Villain of Secrets (Verona Legacy, #3) by L.A. Cotton

Feb 04, 2021 eliana rated it did not like it

1,5 ★

This is me thinking I was going to like this, just because the first chapters were angsty and interesting, knowing damn well this is a second chance romance and I have a complicated relationship with those, but anyway...

I want to divide this book into 3 parts:
The first part(50% of the book):
Nora and Enzo barely talked and interacted, they were both in different places, Nora was constantly crying because Enzo didn’t love her and Enzo was “suffering” for her while fucking every girl that a ...more

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Feb 08, 2021 The Romantic Rush Blog rated it liked it

3.5 stars. I love LA Cotton- her brand of angsty new adult drama is right up my alley, and I’ve loved this series because she’s been able to make the love even more epic and dabble in some darkness. Ari and Nicco’s story is a favorite of mine- and made me fall in love with this world and these characters, including the brooding and volatile Enzo and the feisty, endearing Nora.

I’ve been so thirsty to crack open both of these characters and see what makes them tick- and given the personal trauma 3.5 stars. I love LA Cotton- her brand of angsty new adult drama is right up my alley, and I’ve loved this series because she’s been able to make the love even more epic and dabble in some darkness. Ari and Nicco’s story is a favorite of mine- and made me fall in love with this world and these characters, including the brooding and volatile Enzo and the feisty, endearing Nora.

I’ve been so thirsty to crack open both of these characters and see what makes them tick- and given the personal trauma that they both experienced as the result of their mafia ties in the conclusion of Ari and Nicco’s duet, I knew there would be more darkness, more emotional turbulence- these two do not have the new love innocence that their friends have. They have scars, deep baggage, and obstacles that are more emotional than circumstantial. I was prepared for a love story that was messy- and this love story is indeed that. Their love story is explosively angsty- these two are just so complicated. This is a compelling and interesting read, but one that I found a bit disappointing to me- though I’m sure many will love it. I hate to say that is not the love story I wanted for them, especially Nora.

The story started off as a solid read for me- a great re-immersion into the dangers of this mafia world and the conflicted, and painful, feelings they both have not only about each other but also about the aftermath of the prior stories. LA does a great job at ratcheting up all that gritty mafia danger, as well as builds some intense emotional tension and anticipation. Because while the danger and drama is ramping up our leads spend a lot of time apart. Not my favorite plot device, but one that does play up the longing. Ultimately, these two spend very little time alone together in the entire book- and most of the times they do are heavily laden with longing, confusion, and sadness- there is just a lot of heartbreak. While this is their story, the mafia action takes center stage early on, setting us up for the ever-dramatic conclusion we expect with this series. And, despite the solid start, it was this couple’s conclusion that I had a hard time swallowing- but even more so, Enzo himself. Though, explaining why will be hard to do without spoiling- I’ll be keeping this vague.

I do love Enzo, I feel for him and his dark and grumpy ways of coping with his identity, albeit misguided, I get why he’s the way he is, and there is some altruism to this hesitancy with Nora. His emotional intelligence isn’t as advanced as his capacity for revenge and violence, so he has some growing to do. His story is about him grappling with what Nicco too had to learn- that love is not a weakness. But his journey is more complex, because Enzo also has to believe he is worthy of Nora’s love...and that their connection is also worthy the danger loving each other puts Nora in. And, sadly for me, he doesn’t ever quite get to “worthy”... for me. He never leaves his anti-hero realm for me- his actions disappoint and frustrate me, even at the end (though I won’t spoil.) And he consistently appropriates Nora's pain, the ways she is wronged. I can forgive a lot with heroes, and I forgive him to an extent, but not fully- in part because he takes her pain and makes it about him. I needed him to grovel, him to make it right- but like always, the burden falls on Nora. But it doesn’t matter whether I forgive him or consider him worthy- it matters what Nora thinks.

And friends, Nora broke my heart- not only because of how sweet and pure her heart is- she loves a man unconditionally that is pretty difficult to love in places- but because of all she goes through to prove what we, and she, and probably even Enzo already knew- she won’t stop loving him. LA puts her through the ringer in this story- and she is so strong, so brave, so steadfast. If LA had created a heroine that I cared for less, perhaps I wouldn’t have been as frustrated with Enzo- but Nora deserves so much for not only what she goes through with Enzo in this story but just what she’s been through already in this family. Personally, I wanted her to get to grapple with that more, to work on her own pain- but she doesn’t get much chance, because Enzo’s supersedes hers, even when she’s hurt the most. She deserves to be fought for- not the to be the one doing the fighting. But that is what makes Nora’s heart so special- she loves hard.

Of course, this story is well written and SO entertaining. Action packed, suspenseful, and the mafia stuff is all twisting and shocking. I can respect the story LA is telling- and that is one thing I love about this series, it shows that love isn’t all sunshine and rainbows- it is hard and grueling, but worth the reward. And don’t worry- there is reward here- the path just wasn’t what I expected. Her characters have unconventional lives, and therefore they have conventional love stories- Niccos and Ari’s is dramatic, Enzo and Nora’s is dark. This is quality storytelling- and props to LA for telling the story she wants to tell. Even though this didn’t quite click for me- I think most fans will enjoy this story and you should definitely pick up and find out for you. And, I’m excited to continue on the series (OMG MATTEO)!

PS- This story does not have a trigger warning, but it should. There are several topics in this story that some may find triggering. Of course, we should expect that- it's a dark mafia, but nonetheless this went places I wasn’t expecting. Just know that this one was a darker reader, to me, than the prior two books. ...more

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Feb 10, 2021 The Magical World of Reading rated it it was amazing

Some books are read superficially as if you were just an ordinary observer of an action. Yes, they are enough to satisfy your curiosity and that's all. But there are also books that, without apology, drag you into all their vicissitudes, grab you and do not even allow you to breathe, but make you experience every moment just like the characters, just like the author. The book ‘Villain of Secrets’ is just like that, with enough cruelty and pain that will make you want to leave the book, yet you f Some books are read superficially as if you were just an ordinary observer of an action. Yes, they are enough to satisfy your curiosity and that's all. But there are also books that, without apology, drag you into all their vicissitudes, grab you and do not even allow you to breathe, but make you experience every moment just like the characters, just like the author. The book ‘Villain of Secrets’ is just like that, with enough cruelty and pain that will make you want to leave the book, yet you fail to break away from the pages.
From terrible horror to hope for a better tomorrow, emotions change alternately as you turn the pages. Event after event, emotion after emotion, and you are faced with actions that shock you but at the same time, you realize the truth behind them. And the mainstay of the story is not an instance, nor a series of events, but the development of two young souls, maturing and walking the thorny path to accepting oneself and others.
They met by accident and found in the other what they did not know they lacked .... Infatuation, madness, love, passion ... everything culminated in a moment of complete surrender, in a moment when two hearts began to beat in the same rhythm. But they got afraid of the power of that emotion, which has the power to heal or destroy. They got scared of revealing their truths, ad walked away…..That is the story of Enzo and Nora ... His hopes, his dreams, his emotions are all torn to pieces by the discovery of that truth that hurts too much. And he pushes everything away, he pushes the only girl who managed to awaken something in his cold heart ..... But life has other plans, the truth is to be seen here and love is to be accepted .... but sometimes some decisions are too late...
I already knew that LA Cotton is a fantastic author from the first book, but what I did not even expect was that with each subsequent work she would be able to lift the game to a much higher level. This top master of angst and painful love has made us want Enzo's story since we met him, and believe me you will not be disappointed at any moment. And this is not another mafia romance, this is much more than that. A cruel storyline that slowly takes you on a journey that will break you and beautifully built characters that will stay in your mind long after you read the story. Enzo is the total opposite of boyfriend material, utterly broken and ruthless at times, he is a perfect anti-hero. Not seeing himself as worthy of love, he makes it really hard for Nora and the readers to like him. I honestly wanted to kick his ass at moments. Nora is a real badass girl that constantly surprises us with her determination and strength. Kind-hearted and generous, she is the perfect balm for his wounds. Together, they are live wire… everything is charged with sexual tension and energy that can be felt in every single scene when those two are in the same place. What really amazed me was that the heroine is not someone who cries and locks herself away from everyone, but bravely accepts his rejection and tries to move on with her life. His way of reasoning and expression of emotions was also really interesting. Seeing this broody, angry guy on his knees was definitely unforgettable. The whole range of supporting characters is perfectly fitted and presented to contribute to the completeness of the story. We have an insight into the lives of Ari and Niko, but also a small preview of Mateo’s story that promises to be even more riveting.
All those who have read the story of Ari and Nico must have counted the days until the release of this story, which bears the trademark of this author - a mixture of angst and romance that will leave you breathless. If you haven’t started this series, there is no better time than today. Start it, and believe me that you’ll not regret it.
I just have to mention if you are looking for a romantic story with pink hearts and rainbows, gentle walks, and stolen kisses, skip this book. This is a brutal depiction of the connection of two broken souls trying to escape the darkness and seek salvation in the hands of the other. This is a raw talent poured into every sentence of this story that will be etched in your thoughts and hearts. ...more

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Feb 10, 2021 Alexandraa W rated it it was ok

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I NEVER BEEN SO DISAPPOINTED ON A BOOK EVER ESPECIALLY WHEN I SPENT MY VALUABLE HOURS of reading this shit from the beginning till the end.... I think i would even have to think again and again if i want to read this author’s books again😂😂😂 cause thats how much I don’t like this book ever sorry buts its true and i have my right reasons to be tho....

THIS BOOK IS FRUSTRATING... NOT TOO GOOD OF A BOOK AND THE STORY BETWEEN THESE CHARACTERS IS SO BAD AND LAME AS F*CK....

I know at the beginning that ...more

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Feb 08, 2021 Angie rated it it was amazing

Shelves: gmb-promo, top-author, dark-and-twisted, nothing-but-contemporary, snuggable-romance, favorites, arc-copy, own-on-kindle, mc-bikers-and-mafia, protector-hero

Our relationship wasn't made for the sunlight. It was nutured in the dark, made strong only by the shadows and secrets that surrounded it. But come morning, they would turn to ash, and everything would go back to how it was before.

5 Gattina stars!

**Trigger warning: rape on-page (not by the Hero), violence and gore, strong language**

Ever since PRINCE OF HEARTS where Enzo and Nora find themselves in a compromising position in a darkened bathroom, I knew their story would be full of angst and d

Our relationship wasn't made for the sunlight. It was nutured in the dark, made strong only by the shadows and secrets that surrounded it. But come morning, they would turn to ash, and everything would go back to how it was before.

5 Gattina stars!

**Trigger warning: rape on-page (not by the Hero), violence and gore, strong language**

Ever since PRINCE OF HEARTS where Enzo and Nora find themselves in a compromising position in a darkened bathroom, I knew their story would be full of angst and dark deeds that would absolutely shred me--and I couldn't fucking wait to read it. But LA Cotton delivered a novel that far surpassed even my expectations and had my angst-loving heart filled to the brim with Nora's optimism and Enzo's hopelessness. These two were so destructive yet perfectly balanced together, and I could not devour their story fast enough.

I'd always known my father would die for the Family. I just hadn't anticipated he would die a traitor.

Enzo Marchetti's soul is black as night and is stained with the blood of his father. Growing up, all he wanted was his father's approval, so when he finds out that his father has betrayed the Dominion--has betrayed him--he finds himself struggling with his identity. He carries the weight of all his past sins on his nonexistent heart, and even though he can't seem to stay away from Nora, he knows there is nothing left of his heart, his soul, to give her.

My heart would forever carry the scars of Enzo, but it was slowly piecing itself back together. Because I was resilient. I was strong. And I would get through this.

Nora Abato is on the outside. She's connected to both the Dominion and the Capizola legacy through her best friend Arianne, but she's not important enough to either organization to know any of their secrets. She's good enough for Enzo to find physical release, but she's not enough for him to stay the night or acknowledge during the day. Even though she's tired of being used by him, she can't help but be there for him whenever he needs her. With every stolen moment in the dark, she loses another piece of her soul to Enzo Marchetti, and soon she will have nothing left to give.

Everyone deserved a chance, a shot at something good. Something pure. Even the darkest of souls.

Enzo and Nora's journey to love was anything but easy. It was dark, intense, and gritty, and I found myself wanting to strangle and avocuddle them both throughout the entire book. However no matter how many times they self-sabotaged their happiness, I could not stop cheering for them and hoping that Enzo would finally choose Nora. Seeing Nicco and Ari in wedded bliss and Matteo's eternal optimism definitely helped ease my emotions as they flipped between angsty despair and acute hopefulness. In the end, I loved every anxiety-inducing word of Enzo and Nora's journey, and I cannot wait for sweet Matteo's story next! ♡

My Enzo, the Marchetti with the darkest soul and softest heart...

*ARC provided by GMB promo, and I voluntarily reviewed it* ...more

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Feb 13, 2021 Izzie d added it

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Feb 06, 2021 Danielle's rated it it was amazing

He’s the bad guy. The villain. The bad apple. So why can’t Nora stay away? In darkness... some can see the light.

Villain of Secrets was a real page Turner. It’s recommended that you read the other books in the series. Enzo’s story isn’t for the faint hearted. He comes from a bad family and when the secrets start to come out he’s lost. Nora is the one person who can ground him but Can someone like our villain find love?

I’m really enjoying this series and this book was great. It has some good tw ...more

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Feb 02, 2021 Ria | Abstract ♥ Books rated it really liked it

Shelves: cliffhanger, mafia-romance, second-chance-romance, dark-romance, part-of-duet, erotic-romance

ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS

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Star Rating : 4/5 Stars

POV : Dual

Cliffhanger : yes

Hero : Enzo

Heroine : Nora

Pace of the story : moderate

Angst Rating : 8/10

Heat Rating : 6/10

Triggers Involved : rape (not by the H)

Plot Summary :
Enzo is a Dark character , as dark as the soul that resides within him. He never had an easy life growing up and always wanted his father's opinion. Until one twist messed up his whole life. Now he is not sure of anything or who he ...more

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Feb 10, 2021 NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc, mobster, romance-young-adult-etc

***4,5 "His Gattina!!!" stars***

AVAILABLE NOW!!!!

"Sometimes you had to go through darkness to get to the light."

I love L.A Cotton's books very much and I was anticipated Enzo & Nora's story since i've read the first book in the series... And can I tell you a secret??? I know that many of you will disagree with me, but this couple has become my favorite... Not that I didn't like Nicco and Ari's story, but I love my heroes troubled with a side of darkness and in here, Lianne delivered a co ...more

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Feb 07, 2021 Elsa Gomes (BookishAurora) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: brokenhero, angst, read-in-2021, mafiaromance

➳ Rate: 4,5/ 5 stars

I knew Enzo was gonna be a tough shell to crack and boy was he. This tough guy was so unbelievably broken by what he recently found out and had to do. That one thing made him question everything and drove him to prove himself to the famiglia. Gotta be honest Enzo was such an a**, the way he acted, the things he did, the things he said to Nora ugh. Sometimes I wanted to shake him. He was pretty frustrating most of the time because he was undivided between what he wanted and w ➳ Rate: 4,5/ 5 stars

I knew Enzo was gonna be a tough shell to crack and boy was he. This tough guy was so unbelievably broken by what he recently found out and had to do. That one thing made him question everything and drove him to prove himself to the famiglia. Gotta be honest Enzo was such an a**, the way he acted, the things he did, the things he said to Nora ugh. Sometimes I wanted to shake him. He was pretty frustrating most of the time because he was undivided between what he wanted and what he thought he deserved. My heart hurt for him for sure but also for Nora for everything he put her through and everything that she went through in this book, it was a lot more than I had been expecting.

Nora felt so alone. Her heart had been broken while her best friend was gone living her best married life. She felt lonely and then everything with Enzo just kept hurting her over and over. These two really packed an angst filled punch! I both really enjoyed it and was extremely frustrated by it! But it was a suspenseful and very entertaining book at times and the push and pull, the angst, the jealousy... it was chefs kiss!!

And I can’t not mention Ari and Nicco and Matteo!! It was so great to see those two so happy. And gah, I love Matteo and he was such a sweetheart in this book. I’m simply dying for his book, I have been since his little novella but I am even more now after the ending of this book. Omg I need it nowww. I just love these characters. I even want Tristan and Nicco and Matteo’s sisters to get their own books now.

One thing I wish had been better addressed was the cheating that happened in the preview we got of these two at the end of King of Souls. It was briefly mentioned but not talked about at all, like it almost hadn’t happened or simply didn’t matter at all. And well, it did matter and it should have been discussed better.

Villain of Secrets is the third book in the Verona Legacy series and just like the previous duet, it’s an incredible mafia romance filled with angst, tension, suspense, betrayals, secrets and the most amazing characters. If you’ve not started this series yet, what are you waiting for?! Go go go!!

➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US

➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter ...more

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Feb 07, 2021 A Book Obsessed Brit rated it it was amazing

Shelves: dual-pov, arc-read, great-chemistry, lead-characters-under-25, plot-twist, couldn-t-put-it-down, rich-alpha-hero, rich-heroine, anti-hero, bad-boy-hero

This book, THIS BOOK! it gets all the stars from me. I loved Nora and Enzo throughout Nicco and Ari's duet (Prince of Hearts and King of Souls) and the teaser into their story at the end of King of Souls fed my angsty soul, I have been craving this book ever since. Let me tell you I devoured this book from start to finish, legit could not put it down.

The Fallout from Enzo killing his father is the main drive of the story throughout the novel, it's what influences Enzo's behaviour and the events ...more

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Feb 11, 2021 Rosie rated it liked it

After the ending of Ari and Nicco’s duet, and the hints of Enzo and Nora we had throughout those books, I was so ready to read their story, but it fell short for me, which was disappointing.

Nora and Enzo had this incredible chemistry, but after the events that unfolded at the end of King of Souls, Enzo goes into a downward spiral, pushes Nora away and leaves Verona County. Nora tries to seek comfort with Ari but feels like she’s on the outside of the Marchetti family as Ari starts her married li After the ending of Ari and Nicco’s duet, and the hints of Enzo and Nora we had throughout those books, I was so ready to read their story, but it fell short for me, which was disappointing.

Nora and Enzo had this incredible chemistry, but after the events that unfolded at the end of King of Souls, Enzo goes into a downward spiral, pushes Nora away and leaves Verona County. Nora tries to seek comfort with Ari but feels like she’s on the outside of the Marchetti family as Ari starts her married life with Nicco, so she finds friendship with her new neighbour Luca. As the threat level to the Marchetti family grows every day from an unknown enemy, Enzo returns, but will Nora let him back into her life?

Enzo was totally unexpected. I wanted him to be strong, confident, and alpha, but he wasn’t really any of those things. I could completely understand his life was turned upside down after his father’s betrayal and he didn’t know how to handle it, but when he realised his feelings for Nora, I wanted him to fight for her, and he didn’t. He seemed almost cowardly in places, which wasn’t how I pictured him at all, and in certain situations when I know Nicco would’ve gone in guns blazing, he just stood there. Nora was the saving grace really, I loved her strength to go on, and her love for Enzo unfortunately meant she stood for his bullsh*t over and over. But she did because she loved him, and even though she was told time and time again to move on, she didn’t because she had faith he would come back to her. But I tend to agree with Ari, she was too good for him.

Some scenes felt repetitive in places, from Nora’s POV it was her thinking how happy Ari and Nicco were and how she was being left behind, and would never be accepted as a member of their group, and from Enzo’s was how the betrayal had meant he could never be happy. I understand they both felt strongly about those situations, but after the fourth repetition it became quite boring and I found myself scan reading through those scenes. The actual plot itself did hook me, and I did want to know how it ended, but I did unfortunately predict most of it, but it didn't take away from the well built suspense over who the enemy was!

However, I loved seeing Ari and Nicco living their happy life, and also Matteo has me so intrigued because he’s the lovable but alpha mafia man I need in my life. Unfortunately, Enzo and Nora’s story wasn’t what I was expecting, but I will be reading Matteo’s because I need to see how the woman from the cliff-hanger fits into his life! This story wasn’t for me, but I am sure that others will enjoy it!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.* ...more

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Feb 09, 2021 hooked_on_books rated it really liked it

★★★𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤★★★
(𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.)
𝑅𝐴𝑇𝐼𝑁𝐺:⭐⭐⭐⭐

𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌, 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒔𝒉, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆.

I have been waiting for this book for ever now, and i can't tell you how happy i am that i have finally read it. I have a weak spot for twisted and damaged heroes, the second i read Price o ★★★𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤★★★
(𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.)
𝑅𝐴𝑇𝐼𝑁𝐺:⭐⭐⭐⭐

𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌, 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒔𝒉, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆.

I have been waiting for this book for ever now, and i can't tell you how happy i am that i have finally read it. I have a weak spot for twisted and damaged heroes, the second i read Price of Hearts i fell in love with Enzo Marchetti. He was portrayed as a cold and cruel man, a man who was as dark as night, a man who used women then cast them aside like they were nothing. That was more than enough for me to love him. The reason he is this was is because he grew up with a cold and vicious father, a father who did not show him an ounce of love and compassion, a father who taught him that women were weakness and the only thing they are good at is giving please. He was okay with the way he was until he met Nora Abato, now he wants more.

Nora Abato is a badass woman. The second she saw Enzo she knew he was it for her, but convincing him was not an easy task. She is the kind of person who gives and gives and gives until there was nothing left to give. She's been through the ringer in this book, but she stayed strong and brave until the end. She saw the real Enzo and she was adamant to fight for him, she was determined to love him back to life.

𝑰 𝒔𝒂𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔, 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆. 𝑬𝒏𝒛𝒐 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒈𝒖𝒚— 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒙— 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒑 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒉𝒊𝒎. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒖𝒚 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆.

This story was not rainbows and sunshine, it was dark and twisted. Enzo was a complex character from the beginning, I'm not gonna lie but there were times i just wanted to knock some sense into him. He was so lost and confused, he could not let Nora fully in and admit he loved her because deep down he believed himself worthless of love. Nora was so pure, she fought hard for Enzo even when he kept pushing her away. This is a story that shows us that love is not weakness. True love makes you strong and gives you something to fight for.

𝑻𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕, 𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒆𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔.

I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read Matteo's book.

...more

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Feb 09, 2021 Book Maniac Forever rated it really liked it

Shelves: new-adult, arc, angsty-read, mafia-romance, broken-hero, badass-heroine

⭐️ 4.5 "Gattina" Stars ⭐️
After meeting Enzo and Nora in Prince of Hearts and King of Souls, I couldn't wait for their own book! L.A. Cotton reached all my expectations with this fantastic novel. Villain of Secrets was suspenseful, with a lot of sexual tension and so much feels! Seriously, this couple owned me completely!

Enzo! That tortured hero! I loved him even more knowing all his inner thoughts and the reasons he is so closed off and cold at times. I wanted to squeeze him in a big hug fro ...more

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Feb 02, 2021 Michela rated it really liked it

You won't be able to put down this book until you finished it!

This book is about Nora and Enzo; lately, Enzo has had a rough time, since a recent discovery turned his world upside down... He pushed Nora and his family away and is leaving for a while. Will he finally come back to Nora and let her be there for him? However, life has other plans and Enzo being stubborn isn't her only problem!

Oh my my! There is no way how to describe this book. Once you start reading you won't be able to stop, so ...more

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Feb 06, 2021 Dali rated it liked it

Shelves: contemporary-romance, arc-read, tortured-hero, series, standalone, published-2021, 3-star

Villain of Secrets is book #3 of the Verona Legacy series by L.A. Cotton. It is a stand alone story told from both points of view and ends with a happy ending for the couple. Genres: New Adult Tropes: College Mafia Romance. Maturity content: sex | violence | rape

Because of her BFF status with Mrs. Arianne Marchetti, Nora Abato has already been through a scary ordeal once, but she’s not deterred by it. On the contrary she’s more determined than ever to be there for the Marchetti’s enforcer, Enzo ...more

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Feb 04, 2021 Kitxia rated it it was amazing

*arc kindly provided for an honest review!

I don't know if I can put into words how much I love Enzo and Nora's story, it's just amazing.

Enzo was someone who intrigued me since the first book, he was always angry, he was chaos and I liked that about him, I liked it a lot, in this book we can explore more about his life, and the fucked up way his dad used to be with him, we can also see how this man is dealing with the things he did in the past book, related to his dad and Nora, we read about him ...more

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Feb 10, 2021 Bookish Barbi rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc

I have not read the first two books in this series, but Villain of Secrets can be read as a stand alone and you will not feel lost. Although it’s been said reading the series in order heightens the experience.

In this book we are told the story of angsty, sexy Mr. Mafioso Enzo and his beautiful, sweet all forgiving Nora. We are taken all around the world with the emotions and what Nora goes through to get her HEA like others in the series have gotten. Enzo isn’t making it easy for her but you can ...more

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Feb 08, 2021 Sydney rated it it was ok

Shelves: arcs, books-i-own, reviewed

"We all need darkness to shine. And you make me light up like no one else ever has."

This is a hard review to write. I hate leaving a negative review! But... I have to stay honest and true to what I think and feel. As much as I wanted to enjoy this book, I didn't.

Although I admit I did feel a little bored while reading, my main problem was struggling to connect with the characters. I loved Nora in the first two books, and while I wasn't sold on Enzo yet, I was hoping I would come to love him. ...more

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Feb 09, 2021 Weronika - Little Steamy Reads rated it it was amazing

„I see you. I’ve always seen you.”

What a deliciously angsty ride! I was looking forward to read Enzo's story and L.A. Cotton outdid herself with this book! It's a real rollercoaster of emotions, keeping you at the edge of the seat with tension. More than once I wanted to throw my Kindle out of the window from the frustration I was feeling, and then to bawl like a baby from all the feels. Villain of Secrets hooked me from the start, making me unable to put it down even for a second. Nora and „I see you. I’ve always seen you.”

What a deliciously angsty ride! I was looking forward to read Enzo's story and L.A. Cotton outdid herself with this book! It's a real rollercoaster of emotions, keeping you at the edge of the seat with tension. More than once I wanted to throw my Kindle out of the window from the frustration I was feeling, and then to bawl like a baby from all the feels. Villain of Secrets hooked me from the start, making me unable to put it down even for a second. Nora and Enzo's story has it all- heartbreak, drama, passion and longing. It's a real page-turner!

Now, I'm gonna be completely transparent- I loathed Enzo for the majority of this story. I saw him as a complete douche, who didn’t care about other people's feelings. Sometimes he acted cruelly, disappointing me and making me want to smack him in the head. But then I saw him as a broken man who felt unworthy, and his vulnerability brought me to my knees. And although on the one hand I would like his groveling to be longer and more significant, on the other I am glad that L.A. remained true to his character.

Now, Nora... She's definitely special. Strong and sassy, but knowing her place. She’s understanding and caring, even in situations when someone else in her shoes would be offended and hurt. I loved her courage and her selflessness. And while she’s forgiving and understands the dynamics of the world she lives in, she is by no means a pushover.

The chemistry between these two is undeniable. But while the attraction isn’t an issue, aknowledging their true feelings definitely is. The push and pull is intense. The threats lurking in the background only added to the angst-factor in their romance. Enzo and Nora’s road to happy ending is turbulent and emotionally charged, but so worth it! They are explosive together!

I loved this installment in the Verona Legacy series. L.A. Cotton sure knows how to create a steamy romance with an emotional punch and lots of angst. Now I can’t wait to get my hands on Matteo’s book!
...more

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Feb 06, 2021 Catreena rated it really liked it

Shelves: favorites, arc

VILLAIN OF SECRETS
Verona Legacy #3
L.A.Cotton

Releases 10th Feb

Enzo & Nora Leap of faith
POV:Dual

#arc #arcreader #amreading #currentlyreading #reader #reviewer #romance #mafia #veronalegacyseries #secrets #gripping #darkmafia #lies #darkmafiaromance

After the events, turmoil and deceit that was uncovered in Ari and Nicco's books. It's Nora and Enzo's turn.
Enzo (Lorenzo Marchetti) is the Marchetti Crime Family's Enforcer. Growing up without a Mother, only his Aunts as female in ...more

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Feb 05, 2021 Behind Closed Doors Book Review rated it it was amazing

Shelves: unforgettable, sexual-assault, mafia, violence

Amount of sex 3.5 / 5
How explicit are the sex scenes 3.5 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5

Unputdownable!

Villain of Secrets is the third book in the Verona Legacy series and can be read as a standalone mafia romance. Even though this is true, I recommend reading the series in order. I believe that it will give you a better foundation for understanding and appreciating the storyline. However, just know that this is only a suggestion.

Villain of Secrets tells Enzo and Nora's story, and I’ve been looking ...more

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Feb 06, 2021 Christina ( The MasqueReader ) rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2021-reads, alphahole, college-romance, mafia-mobs-gang, triggers-maybe, bad-boy-meets-good-girl, broken-heroes, corrupt-worlds

LOVED Enzo & Nora!
My favorite of this series so far!

Enzo was this sexy devil and fiercely loyal to the core! Deep down he wanted something he felt he didn't deserve and just wasn't in the cards for him. Nora...I was so torn on her a few times because I love strong determined female characters and even though Nora seemed as though she didn't fit this at some points...ultimately if you look deeper she really did. It take more strength than most women possess to stand in front of the person you lo ...more

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Feb 10, 2021 Evie_Book_Revs (Gen Gen) rated it it was amazing

Twists, Turns, and...Tantalizing!💞

Finally, Enzo & Nora!...After building tensions reach a dangerous point in the Marchetti family, Ari’s bestie and Nicco’s cousin have no other choice than to face one another. Can Nora warm the Villain’s frozen heart?💙

Enzo is the dangerous, brooding bad boy you won’t soon forget! The twists. The turns. The intense, dark, lustful push-and-pull between Enzo Marchetti and Nora Abato will take you on an fiery ride like no other! And Nora’s onslaught of sass, strengt ...more

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Feb 04, 2021 Julie Workman-Bookaholic Sisters Blog rated it it was amazing

Enzo has always intrigued me, the brooding angry faced man with dark soulless eyes, I always wondered why he was the way he was..We see bits of him in prince of hearts and king of souls but in the villian of secrets its all him, and I absolutely loved it!

If I could give it more stars I would 🌟

Nora always came across as strong in the face of anything, the girl who helped hold her best friend arianne together when she needed it the most, this time we get to see just how strong she can be. I abso ...more

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Feb 05, 2021 Sheila Schoenauer rated it it was amazing

I knew I was gonna love this book but I didn’t realize just how much. Enzo and his bad broody ways won me over. I knew that no matter what he would end up being the anti-villian just waiting for the right woman to melt his cold dark heart. Nora was that amazing woman and I was so happy. She deserved her HEA after all. But the things she has to deal with to get there? The things they both had to deal with? That broke me. These two have a minefield to go through.

I have been waiting for this book ...more

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Feb 11, 2021 Mandy’s Book Reviews rated it it was amazing

Sooo good ! I’ve been dying for Enzo’s book my dark damaged boy and this author delivered! I loved this book it was dark angsty heartbreaking emotional suspenseful I’ve been anticipating Nora and Enzo’s story since the last book I felt so much for these characters their journey is not a easy one by any means it’s filled with heartbreak longing angst and twists and turns galore there is so much pain especially by Enzo he is definitely suffering from his conscience and his past and Nora sweet beau ...more

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Feb 07, 2021 Sophie Ruthven rated it it was amazing

I prefer it when this author goes dark, and dark she definitely went!!
I am loving this page turning series, and this book certainly was no different.
The fact this couple's story was in one book rather than two, meant the action and blood was pouring off most of the pages, making it impossible to look away.
Every time I thought I had it figured out, yet another curveball was thrown, making you second guess everything.
This love was hard fought for, running you through a gamut of emotions over and o ...more

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Feb 09, 2021 Sophie Koufes rated it it was amazing

Villain of Secrets: A Mafia Romance Standalone (Verona Legacy Book 3) is a angsty new adult novel intertwined with the dangers of a mafia world. Enzo and Nora lovestory is dark, and intense with explosive chemistry. The writing style is captivating and the characters are compelling. Secrets revealed in layers, unexpected twists intricately weaved and dark moments dredged within the pages of this intriguing read. I'm on pins and needles waiting for the next book in this unforgettable series. I lo ...more

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Feb 06, 2021 Amour.Rebelle92 (Bran.d) rated it it was amazing

Gosh I love a broken bad boy!! Enzo is heart breakingly broken. He truly believes that he is not worthy of love and nothing that Nora does or says can make him see himself differently.

...After everything Nora has been through she most definitely deserves love. My heart broke for her when she chose herself but she had to—Enzo would never realize his loss if she didn’t.

I soooo want a bonus scene with them at Edge!!!

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