What is "Picking Daisies on Sundays" by Liana Cincotti about?
"Picking Daisies on Sundays" follows Daisy, a college senior and hopeless romantic, who enters a fake relationship with her childhood best friend Levi. Set against a rom-com backdrop, the story explores their evolving bond through travel, self-discovery, and tender moments. Themes of vulnerability and personal growth drive the narrative as their arrangement blurs into genuine romance.
Who is author Liana Cincotti?
Liana Cincotti is a self-published author in her 20s with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Accounting. She began writing during college, drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift’s music and New York-set rom-coms. Her debut novel "Don’t Be In Love" (2022) preceded "Picking Daisies on Sundays" (2023), both marketed independently using her digital skills. She’s currently writing her third book while seeking traditional publishing representation.
Who should read "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
This book is ideal for fans of cozy, character-driven romances reminiscent of Taylor Jenkins Reid or Emily Henry. Readers seeking tender fake-dating tropes, college-to-adulthood transitions, or dreamy male leads (like Levi) will enjoy it. Its hopeful tone particularly resonates with hopeless romantics who believe in "being noticed in a crowded room."
Is "Picking Daisies on Sundays" worth reading?
Yes, for readers prioritizing emotional warmth over flawless editing. Despite minor grammatical errors noted in reviews, the novel delivers swoon-worthy chemistry, relatable self-discovery arcs, and vivid romantic moments. Fans praise its "beautiful quotes" and Levi’s endearing personality, calling it "everything a rom-com should be."
What are the main themes in "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
Key themes include:
- Self-Discovery: Daisy’s journey from uncertainty to embracing her desires.
- Friendship-to-Love: How shared history deepens romantic tension.
- Authenticity: The struggle between expectations and true feelings.
- Romantic Idealism: Celebrating grand gestures and heartfelt vulnerability.
Who are the main characters in "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
- Daisy: A graduating college student navigating life and love with wit and idealism.
- Levi: Her compassionate best friend whose quiet devotion shines through protective gestures. Their childhood bond anchors the story, evolving into a tender slow-burn romance.
Are there memorable quotes from "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
Yes, standout lines include:
"I tried to stop loving you, but along the way, you found your way into the sound of my laugh, the style of my writing, and the threads of my clothes."
This reflects the novel’s emphasis on love as an intrinsic part of identity.
How does "Picking Daisies on Sundays" handle romance tropes?
It revitalizes familiar tropes through:
- Fake Dating: Used as a catalyst for emotional honesty.
- Best-Friends-to-Lovers: Prioritizing deep familiarity over instant passion.
- Small Gestures: Levi’s thoughtful acts (e.g., bringing coffee) replace grand clichés, grounding the romance.
What criticisms exist for "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
Some readers note occasional grammatical errors and Daisy’s "overly oblivious" moments. However, these are outweighed by praise for the book’s charm, quoting its "unique and beautiful" writing and Levi’s "dream" characterization.
How does this book compare to Liana Cincotti's other work?
Compared to her debut "Don’t Be In Love," this novel:
- Deepens Character Development: Daisy and Levi feel more layered.
- Refines Writing: Enhanced emotional resonance and pacing.
- Expands Settings: Travel and daily rituals enrich the backdrop.
Where can I buy "Picking Daisies on Sundays"?
It’s available via:
- Online Retailers: Amazon and PangoBooks.
- Author Platforms: Liana’s website (withliana.com) and Substack for updates. Physical copies are sold independently, with digital options on FlipHTML5.
Why is "Picking Daisies on Sundays" relevant to modern romance readers?
It captures Gen Z’s blend of digital-age vulnerability and timeless romantic yearning. Themes like self-discovery amid life transitions resonate with young adults, while its DIY publishing success mirrors changing industry dynamics.