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Alfonzo #2

Ascension

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Alfonzo Diaz is a young Latino who has ascended to Capo of the Palazzo family. He must gain respect from the International Board of Directors, also known as the I.B.D, a ruthless crime syndicate founded by his grandfather who view the young American as an outsider unfamiliar with tradition or the Italian way. There's a traitor in the ranks and with a corrupt FBI agent on his tail, an undercover cop in his midst, the power struggle begins.
The fight for power becomes a high-stake game of survival when the FBI close in. Alfonzo's arrested and charged under the RICO statute. Denied bail and locked up in a Manhattan Correctional Facility is the last place Alfonzo wants to be when he's informed there's a contract out on his life. He must defend himself against a jail-house assassin and worry about his wife who has embarked on a bloody quest for vengeance. The deadly tug of war for ultimate power and title of Capo Crimini -Superboss can have but one victor!

246 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 16, 2012

25 people are currently reading
415 people want to read

About the author

S.W. Frank

55 books235 followers
S. W. Frank resides in New York. Art, poetry, music and writing were always quiet joys. A former NYC emergency medical worker and contributing writer for her law school journal, the author decided to pursue the obsession of storytelling full-time. Since then she dusted off manuscripts and decided to share stories with the public.

The Guardian, 2013 article, 'The Gems of Indie Publishing' readers' have stated, "[S.W. Frank] is bold and unapologetic in her delivery."

The Alfonzo series, voted on Goodreads as 1 of the Best Mob and Multicultural/Interracial Romance's for 2012.

The author states, "I write stories with multicultural characters that are desirable, smart and intriguing. They're stories of interesting people that I wanted to read and my small contribution to literary world to include diversity."

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Alexis *Reality Bites*.
757 reviews3,656 followers
April 30, 2013
QUICK REVIEW(This review contains minor spoilers) -mature content reader discretion is advised.
4 STARS out of 5
Genre: Interracial Romance Mystery/Suspense

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‘He hadn’t anticipated the impenetrable hold this woman would have on his heart. It defied reason.Their lives and souls were entwined through a tragedy and irrevocably linked by the powerful force of love.’ -Inner monologue of Alfonzo

In book 1 we met Alfonzo a half Puerto Rican half Italian sexy as all hell street hustler. Tragedy strikes his family and he finds himself forever linked to one female Selange a black woman with brains to match her beauty. Book 2 opens with Alfonzo and his family living in Peurto Rico; he and Selange are married with a 2yr old son, Salvatore.

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“Then tell me Alfonzo, just how deep are you in your father’s business?” His wife’s intelligence was indisputable. He told her the truth. “Submerged so deep babe I can touch the ocean floor.” There was a sharp intake of breath at this pronouncement followed by her desperately futile plea, “You have to get out, isn’t there some way?”

Alfonzo is stepping up as Capo of the Palazzo family and is officially the head of his Italian mafia family. And everyone is not happy with an outsider coming in to the fold… *cocks an eyebrow* An American outsider at that. Meanwhile the FBI is closing in and there is an undercover agent hovering in plain sight. When his freedom is seized he is arrested and held at MCF Manhattan Correctional Facility and denied bail.
While Alfonzo worries for his wife and child’s safety he has no idea that he should be worrying for his own. For an assassin strikes to take his life in jail.

My Thoughts
SECRETS. Secret identities, secret lives, secret ledgers. So many DAMN SECRETS. So many twist and turns. And I LOVED IT!!! S.W. Frank keeps me on my toes just when I think I got it all figured out Frank shuts it down and has my mind spinning. This book is sexy, suspenseful and layered! I highly recommend it!
Must mention: The grammatical errors which will bother most, however I guess I am use to them because I read a lot of ARC’s.

My Ratings
Characters- Love some hate some
Writing Style- Hold on to your seat and fasten your seat belt G O O D
Plot/Storyline- Sexy and very Suspenseful
Steam Factor- High/Very Steamy
Overall- I loved it!!!!

Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!

For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/realitybitesletsgetlost





Profile Image for Vallsykes.
1,138 reviews13 followers
October 15, 2012
I shall keep of muzzle on my inner nit-picker who wants to list the noticeable # of errors in sentences in this e-book BECAUSE it gets...
4 Solid Stars for keeping me interested!

Secondary characters grow more important and the hero and heroine's love is surely tested.

With the secondary characters comes the dark world of assassins and powerful men. New light is drawn on old feuds, which tangle webs that all inadvertently point toward Alfonzo as the heir apparent and last hope to revive an Old World honor and glory. Furthermore, one suspense is traded for another because some stones are left unturned (cryptic, I know, but that is owing to the nature of the book).

In the leading couple, the reader is treated to a hero who takes colossal licks only to remain standing, and a heroine who searches her designer closet to play ninja, leaving you to decide whether she succeeds in the venture, or not (LOL). It's some exciting stuff, but more exciting is the reinforcement their love in one another. Yeah, the reader feels that with this couple. IMO, they are leaning towards becoming epic.

I recommend this series. Really!

Onward to Vol. III
Profile Image for  ~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~.
1,177 reviews7 followers
October 18, 2012
Alfonzo

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Wow! Wow! Wow!
This second installment is definitely more of a "transition" book for this series. It leads you to another door or several, which shows you more of what is unfolding in this Saga. But never the less it is still an emotional rollercoaster that will have your blood pressure going up and down.

ALOT of beautiful yet heartwrenching moments in this one. The action is on point but not as frequent as it is in the 1st book. You get alot more questions than answers in this one, but there are also things that give you closure as well. Another great chapter in this Saga. I highly recommend this read and this series.

I'm on to book 3!
Profile Image for Lady Raven RAVE!.
1,824 reviews1,506 followers
August 2, 2012
Story: GOOD
Intimacy Level: GOOD
Enjoyment: GREAT
Length: 11875 kindle

And the saga continues. And what a continuing it is. The story and the characters have matured, as this is years later. This volume definitely more of a mob feel with a whole lot of stuff going down with the I.B.D, Frank, Franky, Nico and many more. Also, Selange and Alfonzo's relationship is going through a bit of a rough patch.

I like the maturity of Alfonzo, for a Latino from New York, he has really become a boss, even though he still has to prove himself to the I.B.D. And with the people by his side, especially Nico, I love it. I really like Nico and he is really loyal. With the search for Frank and the history that was divulge in book 1, the author gave insight to a bit of the history as to why Frank feels the way he feels about Alfonzo's family. And still, with all that you know while reading, things are not what they seem in so many ways. Between the Feds, rivals, family, traitors, assassin and snitches, you get your moneys worth.

Selange and Alfonzo's relationship got a bit crazy and at times even though heart breaking, it was entertaining. I do have to say that I selfishly wanted more physical interaction from them because I love when these two get together. Getting to know their son, Sal, was also a pleasure. Also, I have to give it up to Selange, she grew a pair of balls as the story progressed. She isn't the same person I read about in book one. I love the new her.

Overall, another job well done by the author, it's still a good read haven't gotten bored yet, and I love reading about the previous characters from book 1, even if their cameo roles were short.

http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Profile Image for M.J..
373 reviews23 followers
September 16, 2014
Ascension begins a few years after the conclusion book 1. Alfonzo and Selange are married and enjoying their growing family but there is trouble on the horizon for the Diaz family. Alfonzo has ascended, taking his birthright as the Don. As a new young Don, Al has to fight for power against, the IDB (International Board of Directors) a group of “Bosses” that governs the underworld. They see Alfonzo with his Puerto Rican/Italian heritage as an outsider and put him to the test. Al answers and when he is done he leaves no doubt to all, he is his father’s son. His new position and power bring new, more ruthless enemies. These new dangers have the Don thinking maybe his new life is too dangerous for his family and has him contemplating walking away from Selange and the children but Selange proves she is just the woman to go thru the fire with her husband.
Not as good a book 1, book 2 introduces us to Alfonzo paternal family. We get a better understanding of Alfonzo’s life as the Don and the conflict he has about his wife and children. I could really feel how torn Alfonzo was about the life he was bringing his beloved family onto. Selange came into her own as well showing she has what it takes to stand by her man. This book was really exciting; there was never a dull moment. We also get to meet some very key figures who will play a major role as the series continues. I was a little confused with all the names at times, but still the book served notice that this will be a really great series and if you continue with it you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Tanielle.
Author 0 books38 followers
May 15, 2015
This was really good. I was waiting for her to step up and stopping sitting on the sidelines. I think she should've been a bit more prepared or she should've taken another option to show her support. I also like how she broke down the race issue but hated how she fell for the stupid listen to a single friend when you're married bit. Not sure what's the deal with him meeting Shanda's boyfriend but I can't wait to see what happens to the young doctor guy. Not sure how Franky is going to play into other stories but I can't see him sticking around.

Kind of upset with the ending seeing how we just jump to the funeral without knowing just what happened. I can't see him stepping down, he's too deep in but then I can't see Vincent and Nico staying away either. But that reminds me about Domingo, what's going on with him and the other guys who started with Alfonzo? Why are they not mentioned more? Seems like he just started another life without everyone and now he's planning to do the same but I can't see it happening. Guess I'll find out in the next one.
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
January 24, 2016
Okay so I decided to move to to book 2 in this series.

I am not liking Selange very much right now. She is acting like some childish girl instead of a woman married to a Mafia Don. Of course she is going to be lonely sometimes, it comes with the territory. However, behaving the way she did in that club does not help. Selange and her so called friend Shanda are behaving like two silly teenagers. Plus what girlfriend advises you to take off your wedding ring and go to club when you and your hubby are fighting. With friends like her you don't need enemies to get you killed!!! This ladies are doing my brains in!!!
Profile Image for Samantha.
986 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2015
The writing was a bit better in this one. Although I wished the author would have taken the time to smooth out some of the issues. Alfonzo and crew is older and a lot has changed in their lives. However, I felt like a chunk was missing in the beginning. What happened to his NY crew. They were his peoples. There are a lot of characters in the book which makes it confusing but there is so much going on.
Profile Image for Deloris.
970 reviews42 followers
July 30, 2012
I am truly enjoying this series I love Alfonzo and Selange . she is not so innocent now She is a true ride or die chic, I love it! I can t wait to see what happens in the next book I know it is going to be good.
Profile Image for Charmer (+ Vibes Only).
598 reviews18 followers
July 12, 2013
Ok, I liked this one better than the 1st. I wasn't really feelin Alfonzo in the 1st book, bbbbuuuutttt I am now. Yea, for Selenge. I was clappin for her when she wanted to help protect her family. I'm happy for Nico, too. What's to come of Franky/Christopher? On to the next book.
471 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2020
Woo Baby

This book was something. So much action, intrigue and suspense. I loved how Selange and Alfonzo can work their way through so much carp and find their way back to each other.
Love Nick and Giuseppe and hope they make it through all this craziness.
What is going to happen to Agent "Franky" or Christopher?
So much is going on, can't wait to read the next installment.
Profile Image for TOwens.
313 reviews2 followers
July 26, 2017
Man oh man!

Damn! Damn! Damnnnnnnnn! Loving this series! I already know that I'll keep reading until the end! Can't say who I love the most because I love the side characters as much as the main!
Profile Image for Renita.
206 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2017
Couldn't put it down

Part II was filled with action packed scenes and full of deceit. Always watch your back. I am ready for part III
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,159 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2024
They are coming after him in all dirstions

With the knowledge of who his father is, Alfonzo is making a way with earning the respect of the I.B.D. But he has a mole in his presence. That mole is having conflicted idea about his job. Alfonzo has been charged under the RICO statute but the family is hard at work to make those charges go away.

Salange and alfonzo seems to be happy but he is spending more time away from the family on business, leaving Salage to deal with the children alone. They find somewhat safety in Bayamon, Puerto Rico where keeps his legitimate business.

The family is still in pursuit of those who after Alfonzo and taking them out one by one. The twins Nico and Vincenti took oaths to Luzo to protect his family.
Profile Image for Cat22 Barron.
30 reviews12 followers
May 9, 2013
This series just got a whole lot better!!! Loved vol II alot happened in this book nothing but action after action!!

Now that Alfonzo has accepted his fate which he believes is a curse that this is his world sense his father Luco Palazzo has died and he has taken his place and with that comes more power & more money. His other family from his father side who welcome him with open arms help him in the process and follow him they have a great respect for him because they see his father in Alfonzo and he fits right in as if he were born for it. The thing is Alfonzo fears for the lives of his family his family is everything to him and there is nothing he wouldn't do for them. He realizes how hard it is to juggle the two his fate into the Mafia world and to keep his family alive and happy.

Alfonzo and Selange are a great match she adores him and would stand by his side no matter what. He struggles with him self because he feels that Selagne deserves so much more but he loves her and can not let her go. For Selange his work is a strain on their marriage because he is away alot and she knows nothing of his work other then he has taken his father place in the Palazzo Enterprise. But once things start to fall apart Alfonzo knows that he must let Selange in on his life in order to keep her and once he does she understands and accepts all of it because just like Alfonzo she will do anything for her family as well. THese two have a strong connection and have been through so much when it comes to loosing the people they love and the bond they share after getting through the Death of Selagne's mother and Alfonzo's Uncle (whom were married to each other)that brought them together to begin with and now they have their son Salvatore who they have to think of as well. The two will stop at nothing help one antoher and to keep their family alive and together.

I can not wait to see wht Vol III brings because things take a turn and Alfonzo does not want anything to do with his father legacy and gets out!!

p.s. Did I mention how much I love Alfonzo and his sweet sweet spanish words he tells Selange and his love for her sighhhh!!
Profile Image for Sistar Tea.
296 reviews
December 7, 2012
We Can't Choose Our Family

The saga continues and I wasn't disappointed. This series is getting better with each book, as they all should. Ms. Frank is doing the damn thing with this mobster collection. I truly never thought I would like these novels so much. I am super happy that I started series late, and I can just mosey on along to the next one. I will be picking up the next part "Anarchy" very soon

The Blue eyed Rican/Italian is back only he has learned of his birthright and has taken to his throne as the Don. Don Alfonzo is taking no prisoners as he has some strong shoes to live up to. This is a life he almost steps into effortlessly. Don't get me wrong, the struggle is there. Alfonzo has to prove his self to the IDB heads, contend with snitches, treachery and crooked agents. All of this and more kept me going to see how things would turn out.

Behind every man, there is a strong woman and Selange has stepped up to the plate. They had some rocky times and it wasn't always easy but they emerge as a power couple. The ups and downs had me screaming at them both, “you fools get it together." I can wait to see more of this budding young love.

Keep the great work Ms. Frank. I can't wait to indulge in my escape to Italy, Puerto Rico etc. that these novels take me to.

SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
Nov. 2012
Profile Image for Kim.
740 reviews80 followers
November 30, 2012
I am so loving the direction this series is going in. Alfonzo is really coming into his own. He is a natural born leader, and a fierce protector of his family. Selange really surprised me in this book. Her heroism in protecting her family at all costs was really something else. The supporting characters are really what makes this book rock. Nico & Vincent, even Giuseppe's ruthlessness brings that dark side to the book, but also hails them as heroes staunchly protecting their family. The turn of events with Carlo I didn't see that coming, nor did I see the true identity of Alberti coming. I'm anxious to see how this series continues to play out....reading on!
Profile Image for Purplegirl .
345 reviews84 followers
June 23, 2012
Upgrading to 5 stars. There was great action, plot and strong characters. Selange was a surprise by sticking with Alonzo and embracing that he didn't have much of a choice in his lifestyle. She was hardcore herself but did it because she was protecting her family.

All around good mob action with the family histories and betrayals. I hope that book 3 keeps it the momentum.
Profile Image for Cyndi Bryant.
106 reviews13 followers
September 25, 2012
This series is a fast paced, sexy, emotional thrill ride that is so fun it will keep you on your toes (and have YOU talking out loud – sometimes screaming at the characters and vowing to rain down fire and brimstone on the author). So many twists and turns. … Get it, read it! … I’m sure you will love it.
Profile Image for Christiana.
230 reviews
March 7, 2013
I enjoyed this 2nd installment...this story is getting good ...I do however think that they're way too many characters to keep up with ...but the more I read...I'm getting use to whose who...Salonge was a ride or die chic in this story...I look forward to seeing how her characters progress in the next book...
Profile Image for Yolanda.
1,343 reviews5 followers
June 1, 2014
I think the series is moving along really well, the storyline is good. I am loving the story and the characters. Some good chararcters got killed and i still have more questions i need answered. I am looking forward to what will be happen in the next book.
Profile Image for Lisa G.
269 reviews14 followers
September 4, 2012
Book two was even better cant wait for book 3.
3 reviews
Read
August 16, 2016
love the build up to the finish,it was quite gripping,excellent storyline.
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