Picking Daisies on Sundays: A Sweet Story About Second Chances and Finding Yourself

By no means am I a professional book reviewer, I just thought it would be fun to share my thoughts on the books that I read and share what I think about them. I really didn't start reading all the time until adulthood and it has been a fun hobby I never want to look back on! This is going to be a spoiler-free reflection where I am going to focus really on the theme, writing, and the different characters.

A Peek into Picking Daisies on Sundays

This book honestly felt soft, warm, and full of quiet hope. Picking Daisies on Sundays by Liana Cincotti follows Daniella “Daisy” Maria, a fashion design student living in New York City, who is trying to balance her dreams, relationships, and the messy aftermath of a fallout with Levi. His is her childhood best friend and first love. Four years after they drifted apart, they reunited unexpectedly where Levi asks Daisy to pretend to be his girlfriend for a family event. This starts as a simple ruse and it quickly grows into something more real, more complicated, and more healing than either of them anticipated.

While the fake-dating trope is one that we have all seen before, what makes this story stand out is how it explores the characters’ emotions from the past and present. It's more than just your typical romance novel. It’s a journey, for both Dani and Levi, of rediscovery, forgiveness, and relearning how to trust not only others, but yourself.

Themes That Bloom Gently

At its center, the novel is about second chances in love, friendship, and life itself. It reminds us that revisiting the past doesn’t necessarily mean repeating the same old mistakes. It can instead be a way to find clarity about what matters and what we want moving forward.

Personal growth is another key piece throughout Daisy’s story. She struggles with her own insecurities and dreams, and the novel truly shows us the tension she has between holding on to who she was and embracing who she is becoming. It’s a quiet meditation on change, hope, and the sometimes messy process of growing up.

Writing Style & Vibe

Cincotti’s writing feels fresh and heartfelt without ever becoming too much. The pacing is deliberate and the atmosphere the book creates makes it feel perfect for a slow Sunday afternoon, curled up with a cup of tea and the gentle sound of rain. Every time I sat down to read this book, I had to read it in 100 page sessions because I loved the writing style so much. I don't usually find myself reading that long in one sitting, it has to be a truly captivating book.

Who I’d Recommend This To

If you enjoy reading a contemporary romance that’s filled with emotional depth and warmth, as well as stories that explore the line between friendship and love, this book is definitely for you. It suits readers who appreciate a good character-driven narrative where feelings unfold naturally and honestly, without rushing or forced drama. If you are also looking for something lighthearted and just simply cute, I would also recommend this book to you!

Final Thoughts

Picking Daisies on Sundays is a reminder that sometimes love, and life, needs a little extra time to grow. It’s not about racing to the end, but more or so about taking in the small, meaningful moments in between. Which, if you've been following the blog, you know that is something that I have been trying to get better at. If you’re looking for a story that’s both comforting and quietly hopeful, this one might just be your next favorite read!

---

Your Side Quest:

Have you ever revisited a relationship or friendship you thought was over and found something new?