t mean that he’s without his own personal struggles. While dealing with the loss of his grandfather, Pierce assumes ownership of his grandfather’s bar, all while his overbearing mother is breathing down his neck, pressuring him to follow the plans that she has laid out for him. My favourite part of Pierce’s character was how he yearned for Sydney. Even when he tried to convince himself otherwise, the desire to be with her was stronger than anything else, and I think that’s something truly special.
✨ I found so many pieces of myself scattered throughout Pastries and Pints, and that made my reading experience feel all the more personal. Whether it was the characters, the small town, or the unspoken gestures that spoke louder than words, this novel was truly a sweet surprise.
❤️🔥 I found this novel to be a bit spicier than its predecessor, Frosting and Flames, so if spice isn’t your thing, you’ve been warned! If it is, then enjoy!
🍺 Rivals to Lovers
🥐 Baker x Bar Owner
🍺 Slow Burn
🥐 Opposites Attract
🥐 If you are someone who tends to take the chaotic path in all that you do, then Sydney is a character that you will definitely resonate with. A sassy, fierce middle child, Sydney is someone that I would absolutely love to have in my corner. She knows how to stand her ground and look out for others, even if the odds are against her. I love seeing female characters portrayed in realistic settings such as this. It makes the characters even more relatable, and I think that’s something that Allie Winters does really well!
🍺 Just because our MMC Pierce comes from a family of millionaires doesn’t mean that he’s without his own personal struggles. While dealing with the loss of his grandfather, Pierce assumes ownership of his grandfather’s bar, all while his overbearing mother is breathing down his neck, pressuring him to follow the plans that she has laid out for him. My favourite part of Pierce’s character was how he yearned for Sydney. Even when he tried to convince himself otherwise, the desire to be with her was stronger than anything else, and I think that’s something truly special.
✨ I found so many pieces of myself scattered throughout Pastries and Pints, and that made my reading experience feel all the more personal. Whether it was the characters, the small town, or the unspoken gestures that spoke louder than words, this novel was truly a sweet surprise.
❤️🔥 I found this novel to be a bit spicier than its predecessor, Frosting and Flames, so if spice isn’t your thing, you’ve been warned! If it is, then enjoy!
🍺 Rivals to Lovers
🥐 Baker x Bar Owner
🍺 Slow Burn
🥐 Opposites Attract
November 6, 2025
Sydney is the chaotic middle child in her family, the one that doesn’t seem serious. So when her family’s bakery is chosen as part of a small business initiative to team up with another small business to put on an event, she didn’t expect to be paired with Pierce, the brooding new guy in town that has just renovated the bar. Pierce is still trying to figure out his life. He was supposed to renovate the bar and sell it; now, he kind of likes working there. As the two pair up, there is some animosity between them. Then Sydney softens when she learns more about him. Soon, their attraction is obvious. But Pierce is from a different lifestyle, and his family wants him anywhere but there.
This was such a cute romance novel! It’s the second book in the series, but you don’t need to read the first one in order to read this one. I loved the time the author took for these two to finally give into each other. It built up the chemistry and tension nicely. Sydney is quick witted and sassy, which made the banter between these two so much fun! Pierce is a typical grumpy, brooding character at first. Once he opens up and lets Sydney in, we get to see a different side of him.
There is so much yummy goodness described in this book as well. Sydney is the creative sister, pairing combinations in her baked goods that make your mouth melt. I wish the bakery was real so that I could check it out!
This book does have some spice in it, but it makes sense for the characters and it’s not overdone. It was well done.
If you haven’t read the first book, I do suggest you read it just because it’s equally as good. Either way, this book is perfect for romance readers!
This was such a cute romance novel! It’s the second book in the series, but you don’t need to read the first one in order to read this one. I loved the time the author took for these two to finally give into each other. It built up the chemistry and tension nicely. Sydney is quick witted and sassy, which made the banter between these two so much fun! Pierce is a typical grumpy, brooding character at first. Once he opens up and lets Sydney in, we get to see a different side of him.
There is so much yummy goodness described in this book as well. Sydney is the creative sister, pairing combinations in her baked goods that make your mouth melt. I wish the bakery was real so that I could check it out!
This book does have some spice in it, but it makes sense for the characters and it’s not overdone. It was well done.
If you haven’t read the first book, I do suggest you read it just because it’s equally as good. Either way, this book is perfect for romance readers!
November 10, 2025
This was such a sweet and delicious small-town romance. Definitely left me wanting to eat some sweets.
Sydney and Pierce have a cute, banter filled relationship that makes you feel so happy and giddy with excitement. Sydney doesn't know her self worth, but is determined to make her mark and prover her worth at her family's bakery. Pierce is trying to figure out his place in life and how his grandfather's bar with play a role in shaping his career. When he meets Sydney, he is captivated by her ability to bake and her sharp whit. But, he wants to figure out what is behind her sharpness and constant deflection.
I absolutely loved this story. The flow and pacing of events were perfect! I didn't feel like I was left in the weeds or trying to dig myself through lots of information. I loved the "I don't need your help energy" that Sydney had and her hard shell that protects her soft heart. Pierce really does all that he can to uncover the fun, carefree Sydney! They also come from complete different backgrounds and that added another layer of complexity to their dynamic. My favorite part was when she hangs up on his mom and later on has to meet his mom. I was dying of laughter at every sentence.
There was a lot of genuine feelings that makes their love a little bit sweeter than most. I wish to re-read this as if it was my first time. I definitely felt like I was floating on a cloud when I was done, but I desparately needed my own sweet treat too!
Thank you Allie Winters for the opportunity to read this ARC! I enjoyed every ounce of Sydney and Pierce's love story.
Sydney and Pierce have a cute, banter filled relationship that makes you feel so happy and giddy with excitement. Sydney doesn't know her self worth, but is determined to make her mark and prover her worth at her family's bakery. Pierce is trying to figure out his place in life and how his grandfather's bar with play a role in shaping his career. When he meets Sydney, he is captivated by her ability to bake and her sharp whit. But, he wants to figure out what is behind her sharpness and constant deflection.
I absolutely loved this story. The flow and pacing of events were perfect! I didn't feel like I was left in the weeds or trying to dig myself through lots of information. I loved the "I don't need your help energy" that Sydney had and her hard shell that protects her soft heart. Pierce really does all that he can to uncover the fun, carefree Sydney! They also come from complete different backgrounds and that added another layer of complexity to their dynamic. My favorite part was when she hangs up on his mom and later on has to meet his mom. I was dying of laughter at every sentence.
There was a lot of genuine feelings that makes their love a little bit sweeter than most. I wish to re-read this as if it was my first time. I definitely felt like I was floating on a cloud when I was done, but I desparately needed my own sweet treat too!
Thank you Allie Winters for the opportunity to read this ARC! I enjoyed every ounce of Sydney and Pierce's love story.
November 3, 2025
***4 Stars***
This was a fun read and a great addition to the series. Sydney and Pierce, while producing quite a few heavy sighs and some eye rolling, kept me turning the pages to see what it would take for them to realize that they could be a lot more to each other than they could’ve ever imagined.
I loved Pierce and Sydney, I did, but I’m not going to lie and say they didn’t frustrate the hell out of me at times. Both of them are quite touchy when it comes to certain situations in their lives and it causes each of them to react in no so great ways at time, but as the story progresses and they find that not only worked well with the project that brought them together, but that they actually bring out the best in each other in more ways than one.
It was a lot of fun heading back to Aurora and hanging out at the bakery, though I swear I gained at least 10 lbs even though I didn’t get to have any of Sydney’s goodies or or Pierce’s libations, but it is what it is. Now to wait for Hailey’s book to see who she ends up falling for and crossing my toes that Beth may be next of the list because that girl definitely deserves her own HEA!.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
This was a fun read and a great addition to the series. Sydney and Pierce, while producing quite a few heavy sighs and some eye rolling, kept me turning the pages to see what it would take for them to realize that they could be a lot more to each other than they could’ve ever imagined.
I loved Pierce and Sydney, I did, but I’m not going to lie and say they didn’t frustrate the hell out of me at times. Both of them are quite touchy when it comes to certain situations in their lives and it causes each of them to react in no so great ways at time, but as the story progresses and they find that not only worked well with the project that brought them together, but that they actually bring out the best in each other in more ways than one.
It was a lot of fun heading back to Aurora and hanging out at the bakery, though I swear I gained at least 10 lbs even though I didn’t get to have any of Sydney’s goodies or or Pierce’s libations, but it is what it is. Now to wait for Hailey’s book to see who she ends up falling for and crossing my toes that Beth may be next of the list because that girl definitely deserves her own HEA!.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
November 26, 2025
Pastries and Pints is book two in the Aurora Bakery Series by Allie Winters. It’s a small town, rivals to lovers romance with lots of great tension.
Sydney is the middle child, and she’s on a mission to prove she can be just as responsible as her older sister. Determined to take on more of the business side of things, Sydney agrees to be in charge of an initiative from the Small Business Owners group to partner with another business in town to put on an event that will attract more customers. Paired with the town bar and its annoyingly handsome, broody owner, she’s in for a bit more than she bargained for.
Pastries and Pints is a quick read filled with lots of tension, banter, and flirting. Sydney is strong, independent, sassy, and just an all-around fun FMC. Pierce is so much more than meets the eye and is full of surprises at every turn. The chemistry between these two is electric, and Allie does a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged throughout. If you’re a fan of small town romances, you won’t want to miss this one!
Thank you, Allie Winters, for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Sydney is the middle child, and she’s on a mission to prove she can be just as responsible as her older sister. Determined to take on more of the business side of things, Sydney agrees to be in charge of an initiative from the Small Business Owners group to partner with another business in town to put on an event that will attract more customers. Paired with the town bar and its annoyingly handsome, broody owner, she’s in for a bit more than she bargained for.
Pastries and Pints is a quick read filled with lots of tension, banter, and flirting. Sydney is strong, independent, sassy, and just an all-around fun FMC. Pierce is so much more than meets the eye and is full of surprises at every turn. The chemistry between these two is electric, and Allie does a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged throughout. If you’re a fan of small town romances, you won’t want to miss this one!
Thank you, Allie Winters, for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 10, 2025
As the middle child, Sydney carries a lot of insecurity—and her degrading exes certainly haven’t helped. She’s hard on herself, convinced she’s flaky, and constantly seeks validation from her older sister, Rachel.
Sydney and Pierce first meet at a bar Pierce has recently renovated and now owns. Their initial flirting takes a sharp turn when Sydney overhears Pierce saying he isn’t interested in her. Fueled by embarrassment and self-doubt, she lets that moment shape their next encounter.
Things are rocky at first, but over time their undeniable chemistry surfaces. The story delivers plenty of funny, charming moments that highlight Sydney’s capability and Pierce’s intelligence. Despite coming from completely different backgrounds, the two manage to fit together in a way that feels natural. They find a place with each other that might not make sense to anyone else—but it makes perfect sense to them.
I love that Sydney isn’t portrayed as a naïve or fumbling virgin just because she’s from a small town. And I really appreciated how Pierce, spoiled-rich-brat tendencies and all, is willing to take a chance and choose a different path.
Sydney and Pierce first meet at a bar Pierce has recently renovated and now owns. Their initial flirting takes a sharp turn when Sydney overhears Pierce saying he isn’t interested in her. Fueled by embarrassment and self-doubt, she lets that moment shape their next encounter.
Things are rocky at first, but over time their undeniable chemistry surfaces. The story delivers plenty of funny, charming moments that highlight Sydney’s capability and Pierce’s intelligence. Despite coming from completely different backgrounds, the two manage to fit together in a way that feels natural. They find a place with each other that might not make sense to anyone else—but it makes perfect sense to them.
I love that Sydney isn’t portrayed as a naïve or fumbling virgin just because she’s from a small town. And I really appreciated how Pierce, spoiled-rich-brat tendencies and all, is willing to take a chance and choose a different path.
October 26, 2025
Pastries and Pints is the second small town romance in the Aurora Bakery series. Sydney is the middle sister and is used to being seen as the chaotic one. She gets the chance to prove to herself that she’s more than that when she’s paired with Pierce, the hot bar owner, to promote both of their businesses. There is an instant connection between Sydney and Pierce, one that working closely together only farther ignites. The problem is they come from two totally different worlds and Pierce isn’t sure if he’s staying in Aurora. Will Sydney give him a reason to stay or will this romance be short lived?
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited for Sydney’s story. I was not disappointed! I loved this book from start to finish and didn’t want to put it down. Sydney and Pierce were so perfect together and their chemistry was off the charts. This was a feel good, cute and sweet small town romance read that I really enjoyed. I loved this and recommend it if you are looking for a sweet romance with a lot of chemistry. I can’t wait to see what comes next for this series!
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited for Sydney’s story. I was not disappointed! I loved this book from start to finish and didn’t want to put it down. Sydney and Pierce were so perfect together and their chemistry was off the charts. This was a feel good, cute and sweet small town romance read that I really enjoyed. I loved this and recommend it if you are looking for a sweet romance with a lot of chemistry. I can’t wait to see what comes next for this series!
November 9, 2025
Yet another incredible release from Allie Winters.
A sunshiny baker and the grumpy new bartender (owner) in town - a great mix of tropes, but throw in an amazing author and you get a brilliant read.
Sydney is the middle sister - of the three who now run the bakery together (their parents decided to flee and are off traveling and enjoying retirement and left their daughters to run the family bakery). Pierce is the hot new guy in town, and the bartender. Sydney met and flirted with him when she finally took a night out with friends, and discovers the next day he’s actually the owner she’s now paired up with for the town business pairing with whom she’s got to work with on an initiative to drum up a great new cross-promotional project… working with this grumpy guy isn’t going to be easy and the forced proximity is going to be tough (especially when she heard him telling someone that night he was soo not interested in her - accidentally eavesdropping, and she’s still smarting over that one)! But, it sure makes for a fantastic romance story!!
I have adored everything Allie’s ever written, but this one is great because not only is it an awesome storyline, it’s brought me out of a reading slump… so, first, thank you for this, and second, thank you for being a dependable author I can trust for quality writing and good content.
(I also enjoyed having Rachel and Nick’s appearances, the oldest sister and her firefighter from book one)
Huge recommendation from me - along with everything she has ever written, of course. I cannot wait for book 3 about the youngest sister! Thanks a ton to Allie for the early review copy!
A sunshiny baker and the grumpy new bartender (owner) in town - a great mix of tropes, but throw in an amazing author and you get a brilliant read.
Sydney is the middle sister - of the three who now run the bakery together (their parents decided to flee and are off traveling and enjoying retirement and left their daughters to run the family bakery). Pierce is the hot new guy in town, and the bartender. Sydney met and flirted with him when she finally took a night out with friends, and discovers the next day he’s actually the owner she’s now paired up with for the town business pairing with whom she’s got to work with on an initiative to drum up a great new cross-promotional project… working with this grumpy guy isn’t going to be easy and the forced proximity is going to be tough (especially when she heard him telling someone that night he was soo not interested in her - accidentally eavesdropping, and she’s still smarting over that one)! But, it sure makes for a fantastic romance story!!
I have adored everything Allie’s ever written, but this one is great because not only is it an awesome storyline, it’s brought me out of a reading slump… so, first, thank you for this, and second, thank you for being a dependable author I can trust for quality writing and good content.
(I also enjoyed having Rachel and Nick’s appearances, the oldest sister and her firefighter from book one)
Huge recommendation from me - along with everything she has ever written, of course. I cannot wait for book 3 about the youngest sister! Thanks a ton to Allie for the early review copy!
November 7, 2025
Sydney works in the family bakery with her two sisters while their parents are off in Europe. Her sister Rachel (from Frosting & Flames) asks her to head the small business association project with the newly reopened local bar. A bar that Sydney was in the night before and flirted with the cute new bar tender.
Pierce has just taken over ownership of the bar after his grandfather passed away and left it to him. He was supposed to come to town get the bar ready to sell and go back to the life his parents expect him to live. Except he is fast learning that he might not exactly want that life. He flirts with one of the patrons of his bar one night but when his nosey server asks, he says he isn’t interested. Only because he really needs to figure out his life.
He has a meeting with Rachel from the bakery to discuss ideas for the small business associations project. But Rachel doesn’t show up the patron he flirted with turns up in her place Sydney!
The enemies to lovers in this book is chef's kiss! I loved the banter and the whole story!
Pierce has just taken over ownership of the bar after his grandfather passed away and left it to him. He was supposed to come to town get the bar ready to sell and go back to the life his parents expect him to live. Except he is fast learning that he might not exactly want that life. He flirts with one of the patrons of his bar one night but when his nosey server asks, he says he isn’t interested. Only because he really needs to figure out his life.
He has a meeting with Rachel from the bakery to discuss ideas for the small business associations project. But Rachel doesn’t show up the patron he flirted with turns up in her place Sydney!
The enemies to lovers in this book is chef's kiss! I loved the banter and the whole story!
November 16, 2025
“One of the sexiest things I’ve ever experienced involved a shared fork and beer. What is my life right now?”
Sydney rarely goes out since she keeps early hours at their family bakery, so the rare night she did she meets Pierce. She thought there was something there until she accidentally overhears him say he wasn’t interested.
Sydney is the middle child and she feels like she has to prove herself all the time. So when her family bakery gets picked to be part of the business initiative she decided to step in. Only problem is she got paired with the new bar owner next door who happens to be Pierce. Pierce is definitely interested in Sydney but his life is just too complicated right now. But as they spend more time together, baking and bantering, lines get blurred. Can these two figure out the hurts in their past so they can move on together?
Lots of banter and delicious desserts! Sydney is a genius in the kitchen and as a middle child, she doubts herself most of the time, and this is when Pierce comes in. He’s the sweetest and I love how much she believes in Sydney and her talent. The chemistry between these two can bake a cake in minutes! 😉
A feel good, small town romance with swoon, spice and some family drama!
Sydney rarely goes out since she keeps early hours at their family bakery, so the rare night she did she meets Pierce. She thought there was something there until she accidentally overhears him say he wasn’t interested.
Sydney is the middle child and she feels like she has to prove herself all the time. So when her family bakery gets picked to be part of the business initiative she decided to step in. Only problem is she got paired with the new bar owner next door who happens to be Pierce. Pierce is definitely interested in Sydney but his life is just too complicated right now. But as they spend more time together, baking and bantering, lines get blurred. Can these two figure out the hurts in their past so they can move on together?
Lots of banter and delicious desserts! Sydney is a genius in the kitchen and as a middle child, she doubts herself most of the time, and this is when Pierce comes in. He’s the sweetest and I love how much she believes in Sydney and her talent. The chemistry between these two can bake a cake in minutes! 😉
A feel good, small town romance with swoon, spice and some family drama!
October 26, 2025
This book was so cute. I loved our characters and rivals to lovers angle.
I really enjoyed seeing our FMC, Sydney, grow throughout this story. Was she ever perfect? No. She jumped to conclusions with only parts of the story and is easily offended. That being said, I think her character does an amazing job at showcasing that's what it's like being the middle child. She learns to express her needs and what is needed to make her feel wanted, and seeing those lightbulbs click on for her was super rewarding to watch.
Pierce was so yummy, but definitely hadn't learned to stand up for himself or discover what he wanted to do before Sydney tornadoed into his life.
Their story has tension on tension on tension and it's so fun. Who knew that a dessert tasting could raise the temperature of the room?
If you want an easy read with some slight drama, but also does a great job at giving you the giggles, this is a great book for you!
overall: recommend
spice: open door
I really enjoyed seeing our FMC, Sydney, grow throughout this story. Was she ever perfect? No. She jumped to conclusions with only parts of the story and is easily offended. That being said, I think her character does an amazing job at showcasing that's what it's like being the middle child. She learns to express her needs and what is needed to make her feel wanted, and seeing those lightbulbs click on for her was super rewarding to watch.
Pierce was so yummy, but definitely hadn't learned to stand up for himself or discover what he wanted to do before Sydney tornadoed into his life.
Their story has tension on tension on tension and it's so fun. Who knew that a dessert tasting could raise the temperature of the room?
If you want an easy read with some slight drama, but also does a great job at giving you the giggles, this is a great book for you!
overall: recommend
spice: open door
November 8, 2025
4.25⭐️ “Ridiculously good.” “Bet you didn’t think I’d be spoon-feeding you cake this week.” A chuckle escapes me. “Not on my list of predictions, no.” But neither was everything that happened this weekend with her, either. “And yet, here we are.”
These two are too sweet for words, pun intended.🧁
This series continues to be a hit for me. Sydney is the middle sister. The people pleaser and the baker extraordinaire. She sells herself short too often and lacks confidence. Pierce just lost his grandpa and inherited his bar in Aurora. He grew up with a lot of expectations on him and his trying to find his footing.
Together they put on on a desserts & pints tasting that might just change their lives. My mouth was watering all of Sydney’s creations. This book had me smiling a lot, it was super easy to binge.
Thank you to the author Allie Winters for the advanced copy, all my opinions are my own.
These two are too sweet for words, pun intended.🧁
This series continues to be a hit for me. Sydney is the middle sister. The people pleaser and the baker extraordinaire. She sells herself short too often and lacks confidence. Pierce just lost his grandpa and inherited his bar in Aurora. He grew up with a lot of expectations on him and his trying to find his footing.
Together they put on on a desserts & pints tasting that might just change their lives. My mouth was watering all of Sydney’s creations. This book had me smiling a lot, it was super easy to binge.
Thank you to the author Allie Winters for the advanced copy, all my opinions are my own.
November 11, 2025
I was waiting for this one. When we meet the spitfire that is Sydney in book one, I was waiting for her sass to be focused on someone. (You can absolutely read this as a standalone.) Pierce is adorable. I love how much he loved his grandfather and how he was so kind. Sydney is just great, I want to be friends with her! I also want to try some of her desserts. These two trying to keep each other at an arms length was fun to watch. The banter is great! And when the spice hits, it is fire.
I love this series. These books are just easy. They are beautifully written and just flow nicely. You know some sort of conflict is coming, but that it will be handled like grownups and not some adult toddler stomping in the corner. They are layered characters with hopes and fears that are just so well communicated. I can’t say enough good things about this book. 5/5⭐️5/5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this book.
I love this series. These books are just easy. They are beautifully written and just flow nicely. You know some sort of conflict is coming, but that it will be handled like grownups and not some adult toddler stomping in the corner. They are layered characters with hopes and fears that are just so well communicated. I can’t say enough good things about this book. 5/5⭐️5/5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this book.
Read
January 12, 2026Heat Factor: A bit of hanky panky
Character Chemistry: Suppressed attraction plus mildly aggressive banter
Plot: Who knew assigned group projects were still a thing for small business owners?
Overall: This is a nit-picky review about a book that was actually sweet and inoffensive
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Bluesky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Pinterest
Character Chemistry: Suppressed attraction plus mildly aggressive banter
Plot: Who knew assigned group projects were still a thing for small business owners?
Overall: This is a nit-picky review about a book that was actually sweet and inoffensive
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Bluesky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Pinterest
November 16, 2025
🧁🍺ARC Review🍺🧁
Thank you Allie for this ARC of Pastries and Pints! It was so much fun going back to Aurora with these sisters!
This one was so sweet! Pun intended 😝 I of course loved Sydney and Pierce the were hot hot hot and when they finally gave in it was fire, but how they both danced around their true feelings for each other I wanted to slap them both silly 😂
What I loved the most about this book is the sisterly relationship between Sydney and Rachel. The way that Sydney always felt that she couldn’t measure up and how she thought her sister was always disappointed in her was 💔
When they finally talked it out it was such a vulnerable moment and I got teary eyed a bit…
I cannot wait for Hailey’s story too! 🤭
Tropes: 🧁Small town romance 🍺Rival/enemies to lovers 🧁Baker heroine 🍺Bar owner hero 🧁Spicy slow burn 🍺Banter filled 🧁Opposites attract
Thank you Allie for this ARC of Pastries and Pints! It was so much fun going back to Aurora with these sisters!
This one was so sweet! Pun intended 😝 I of course loved Sydney and Pierce the were hot hot hot and when they finally gave in it was fire, but how they both danced around their true feelings for each other I wanted to slap them both silly 😂
What I loved the most about this book is the sisterly relationship between Sydney and Rachel. The way that Sydney always felt that she couldn’t measure up and how she thought her sister was always disappointed in her was 💔
When they finally talked it out it was such a vulnerable moment and I got teary eyed a bit…
I cannot wait for Hailey’s story too! 🤭
Tropes: 🧁Small town romance 🍺Rival/enemies to lovers 🧁Baker heroine 🍺Bar owner hero 🧁Spicy slow burn 🍺Banter filled 🧁Opposites attract
November 24, 2025
A delightful read filled with amazing banter, small town antics and a fabulous love story. You will laugh out loud with the conversations between these two.
Sydney is an amazing baker and wants to prove she’s more than just a baker to her family. An opportunity comes up to do just that…and didn’t anticipate the partnership with the grumpy bar owner.
Pierce is in the middle of life change…trying to decide what HE wants to do versus his parents telling him what he HAS to do. He’s creative, motivated and determined to make the bar a success…with his touches.
As they work together and move on from their initial frosty encountered….they begin to see each other in a new light. They create something very special that benefits both of their businesses and the town. They also help one another work through their family challenges and insecurities.
Sydney is an amazing baker and wants to prove she’s more than just a baker to her family. An opportunity comes up to do just that…and didn’t anticipate the partnership with the grumpy bar owner.
Pierce is in the middle of life change…trying to decide what HE wants to do versus his parents telling him what he HAS to do. He’s creative, motivated and determined to make the bar a success…with his touches.
As they work together and move on from their initial frosty encountered….they begin to see each other in a new light. They create something very special that benefits both of their businesses and the town. They also help one another work through their family challenges and insecurities.
October 23, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Pastries and Pints by Allie Winters
Quick Look-
Format: eARC
Genre: romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 3.5 🌶️
Recommend: yes
Full review-
This was such a quick read for me. I really enjoyed returning to Aurora Bakery and the Blackwell sisters! Pierce is an amazing character despite the world he grew up in. Sydney is a sassy, fierce MC who would do anything for her loved ones. The banter between MCs was off the charts with this one. I enjoyed how mature the characters were and how they fixed their miscommunication in a day. As a reader, I needed more development of their relationship and feelings in the middle of the story. Overall, definitely enjoyed it and will definitely keep my eye out for the next one!
Pastries and Pints by Allie Winters
Quick Look-
Format: eARC
Genre: romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 3.5 🌶️
Recommend: yes
Full review-
This was such a quick read for me. I really enjoyed returning to Aurora Bakery and the Blackwell sisters! Pierce is an amazing character despite the world he grew up in. Sydney is a sassy, fierce MC who would do anything for her loved ones. The banter between MCs was off the charts with this one. I enjoyed how mature the characters were and how they fixed their miscommunication in a day. As a reader, I needed more development of their relationship and feelings in the middle of the story. Overall, definitely enjoyed it and will definitely keep my eye out for the next one!
November 2, 2025
ARC Review
Pastries and Pints by Allie Winters
5/5 stars
Sydney and Pierce!! AHH. I really enjoyed their story even if the slow burn almost killed me, but it was worth it. Past characters and new, this small-town romance was one of my favorites so far! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series as well.
Sydney, my girl, I loved her sass and her dynamic within her sisters and how she stuck up for Peirce as well. As a middle child, I related to her and loved her character.
Pierce has my whole heart and I really like his dedication to his grandfather and he needed Syd in his life. I really like his journey to live his life. I really like him as a lead.
Catch this book on Nov.6!
A huge thank you to @alliewintersauthor and her team for an eARC for review.
Pastries and Pints by Allie Winters
5/5 stars
Sydney and Pierce!! AHH. I really enjoyed their story even if the slow burn almost killed me, but it was worth it. Past characters and new, this small-town romance was one of my favorites so far! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series as well.
Sydney, my girl, I loved her sass and her dynamic within her sisters and how she stuck up for Peirce as well. As a middle child, I related to her and loved her character.
Pierce has my whole heart and I really like his dedication to his grandfather and he needed Syd in his life. I really like his journey to live his life. I really like him as a lead.
Catch this book on Nov.6!
A huge thank you to @alliewintersauthor and her team for an eARC for review.
November 6, 2025
3.75⭐️
Pastries And Pints is book 2 in the Aurora Bakery series. This is a Small Town Contemporary Romance standalone series.
PAP is Sydney and Pierce’s story and has banter GALORE and they most definitely bring the sexual chemistry. It’s about a broody bar owner and a sassy baker who are forced to work together for a town event. About 1/3 of the way through I couldn’t put it down.
I will admit, Sydney isn’t my favorite character in the series. In fact she actually annoyed the hell out of me at times, but it didn’t stop me from reading or take away from the story at all. BUT I REALLY loved Pierce. Truly everything about him is scrumptious! He’s broody, down to Earth, and won’t stop fighting for what he wants including Sydney!
My favorite part is where they attend a party together. This part will remain in my brain rent free for the foreseeable future!
🍰Small Town
🍺Rivals To Lovers
🍰Opposites Attract
🍺Banter Galore
Pastries And Pints is book 2 in the Aurora Bakery series. This is a Small Town Contemporary Romance standalone series.
PAP is Sydney and Pierce’s story and has banter GALORE and they most definitely bring the sexual chemistry. It’s about a broody bar owner and a sassy baker who are forced to work together for a town event. About 1/3 of the way through I couldn’t put it down.
I will admit, Sydney isn’t my favorite character in the series. In fact she actually annoyed the hell out of me at times, but it didn’t stop me from reading or take away from the story at all. BUT I REALLY loved Pierce. Truly everything about him is scrumptious! He’s broody, down to Earth, and won’t stop fighting for what he wants including Sydney!
My favorite part is where they attend a party together. This part will remain in my brain rent free for the foreseeable future!
🍰Small Town
🍺Rivals To Lovers
🍰Opposites Attract
🍺Banter Galore
November 13, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
4⭐️
I KNEW I WOULD LOVE THIS ONE! I really enjoyed Frosting and Flames, the first book in the Aurora Bakery series, but I knew Pierce and Sydney would capture my heart.
I love a good rivals to lovers with some hilarious banter. Sydney was so sassy that some of the things she said literally made me laugh out loud. I could totally see myself in her 🤣
Pierce may have been her complete opposite but that’s what Sydney needed in a relationship. She needed someone to truly see her as a person and see that her sassiness was just a front. Pierce broke down those walls that Sydney tried so hard to maintain and when he finally got through, there was nothing stopping them. Their love for one another was something fierce.
I loved how both of them continually lifted each other up and always stood up for one another. Sometimes the communication was off, simply because neither of them truly knew what to make of this new relationship, but once they found their flow, they truly conquered the world, together.
“I've been waiting for you. This thing between us, the way you make me feel... I've never had it with anyone.
No one else comes close.”
so so sweet. If you love a good rivals to lovers, small town romance book, then you definitely need to read this book! But start with Frosting and Flames so you can truly capture the Hallmark vibes that Allie writes🥰
Thank you Allie for this ARC! I’m excited for the next book 🤪
4⭐️
I KNEW I WOULD LOVE THIS ONE! I really enjoyed Frosting and Flames, the first book in the Aurora Bakery series, but I knew Pierce and Sydney would capture my heart.
I love a good rivals to lovers with some hilarious banter. Sydney was so sassy that some of the things she said literally made me laugh out loud. I could totally see myself in her 🤣
Pierce may have been her complete opposite but that’s what Sydney needed in a relationship. She needed someone to truly see her as a person and see that her sassiness was just a front. Pierce broke down those walls that Sydney tried so hard to maintain and when he finally got through, there was nothing stopping them. Their love for one another was something fierce.
I loved how both of them continually lifted each other up and always stood up for one another. Sometimes the communication was off, simply because neither of them truly knew what to make of this new relationship, but once they found their flow, they truly conquered the world, together.
“I've been waiting for you. This thing between us, the way you make me feel... I've never had it with anyone.
No one else comes close.”
so so sweet. If you love a good rivals to lovers, small town romance book, then you definitely need to read this book! But start with Frosting and Flames so you can truly capture the Hallmark vibes that Allie writes🥰
Thank you Allie for this ARC! I’m excited for the next book 🤪
November 6, 2025
Sweet & spicy; the two perfect words to describe this book!
Sydney our FMC is the middle child and while she often feels forgotten & overlooked, she combats that with her wit, sarcasm & sass, but she loves those around her fiercely. Pierce our MMC is a gentle and lost soul who doesn't know what direction he wants his life to take; after his grandfather's passing he takes up residence in Aurora where he then meets Sydney & she flips his world on its axis.
They both really come into their own in this book, finding their stride & what they feel passionate about; one of the things they share is their passion for each other.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first one & cannot wait to see what the third book has in store.
Thank you for the advanced copy🤍
Sydney our FMC is the middle child and while she often feels forgotten & overlooked, she combats that with her wit, sarcasm & sass, but she loves those around her fiercely. Pierce our MMC is a gentle and lost soul who doesn't know what direction he wants his life to take; after his grandfather's passing he takes up residence in Aurora where he then meets Sydney & she flips his world on its axis.
They both really come into their own in this book, finding their stride & what they feel passionate about; one of the things they share is their passion for each other.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first one & cannot wait to see what the third book has in store.
Thank you for the advanced copy🤍
November 11, 2025
We are back at the Aurora Bakery for the middle sister's story. I really loved Pierce and Sydney together. The opposite attract sparks were flying between those two. One thing I really appreciated was Pierce saw Sydney and her worth. The connection to the bar for Pierce by his grandpa touched my heart. It's a whole new world for him living in a smalltown, but so good for his soul. The banter between Pierce and Sydney was one of my favorite parts. I loved how she loosened him up. I would so be friends with Sydney. I love how this series revolves around the bakery. All the baked good for the events Pierce and Sydney teamed up on sounds so delicious. It's a fun read with a great blend of heat, heat, and humor.
December 26, 2025
Pierce & Sydney were so different yet so much alike. Sydney is the middle sister and baker extraordinaire of the family owned bakery. She’s sassy and fun, but man she jumps to conclusions and doesn’t communicate well. But I loved her spark and she & Pierce brought out the best in each other.
Pierce is ultimately solid husband material. His grandpa left him his house and bar and so he gave up his high society life back home in exchange for small town living. He never acted too good and I loved that quality. I did grow tired of Sydney referring to him as “rich boy”. It was funny a few times and then it wasn’t. He had a great sense of humor.
Once again I thoroughly enjoy how Allie writes and think she deserves more traction.
Pierce is ultimately solid husband material. His grandpa left him his house and bar and so he gave up his high society life back home in exchange for small town living. He never acted too good and I loved that quality. I did grow tired of Sydney referring to him as “rich boy”. It was funny a few times and then it wasn’t. He had a great sense of humor.
Once again I thoroughly enjoy how Allie writes and think she deserves more traction.
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