Plot Summary
Unspoken Love and Friendship
The story opens with the narrator, who is deeply in love with her best friend, Levi Coldwell. Their friendship is rooted in shared grief over the loss of their fathers, which has bonded them over four years of high school. They support each other through academic challenges and personal losses, forming a seemingly unbreakable bond. However, beneath this friendship, the narrator harbors unspoken romantic feelings for Levi, fearing that revealing them might ruin their friendship. As graduation approaches, the weight of her unconfessed love becomes increasingly difficult to bear.
A Yearning Heart's Dilemma
The narrator's world is turned upside down when she sees Levi kissing another girl, Jennifer O'Brien, after his return from a family trip. This unexpected sight leaves her heartbroken and confused, as she grapples with the depth of her feelings for Levi. Although she has seen him date other girls before, witnessing a kiss feels like a betrayal, igniting a storm of emotions she struggles to contain. The narrator is left questioning her place in Levi's life and whether she should confess her feelings before they part ways for college.
The Prom Night Revelation
As senior prom approaches, the narrator resolves to confess her feelings to Levi. She meticulously prepares for the night, hoping to find the courage to tell him the truth. However, the fear of rejection and the potential loss of their friendship loom large. At the prom, she finds herself overwhelmed by emotions and the pressure of the moment. Her anxiety peaks when she sees Levi, and she retreats to gather her thoughts, only to be found by him, leading to a moment of vulnerability and connection.
A Confession Deferred
In a quiet hallway, away from the prom's chaos, Levi finds the narrator in tears. His concern and gentle touch offer comfort, yet the narrator is unable to voice her true feelings. The moment is charged with unspoken words and emotions, as Levi's presence both soothes and intensifies her inner turmoil. Despite the closeness, the narrator's fear of losing him keeps her from confessing, and the night ends with her heart still burdened by unexpressed love.
The Weight of Unrequited Love
The aftermath of prom leaves the narrator and Levi in a state of awkwardness and unspoken tension. The narrator's inability to confess her feelings creates a rift, as she struggles with the weight of her unrequited love. Levi, unaware of the true cause of her distress, remains a supportive friend, yet the narrator feels increasingly isolated by her secret. As graduation looms, the fear of losing Levi forever becomes a pressing reality, forcing her to confront her emotions.
A Friendship Rekindled
Years later, the narrator and Levi cross paths again, reigniting the friendship that once meant everything to them. The passage of time has not diminished her feelings, but the narrator is determined to maintain the facade of friendship. As they reconnect, the old dynamics resurface, bringing both comfort and the familiar ache of unspoken love. The narrator is caught between the joy of having Levi back in her life and the pain of knowing her feelings remain unreturned.
The Dance of Pretend
In a twist of fate, the narrator and Levi agree to pretend to be a couple for a family event, a ruse to help Levi secure a job. This charade forces them into close proximity, blurring the lines between reality and pretense. The narrator finds herself living out her dreams of being with Levi, yet the knowledge that it's all an act weighs heavily on her heart. As they navigate this dance of pretend, the narrator is left wondering if Levi might ever see her as more than just a friend.
Unexpected Reunion Sparks Tension
The narrator finds herself at a social event where she unexpectedly reunites with Levi. Their interaction is charged with unspoken emotions, especially when Levi's presence stirs jealousy in Ethan, a colleague of the narrator. Levi's protective nature surfaces when he sees the narrator with Ethan, leading to a tense confrontation. This encounter highlights the unresolved feelings between the narrator and Levi, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their relationship.
Confessions and Misunderstandings
The narrator, overwhelmed by her emotions, confesses her love for Levi, only to be met with confusion. Levi, unaware of the depth of her feelings, misinterprets her words, leading to a painful misunderstanding. This moment echoes their past, where unspoken words and assumptions created a rift between them. The narrator's vulnerability is laid bare, and Levi's reaction reveals his own internal conflict, as he grapples with the possibility of losing her again.
A Dance of Emotions
During a dance class, the narrator and Levi are forced into close proximity, reigniting the chemistry between them. As they move together, the physical closeness blurs the lines between pretense and reality. Levi's gentle guidance and the narrator's trust in him create a moment of intimacy that neither can ignore. This dance becomes a metaphor for their relationship, a delicate balance of unspoken desires and the fear of crossing boundaries.
Secrets and Revelations
The narrator discovers Levi's poetry book, "Picking Daisies on Sundays," which reveals his long-held feelings for her. Each poem is a testament to his love, capturing moments and emotions he never dared to express. This revelation forces the narrator to confront her own assumptions and fears, realizing that Levi's love for her has been as deep and enduring as her own. The discovery of the book becomes a turning point, offering a chance for reconciliation and understanding.
A New Beginning in Paris
With the truth of their feelings finally out in the open, the narrator and Levi face a new chapter in their lives. Levi's decision to join the narrator in Paris marks a commitment to their relationship and a willingness to embrace the unknown together. As they prepare for this new adventure, the narrator reflects on the journey that brought them here, filled with hope and excitement for the future. Their love, once burdened by silence and distance, now blossoms with the promise of a shared life.
Characters
Narrator
The narrator is a young woman deeply in love with her best friend, Levi. Her character is defined by her internal struggle between maintaining their friendship and confessing her true feelings. She is introspective, sensitive, and often caught in a whirlwind of emotions. Her love for Levi is both her greatest joy and her deepest sorrow, as she navigates the complexities of unrequited love.
Levi Coldwell
Levi is the narrator's best friend, unaware of her romantic feelings for him. He is compassionate, supportive, and shares a deep bond with the narrator due to their shared experiences of loss. Levi's character is marked by his loyalty and kindness, yet his obliviousness to the narrator's feelings creates an unintentional tension in their relationship. His actions often blur the lines between friendship and something more, leaving the narrator hopeful yet heartbroken.
Jennifer O'Brien
Jennifer is the girl Levi kisses upon returning from a family trip, sparking the narrator's jealousy and heartache. Her presence in the story serves as a reminder of the narrator's unspoken feelings and the potential threat to her friendship with Levi. Jennifer's role is pivotal in pushing the narrator to confront her emotions and consider confessing her love.
Trish Coldwell
Trish is Levi's mother, who shares a close relationship with the narrator. Her character embodies warmth and acceptance, often providing a sense of family and belonging to the narrator. Trish's approval and affection for the narrator add another layer of complexity to the narrator's feelings, as she grapples with the fear of losing not just Levi, but the family she has come to cherish.
Sarah Coldwell
Sarah is Levi's sister, who plays a supportive role in the story. Her character is a source of encouragement and understanding for both Levi and the narrator. Sarah's presence highlights the familial bonds that the narrator values, and her interactions with Levi often provide insight into his character and motivations.
Gabe
Gabe is a friend of the narrator, offering advice and support throughout her emotional journey. His character provides a grounding presence, often challenging the narrator to confront her feelings and consider the consequences of her actions. Gabe's perspective serves as a counterbalance to the narrator's emotional turmoil, offering a rational viewpoint on her situation.
Jia
Jia is another close friend of the narrator, providing a listening ear and unwavering support. Her character is empathetic and understanding, often encouraging the narrator to be honest with herself and Levi. Jia's friendship is a source of strength for the narrator, helping her navigate the complexities of her emotions and relationships.
Ethan
Ethan is a colleague of the narrator, whose presence stirs jealousy and tension. His interactions with the narrator highlight the unresolved emotions between her and Levi, serving as a catalyst for their eventual confrontation and reconciliation.
Bella
Bella is a figure from Levi's past, whose presence serves as a reminder of the misunderstandings that once separated the narrator and Levi. Her role in the story underscores the importance of communication and the dangers of assumptions in relationships.
Plot Devices
Unspoken Love
The central plot device in the story is the narrator's unspoken love for Levi. This unrequited love drives the narrative, influencing the narrator's actions and decisions. The tension between maintaining their friendship and confessing her feelings creates a constant internal conflict, shaping the story's emotional landscape.
Pretend Relationship
The decision to pretend to be a couple for a family event serves as a pivotal plot device, forcing the narrator and Levi into close proximity and blurring the lines between reality and pretense. This charade heightens the emotional stakes, as the narrator grapples with the joy of living out her dreams and the pain of knowing it's all an act.
Shared Grief
The shared experience of losing their fathers is a significant plot device that cements the bond between the narrator and Levi. This common ground provides a foundation for their friendship, yet also serves as a reminder of the emotional complexities that underpin their relationship. The theme of grief and healing is woven throughout the narrative, influencing the characters' interactions and growth.
Poetry Book
Levi's poetry book, "Picking Daisies on Sundays," serves as a pivotal plot device, revealing his long-held love for the narrator. The book's discovery forces both characters to confront their true feelings and offers a path to reconciliation and understanding.
Dance Class
The dance class symbolizes the delicate balance of emotions between the narrator and Levi. Their physical closeness during the dance blurs the lines between pretense and reality, highlighting the unspoken desires and fears that define their relationship.
Analysis
"Picking Daisies on Sundays" by Liana Cincotti is a poignant exploration of unspoken love, friendship, and the complexities of human emotions. The narrative delves into the internal struggles of the narrator as she grapples with her feelings for Levi, highlighting the tension between maintaining a cherished friendship and risking it all for love. The story underscores the importance of communication and the dangers of assumptions, as the characters navigate misunderstandings and unexpressed emotions. Through the use of plot devices such as the pretend relationship and the discovery of Levi's poetry book, the narrative offers a path to reconciliation and understanding. Ultimately, the book is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the courage it takes to embrace one's true feelings, offering readers a heartfelt journey of love and self-discovery.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is Picking Daisies on Sundays about?
- Unrequited love and friendship: The story centers around a young woman, Daniella "Daisy" Maria, who is deeply in love with her best friend, Levi Coldwell. The narrative explores her internal conflict as she navigates her unspoken feelings while trying to maintain their close friendship.
- Years of unspoken feelings: The story spans several years, from high school to early adulthood, showcasing the evolution of Daniella and Levi's relationship and the challenges they face as they grow and change.
- A fake relationship with real consequences: A significant plot point involves Daniella and Levi pretending to be a couple to help Levi secure a job, which complicates their dynamic and forces them to confront their true feelings for each other.
- Finding love and self-discovery: Ultimately, the story is about Daniella's journey of self-discovery and her quest to find love, as she learns to embrace her vulnerabilities and take risks in pursuit of her own happiness.
Why should I read Picking Daisies on Sundays?
- Relatable emotional journey: Readers who enjoy stories about friendship, love, and self-discovery will find Daniella's emotional journey relatable and engaging. The novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of navigating unspoken feelings.
- Heartfelt and poignant narrative: Liana Cincotti's writing style is described as heartfelt and poignant, creating a story that resonates with readers on an emotional level. The novel delves into the characters' internal struggles and vulnerabilities, making them feel authentic and relatable.
- Exploration of themes: The novel explores themes of grief, healing, and the importance of communication in relationships. Readers who appreciate stories that delve into deeper emotional and psychological themes will find Picking Daisies on Sundays thought-provoking and meaningful.
- Character-driven story: The story is character-driven, with a focus on the development and growth of Daniella and Levi. Readers who enjoy stories that prioritize character development and emotional depth will find Picking Daisies on Sundays a rewarding read.
What is the background of Picking Daisies on Sundays?
- Grief and loss: The story is set against the backdrop of grief and loss, as both Daniella and Levi have experienced the death of a parent. This shared experience forms a strong bond between them and influences their perspectives on life and relationships.
- High school and college: The story spans several years, from the characters' high school years to their early adulthood in college. This allows the author to explore the challenges and transitions that young people face as they navigate their identities and relationships.
- New York City setting: The story is set in New York City, which provides a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for the characters' lives. The city's cultural and artistic scene influences their aspirations and provides opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery.
- Wedding industry: The wedding industry plays a role in the story, as Daniella's mother is a wedding dress designer. This provides insight into Daniella's creative pursuits and adds a layer of glamour and sophistication to the narrative.
What are the most memorable quotes in Picking Daisies on Sundays?
- "My heart's been borrowed and yours has been blue.": This quote from Taylor Swift's "Lover," used in the prologue, encapsulates the central theme of the story: the narrator's unrequited love and the bittersweet nature of their relationship. It foreshadows the emotional journey that Daniella will undertake.
- "How did I ever let time pass this long without seeing you?": This quote highlights the sense of longing and regret that both Daniella and Levi experience after years of separation. It speaks to the enduring nature of their connection and the missed opportunities that haunt them.
- "It's all you loved, but never yourself.": This quote encapsulates a central theme of the story, Daniella's tendency to prioritize others' needs and desires over her own. It highlights her journey of self-discovery and her struggle to embrace her own worth and happiness.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Liana Cincotti use?
- First-person narration: The story is told from Daniella's perspective, providing readers with intimate access to her thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This allows for a deep exploration of her internal struggles and emotional journey.
- Descriptive and evocative language: Cincotti uses descriptive and evocative language to create a vivid sense of place and atmosphere. The descriptions of New York City, the characters' emotions, and the details of their surroundings immerse the reader in the story.
- Use of flashbacks and memories: The narrative incorporates flashbacks and memories to provide context and depth to the characters' relationships and motivations. These glimpses into the past help readers understand the origins of Daniella and Levi's bond and the events that have shaped their lives.
- Dialogue-driven scenes: The story relies heavily on dialogue to reveal character relationships and advance the plot. The conversations between Daniella and Levi, as well as her friends and family, are realistic and engaging, providing insight into their personalities and motivations.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- Strawberry shortcake: Levi's lifelong love for strawberry shortcake, and his offer of "free strawberry shortcake for the rest of your life," symbolizes his deep understanding of Daniella and his willingness to offer her comfort and happiness. It's a recurring motif that represents their enduring connection.
- The fairy vase: The fairy vase that Daniella hides before Levi arrives symbolizes her insecurity and fear of being seen as childish or immature. It represents her struggle to reconcile her true self with the image she wants to project to others.
- The ladybug phobia: Daniella's fear of ladybugs, stemming from a childhood incident, highlights her vulnerability and the lasting impact of seemingly insignificant experiences. It also serves as a humorous detail that reveals her quirky personality.
- The color brown: Daniella reflects on how she "never understood why anyone spoke poorly of the color brown, it was a dream on you," referring to Levi's hair. This seemingly throwaway line reveals her deep admiration for him and how she finds beauty in his natural features.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- The prom night scene: The prologue foreshadows the heartbreak and separation that Daniella and Levi will experience, creating a sense of anticipation and dread. The image of Daniella being "stranded" as Levi rushes down the stairs hints at the power dynamics and emotional distance that will define their relationship.
- The tongue ring story: The "tongue story" that Gabe threatens to reveal foreshadows the awkwardness and vulnerability that Daniella will experience as she navigates her feelings for Levi. It also highlights the importance of honesty and communication in their relationship.
- The "friends" refrain: The recurring emphasis on Daniella and Levi being "just friends" serves as a subtle form of dramatic irony, as readers are aware of Daniella's true feelings and the potential for their relationship to evolve. It also creates a sense of tension and anticipation, as readers wait for them to finally acknowledge their love for each other.
- The wallpaper above her bed frame: Daniella reflects that "The wallpaper above her bed frame was glued in my brain the way it was glued against her walls. I got so close to running my fingers against it." This seemingly minor detail foreshadows the deep connection and familiarity between Daniella and Levi, as well as the lasting impact of their shared experiences.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- Marty and Levi: The revelation that Marty, the owner of Daniella's favorite bagel shop, is Levi's neighbor creates a sense of interconnectedness and serendipity. It highlights the small-world nature of New York City and the unexpected ways in which people's lives can intersect.
- Bella and Sarah: The connection between Bella and Sarah as friends adds complexity to the dynamic between Daniella, Levi, and Bella. It reveals that Bella is not simply an ex-girlfriend, but a part of Levi's family circle, making their interactions more nuanced and emotionally charged.
- Ethan and Levi: The subtle rivalry between Ethan and Levi, stemming from their differing views on Daniella's career and their unspoken attraction to her, creates tension and conflict in the story. It highlights the different paths that Daniella could take and the choices she must make about her future.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Jia and Gabe: As Daniella's best friends, Jia and Gabe provide unwavering support, comic relief, and honest advice throughout her journey. They serve as a sounding board for her emotions and help her navigate the complexities of her relationship with Levi.
- Trish Coldwell: As Levi's mother, Trish offers Daniella a sense of family and belonging, providing a warm and accepting presence in her life. Her approval and affection for Daniella add another layer of complexity to Daniella's feelings for Levi.
- Sarah Coldwell: As Levi's sister, Sarah serves as a bridge between Daniella and Levi, offering insight into his character and motivations. Her support and encouragement help Daniella to embrace her true feelings and take risks in pursuit of her own happiness.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Levi's need to provide: Levi's strong desire to secure a job, even one he doesn't particularly want, stems from his deep-seated need to provide for his family. Having lost his father at a young age, he feels a responsibility to support his mother and sisters, even at the expense of his own happiness.
- Daniella's fear of vulnerability: Daniella's reluctance to confess her feelings for Levi is rooted in her fear of vulnerability and rejection. Having experienced loss and heartbreak in the past, she is hesitant to open herself up to the possibility of further pain.
- Bella's desire for validation: Bella's continued presence in Levi's life, despite their breakup, suggests a desire for validation and attention. She seems to enjoy the power she holds over him through her mother's influence and the lingering connection they share.
- Ethan's ambition and entitlement: Ethan's actions towards Daniella reveal his ambition and sense of entitlement. He believes that he is entitled to her affection and that his connections and expertise give him the right to pressure her into making certain choices.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Daniella's low self-esteem: Daniella struggles with low self-esteem and a tendency to compare herself to others. She often doubts her own worth and abilities, which influences her decisions and relationships.
- Levi's selflessness and guilt: Levi's selflessness and dedication to his family are admirable, but they also come with a sense of guilt and a tendency to put others' needs before his own. He struggles to balance his responsibilities with his own desires and happiness.
- Bella's manipulative tendencies: Bella exhibits manipulative tendencies, using her mother's influence and her past relationship with Levi to get what she wants. She seems to enjoy playing games and exerting control over others.
- Ethan's inflated ego: Ethan displays an inflated ego and a sense of entitlement, believing that his expertise and connections give him the right to pressure Daniella into making certain choices. He lacks empathy and fails to recognize the impact of his actions on others.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- The prom night confession: The prom night confession, though ultimately deferred, marks a significant emotional turning point for Daniella. It forces her to confront her feelings for Levi and consider the potential consequences of her actions.
- The discovery of the poetry book: The discovery of Levi's poetry book is a major emotional turning point, as it reveals the depth of his feelings for Daniella and challenges her assumptions about their relationship.
- The kiss: The kiss between Daniella and Levi is a pivotal emotional moment, as it blurs the lines between friendship and romance and forces them to confront their true feelings for each other.
- Ethan's actions: Ethan's actions towards Daniella are a major emotional turning point, as they force her to recognize her own worth and take control of her life. It also serves as a catalyst for her decision to pursue her dreams in Paris.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Daniella and Levi: The relationship between Daniella and Levi evolves from a close friendship to a complex web of unspoken feelings, misunderstandings, and missed opportunities. Their dynamic is characterized by a push and pull between their desire for connection and their fear of vulnerability.
- Daniella and Ethan: The relationship between Daniella and Ethan evolves from a professional mentorship to a tense and uncomfortable power dynamic. Ethan's actions reveal his true character and force Daniella to assert her boundaries.
- Daniella and her friends: The relationship between Daniella and her friends, Jia and Gabe, remains a constant source of support and understanding throughout the story. Their unwavering friendship provides her with a sense of belonging and helps her navigate the challenges of her emotional journey.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The extent of Levi's awareness: While the poetry book reveals Levi's feelings for Daniella, the extent to which he was aware of his own emotions and the impact they had on her remains somewhat ambiguous. It's open to interpretation whether he was truly oblivious to her feelings or simply afraid to acknowledge them.
- The future of Daniella and Levi's relationship: While the story ends with Daniella and Levi together in Paris, the long-term prospects of their relationship remain open-ended. The challenges of distance, career aspirations, and personal growth could still test their bond in the future.
- The impact of Ethan's actions: The story leaves the reader to imagine the full consequences of Ethan's actions and the impact they will have on his career and reputation. It's unclear whether he will face any repercussions for his behavior or whether he will continue to exploit his power and influence.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Picking Daisies on Sundays?
- Levi's relationship with Bella: Levi's continued contact with Bella, despite their breakup and her manipulative behavior, could be seen as controversial. Some readers may question his judgment and wonder why he continues to engage with someone who clearly doesn't have his best interests at heart.
- Daniella's decision to pretend: Daniella's decision to pretend to be Levi's girlfriend could be seen as controversial, as it involves deceiving his family and potentially hurting others. Some readers may question her ethics and wonder if the ends justify the means.
- Ethan's behavior: Ethan's actions towards Daniella are undoubtedly controversial and could be seen as a form of sexual harassment. Some readers may find his behavior disturbing and question the power dynamics that exist in academic and professional settings.
Picking Daisies on Sundays Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- Acceptance and self-love: The ending emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and self-love as Daniella finally embraces her own worth and takes control of her life. Her decision to pursue her dreams in Paris is a testament to her newfound confidence and her willingness to take risks in pursuit of her own happiness.
- The power of vulnerability: The ending highlights the power of vulnerability and the importance of open communication in relationships. By finally expressing their true feelings for each other, Daniella and Levi are able to overcome years of misunderstandings and build a stronger, more authentic connection.
- A hopeful future: The ending offers a hopeful vision of the future, as Daniella and Levi embark on a new chapter in their lives together. Their decision to move to Paris symbolizes a commitment to their relationship and a willingness to embrace the unknown, suggesting that their love can overcome any obstacle.
Review Summary
Picking Daisies on Sundays garnered mixed reviews, with many readers praising its sweet romance and relatable characters. Fans appreciated the friends-to-lovers and fake dating tropes, as well as the poetic writing style. The main characters, Daniella and Levi, were particularly well-received, with Levi often described as the perfect book boyfriend. However, some critics found the miscommunication trope frustrating and the female lead's insecurity excessive. Overall, the book was lauded for its cozy, spring-like atmosphere and its ability to evoke warm, fuzzy feelings in readers.
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