Review of Picking Daisies on Sundays
When I stumbled upon Picking Daisies on Sundays by C.P. Cincotti, I was immediately drawn in by the charming premise: a hopeless romantic navigating her tangled feelings in a fake relationship with her childhood best friend. As a fellow sucker for romance and complex friendships, I knew this would be a delightful read, one that might just bring back echoes of those early 2000s rom-coms we all secretly adore.
At the heart of the novel is Daniella Daisy Maria, a senior in college who, after years apart, finds herself reunited with Levi, her childhood best friend and first love. Their chemistry is undeniable but complicated by past heartbreak and miscommunication. As they embark on a fake relationship for a family wedding, the tension grows—a slow burn that had me both giggling and squirming in my seat. Cincotti beautifully captures the essence of young love laced with nostalgia, evoking memories of my own first crushes. Their playful banter and awkward moments felt authentic, reminding me of the true essence of friendship wrapped in layers of unspoken affection.
The writing style is refreshingly crisp and heartfelt; it flows effortlessly, making it an easy read while still leaving a lasting impact. Cincotti balances humor and emotional depth seamlessly. I often found myself chuckling at understated moments, like when Levi promises, “I’ll buy you flowers every day for the rest of my life if it makes you this happy.” This quote lingered with me, encapsulating the yearning and simplicity of love that permeates the book.
What truly stands out is the depth of character development. Daniella’s journey as she navigates her fears about grad school and relationship vulnerability resonated deeply with me. It felt relatable and reflective of the insecurities that many of us faced during that transformative age. Levi, the quintessential “soft boy,” had my heart racing with his poetic nature and quiet confidence. Their interactions—fraught with tension and unspoken longing—reminded me of the timeless notion that sometimes, the person you’ve been waiting for has been right under your nose all along.
While some readers felt that the pace could be a tad quick, I appreciated how Cincotti kept the momentum alive, drawing readers into the whirlwind of emotions. At times, the banter felt almost like a warm hug, echoing sentiments from other reviewers about the cozy vibe of the book. It’s a sweet escape that balances lightheartedness with deeper themes of love, loss, and the complexities of growing up.
Ultimately, Picking Daisies on Sundays is perfect for fans of Lynn Painter and Jenny Han, but I also believe it reaches beyond just young adult readers. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a lover of intricate friendships, or someone who cherishes tales of emotional growth, this book wraps around you like a comforting scarf on a chilly day.
In conclusion, C.P. Cincotti has crafted a charming narrative that feels like a nostalgic echo of youthful romance, inviting us to embrace the beauty of connection and the possibility of love. After flipping the last page, I found myself wishing there was more—more of Dani and Levi’s journey, more of that heart-thumping romance. If you’re ready to dive into a story that captures the essence of young love, take a leap and pick up this delightful read! 🌼❤️