A BIG Thank You to NetGalley and Fresh Ink Group for providing me a copy of “Daisy, Bold & Beautiful” by by Ellie Collins in exchange for my review. I really wasn’t expecting to like this book as much as I did! “Daisy” was a sweet and charming book to read!

It’s always tough being the new kid in school, and the author has written DJ’s story in a very positive manner. She shows DJ’s vulnerable side by highlighting how she tries to adjust making friends than being socially awkward. I actually enjoyed the fantasy element where DJ meets Persephone for help. I’m sure the pure history buffs of Greek mythology might roll their eyes on how Hades is mentioned, but it was hilarious thinking of the Greed Gods as teenagers. My favorite character in the story is May. This girl is so upbeat and positive in life that she would make anyone comfortable to be her friend. I also liked Lexi’s trivia knowledge randomly mentioned. I was expecting someone like Payton to be more negative and hostile towards DJ. It would have been interesting to see a negative character in the book and see how DJ deals with her.

Ellie Collins has wonderful job in writing this novel! Wait a minute, the author is just a teenager? Holy cow, that is amazing! When I was reading this book, I thought it was written by a 20 or 30 year old professional! I can definitely see Ellie Collins going a long way, and cannot wait to read her future releases! Her style of writing is so smooth and simple, and the plot is easy to understand and follow. I would love to see her try another genre such as a more mature young adult theme.

The primary reason I didn’t give this a 5 star rating was because of the cover. Firstly, who is that supposed to be in the cover? I suspect it is Persephone as she looks mature based on her stature. Why didn’t they just put an illustration of DJ with her friends, as she is the main protagonist? Secondly, if it is Persephone’s garden, it is supposed to look lush and vibrant. Instead the cover looks dull, and so does the character. It’s such a shame because the cover doesn’t do justice to the lovely story. Had I not received this for a review, I don’t think I would have picked it up based on the cover. It makes the book seem like this is a book for preschoolers.

Overall, this is a sweet and light-hearted middle grade book to read and I rate it 4/5 stars.