An angsty college mafia romance from USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Rixon Raiders series.
Arianne Capizola is her father’s daughter.
Humble. Hardworking. Honest.
She’d rather spend her days helping at the local shelter than brushing shoulders with her vain and entitled classmates.
Niccolò Marchetti is his father’s son.
Dark. Dangerous. Deceitful.
He’d rather spend … classmates.
Niccolò Marchetti is his father’s son.
Dark. Dangerous. Deceitful.
He’d rather spend his days getting bloody in the ring than attending class and keeping up pretences.
When their paths cross at Montague University neither of them are willing to drop the walls they’ve spent so long building. But he can’t resist the girl with stars in her eyes, and she can’t forget the guy who saved her that night.
There’s only one catch.
Nicco isn’t Arianne’s knight-in-shining-armor, he’s the son of her father’s greatest enemy.
He is the enemy.
And their families are at war.
*Prince of Hearts in the first book in Nicco and Ari’s duet. Due to mature content that some readers may find distressing, this book is recommended for readers 18+
more
This book has me speechless. There is so much stuff that happens in this book. I don‘t even know where to start. Instalove, Lies, Deceit, Passion, Duty and Emotion rule this book.
The characters are amazing. I fell in love with Nicco and Ari instantly. Both of them come from a powerfull italian family. This story is obviously inspired by Romeo and Juliette so I probably don‘t need to tell you about the rivalry between their families. Nonetheless, it is so much more than a retelling of this story.
Arianne has been sheltered her entire life. As the only heir to Roberto Capizola she has been living in her family estate almost her whole life. At 18 years old she finally is able to get some kind of normalcy in her life and attend college under a false name. It‘s there that she meets our handsome, broody hero Nicco which she falls instantly in love with. But she doesn‘t know he‘s the son and heir to her fathers rival Antonio Marchetti. Their meeting and their love snowball into an action and event filled story which grips you from the first page and doesn‘t let you go until the last one.
L.A. Cotton creates a new world for Romeo and Juliette and brings it into the modern world with italian mafiosis, loyalty and true friendship. I am both excited and teriffied of how the story continues in the next book since book one is already leaving me wanting more.
well deserved 5
“She was everything I could never have. Everything I’d never wanted. Until now.”
If you love dark, mafia college romances that are very loosely based on Romeo and Juliet then LA Cotton has just delivered some angsty epicness for you!
“She tasted too good. Too tempting. She tasted like my fucking downfall.”
A story of first love, complicated love, messy love mixed together with a little bit of naivety from the heroine that made me want to slap her upside the head in parts, to earth shattering stolen kisses and revelations galore, LA Cotton had me hooked, turning the pages so fast that I needed to take a breather to digest everything that was going on.
“I couldn’t be the prince she deserved, because my life wasn’t a fairytale. It was the stuff nightmares were made of.”
Nico. The bad boy, Mafia prince with the good heart. He has had his future mapped out for him since he was a little boy with no say in it what so ever. You could see that he was a good guy at heart who just wanted to be loved for the real Nico and he found that in Arianne.
Get ready for an explosive, forbidden romance that will leave you breathless!
4.5*
I received an advance copy of this on behalf of the author.
This has to be the best Romeo and Juliet re-telling I’ve ever read. It’s already up there with one of the best mafia stories I’ve ever read. And considering this is my first L.A. Cotton book, I’m giving this all the praise.
This has so much angst I can’t even stop myself from aching for book 2. It’s dark, it’s edgy, it’s explosive in spots. It’s so well written and Nico is so swoony.
Now to rock in the corner until King of Souls come out.
What an epic start to the Verona Legacy series! From the first page I was entranced with this modern take on Romeo and Juliet. It has all the angsty drama you would expect from a retelling of the classic. Feuding families, instalove, secrets, lies, manipulation, betrayal…what a ride. I couldn’t put it down! Ari is the sheltered girl longing for a normal life, and Nicco is the bad boy with a good heart who knows there is no such thing. Their love is forbidden, but they won’t let anything keep them apart. King of Souls can’t come soon enough!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
I could not put this book down!!!! Prince of Hearts will suck you into this retelling of Romeo and Juliet and spit you out laughing at the end!!! I’m not playing you will be left with your jaw on the floor catching flies!!!
Nicco and Ari come from two opposing families. Modern day Capulet and Montague. Theres such an amazing storyline besides the love these two have for eachother. L. A. Cotton crafted an amazing world thatll leave you wanting more! Ari was such an amazing character and her development throughout this book did not leave you wanting! Kudos to L.A. this book is phenomenal
I recieved an ARC in exchange for a honest review
Prince of Hearts by L. A. Cotton is the First book in the Verona Legacy Series. This starts the story of Niccolò ‘Nico’ Marchetti and Arianne Capizola. Arianne has been kept hidden and protected by her father but she is now just 18 and has been given a chance to attend Montague University. Arianne has been sheltered from knowing what exactly her father is in evolved it. Roberto Capizola is Arianne’s father and we learn is a enemy of Nico’s family. Nico too is attending the college their but he has been groomed from the start to be Antonio Marchetti son so he is used to the violence that comes with that. But when he meets Arianne she makes him feel protective of her and she brings light to his darkness. But theirs is a Romeo and Juliet type romance that doesn’t end in this book. I can’t wait for the next installment in their story. This was a page turning read for me.
Arianne Capizola has been held captive for far too long, she is ready to be free, and spread her wings. With being the heir to her families fortune she has a target on her back, and must be protected at all times, but she is tired if living under her father’s thumb, and by his rules. She is shocked when her father approves her plan to live on campus at Montague University, and very excited too, it will be the first time she has been able to be on her own. And she plans on taking full advantage of it…
The moment his eyes land on her, Niccolò Marchetti is completely taken with Lina, she is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen… and far too good for the likes of him. But that doesn’t mean his heart got the memo, the moment her lips touch his cheek he knows he is in trouble, there is no way he can go back now… he must have her! But what he doesn’t know is that his little bambolina has a secret… one that could derail all their dreams!
Prince of Hearts brings us into the lives of two young souls that have had to grow up much faster than they should have, with the lives their families lead they had no choice in the matter. They come from two of the most powerful and wealthy families in Verona, and with that power comes danger, high expectations, and rules they must live by. But all these two want is to be together, which proves to be hard when their families get involved. My heart broke for this pair, finding the kind of love they have is a once in a lifetime kind of thing and they are being expected to forget it ever existed… talk about heart squeezer! I thoroughly enjoyed my time with these two young lovers and I cannot wait to see what the next installment holds for them. I imagine a lot more danger and drama is to come, but hopefully some much deserved happiness too! If you like high drama and action packed mafia romances than look no further, this one will definitely keep you thoroughly entertained… it’s bound to have you hooked from the first page. Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
„I couldn’t be the prince she deserved, because my life wasn’t a fairytale.”
I already knew that L.A. Cotton can write great new adult romances, but the combination of this genre with the mafia is simply outstanding! I loved this book even more than I expected. Danger, suspense and the beauty of young love is a mix you can’t break away from. Prince of Hearts consumed me whole and made me completely addicted. I’m already greedy for more!
I guarantee that you’ll fall in love with Nicco instantly. He has this bad boy vibe going on, but underneath the broody image hides a protective and caring guy with a heart of gold. Having his whole life planned out, a life full of danger and darkness, he knows that there’s no room in it for someone so sweet and innocent like Ari. But the heart wants what it wants. And it craves a forbidden fruit.
Ari is a girl who was sheltered her whole life. She oozes kindness, purity and naivety. Taking advantage of the bit of freedom that was granted to her, she wants to experience everything she was missing. At least as long as she can.
Just like Romeo and Juliet, these two were doomed right from the start. Being born in the world of danger, where loyalty is more valuable than anything else, Ari and Nicco are the perfect example of star-crossed lovers. However, all’s fair in love and war. And these two will have to fight for each other.
L.A. Cotton created a heart-gripping and suspenseful story. Prince of Hearts kept me completely enchanted from the very beginning till the last word. And the ending? It was mindblowing! I can’t wait until I have the next part in my hands!
Prince of Hearts is the first book by this author that I have had the pleasure of reading. I love following the first part of Nicco and Ari’s story. It gave me the feeling of be a modern version of Romeo and Juliet, only better. I look forward to reading part two of their duet.
O M G!!!
its no secret I am a huge fan of Lianne’s work but this one is by far my favourite of hers! I was completely captivated from beginning to end. Once I started it I didn’t put it down!
The characters were addictive and I wanted to know more about them! With a touch of Romeo and Juliet to Arianne and Niccolo’s story I am seriously keeping everything crossed that their story has a happier ending but after the way this one has been cruelly (but brilliantly) left I don’t think they are going to have an easy journey.
There are some parts to this story that readers may find tough but they have been handled brilliantly.
I honestly want Arianne to spread her wings more in the next book! Shes been so sheltered most of her life but with Nicco she is getting ready to fly and I really don’t want her father and his bad decisions to destroy her.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series to see if the Prince can finally rescue his princess in King of Souls
Prince of Hearts is a dark, mafia college romance that is very reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. Two rival mafia families, two strangers who meet in college with no idea who the other is. They have instant chemistry and fall for each other. Get ready for a roller coaster of emotions including drama, angst, heartbreak, and passion. It is filled with suspense, action, and a twist you won’t see coming.
Nicco Marchetti is dangerous, alpha, and broody. He is feared because of who he is, the son of the mob boss of the Marchetti family, and next in line to his father. Adrianne Capizola is the only child of the mob boss Roberto Capizola. She has lived a sheltered life and is very naive. She has no idea what her father does, she only knows that her father loves her and is over-protective. Once Nicco and Adrianne come together, the sparks fly and they both feel things they’ve never felt before. This is dangerous though because of who they are. The problem is, is that neither of them realizes who the other person truly is and the danger that it presents. They have stolen moments, not wanting anyone to know yet about the two of them but feelings are getting stronger and they know that they can’t hide for much longer. Unfortunately, what goes on in the dark eventually comes to light. Will Nicco and Adrianne be able to convince their families that they belong together, or will their love end in bloodshed?
This book started out kind of slow and predictable for me. Nicco wasn’t that believable because of what he was saying. I couldn’t picture a mob boss’s son saying these things. I’m glad I kept going though because it definitely picks up. It kept me on the edge of my seat and had my heart pounding. The chemistry between the main characters was hot! I liked the secondary characters as well. Especially Bailey, Matteo, and Nora. There was some violence and it has triggers some may find hard to read. I was totally hooked by the end and that cliffhanger was Wow!
***ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.***
Hot forbidden Angsty goodness!! I love new adult and Mafia! Throw in a lot of steam and a cliffhanger, and you’ve got a book that leaves you screaming for more
To quote Shakespeare, “Two households, both alike in dignity,
In fair Verona [County] where we lay our scene,
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny.” It seemed appropriate. (Shrugs)
Prince of Hearts is definitely an enticing read. Lovers of Romeo and Juliet will appreciate the nice little homages to the original. New comers will love the anticipation of what’s to come. Everyone, however, will scowl, scream, or contemplate tossing their reading device once they get to the end. (Even those of us that already knew it was only book 1)
L.A. Cotton captured my love of star crossed lovers with my incessant need for mafia romances. It’s like she wrote it just for me! (Thanks L.A.!) Enjoy the brooding bad boy. Maybe even have a little fun because soon your going to be frustrated like the rest of us. Just watch your back because all is not right in our fair county of Verona.
Arianne, the innocent, and Nicco, the very bad boy, are in for an eye opening experience. Their fresh, New love is going to be tried and tested. I hope both prove just how strong they are especially together!
Prince of Hearts is raw and gritty. Clearly a modern twist on the story of Romeo and Juliet, this hero and heroine are also heirs to Italian rivals, their lives enmeshed with the New England Mafia. The angst and suspense are palpable from the first chapter and kept me on the edge of my seat to the end.
Nicco is strong, powerful, and dangerous. He was raised in a rough environment that shaped who he is. Despite his hard exterior, it was clear to me that he had some good inside of him, and that showed in all of his interactions with Arianne from the beginning. I couldn’t help but like him, especially once I found out he rode a motorcycle!
Arianne is so sweet and naive. She reminds me a lot of myself at that age, just starting college. I like her immediately! She and I could definitely be good friends.
The plot was dramatic, gripping, and intense. I did struggle the first couple of chapters for personal reasons, but then Nicco wove his spell over me. I can’t believe how the book ended, sand book two cannot come quickly enough!
A modern day Romeo and Juliet tale told mafia style. Their love is forbidden, because their fates have already been decided. Nicco and Arianne will have to fight for their love.
She’s been sheltered from her own life. Her father never wanted the past to touch her. Now her eyes have been opened and she needs to figure out who she is and what she wants.
Arianne has been kept hidden for five years. Now that she’s eighteen, she wants some freedom. Her first semester at MU is going to be life changing. Her father has loosened his hold, but still has his own plans for his heir. Arianne just wants to be normal and have a real college experience, away from her father.
Between her cousin, Tristan and Scott, a family friend, she has her own personal guards. The only problem is Scott, because he has his own agenda and it includes her. He is not what he seems. A rich, privileged kid from a wealthy family that gives her the creeper vibes. He is in hot pursuit and NO doesn’t seem to be a word that he understands.
Arianne’s date with Scott gets out of hand, so she takes off only to run into Nicco. Her knight in shining armor is going to come to the rescue. However, he’s not what he seems. Her rescuer is being bred to take over the family business and that business involves bloodshed. Their connection is immediate.
Arianne is naive. She has no idea who her father truly is. She’s become his pawn since he has decided her future. She will have to learn to fight for what she wants and unfortunately, she’ll lose something precious in the process. However, she’ll also discover a strength she did not know she possessed and a love worth sacrificing anything to protect.
Nicco fell for Ari the moment he laid eyes on her. She was the end game for him. When they met, they had no idea of their’s family’s history or the bad blood between them. Now he’s willing to do absolutely anything to keep her safe. He’ll give up everything to keep her.
Ari and Nicco were never supposed to fall in love. Their relationship was forbidden, but their love could not be denied. Their chemistry sizzles. They are both willing to do whatever they can to be together. Losing each other is not an option. Their path is wrought with resistance and obstacles. The will need a plan that will that expose the truth to take down the bad guys, so that they can be together.
I look forward to the conclusion of this dramatic duet.
All she wanted was freedom, and a chance to experience real life.
But she’s no ordinary girl, she’s the heir to the Caprizola fortune!
He’s the son of the head honcho of the Marchetti family, and one day he will be the leader.
When he finds her distressed and on the verge of breaking down, he can’t just walk on by.
But this one action changes everything…
Oh my god wowsers!!
This is the story of a love that should never be. Of two people whom fate brought together when destiny had already written their futures in the stars above.
Romeo and Juliet have nothing on Arianne and Nicco!
My poor heart feels like it’s about to explode both with love and pain if that’s possible.
Arianne is like rapunzel, the girl who’s been sheltered and locked away all her life. She’s innocent and naive and hasn’t learnt to trust her instincts.
Nicco is street smart, aggressive, violent and a hardened criminal if that’s what the job requires. But he’s also the guy who cares too much, and loves with all that he is.
Two amazing characters who see the same world from a different view yet find something in each other that others might not see.
Beautiful and soul shattering, bitter yet sweet this is a true love story that you wont ever forget!
Holy crap LA Cotton had my jaw on the floor during parts of this book. I love me a good retelling of Romeo and Juliet and I loved this take on it.
I was VERY ragey at times during this story but it did not stop me from flipping the pages. I cannot wait to read the conclusion (with hopes it end in a HEA unlike Mr. Shakespeare)
Bravo L.A. Cotton. I have enjoyed many of this authors work but this one tops them all. The story had it all with it’s secrets, lies and passion. This is a Mafia story that has Romeo and Juliet vibe.
Nicco was a brooding bad boy with a softer side. Arianna was a shelter mafia princess that finally gets to experience the world. There connection is off the charts even through the turbulence they face. There is so many great characters and moving parts that you get sucked in and enjoy every minute of this read.
This book was so addicting and so hard to put down!! I was hooked from page 1! Ari and Nicco were perfect together!! They come from different families but that doesn’t stop them from falling in love. Both have to fight to get what they want. I love watching Ari transform from this scared little girl to a badass woman. She wasn’t afraid of the consequences and stood up to members of the each family like she belonged there. It was amazing! Nicco knew he wanted her the minute he saw her but he had no clue who she was. When he found out, it didn’t stop him from getting her. There’s so much action in this book and a slimy little weasel who needs to be taken down quickly. I can’t believe how this ended and I’m needing book 2 right now!!! This book was everything I love in a mafia book!!! So freakin good!!!
A modern day Romeo & Juliet…..with an added sprinkle of darkness and a dash of spice!
Star-crossed lovers – check!
Tragic circumstances – check!
Heart-warming characters – check!
I’ve been in a cycle of bully romances lately and this was a refreshing change right now. There is still some nasty scenes, don’t get me wrong, it is about the mafia after all! But it was nice to have two main characters who fall hard and fast without one of them being a bully (at least not to each other).
Arianne is the picture of sheltered innocence and she is proud of who she is, despite being a teenager in college she doesn’t care if she isn’t into all the things her classmates are. Nicco is her opposite in so many ways, dark and brooding. But opposites attract right?! And finding out who they are with each other is a wonderful journey.
I thought I had this book all worked out for at least the first half and then the games changes and the darker elements start – I won’t detail too much, no one likes a spoiler 🙂
This is the first part of a duet so unsurprisingly does end on a bit of a cliffhanger and with some unanswered questions for sure! But I’m looking forward to finding the answers in the second part.
I would recommend this to all romance novel lovers, particularly those who like R&J as it definitely resonates with the original story with some modern twists.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book