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Alfonzo #5
Awakening
AWAKENING: Alfonzo Volume V
The Family Saga continues....
Drink and women can't erase the betrayal of one woman Alfonzo swore to love forever. It's only sharpened the blade of hurt.Sometimes the hardest battles to win are the internal wars. He's contained the injury, sealed it down with his flesh for the sake of his children, but each visit opens the ugly wound and awakens a raging passion he can't restrain for his adulterous ex-wife.
Selange has tried to move on, but that's hard to do when every day she's reminded of her transgression when she stares at her reflection. A man has died, her husband is gone and from the ruins are ashes of regret. The guilt has stricken deep, and Alfonzo's repulsion is the final blow that eventually cripples her and awakens a newfound strength to fight for the man she loves.
Giuseppe's actions against a former friend and ally, may be the beginning of an endless war.
Nico must make a choice, live and become a loyal enforcer for the mafia or die with the truth he's always sought. His penance, to eliminate a mob informant that may send Alfonzo to jail for the rest of his life, but there's a catch. The rat sits in The Witness Protection Program.
Meanwhile, Alfonzo's mother has decided to take matters in her own hands to uncover the paternity of Selange's babies, even if it means she must lie to everyone to get to the truth!
A mob family drama where truth is often found in blood!
The Family Saga continues....
Drink and women can't erase the betrayal of one woman Alfonzo swore to love forever. It's only sharpened the blade of hurt.Sometimes the hardest battles to win are the internal wars. He's contained the injury, sealed it down with his flesh for the sake of his children, but each visit opens the ugly wound and awakens a raging passion he can't restrain for his adulterous ex-wife.
Selange has tried to move on, but that's hard to do when every day she's reminded of her transgression when she stares at her reflection. A man has died, her husband is gone and from the ruins are ashes of regret. The guilt has stricken deep, and Alfonzo's repulsion is the final blow that eventually cripples her and awakens a newfound strength to fight for the man she loves.
Giuseppe's actions against a former friend and ally, may be the beginning of an endless war.
Nico must make a choice, live and become a loyal enforcer for the mafia or die with the truth he's always sought. His penance, to eliminate a mob informant that may send Alfonzo to jail for the rest of his life, but there's a catch. The rat sits in The Witness Protection Program.
Meanwhile, Alfonzo's mother has decided to take matters in her own hands to uncover the paternity of Selange's babies, even if it means she must lie to everyone to get to the truth!
A mob family drama where truth is often found in blood!
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2012
6 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
S.W. Frank
55 books235 followersS. 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."
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 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 7, 2013
Minor Spoilers: This series must be read in order if not this review can spoil a plot. QUICK REVIEW -mature content reader discretion is advised.
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Interracial Romance Suspense
I am reading this series faster than I can review therefore I will give “Quick Highlights”
The betrayal of a woman has my favorite mobster reverting back to his man whore ways. He is using women to expel Selange from his thoughts. Unfortunately its not working.
- Selange must move past her mistakes and begin a life without Alfonzo
- Nico must choose between life and death
- An informant is ready to take Alfonzo down
- Selange and Alfonzo make a decision about their future
- A recurring character with a minor roll bites the dust
- Giuseppe unknowingly starts a mob war
- Readers meet a new assassin
- Maria makes a bold move that is oh so necessary
- More juicy secrets from the Giacanti past are revealed
- Giuseppe, Alfonzo and Nico FACEOFF
- The ending is EXPLOSIVE
My Ratings
Characters- Love them
Writing Style- Savory and Suspenseful with a fast pace
Plot/Storyline- Keeps you on the edge of your seat
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...
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Interracial Romance Suspense
I am reading this series faster than I can review therefore I will give “Quick Highlights”
The betrayal of a woman has my favorite mobster reverting back to his man whore ways. He is using women to expel Selange from his thoughts. Unfortunately its not working.
- Selange must move past her mistakes and begin a life without Alfonzo
- Nico must choose between life and death
- An informant is ready to take Alfonzo down
- Selange and Alfonzo make a decision about their future
- A recurring character with a minor roll bites the dust
- Giuseppe unknowingly starts a mob war
- Readers meet a new assassin
- Maria makes a bold move that is oh so necessary
- More juicy secrets from the Giacanti past are revealed
- Giuseppe, Alfonzo and Nico FACEOFF
- The ending is EXPLOSIVE
My Ratings
Characters- Love them
Writing Style- Savory and Suspenseful with a fast pace
Plot/Storyline- Keeps you on the edge of your seat
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...
October 17, 2012
OMGOODNESS!!! Volume V kicks butt! Non stop Passion. Action. And REVEALS! I cannot say it enough people READ THIS SERIES!!!
This one started off with tears for me but it was still another awesome read. Another great installment to this Saga.
There was one reveal in this one I kind of suspected, but was pleased to learn I was right nonetheless. So yes I was doing this when it was revealed...
Renewed love, hope, & loyalty. Heartbreak and shockers abound as well. But come on, it's a Mafia Saga.
I highly recommend this read and this series.
On to Volume VI
This one started off with tears for me but it was still another awesome read. Another great installment to this Saga.
There was one reveal in this one I kind of suspected, but was pleased to learn I was right nonetheless. So yes I was doing this when it was revealed...
Renewed love, hope, & loyalty. Heartbreak and shockers abound as well. But come on, it's a Mafia Saga.
I highly recommend this read and this series.
On to Volume VI
August 11, 2012
Story: GOOD
Intimacy Level: VERY GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Length: 187 pages
This book has my blood boiling. The storyline is good as it has been consistent throughout. However, the choices that Selange and Alfonzo made had me yelling at the book. This is what it has come to, from Brooklyn to this? The choices that Selange made in book 3, Anarchy (Alfonzo) has cost her everything and when I say everything, everything. Alfonzo is running around with a different woman every day of the week to numb the betrayal of Selange. Selange is in a dazed and she now realizes her choices and the man she loves no longer seems to care. But when all is said and done, these two has an intense attraction that they can't fight. Although there were still conspiracies, threats and the ever growing list of characters, this volume focus on the relationship or lack there of, of Alfonzo and Selange as well as their ever growing family.
The secret about Nico is finally revealed, Giuseppe's actions, wow and Alfonzo's mother, Maria, I always loved that woman and I am so glad she took matters into her own hands to find out and reveal news that was music to my ears.
I am enjoying this series immensely and I think with each book in the series, the author manages to keep me entertain with additional shock moments, and I'm glad it goes there at times. This volume was not what I expected, and as much as I didn't agree with the couples' choices, my eyes were glued to the words.
Books in Order:
ALFONZO
ASCENSION: Alfonzo Volume II
Anarchy (Alfonzo)
AWAKENING (Alfonzo)
ATONEMENT (Alfonzo)
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Intimacy Level: VERY GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Length: 187 pages
This book has my blood boiling. The storyline is good as it has been consistent throughout. However, the choices that Selange and Alfonzo made had me yelling at the book. This is what it has come to, from Brooklyn to this? The choices that Selange made in book 3, Anarchy (Alfonzo) has cost her everything and when I say everything, everything. Alfonzo is running around with a different woman every day of the week to numb the betrayal of Selange. Selange is in a dazed and she now realizes her choices and the man she loves no longer seems to care. But when all is said and done, these two has an intense attraction that they can't fight. Although there were still conspiracies, threats and the ever growing list of characters, this volume focus on the relationship or lack there of, of Alfonzo and Selange as well as their ever growing family.
The secret about Nico is finally revealed, Giuseppe's actions, wow and Alfonzo's mother, Maria, I always loved that woman and I am so glad she took matters into her own hands to find out and reveal news that was music to my ears.
I am enjoying this series immensely and I think with each book in the series, the author manages to keep me entertain with additional shock moments, and I'm glad it goes there at times. This volume was not what I expected, and as much as I didn't agree with the couples' choices, my eyes were glued to the words.
Books in Order:
ALFONZO
ASCENSION: Alfonzo Volume II
Anarchy (Alfonzo)
AWAKENING (Alfonzo)
ATONEMENT (Alfonzo)
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
December 3, 2012
I'm a sucker for a happy ending, so I've been wishing since I found out about Selange's twins that the paternity would be resolved in Alfonzo's favor. Those two are just meant to be, and if it turned otherwise I think it may have put a but of a damper on the story for me. We've seen bits and pieces of Giuseppe throughout the stories, but he really makes his presence known in this one. Giuseppe is truly ruthless, but that is because his famiglia is number one and he will protect it at all costs. One thing I didn't like was reading about Alfonzo's whoring around. I guess it was a necessary evil for him to attempt to get over Selange, but those two are like kismet, and he was fighting the inevitable. There is one scene when Alfonzo and Giuseppe is fighting Nico, and Nico kicks there butts, where what was a goodie. Luckily Maria (Alfonzo's) mom saves the day. That scene was something else...reading on!!
October 14, 2014
Ok, I gave this book 4 stars for the roller coaster effect, and I am pressing on to Book 6, but see the updates for the ball by ball. The apologist nonsense for Selange made the first half of this book an exercise in endurance and I am having a huge dessert as a reward for making it through without hurling. Alfonzo is still a punk 90% of the time. I am DREADING any and all focus on a relationship between Guiseppe and Shanda's ghetto a$$; I have suffered enough.
I am pressing on to Book 6 because:
1) I HAVE to see Nico and Alfonzo's renewed alliance to deal with the kidnapping.
2) I have to see Nico and Ariana become close again
3) I want to see what Abuela Maria brings to the table.
Note that most of my focus is on Nico because, as much as he pissed me off in Books 4 and half of book 5 he is still, by and large, my favorite character.
Team Nico till the GOTDAMN wheels fall off! Andiamo!
I am pressing on to Book 6 because:
1) I HAVE to see Nico and Alfonzo's renewed alliance to deal with the kidnapping.
2) I have to see Nico and Ariana become close again
3) I want to see what Abuela Maria brings to the table.
Note that most of my focus is on Nico because, as much as he pissed me off in Books 4 and half of book 5 he is still, by and large, my favorite character.
Team Nico till the GOTDAMN wheels fall off! Andiamo!
April 30, 2016
LOVE THESE!!!
Now this was good! I was waiting to see who was the daddy and Alfonzo held it down like a pro. I still don't understand if we're supposed to believe he cheated or not. The fact that everyone insinuated it but he never came out with it when he had a chance to hurt her makes me wonder. I'm guessing Yei will be back because of her final scenes. Still not sure why the senator had to go but I'm hoping no more of the guys fall. I would've thought Domingo would've jumped into the fight but it was fitting that the three fought it out. Nico always holds it down but why in the heck did Vincent have to go? Great read can't wait to see what mayhem Nico brings to the fools who've crossed him.
Now this was good! I was waiting to see who was the daddy and Alfonzo held it down like a pro. I still don't understand if we're supposed to believe he cheated or not. The fact that everyone insinuated it but he never came out with it when he had a chance to hurt her makes me wonder. I'm guessing Yei will be back because of her final scenes. Still not sure why the senator had to go but I'm hoping no more of the guys fall. I would've thought Domingo would've jumped into the fight but it was fitting that the three fought it out. Nico always holds it down but why in the heck did Vincent have to go? Great read can't wait to see what mayhem Nico brings to the fools who've crossed him.
October 30, 2012
How can this series get any better read this book and find out how! Selange and Alfonzo were meant for each other the are soul mates In this book they find each other and I loved it. Nico is a bad boy I would not want him for a enemy in this book he deadly sexy . This was one of my favorites in the series and it will answer a lot of questions and have you waiting for the next installment. Now that I read the last book available I miss my men Alfonzo is sexy bad ass and Nico is sexy deadly come back to me my bad boys I will miss you until the next book.
July 16, 2015
Another good read
Good characters
Good characters
September 6, 2020
Finally
The mess of infidelity and confusion is being put aside. Love the chemistry of Selange and Alfonzo. I love Nick as well, but he needs to fix his family.
Not liking Shandra, never have. I guess we'll see what happens next with her.
Nick just can't seem to catch a break, sigh!
The mess of infidelity and confusion is being put aside. Love the chemistry of Selange and Alfonzo. I love Nick as well, but he needs to fix his family.
Not liking Shandra, never have. I guess we'll see what happens next with her.
Nick just can't seem to catch a break, sigh!
July 29, 2017
Omg!
This series just keeps getting better and better! I don't believe in giving spoilers in reviews because as a reader, I hate them. I want to find out everything as I read the book. So all I'm going to say is this......... SIT BACK, RELAX and ENJOY!!!!
This series just keeps getting better and better! I don't believe in giving spoilers in reviews because as a reader, I hate them. I want to find out everything as I read the book. So all I'm going to say is this......... SIT BACK, RELAX and ENJOY!!!!
July 12, 2019
As always the Alfonzo series kept me on the edge of my seat... Am so glad Alfonzo and Selange made up, so glad the twins are theirs and soooo pissed with Nico... The guy's just horrible and annoying... Anyways, am unto the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2019
Love changes thing
Well I’m happy Al and Selange is back together they both realized what they loss and got it right I just hope the promises stands the test of this life
Well I’m happy Al and Selange is back together they both realized what they loss and got it right I just hope the promises stands the test of this life
February 20, 2024
Love is always a battle
DEATH TO THE ENEMIES OF MY FAMILY. Familia is an important source of love and support as seen in this book. Marriage is the same way, a good marriage that is. Selange and Alfonzo had to get over their hurts and disappointments to come to the realization that they were each other's healing balm and were sick without each other. Nico never fought for Ariana, in his realization and has begun to to make efforts to make amends.
Don't threaten Selange's children or you'll find yourself with a beat down. I just love the way she came to her children's defenses when being threatened. I'm still disappointed that she had her moment of indiscretion with Nico. She'd told Alfonzo plenty of times she wanted him home more but that is still not an excuse. Maria showed a mother's love for her child was what was needed to find out the truth. She also has a hand in the salvation of her son and his wife's marriage with documented proof. I love the way she has finally came to the realization that the Giacanti family is her family as well and it was time she had a part of the fight in its defense too.
This story shows that no matter how angry or hurt one may feel with a family member, all of that anguish is forgotten when their is a family emergency or danger. They all come together for the sake of one and the family.
This book was well written with lots of suspense, mystery and drama. I enjoyed it and will read the next one.
DEATH TO THE ENEMIES OF MY FAMILY. Familia is an important source of love and support as seen in this book. Marriage is the same way, a good marriage that is. Selange and Alfonzo had to get over their hurts and disappointments to come to the realization that they were each other's healing balm and were sick without each other. Nico never fought for Ariana, in his realization and has begun to to make efforts to make amends.
Don't threaten Selange's children or you'll find yourself with a beat down. I just love the way she came to her children's defenses when being threatened. I'm still disappointed that she had her moment of indiscretion with Nico. She'd told Alfonzo plenty of times she wanted him home more but that is still not an excuse. Maria showed a mother's love for her child was what was needed to find out the truth. She also has a hand in the salvation of her son and his wife's marriage with documented proof. I love the way she has finally came to the realization that the Giacanti family is her family as well and it was time she had a part of the fight in its defense too.
This story shows that no matter how angry or hurt one may feel with a family member, all of that anguish is forgotten when their is a family emergency or danger. They all come together for the sake of one and the family.
This book was well written with lots of suspense, mystery and drama. I enjoyed it and will read the next one.
February 11, 2013
My investment in the characters of this series and curiosity about the aftermath of "big" mistakes led me here. This Vol. tied some things up and refocused the series' conflict to outside threats to La Familia[Famiglia].
Each Vol. has brought a great pace, action and devastation. My heart is for Aflonzo, always, even though other dark haired men of his blood get a head nod. I want a good ending for one of them in particular, even if at times I wanted Alfonzo to just cuff him and snap his neck, but alas, he is the ultimate killer and his presence will not go away so quickly.
As for Selange(the heroine), for me, the jury is still out on her. I liked the fleeting connection of her to the Giacanti's legacy involving Semira, an Italian king's mistress from Eritrea, who moved powerful men's hearts. This is also reinforced by the allusion to the two women being reminiscent to Cleopatra or Nefertiti, the juxtaposition of seduction and loyalty. Furthermore, connecting Italian men's dalliance with women of African descent speaks that there is or was a prevalence. LOL
Finally, I loved Alberti in this. He is like the Yoda of La Famiglia Giacanti! Oh, and a big shout out to Fierce Mama-Nana, Maria, for stepping up, loving her son, his wife and all her grand-babies, and a waving paternity paper about like a loaded weapon. LMAO!
Each Vol. has brought a great pace, action and devastation. My heart is for Aflonzo, always, even though other dark haired men of his blood get a head nod. I want a good ending for one of them in particular, even if at times I wanted Alfonzo to just cuff him and snap his neck, but alas, he is the ultimate killer and his presence will not go away so quickly.
As for Selange(the heroine), for me, the jury is still out on her. I liked the fleeting connection of her to the Giacanti's legacy involving Semira, an Italian king's mistress from Eritrea, who moved powerful men's hearts. This is also reinforced by the allusion to the two women being reminiscent to Cleopatra or Nefertiti, the juxtaposition of seduction and loyalty. Furthermore, connecting Italian men's dalliance with women of African descent speaks that there is or was a prevalence. LOL
Finally, I loved Alberti in this. He is like the Yoda of La Famiglia Giacanti! Oh, and a big shout out to Fierce Mama-Nana, Maria, for stepping up, loving her son, his wife and all her grand-babies, and a waving paternity paper about like a loaded weapon. LMAO!
March 11, 2013
Back Together Again
They're back! I couldn't wait to dive head first into the fifth installment of my favorite mob series. Boy, this series just keeps getting better and better and keeps me wanting to read this exceptional written soap opera. The characters are so colorful and real. With a background in love, we see in this one love conquerors all.
Alfonzo and Solange have divorced and are trying to find a way to move on. The problem is true love never dies. Having a set of twins and a colicky baby girl Solange is tired. Alfonzo helps with his children but with the twins she gets little help as she is a very hands on mom. Nico, the twin’s father, is off doing family business. As always with each book I learn more and more that keeps me flipping the pages and seeing how it's going to end. I have yet to be disappointed.
When all things are said and done, I love how this one turned out. The way we arrive at the final events was genius and very believable. Lingering questions left me hopeful for the next book. I also need to see how Alfonzo's legal issues pan out. Nice to know he is not in this alone as his family in Italy is watching his back. I'm eager to start the next part and I will very soon.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
March 2013
They're back! I couldn't wait to dive head first into the fifth installment of my favorite mob series. Boy, this series just keeps getting better and better and keeps me wanting to read this exceptional written soap opera. The characters are so colorful and real. With a background in love, we see in this one love conquerors all.
Alfonzo and Solange have divorced and are trying to find a way to move on. The problem is true love never dies. Having a set of twins and a colicky baby girl Solange is tired. Alfonzo helps with his children but with the twins she gets little help as she is a very hands on mom. Nico, the twin’s father, is off doing family business. As always with each book I learn more and more that keeps me flipping the pages and seeing how it's going to end. I have yet to be disappointed.
When all things are said and done, I love how this one turned out. The way we arrive at the final events was genius and very believable. Lingering questions left me hopeful for the next book. I also need to see how Alfonzo's legal issues pan out. Nice to know he is not in this alone as his family in Italy is watching his back. I'm eager to start the next part and I will very soon.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
March 2013
January 28, 2016
This book was all about Selange and Alfonzo and their emotional roller-coaster of feelings regarding Selange's affair. I still do not like Selange no one woman can be that alluring that every single man falls victim to her charms and they all think she is God's gift to mankind. It was hard listening to their woes about each other.
The story is still holding my attention and there were plenty of other twists and turns.
I still love Nico. I am looking forward to see what happens with Guiseppe and Shanda's relationship. I am sure that is gonna be a hoot! On to book 6.
The story is still holding my attention and there were plenty of other twists and turns.
I still love Nico. I am looking forward to see what happens with Guiseppe and Shanda's relationship. I am sure that is gonna be a hoot! On to book 6.
June 3, 2014
It was a good book but I have to say i continue to be baffled by the affair. I think she shouldve suffered longer for what she did. I lol at Shandra and Geo they are hilarious. I still think the was stupid because they ruined there family and never wanted to be together. Nico never even tried with the kids in the first place he is all about moving everywhere. Now everything will be swept under the run because he is going to need help. Im sure more people will die soon.
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.
June 25, 2013
Oh wow! didn't see that coming. Ok so maybe my hatred for Selange has lessened a bit. Alfonzo you are a better person than I am, for forgiving her, I salute you.
I am taking an emotional break before i start book 6 from this series. I need to forgive Selange because I don't think I am going to enjoy the rest of the series with this hatred I have for her.
I am taking an emotional break before i start book 6 from this series. I need to forgive Selange because I don't think I am going to enjoy the rest of the series with this hatred I have for her.
March 12, 2013
Absolutely loved this book! OMG this series is one of the best. I can’t say enough about how I loved this book.
June 22, 2015
Ok wait things are falling back in place but trouble is brewing...Nico lets get this family first...
May 2, 2013
Love this series!
January 17, 2016
wow some questions are finally answered and I like how it came together. But now the drama starts all over again, and who will be caught in this mess now, can't wait to see how this next one goes.
July 25, 2015
Fantastic ending and the drama continues. Love this series!
July 29, 2015
I absolutely love this book. Its a story of love, betrayal, infidelity, and forgiveness. It is pure unadulterated erotica. I love the journey the author takes the characters through.
January 27, 2013
So good...
October 28, 2013
I don't care if they got back together...Still don't like that bitch!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews