Leave Something Behind

by Daniele Vaccaro

Robert Winters has spent his life searching the stars, hoping to find proof that humanity is not alone. After the devastating loss of his wife, his obsession with the cosmos grows even deeper, as he looks for meaning in a world full of unanswered questions. When a groundbreaking discovery changes everything, Robert must confront the mysteries of the universe—and the grief that haunts him. Leave Something Behind is a moving story of love, loss, and the search for meaning, where the answers may lie not only in the stars, but in the connections that endure beyond death.

Genres: Ebooks

119 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 5, 2025

About the author

Daniele Vaccaro is an Italian-born author currently living in the UK. Driven by a lifelong fascination with meaningful, heartfelt stories, his work explores the deep importance of human connection and themes that go beyond the material world. A confessed admirer of philosophical, existential narratives, particularly in the post-apocalyptic genre (like The Road), Daniele invites readers to look beyond earthly existence and think about the deeper purpose in their lives.

Reviews

[Jmo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderfully beautiful story full of love and questions about the mysteries of the universe. This short tale is about Robert and Janet’s story of building the life they’ve always dreamed of. Robert, an unfortunate man, just wants to leave his mark on the world and truly find something special for his meaning in life. He meets Janet one fateful night and from there it’s like they were meant to be. Many nights stargazing accompany this heart wrenching tale of sickness and tragedy that truly brings sorrow to the reader. There are some beautiful moments of writing here with plenty of ideals that are heart warming about the appreciation of human connection. The plot does feel like some steps are skipped between points as this is mostly a flashback but it’s a short story so it works. A huge thank you to the author for sending this to me in exchange for an honest review.

[Daisy Booktok · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd work by this author that I read. This is such a cute and inspiring novella. We follow the MMC throughout all of his challenges. The story ends in a sad but also sweet way.

[Sarjxx · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again another 5 star review for Daniele Vacarro.

I love books that make us think about life after death. Is there in fact a heaven? Or a place our souls go to.

This is the second book of Daniele that's made me not only think about if there is but to also cherish my time with my loved ones on earth if there isn't. Because let's be honest Auturn isn't a real place is it!?

Spoilers below:
👀 - 👀- 👀

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"I loved you before I ever even saw you, before you took your first breath. You were already a part of me." - This quote broke me. 💔👶🏻

And so did this one.
"this is our legacy. You and me, we’ve lived a love story that’s written in the stars." 📖✨️💔

Ahh and then the letter from Janet 💌
When I say I cried. I CRIED. 😭😭😭

It couldn't have had a better ending.
Robert was the man who proved humanity was not alone in the universe.

[Samanthasue218 · Rating 4 out of 5]

No spoilers. Read via kindle unlimited.

This short novella, has so much in it and flows so nicely. You get from the beginning of young adult to older, through such hard times and beautiful times. It is a different read than what I have read, but reminds me of a book that I have enjoyed in the past and I think I need to find more books like this as it is always nice to read something different than the normal books. This book will have you feeling the emotions along with the characters. I enjoyed this short novella a lot and looking forward to what this author will be publishing next.

Would I recommend? Yes, not only is the author an indie author, but short quick read that are done well are hard to come by I feel like for novellas and these are done so well.

[Tia · Rating 3 out of 5]

“One day someone will say your name for the last time, and then you’ll be forgotten”

This was a beautiful read.
The main character was likable and as a reader you can really empathize with him. I liked how it included the sad realities of this earthly life and how it was only the beginning of his story.

My thoughts: death is a difficult topic to discuss and is hardly brought up in day to day! I love how this topic is done in this novella.

Perfect read for me while I’m in the mist of a reading slump! Sped through this one in one sitting.

[Lynn Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful short story! You follow an older gentleman, who recently lost his wife, while he thinks back on the trials of his life. During those trials he is trying to find his purpose and what he can leave behind when he leaves this place. There is a beautiful love story that sprouts even through tragedy after tragedy all ending in a bittersweet conclusion. This story will make you tear up throughout but it is beautiful nevertheless. Another great short story by this author.

[Βίκυ Χ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soulful Whispers

Craving a narrative that stirs the spirit? Dive into Leave Something Behind by Daniele Vaccaro and let your soul be moved.

The endearing protagonists, Robert and Janet, were blessed with true love, yet life dealt them a cruel hand. Amidst the peaks of joy and the depths of grief, they remained loyal to each other and committed to their dreams. With extraordinary finesse, the author weaves a captivating tale that, though brief, overflows with resonant insights and powerful emotions. A well-chosen virtual narrator breathes life into every meticulously crafted page, ensuring that this story will live rent-free in your heart and mind.

Let your heart echo softly with every page—an unforgettable journey of soulful beauty awaits.

[Susan Vanderlaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love, and wonder. Leave Something behind makes you think of what could possibly come after our life on this planet. That we will truly see our loved ones again. Robert and Janet’s love story is one written in the stars and even though things were stacked against them having a life together they still pushed through, their love persevered through life, loss and everything in between!

[Samantha S · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an easy quick read. I had a feeling as to what direction the book was going in but I also have come across a few reviews which may have ruined it for me.

It was a sweet reminder to never give up on your dreams and surround yourself with those who believe in you. Also Robert’s relationship with his mom is so beautiful.

[Benjamin Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a perfect example of a short story done right. Never too much and always had emotion tied to every chapter. The ending was specifically emotional and was executed perfectly.

[Ilyana Guinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short story of 98 pages, yet my heart is so broken. It’s beautiful and also heartbreaking. It was very meaningful and spiritual. All I can say is that with every obstacle and challenge he was truly blessed in so many ways.

[Alicia M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to this author, you will be getting emotions and this was exactly that.

Now, I wanna first say I love this genre of finding love or finding back your one true love afterlife. One I've started to enjoy as of recent more than ever. I don't believe in aliens; that's for a different day, but when it comes to a great book, for me it's ALL ABOUT LOVE! And Robert and Janet's love story was one special one.

When it came to Robert, I wanted to jump in and kick some ass because lemme tell you something I don't work well with bullies. BUT that was apart of God's plans because he left prom and, not literally, but ran straight into the love of his life. The woman that would change his entire life. I'm happy that we got to see them happy and loving their best life against ALL ODDS. Their love as it was said in the book was "written in the stars" and how we had no idea how much those words would make such an impact on Robert's story. I also wanted to kick ass when it came to her dad, he was so angry and *sighs* Andromeda🥺. But still they had a great life. And they had amazing people in their corner right until the end. His mom was so precious too and that sperm donor didn't deserve their love, I couldn't imagine what he was about to do to Robert that night. My heart I tell you, my heart. But in the end, Robert made something of himself and Janet made it soooo much better.

Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. The ending was so out of this world. Lol, I know I know, but it was INDEED! out of this world. I will not hold back when I say that when he saw that R in the sky, that I didn't think that it was our dear Janet sending a message. But I didn't think it would make that much of an impact and I appreciated that on Robert's behalf because he wanted to leave a legacy and that he did. I cried throughout this book for Robert's bullying, home life with his brother and sperm donor, Andromeda, Janet and Robert BUT the best tears I cried were in the end knowing that Robert would see his true loves again. I love them so much and I loved this book.

[Tehmeena · Rating 5 out of 5]

~Arc Review~

Tropes;
💙 Novella
🌏 Stars/Space
💙 Love/Family
🌏 Life After Death
💙 No Cliff-hanger
🌏 HEA

Wow. Just wow. I won't be giving away any spoilers - this is one of those short stories that will grip your heartstrings. It really got me emotionally, it's very thought-provoking and makes you question life after death. What really is out there after it? Even though I have my own beliefs but I love seeing life and death through another lens, a different perspective, it causes one to open their mind. I love this book, it is heart-breakingly beautiful. I just wish it was longer.

The length is very short however there's so much happening! Each character brings their own energy and the interactions are believable, great plot and the pace is just right. It keeps the reader's attention from start to finish - certainly did mine. I love the ending, it's so sad but sweet. Robert and Janet's love story is so beautiful and wholesome, the side characters enhance plot and make them all relatable in various ways. Especially the not giving up on your dreams part!

Gosh. This has been a wild ride.

Thank you Daniele for the opportunity to arc review your work once again! I'm so grateful.

Out of Fives;
🌏 Cover: ✨✨✨✨✨
💙 Romance/Love: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌏 Angst: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
💙 Emotional Rollercoaster: 🎲🎲🎲🎲🎲
🌏 Mystery: 🌀🌀🌀
💙 Janet FMC: 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
🌏 Robert MMC: 💙💙💙💙💙
💙 Plotline: ⚖️⚖️⚖️⚖️⚖️
🌏 Pacing: ⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳
💙 Character Development: 👍👍👍👍👍
🌏 World Building: 🌍🌏🌍🌍🌏
💙 Book Received: eARC/Kindle.
🌏 Pages: 98.
💙 Chapters: 26
🌏 Genre: Fiction.
💙 Would I Recommend: Yes!
🌏 Overall Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[READERSBEWARE · Rating 5 out of 5]

no spoilers I’m not crying you are 😢

Leave Something Behind felt like sitting quietly with someone who knows their time matters, even if they don’t say it out loud. Daniele Vaccaro writes with a gentle, aching restraint, following a man whose love for the stars mirrors his need to believe that life can mean more than its fleeting moments. What struck me immediately was how intimate the story feels—less like reading a plot and more like being invited into someone’s memories, hopes, and regrets. The science-fiction elements never overpower the human core; instead, they hover in the background like distant constellations, beautiful but unreachable.

The sadness of this book doesn’t come from shock or tragedy, but from inevitability. Every page carries the quiet weight of time passing, of choices made and moments that can never quite be held onto. The relationship at the heart of the story is written with such tenderness that it hurts—love shown not through grand speeches, but through shared silences, sacrifices, and unspoken understanding. I found myself pausing often, not because the story was slow, but because it felt too real, like reading someone’s private thoughts about what they’ll leave behind when they’re gone.

By the end, Leave Something Behind left me with a hollow, reflective ache—the kind that lingers long after you close the book. It’s a story about legacy, not in the heroic sense, but in the quiet way ordinary people matter to one another. Short but emotionally heavy, it asks you to think about what truly lasts: dreams unfulfilled, love given freely, and the small imprints we leave on the lives we touch. It’s a sad book, but a meaningful one—soft, sincere, and quietly devastating without ever needing to say too much.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

“One day, someone will say your name for the last time and then you’ll be forgotten."

This short story is a moving reflection on love, death, and what it means to leave a mark on the world. Though it is short, it carries a powerful emotional weight that lingers long after the final page.

The story centers on Robert, a man who has always been captivated by space. His lifelong dream is to discover life beyond Earth, not just for the sake of science, but because he wants to be remembered. After the loss of his beloved wife, he finds himself adrift, questioning the meaning of life and his place in it. But everything changes when he spots something unusual in the sky.

One of the most memorable quotes from the story is:

“Maybe it’s not about being remembered by everyone. Maybe it’s about the impact you have on the people close to you. People who really know you. That’s just as important, isn’t it?”

This line perfectly captures what I believe to be the heart of the story. It’s not just about legacy in a grand, historical sense—it's about love, connection, and the small yet profound ways we touch each other’s lives.

I truly loved this story. It’s a quiet reminder of what truly matters.

[Beatriz Lemos Moniz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️

🇵🇹 Esta é a segunda novela que leio deste autor e, novamente, gostei muito.

O autor consegue com imensa facilidade escrever pouco, mas escrever intenso.
Esta novela, apesar de ser pequena, tem imensa história e imensa emocão.

Aqui lemos sobre um homem que queria muito descobrir algo, ser alguém que ficasse nos livros de história, alguém importante para o mundo que jamais pudesse ser esquecido.
Ao longo destas páginas nós conhecemos quase toda a sua vida até ao presente.

Novamente uma novela muito bonita que sabe muito bem representar o amor e o valor da família 🥹

🇺🇸 This is the second novella I’ve read by this author and, once again, I really enjoyed it.

The author has an incredible ability to write little, yet write with great intensity.
Despite being short, this novella carries so much story and so much emotion.

Here we read about a man who deeply longed to discover something — to become someone whose name would be recorded in history, someone important to the world who could never be forgotten.
Throughout these pages, we get to know almost his entire life up to the present.

Another very beautiful novella that portrays love and the value of family wonderfully well. 🥹

[Jodi_xo✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75⭐️

First I’d like to start by thanking the author Daniele for sending me a copy of his wonderful book to read. These are my honest opinions and review. I am grateful for receiving a copy, but that does not affect my review in any way. I will always give my 100% true and honest opinion of a book.

I thought this short story was absolutely beautiful, the entire thing was wonderful to read. It had parts to make you feel emotional for all the heartache the characters experienced, but overall it was emotional, heartwarming and sweet. I liked how it gives you a glimpse into the aspects of Robert’s life that stuck with him over the years, the things that shaped who he was in his final years. Parts of the story were sad, but it allowed you to feel the same emotions the character felt.

I gave this book a 4.75⭐️ instead of a 5⭐️ because I would have liked for it to have been a little longer. Overall, I loved this book and recommend it to everyone whether it’s a genre you’d usually read or not. It’s a sweet short story and I think it deserves a lot more attention than it gets.

[Liana Van Doren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.25

Daniele Vaccaro did a great job presenting us daily life with its real and raw thoughts and emotions. Real life struggles with a touch of either fantasy, science fiction or true believe (depending on your view on things about life and death). A very emotional but enjoyable read.

It was heartbreaking but beautiful to follow Robert in his journey of life (and death). To know what he has to deal with, what he has gone through and what he is truly longing for in the end.
AND He never gave up on his dream, how unrealistic it might sound. All thanks to his true love who never thought he was crazy and who always believed in him. Robert and Janet are so wholesome together.

In my opinion, It did have some repetitive descriptions of thoughts and feelings but it wasn't too bothersome. Overal I really enjoyed reading this and am glad I got to experience their life.

The biggest message this story gave me is realizing what is important in life and what love really means but also to never give up on your dreams.

Thank you for this beautiful story!

[Sumi Gabriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love indie authors because they have a bigger passion in story telling than the popular ones that write books faster than line at an Amazon distribution center. This story goes so much deeper than what the title suggests. This is a story about a man who didn’t have it easy. He was bullied as a kid, rejected by his father, and tormented y his brother. The only place he found love and solace was through his mother and his one true love. He’s always had a passion for the stars and he was determined to make an incredible discovery so that he can be remembered throughout time. But, this story is so much more than that. This story tackles different conversations that we try to understand today. Do we want to leave something behind for strangers to remember us by? Or do we make an impact in our personal little universe that will allow our families to cherish us and continue with the legacy we leave to them? The MMC lost so much, but gained so much more in the end. Bravo Mr. Vaccaro. This book is a home run!! 5⭐️

[Maxine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this book packs a punch for less than 100 pages. You really feel for Robert whose life has been one gut punch after another with only his mother for love and support until Julie came along and even their love story while enduring is one full of heart break. I do wish there had been one more chapter with everyone reuniting because I just needed that closure but this book def got me choaked up as seems to be the habit for this author. They might be short, but they are mighty with the feels.

This book is about Robert whose life is has been spent looking to the stars in hopes of proving that they are not alone in the universe. This need to prove they are not alone so that his name stands the test of time for such a groundbreaking discovery becomes an obsession following the death of his wife because now he is filled with so many unanswered questions. So, while battling with the grief and loss that haunts him, he is also confronting the mysteries of the universe that leads to an amazing discovery that changes him and the world forever.

[⚜️Heather-Christine⚜️ Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

one thing is inevitable, everyone dies but few of us actually live!

A beautiful story that serves as a poignant reminder to live each day as if it were your last. I entered the book expecting yet another heart-wrenching emotional rollercoaster—and that’s precisely what I experienced. Daniele Vaccaro has an extraordinary gift for weaving gripping, emotionally resonant narratives that stay with you long after the last page is turned. This latest work is no exception, offering not only a captivating plot but a deeper message: a powerful reminder to find beauty in the seemingly ordinary moments of our lives. With every word, Vaccaro invites readers to reflect on what truly matters, urging us to embrace life fully and appreciate the fleeting nature of time. It's a story that tugs at the heart while encouraging a shift in perspective—one that makes us pause, reflect, and, ultimately, live more intentionally.

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniele has emotionally wrecked me, again! I should have known it was coming given the first line was "One day, someone will say your name for the last time, and then you'll be forgotten."

The story follows Robert, a man who has faced many challenges in his life. It's his journey on finding his purpose and what he can be remembered by when his time on earth comes to an end.

This is a beautiful short story, it highlights what is important in life. This is the second book I've read from this author, I love how in both books the author doesn't shy away from talking about death and creating a world where life exists after death. Obviously none of us truly know what happens after death but I like that the author explores some possibilities with their writing, for me personally, it gives me hope and makes me a little less scared about the unknown.

Daniele has become an author I will read anything and everything they write.

[Busychapterbelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a world that often feels chaotic, the love story of Robert and Janet stands out as a beacon of hope and connection. From their youth, both shared a fascination with the cosmos, finding solace in the beauty of the night sky. While Robert dreamed of exploring the universe beyond our planet, Janet was right by his side, nurturing that dream and adding her own passion for the stars. Their journey was not without challenges, but it was the strength of their bond that saw them through every trial, reminding us that true love can weather any storm.
Their relationship was built on mutual respect and a shared curiosity about the universe, which only deepened their connection.
As we witness their final moments together, we are left with questions about life, love, and what lies beyond.
Their story invites us to dream, to love deeply, and to cherish every moment we have with those who matter most.
I really appreciate receiving this from the author.

[Nanasbookreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Leave Something Behind by Daniele Vaccaro is a heartfelt and emotional story about a man who longed to be remembered.

This book is beautifully written and evokes a wide range of emotions. It follows the life of Robert, a man enamored with the stars, always searching for something that would leave a lasting impact. Throughout his life, the stars were his source of hope—guiding him through difficult childhood moments, deepening his connection with his wife, and remaining a constant even in times of tragedy. His entire journey is intertwined with the stars, making his ultimate discovery both profound and deeply moving.

Robert's story feels incredibly real, making it easy to connect with him and his experiences. My favorite part was when he finally learned about his discovery—it was truly powerful.

If you're looking for a unique and touching story, this book is definitely worth reading.

[ChanaReadsHorror · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a sweet and touching book that will pull on your heart strings. We all always wonder what will our legacy be and what will be around for others to remember us by when we leave this mortal plane.
We follow a man named Robert who always dreamed big. He wanted to be the one to stargaze and find out if we are not alone in the universe. When he wife, Janet, passes away, he seeks out to finish what they started back when they just started their love story. When he sees something that could help him prove his theory and cement the fact they would never be forgotten he looks back on their life together and what parts he will never forget.
The only reason I am giving this 3 stars and not 4 is I feel the ending seemed rushed with the build up to it. I wish it was taken at a slower pace and it would have been a 4.

[Emma Minazza · Rating 4 out of 5]

People passing away is a part of life and Robert wanting to be remembered by something he'd done in his life is nice to think of. We all want to be remembered after we pass but some are remembered more than others.

I like Janet and Robert's story, their love is more powerful together and it's sad to hear of Janet's dad not approving of Robert when he proposed. This story has heartbreaking parts but also parts that build you up again. I cherish their love story and wished them well throughout. Wondering where their tale would take them.

I love the idea of stargazing and finding a special place that they can be themselves together. Over the years, their love grows, everything seems fantastic until her dad tracks them down.

My only criticism is that the ending felt a little rushed, still enjoyable but shows that all came right in the end.

[Nyahthebookreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart wrenching but absolutely gorgeous.
I really really loved this book. Most times I read romance or fantasy but I also love a good book that makes me think, which is exactly what this one has done.
The story really makes you think about why we are here on earth and what live really is about. It is easy in our world to get caught up in succes and career making us forget what is truly important. This book really is a reality check in your own life and makes you rethink your own choices.
As I already said, I love romance. I also really love that the author incorporated this in the book. It was such a soft and warm love that makes you melt inside.
If all of this doesn’t convince you to read it, this might: I NEVER cry with books (like ever) but the ending of this had me crying my eyes out (in a good way).
Definitely recommend this book, you’ll love it!

[Fedythereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for sharing a copy of this short novella with me!!

“One day, someone will say your name for the last time, and then you’ll be forgotten”

This book was all about love, hope, happiness, fear, grief and joy. It made me feel all sorts of emotions even though it was nicely wrapped up in a very short novella. It made me loose happiness with that grief. It made me regain hope with a simple message. It made me question the reason why we are here and if there’s more. And I made me fall in love with love with a sweet and simple and yet marvellous romance between two young people who grew together and fall soo deeply that one’s soul was not fully complete until it found the other’s. Plus, the author has the uncanny ability to make me emotional in a way that it so true even if there’s nothing much to add to the story! I’m so glad I got a chance to read it !!

[Delusional Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. This book follows Robert whose wife died several years prior. He spends every day at her grave sight talking to her. At the start of the book he leaves her grave heads home to look through his telescope (him and his wife use to bond over looking at the stars). When he looks he notices something that was not there before and sets out to NASA Headquarters. While on the road it flashed back to tell their love story through the eyes of Robert. This was such a beautiful story. There were some pretty sad moments, but also some very beautiful ones. Every time I put the story down I had no choice but to pick it back up because I needed to know what happened next. The only issue I had is that I wish it was a little bit longer because I would have loved some moments to go into more details.

Reader Beware: You might cry a bit!

[Iris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leave something behind
Author: Danielle Vaccaro

Robert has a difficult childhood. He was bullied at school and his stepfather was a violent man.

One day he meets his great love Janet. Her arrival in his life becomes his personal light in the universe.

The couple share a passion for the supernatural and astrology.

Together they dream of making a great discovery that would change the future of humanity once and for all...

I was very impressed by the storyline. Despite the short length of the book, the author managed to convey the emotions of the characters well.

At times I did find that the negative events in the storyline were a bit too overpowering.

I would like to thank the author for reaching out and providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Trigger warnings:
Bullying, domestic violence, miscarriage, death&grief