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Verona Legacy #0.5
Angel of Tears
Matteo Bellatoni is only passing through town.
He doesn't expect to find himself playing hero late at night.
Caitlin O'Connell is running from life.
It's hardly any surprise when she finds herself in an alley with a man who wants to hurt her.
But then he appears. A dark angel sent to save her.
When Matteo offers her a ride home, she should say no. She should thank him and never look back. But it's been so long since anyone took care of Caitlin, she can't do it.
She can't say no.
Besides, it's only one night.... One perfect storm.
What's the worst that can happen?
*Angel of Tears is a short story set in the Verona Legacy world best read before Savior of Regrets. Due to mature content, this book is recommended for readers 18+
He doesn't expect to find himself playing hero late at night.
Caitlin O'Connell is running from life.
It's hardly any surprise when she finds herself in an alley with a man who wants to hurt her.
But then he appears. A dark angel sent to save her.
When Matteo offers her a ride home, she should say no. She should thank him and never look back. But it's been so long since anyone took care of Caitlin, she can't do it.
She can't say no.
Besides, it's only one night.... One perfect storm.
What's the worst that can happen?
*Angel of Tears is a short story set in the Verona Legacy world best read before Savior of Regrets. Due to mature content, this book is recommended for readers 18+
49 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2021
68 people are currently reading
874 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Cotton
120 books3,129 followers Reckless Love. Wild Hearts.
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 16, 2021
4 stars!
I read this novella in the LOVE IN LOCKDOWN anthology. It takes place before PRINCE OF HEARTS in LA Cotton's Verona Legacy series and follows Matteo, the sweeter mafioso. Matteo, Enzo, and Nicco are out of town collecting their debt from a strip club owner when Matteo hears a cry for help. In the darkness of the alley, he finds Caitlin who was ambushed while walking home from work. After chasing off her attacker, Matteo escorts her home where a storm keeps them stranded inside. As their attraction for each other grows, their walls come down...if only for one night. I loved this little sneak peek of Matteo and Cait's story, and I can't wait for more from them in SAVIOR OF REGRETS!
I read this novella in the LOVE IN LOCKDOWN anthology. It takes place before PRINCE OF HEARTS in LA Cotton's Verona Legacy series and follows Matteo, the sweeter mafioso. Matteo, Enzo, and Nicco are out of town collecting their debt from a strip club owner when Matteo hears a cry for help. In the darkness of the alley, he finds Caitlin who was ambushed while walking home from work. After chasing off her attacker, Matteo escorts her home where a storm keeps them stranded inside. As their attraction for each other grows, their walls come down...if only for one night. I loved this little sneak peek of Matteo and Cait's story, and I can't wait for more from them in SAVIOR OF REGRETS!
August 21, 2020
FIVE STORM STARS for Caitlin and Matteo ❤🖤❤🖤!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was short and so sweet!
“Angel of Tears” is a novella that precedes the “Verona Legacy” series and should be read before reading “Prince of Hearts”.
It's a dark bully college romance with the mafia trope.
Caitlin is a mysterious female character who thinks that because she comes from the wrong side of the track she is not good enough for Matteo.
Matteo is a male character who is completely different from his two cousins because his heart is good and full of love for family.
Caitlin and Matteo's chemistry is amazing and I hope their paths will cross again so they could get their happily ever after.
Highly recommended!!!
P.S. Can't wait for "Savior of Regrets" 😍❤🔥!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was short and so sweet!
“Angel of Tears” is a novella that precedes the “Verona Legacy” series and should be read before reading “Prince of Hearts”.
It's a dark bully college romance with the mafia trope.
Caitlin is a mysterious female character who thinks that because she comes from the wrong side of the track she is not good enough for Matteo.
Matteo is a male character who is completely different from his two cousins because his heart is good and full of love for family.
Caitlin and Matteo's chemistry is amazing and I hope their paths will cross again so they could get their happily ever after.
Highly recommended!!!
P.S. Can't wait for "Savior of Regrets" 😍❤🔥!!!
October 20, 2020
My 5 star review is for Angel of Tears by la cotton! This is as a beautiful story and one I won’t forget! Matteo and Cait meet under dire circumstances but what starts off as a horrible nights turns out to be one they won’t ever forget!
July 20, 2021
OH LA Cotton, you tease! Originally from the Love in Lockdown anthology but now available as a short story, this is the prequel that sets up the much anticipated full length Verona legacy story about the swoony Matteo- the sweetheart of the three mafia musketeers and cousin to the Prince of Hearts leading man Nicco. And after reading this, Savior of Regrets could not come fast enough!
Prince of Heats introduced us to Matteo- the softer, humorous, gentle hearted and loving mafioso, though of course he is still a man who lives in the dark and twisted Verona world. But this introduction encapsulates what makes him so special- the Matteo who while out on mafia business saves the mysterious Caitlin from an attack and escorts her home. They end up being stranded together, where a sizzling and intriguing chemistry brews between them as we see these two find connection on this fated night.
Of course, like all prequel short stories, this one intentionally leaves us desperately wanting more- is there a future for these two endearing characters? And what barriers will inevitably obstruct their path to romance? Can two characters from completely different worlds find their way to each other? I’m excited for a heroine from the “outside’- and I can’t wait for more!
Prince of Heats introduced us to Matteo- the softer, humorous, gentle hearted and loving mafioso, though of course he is still a man who lives in the dark and twisted Verona world. But this introduction encapsulates what makes him so special- the Matteo who while out on mafia business saves the mysterious Caitlin from an attack and escorts her home. They end up being stranded together, where a sizzling and intriguing chemistry brews between them as we see these two find connection on this fated night.
Of course, like all prequel short stories, this one intentionally leaves us desperately wanting more- is there a future for these two endearing characters? And what barriers will inevitably obstruct their path to romance? Can two characters from completely different worlds find their way to each other? I’m excited for a heroine from the “outside’- and I can’t wait for more!
March 21, 2022
Loved this prequel!!! I didn’t want it to end!! Amazing start to this series!
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July 19, 2020
This is part of an anthology and is a short novella featuring Matteo from the Verona Legacy by LA Cotton. I enjoyed the short story a lot and hope that the author decides to give Matteo a full length book. It was just the right amount to get you hooked, a little sample and now I want the full hit. Caitlin and Matteo have great chemistry and is leaving it up to fate to have their paths cross again! I do hope that is the case! Give me more please!
August 31, 2021
A teenage/younger generation mafia story
Angel of tears is the prequel to book 4 in this series.
Matteo rescues Caitlin from what can only be described as any woman's worse nightmare, he was her night in shining armour and after that they end up spending one night together.
I really don't want to give to much away, this is a short story but it finished leaving me itching to know if these two strangers would ever meet again and under what circumstance the next time.
I'm looking forward to reading all about their second chance in Savior of regrets.
Angel of tears is the prequel to book 4 in this series.
Matteo rescues Caitlin from what can only be described as any woman's worse nightmare, he was her night in shining armour and after that they end up spending one night together.
I really don't want to give to much away, this is a short story but it finished leaving me itching to know if these two strangers would ever meet again and under what circumstance the next time.
I'm looking forward to reading all about their second chance in Savior of regrets.
July 17, 2020
I loved this quick read and instantly knew I’d want more of Matteo. He is such a guy with a heart of gold but loves his family fiercely. When he heard Caitlin in trouble he never hesitated to run to her aid and be the hero during a terrible storm. Caitlin is mysterious and thinks since she comes from the wrong side of the tracks she isn’t a good match for Matteo so they promise just one night until the storm passes. These two were incredible and I would love to see more of them.
February 13, 2022
Sweet prequel
I loved Caitlin and Matteo’s meeting. Her dark angel, swooping in to save her, little did she know he was one of the Marchetti men.
“Moments like this, what we shared last night, are rare. Like shooting stars. They burn bright, but don’t last.”
Very much an instant attraction. This is a very short and sweet introduction to a series I adored. The Verona Legacy is well worth picking up. 3 ⭐️
I loved Caitlin and Matteo’s meeting. Her dark angel, swooping in to save her, little did she know he was one of the Marchetti men.
“Moments like this, what we shared last night, are rare. Like shooting stars. They burn bright, but don’t last.”
Very much an instant attraction. This is a very short and sweet introduction to a series I adored. The Verona Legacy is well worth picking up. 3 ⭐️
July 20, 2021
I adore, and I mean truly adore, this authors ability to suck my into whatever world they are writing about and keep me there. And this short little prelude to Savior Of Regrets has sucked me back into Verona and all the grit and angst that I just know will be coming for me. I cannot wait
October 18, 2020
Angel Of Tears (Verona Legacy, #0.5) by L.A. Cotton
5 STARS
RTC
5 STARS
RTC
May 27, 2022
comum dms
July 2, 2021
Quick. Short. Steamy. You'll fall in love with Caitlin and Matteo!
The couple reminded me of Damon and Red from Ruby, a short story the author wrote for the Wild In The Windy City: The Anthology Volume 3. Even if they met shortly, their chemistry was undeniable. The hero was every bit of a gentleman and no doubt boyfriend material. He and Cait were absolutely cute together and I cannot wait to read more about them.
The couple reminded me of Damon and Red from Ruby, a short story the author wrote for the Wild In The Windy City: The Anthology Volume 3. Even if they met shortly, their chemistry was undeniable. The hero was every bit of a gentleman and no doubt boyfriend material. He and Cait were absolutely cute together and I cannot wait to read more about them.
August 10, 2020
Review from June in Love in Lockdown
Matteo is one of my favourites from the Verona Legacy so I’m really happy I got to see more of him! He’s such a great character, and here it’s proved that he has a heart of gold. He’s a gentleman and I just love everything about him. Him and Caitlin had this spark from the start so it was a cute short story to read, although I really secretly hope that we’ll get more of him, and that him and Caitlin cross paths again (in King of Souls).
***
Follow me on Instagram for book edits.
Matteo is one of my favourites from the Verona Legacy so I’m really happy I got to see more of him! He’s such a great character, and here it’s proved that he has a heart of gold. He’s a gentleman and I just love everything about him. Him and Caitlin had this spark from the start so it was a cute short story to read, although I really secretly hope that we’ll get more of him, and that him and Caitlin cross paths again (in King of Souls).
***
Follow me on Instagram for book edits.
February 26, 2023
Angel of Tears is a novella that is centered around how Matteo and Caitlin meet one another. They have a full-length book within the Verona Legacy series. From what I can tell, they reunite by chance a few years after this novella, and that's when their romance really starts. I have yet to read the novel, but I really want to read it and plan to read it as soon as possible because I love this novella. In the novella, we see Matteo rescue Caitlin, and then we get to see them spend the night together; yes, it was a quick read, and it was insta-lovey, but I loved how it played out in this one, and it just didn't feel insta-lovey. I thought it was so much fun to see their connection just grow over time while they spent the night together, and I loved that they didn't just jump straight into bed right after getting back to her apartment. It was cute how he stayed with her because he saw she was scared of the dark. Still, I'm so curious about her past, and I really hope the novel explains why she's scared of the dark and why she no longer dances. I also really loved how Matteo didn't want to leave in the morning, he couldn't explain what made this instant connection to her, but he just didn't want to leave her. Finally, however, they made a promise it was just for one night, and Caitlyn sticks to that promise, and Matteo has to leave. I think it was cute that she stuck to their promise because normally, it's always the girls wanting to instantly break that one-night rule, and I loved that this novella had it flipped. I need to know how they reconnect, what happened in between, and how their story ends. I'm just nervous about picking up that book because I know it's the third book in the series, and I just don't know if I want to read the first two or just skip right to their book.
August 1, 2021
This novella may be labeled 0.5, but personally I think it is best read right before Savior of Regrets. It is the perfect lead in to Matteo's story and also a glimpse to where his head has been during the last few books, on a perfect night.
Matteo has always been just a bit different than his cousins, a man who respected his sister and mother and perhaps was looking for a woman he could hold up to those high standards. While he also works for the mafia, he's is a bad boy, so he knows he's not a good guy, but when he hears a woman getting abused and potentially raped in an alleyway, he steps in to stop it. Don't call him a hero, he doesn't like those words, but there is something almost sweet to Matteo's dark personality.
Cait has secrets that Matteo barely scratches through, but she prefers it that way. After spending an amazing night with her rescuer she sends him on his way the morning after, keeping her secrets to herself, but like all things in life that are too good to be true, their paths may cross again and the next time it may not be quite so sweet.
I love this short story and really can't wait to dive into their full novel.
Matteo has always been just a bit different than his cousins, a man who respected his sister and mother and perhaps was looking for a woman he could hold up to those high standards. While he also works for the mafia, he's is a bad boy, so he knows he's not a good guy, but when he hears a woman getting abused and potentially raped in an alleyway, he steps in to stop it. Don't call him a hero, he doesn't like those words, but there is something almost sweet to Matteo's dark personality.
Cait has secrets that Matteo barely scratches through, but she prefers it that way. After spending an amazing night with her rescuer she sends him on his way the morning after, keeping her secrets to herself, but like all things in life that are too good to be true, their paths may cross again and the next time it may not be quite so sweet.
I love this short story and really can't wait to dive into their full novel.
August 7, 2021
Matteo is a Savior of SO-MUCH!! 🔥🖤
Matteo is my dark knight in grunge armor! 💋 Angel of Tears is a quick view into the college men who rule as the next generation of the mafia in Verona—Angelo Marchetti, Niccolo Marchetti, and last but not least, Matteo Bellatoni!
“He had a body carved of sin and painted with ink, but his eyes were kind and his smile genuine.” - Angel of Tears
This short story of Caitlin and Matteo first encounter sets up a tale of the “noble knights man” who comes to the rescue of the damsel in distress with a gritty twist! And when the two reunite in the upcoming release in a Savior of Regrets, and you bet, I can not wait to see what goes down between the two!
“Until the next storm.” - Caitlin
If you enjoy dark, mafia romances with all the twists and desires that L. A. Cotton does so well at executing in her stories, I promise you will not be disappointed.
This rating was given for the great world building, wonderful characters, and steamy angst that the Verona Legacy series does exceptionally well to engage the reader of this trope.
Matteo is my dark knight in grunge armor! 💋 Angel of Tears is a quick view into the college men who rule as the next generation of the mafia in Verona—Angelo Marchetti, Niccolo Marchetti, and last but not least, Matteo Bellatoni!
“He had a body carved of sin and painted with ink, but his eyes were kind and his smile genuine.” - Angel of Tears
This short story of Caitlin and Matteo first encounter sets up a tale of the “noble knights man” who comes to the rescue of the damsel in distress with a gritty twist! And when the two reunite in the upcoming release in a Savior of Regrets, and you bet, I can not wait to see what goes down between the two!
“Until the next storm.” - Caitlin
If you enjoy dark, mafia romances with all the twists and desires that L. A. Cotton does so well at executing in her stories, I promise you will not be disappointed.
This rating was given for the great world building, wonderful characters, and steamy angst that the Verona Legacy series does exceptionally well to engage the reader of this trope.
July 17, 2020
I read this short in an anthology. I'm looking forward to the full story.
The novella follows Matteo and Caitlin. Caitlin finds herself in trouble and Matteo comes to her rescue. He can't seem to get her out of his head so he spends one amazing night with her that he will surely not forget anytime soon.
Can't wait to see what happens next.
I loved getting into Matteos head after reading about him in Prince of Hearts. I loved his heart so much. He's the softer of the 3 of them and he has such a big heart to love. I enjoyed him and Caitlin so much and look forward to seeing more of that going on in his story in the future.
Caitlin was sad, so very sad, but she was also realistic. She believed her night with Matteo was a one off, but I know if Matteo has anything to say about it, it definitely won't be just one. He will fight for her because he bonded with her during that night. I love how he took the time to get to know her instead of just jumping into bed.
The novella follows Matteo and Caitlin. Caitlin finds herself in trouble and Matteo comes to her rescue. He can't seem to get her out of his head so he spends one amazing night with her that he will surely not forget anytime soon.
Can't wait to see what happens next.
I loved getting into Matteos head after reading about him in Prince of Hearts. I loved his heart so much. He's the softer of the 3 of them and he has such a big heart to love. I enjoyed him and Caitlin so much and look forward to seeing more of that going on in his story in the future.
Caitlin was sad, so very sad, but she was also realistic. She believed her night with Matteo was a one off, but I know if Matteo has anything to say about it, it definitely won't be just one. He will fight for her because he bonded with her during that night. I love how he took the time to get to know her instead of just jumping into bed.
July 17, 2020
Angel of Tears is a short story that begins before Prince of Hearts. It can be read as a prequel to Matteos story coming soon. If you're like me you fell in love with Matteo in Prince of Hearts. He is our bad boy Nicco's cousin. This story follows Matteo and Caitlin a girl he meets and saves one night. You will love the chemistry between them right away. Now remember its only a short story and it will leave you wanting more. LA never is a disappointment. Her stories are always 100% amazing and this one is no different. Verona Legacy is starting out to be a great series.
July 17, 2020
Matteo and Caitlin's story here ... Matteo is taking care of business when he finds he is at just the right place at the right time .
Caitlin is skeptical but thankful to see Matteo and wants to show her appreciation for his help
these two getting to know each other the banter was fun .
how they weathered the storm was intriguing .
and even though this was a glimpse the characters got to know each other can we give the author props for that in itself ... you guys should add love in lockdown to your TBR 🔥🔥🔥
Caitlin is skeptical but thankful to see Matteo and wants to show her appreciation for his help
these two getting to know each other the banter was fun .
how they weathered the storm was intriguing .
and even though this was a glimpse the characters got to know each other can we give the author props for that in itself ... you guys should add love in lockdown to your TBR 🔥🔥🔥
August 24, 2020
5+ STARS!!!!
Fucking beautiful!
L.A. Cotton has been one of my favorite authors since I had read Prince of Hearts and I just and just absolutely love her writings! They end of her stories always makes you needing for more!
This was Matteo and Caitlin's story and I really love them as much as I love NicoAri and EnzoNora!
I read this in the "Love In Lockdown" Anthology and I really want to know what happens next!
I just want 2021 to come sooner so that their book comes out and I can finally read it!
Fucking beautiful!
L.A. Cotton has been one of my favorite authors since I had read Prince of Hearts and I just and just absolutely love her writings! They end of her stories always makes you needing for more!
This was Matteo and Caitlin's story and I really love them as much as I love NicoAri and EnzoNora!
I read this in the "Love In Lockdown" Anthology and I really want to know what happens next!
I just want 2021 to come sooner so that their book comes out and I can finally read it!
September 2, 2021
We meet Caitlin and Matteo, and they are from two different worlds. They have a connection after Matteo finds Caitlin and helps her. Mother nature plays a part in the match making with them being caught inside by a storm, but one night is all they needed to let everything fall away.
One night was all Matteo needed to know he wanted more with Caitlin but for some reason she wouldn’t even give him her phone number. Caitlin knew that girls like her never got men like Matteo and it was best to let him go.
Can wait to see what happens with them in Saviour of Regrets.
One night was all Matteo needed to know he wanted more with Caitlin but for some reason she wouldn’t even give him her phone number. Caitlin knew that girls like her never got men like Matteo and it was best to let him go.
Can wait to see what happens with them in Saviour of Regrets.
July 29, 2021
This is a prequel to savoir of regrets which is out in August.
It gives us one night in Matteo and Caitlins life.
Matteo is a softie in disguise, Caitlin is a damsel in distress. One stormy night and they both find something they aren't looking for.
It's short and oh so sweet, but already I'm hooked on them, and what could be.
This has more than whetted my appetite for the full story which is just around the corner.
I'm so excited I just know its going to be amazing!!
It gives us one night in Matteo and Caitlins life.
Matteo is a softie in disguise, Caitlin is a damsel in distress. One stormy night and they both find something they aren't looking for.
It's short and oh so sweet, but already I'm hooked on them, and what could be.
This has more than whetted my appetite for the full story which is just around the corner.
I'm so excited I just know its going to be amazing!!
August 17, 2021
Short, sweet and packing some heat. Angel of Tears is the prelude to Savior of Regrets and it tells the story of how Matteo and Caitlin meet.
I am already rooting for Matteo and Caitlin to be together. This story has shown me that they have fabulous sexual chemistry and I absolutely loved witnessing their interactions too. I’m now excited to see if fate does lend a hand when their story continues, and hopefully there will be less turbulence for them both than in this quick read.
I am already rooting for Matteo and Caitlin to be together. This story has shown me that they have fabulous sexual chemistry and I absolutely loved witnessing their interactions too. I’m now excited to see if fate does lend a hand when their story continues, and hopefully there will be less turbulence for them both than in this quick read.
July 18, 2020
Oh be still my heart. I absolutely adored Matteo and Caitlin. I need more. I want more! I hope they meet again someday and get their HEA. Until then I'll remember them as the beautiful couple who saved each other in the middle of a storm. *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this story for my honest and unbiased review.*
September 14, 2020
Short, sweet and sexy. This peek into Matteo's story has it all. A chance encounter where Matteo comes to Caitlin's rescue leads to a sweet interlude in a storm. Omg i want more of this couple already!! L.A. Cotton has a way of hooking you in so quickly that it doesn't matter if it's a short read - it still gives you alllll the feels.
October 4, 2020
This review is for Angel of Tears by L.A. Cotton.
I desperately needed this sneak peek back into this world and I loved how we got to see a bit more of Matteo. I can't wait for his book so we can find out if his and Caitlin's paths will cross again. This is a hot and steamy novella that will have you swooning ♥️
I desperately needed this sneak peek back into this world and I loved how we got to see a bit more of Matteo. I can't wait for his book so we can find out if his and Caitlin's paths will cross again. This is a hot and steamy novella that will have you swooning ♥️
August 8, 2021
Even though this prequel needs editing i can not wait to read the full novel in this series. Love all the characters so far, not sure of the plot as of yet as this is just a prequel of what is to come. I have a feeling that Caitlin has some hidden secrets that she wishes to stay hidden.... How does Matteo know her? Can not wait to read the full novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews