The charismatic Alfonzo Diaz, his wife Selange, Giuseppe, Nico and the family return in this latest edition of an underground hit, many readers call 'raw' and 'addictive.'
Alfonzo knows what is not spoken is found in actions. Observe, listen and often truth is revealed.
“Man associates ideas not according to logic or verifiable exactitude, but according to his pleasure and interests. It is for this reason that most truths are nothing but prejudices.” - Remy de Gourmont
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."
I just want to start this review/rant off by stating, I think this series is starting to wear on my nerves a bit, for a number of reasons:
1) I still CAN'T STAND Selange! She has continued to make me sick and try my last good nerve, since book one. She is one of the worst characters ever in a book or book series for me.
2) Many of the main women in this story, outside of Selange, annoy me as well. I am ticked at Arianna for putting up with Nico's bull in the past and ignoring it and sticking with him, while taking on some of the onus, for his wayward behavior. I HATE it when women assign blame or some of the blame unto themselves, when their man doesn't do right. I don't care what you think you could have changed or done better, it is never okay for a woman or women (men either) to accept or assign blame unto themselves; when the man clearly has overstepped boundaries and is in the wrong. Women always get blamed for stuff in relationships and just in life, PERIOD and I am not here for that nonsense and do not enjoy reading it either. All that being said, I am mainly upset with Arianna right now for coming around and generally being cool with Selange again, after what she did. It couldn't be me is all I will say on that for now. Shanda always got on my nerves as well, although I enjoy her being with Giuseppe and their foolery is entertaining and gives me the giggles. Alfonzo's mother, Maria, I am so happy she has found someone as a love interest because she is annoying, with her meddling and holy rolling. So many times, I have been wishing, Mama Maria had a hobby or a friend or something, she was trying me big time.
3) Although, the plot and many characters are intriguing enough to keep me reading for now, the whole Semira story and reasoning for some of the family drama, I feel is a bit ridiculous. For all of the past history, regarding Semira, as one of the main reasons for all of this family drama, book after book, is just stupid to me. Maybe I am missing something in the author's explanation about it, but...yeah, it is just ridiculous.
4) I am tired of all of the oaths and song lyrics we have to read through every time someone makes a promise to do something or every time Alfonzo and Selange are getting intimate or professing their love. Why do I have to read like two pages of song lyrics?! If the name of the song is mentioned, THAT'S ENOUGH! I don't want to feel like I am supposed to be singing the words as I read, ugh annoying.
5) Why is Alfonzo so damn SUPER all of the time? Don't get me wrong, I REALLY like Alfonzo and his character overall, but whenever there is a confrontation, meeting, fight or shootout or something, Frank always portrays him like some superhero. He is always smarter than everyone else, steps ahead of the game or blocking blows and shots no one else could block or shooting at crazy angles or switching his trajectory, to aim in an efficient kill maneuver, WHAT?!! I mean he is good, but come on, he is NOT part of the X-MEN! Now, when Nico is written to have certain techniques, intelligence and a highly advanced skill set, it is more believable because literally, his WHOLE LIFE has been spent studying the art of protection and enforcing and torture and kill strategies etc. But, Alfonzo is just a smart, street guy that overall, made good with his life and has some hand skills and basic weapon skills, he is not Nico, who is basically, a one man army. I don't know, it is just too unbelievable at times.
6) Who is proofreading/editing Frank's work? Because I feel like, I want to say, it is NO ONE at this point. There are a crazy amount of mistakes in each book and I guess I was fed up with the errors by this installment of the story. I don't mind some typos and grammar flubs here and there, shoo, we all have them every day. HOWEVER, when whole words or phrases are missing or messed up, it makes it difficult to piece together some of Frank's points and feels like a game of " Guess What I Meant to Say" every few pages.
7) Last, but probably the most annoying thing about the books to me thus far, outside of my absolute disdain for Selange (this character is the biggest annoyance ever!) are Frank's, as I like to call them, "Soapbox/Teachable Moments." I am so tired of these "moments" being spread throughout each and every book, about every kind of topic or issue the author has about people or society today. These "moments" tend to be unnecessary and have nothing to do with the plot of the story or series and do nothing to propel the story or characters forward, they are in essence, just there. Also, some of Frank's "moments" are discussed and or relayed in a way that is just so ignorant, short-sighted and offensive to me and just rubs me the wrong way; as an individual and as a reader. Out of the many "Soapbox/Teachable Moments" in the book, one really burned my biscuits and had me so angry throughout my read. The issue dealt with Frank's views on the naming of one's children. To tackle this issue Frank used Sergio as the mouthpiece to convey her thoughts (the Lord only knows why though because Sergio is a bum!) on this matter. When Sergio was speaking about his neighbor and her four children, whom he could not stand and he was wondering why the mother gave her children names (Finesha, Taquasia, Kaquanna and Nasarius) that in his/Frank's narrow minded opinion, would set them up for failure or hold them back in life, I was so livid! Frank then continues on with Sergio saying, how he knows the mother wanted to show pride in her roots as a Black woman, but in essence, she basically gave her kids "hood or ghetto names." WHAT?!!!! I was very upset (and still am) and appalled at this whole section of the story because it is such ignorant thinking and plays up to stereotypical ideas that many people have regarding Black people and their names and socio-economic status etc. Also, who is Frank to talk about peoples' names when she has characters named Selange, Shanda, Aldonza etc.? These names as Frank/Sergio put it, are not "normal names" and can be used to racially, ethnically and socio-economically stereotype people as well. I was even more enraged, when she used Sergio to say that when and if he had kids he would basically name them something like "Rory or Violet" because those would essentially, be acceptable "normal names." Normal to whom? Is my question to Frank. So, stereotypically "White/ European or Anglicized" names are the only names considered "normal?" Uh, no! They may be normal for a particular race or ethnic group(s) or people from a region, but that does not make them the "norm" for everyone. Every race and/or ethnic group has names that are important, symbolic or signifies something of note to that specific group. This can be due to culture, religion, language, region, folklore or just plain old creativity. To imply, only "White/European or Anglicized" based names are what is acceptable and the "norm", lends to a bit of self-hate and judgment or thoughts that you see/feel that whatever doesn't fall into that category or categories as less than; which inadvertently and subconsciously feeds the idea that people without these "normal names," are less than. I can't believe Frank would put something like that in her story. Authors have a different voice than readers and the words, images and ideas they put forth have value and meaning to the readers. Sometimes, these words, images and ideas have even more value or significance to the readers than the value the author(s) has placed on their words, images and ideas or in a totally different way than what the author(s) meant or thought they were conveying. As an author, you should have some responsibility about what you put forth for readers' consumption. Also, what if Frank's readers new or old fall into the category of one of these not "normal" or "made up" names, are they to feel bad about something they didn't choose? Are they then to feel less than and "hood and ghetto" or even more marginalized as individuals and people of color? Even more so, than what society (societies do) does as the norm, in the way that they are treated and ridiculed daily? Where they aren't the majority or the majority in power that often sets the narrative about people of color and how they are to the White/European masses and even amongst people of color?! Ugh, these thoughts are just so ignorant. Another thing, how is Frank using Sergio as the mouthpiece to speak on someone's name and how it will hold them back and set them up to fail in life, (I guess in Frank's mind, Sergio is considered a "normal name") and HE is a "failure" in life?! Ummm, excuse me, isn't Sergio a con man and not even a good one? Isn't he broke, but still fronting by driving a purple BMW? Isn't he the one that stole his mom's life insurance and his sister's portion to use as paybacks, for more bad cons, failed business deals, businesses and side jobs? Uh, yeah, okay Frank, I see your logic in all of this, NOT! How are you going to have another "Soapbox/Teachable Moment" to try and inform the readers, YET AGAIN and you are using a known, scheming, low-life, hustler as the voice of reason on this issue? As if, Sergio is the voice of reason or moral compass for anyone at this point in his life? He can't even get himself together or barely stay alive! Uhhh, yeah, no boo boo, try again. I will take all of the Nasariuses, Kaquannas, Taquasias and Fineshas of the world if they are good people that can be taught and can learn and can grow and work hard to try and excel in life in an honest way; OVER a broke con man, hustler, who sucks at life and his job so far or someone with a "normal name" and no ambition and basic common sense and decency. I mean really, what was Frank thinking?!! Ugh,I just can't with the foolishness.
Now, I realize that I myself, have just had a "Soapbox/Teachable Moment," but don't blame me, I have been reading and digesting all of Frank's "moments" for nine books now, so I am due to throw one out myself.
I do want to say though, I enjoyed the book enough to give it four stars. I probably would have given it five, if I wasn't so bothered and offended by some of the "moments" Frank put in this book, AND if she didn't end the story on a cliffhanger; albeit an AMAZING, JAW-DROPPING cliffhanger. The story outside of the Semira stuff, still has me interested. The characters I like, still have me coming back for more. I still love Nico, although he tries me with some of his side antics, at least he is useful and around when you need him. I love Giuseppe's crazy behind. He is so funny and charismatic. I usually don't like arrogant, cocky, spoiled guys, but he makes it work due to his humor. Plus, he also was against Selange at one point in previous installments of the series, so he will always be a champion in my eyes for that alone. Sergio though, is on my last nerve. He talks too damn much, he seems to have rocks for brains for the most part, but he swears he is so daggone smart and he is cocky for no good reason. Nico, I hope will continue to get him together and make him useful in some way because if he stays the way he is, I will have to put him on the disdain list with Selange. I guess she could use the company. I hope going forward with the series, we can hear less and less about Selange being beautiful and all that jazz. I am tired of it! I get it, people think she is beautiful and she gets over a lot because of her beauty. I find her to be annoying, weak, (but she swears she is strong), whiny, untrustworthy, jealous, petulant and childish, but that's just me. Thank God, there are others in this story to root for because if it was just Selange and Alfonzo I would root for Al and want Selange killed off; which I still want to happen, fingers crossed.*huge smile*
WTHECK WAS THIS MS. FRANK?! How dare you leave me hanging like this! I'm over here like...
I demand the next installment right now! UGH! This is killing me.
Okay, so those of you who follow my reviews for this series I'm sure are feeling my pain as well. Or will be soon.
There is nothing else I can say about this one really. A big reveal concerning Nico broke my heart. A MAJOR cliff hanger was just cruel. (Yes, I'm talkin to you Mama Frank) But this one is yet another transition book leading you into the next. I'm praying we get at least 30 chapters (30 LONG chapters) in the next installment ;D
You are still kept on the edge, the magic is still here with this Saga. Things are getting deeper & more frightening. I highly recommend this series. Please read it in order.
Until we meet again, this will be me until the next volume is released...
I get my wish and we get a bit more of Geo and Shandra but not enough in my view. Lots of action and more secrets are revealed. Sergio towards the end of the book looks like he may be getting it at long last. One can only hope.
The unthinkable happens outside of a church and now there will be hell to pay. Nico finds out his birth mother is behind the death of his father. He will need to do something about that.
I am so really liked this book and I will certainly be reading what comes next in fact this book make is real hard to wait. I was happy to see my boy Sergio return I have high hopes for him. Alfonzo was cool as ever in this book and my favorite character Nico is deadly as ever. The people I was really looking forward to reading about was Gussippe and Shanda I hope things turn out well between them but I guess we have to wait and see. Yes this book was good and it answered questions for me but it also left me mad that I did not have the next book so I could see what happens next.
I thought this book was a little blah until the ending 3.5. Geo is crazy as hell always starting shit. I still don't trust Sergio he is a sneaky bastard and he has to prove his self. I Need some of these people to get got because they are doing to much. Im on to the next book.
This was So intense, my stomach is still knotted. Sergio has to get his crap together. I love that Alfonzo is the one helping him, hopefully his eyes and mind are open. Nico is going to be the one who solved Alberti's murder, I just have that feeling. That whole Church scene was but wrenching. Crazy , exciting book.
The person beta reading for this author must have been so into the book she forgot to correct the errors this book like the rest are excellent reads just wish the editors would have caught these simple mistakes
This book sees the Giancanti/ Diaz men re-establishing their relationships with the donnas in their lives. Alfonzo and Selange remarry, Nico and Ari wait for the birth of their baby and Geo and Shanda adjust to parenthood and grow closer.
This book was well written, full of suspense and surprises. I can't wait to read Animus to see what happens next.These alpha men are so dedicated to their women and families, they are the even keel they need in their lives for being the ruthless men they are. This was a great read!
S.w. Frank totally outdoes herself with her latest book in the Alfonzo Series, "Associates"! Wow! Unbelievably explosive, and action packed, filled with hot and passionate love scenes, secrets being revealed and murder, all the things we have come to know and expect in the Alfonzo series, and more! S.w. does not disappoint, as she leaves you with and ending that will have you praying was only a dream. Written in such an epic style, with vivid descriptions and scenes that will have you laughing one moment, and crying the next, you will literally not want to put this book down until "the end." S.w. pulls no punches, and holds not hostages with characters and scenes that jumps off the pages at you and will have your mouth gaped open wondering how or why one of your beloved characters could go out that way, while at the same time wanting to believe that all will be well! This is a must read that will reveal the awesome gift and talent S.w. Frank displays in writing this awesome series with reality!
This is the first written review I have completed for this series but this book compelled me to do it. It was brilliant! Action packed front start to finish with a climax that had me holding my breath and the edge of seat praying for all to be well.
As there has been several books in the series, it allows you to really get to know the characters. Instead of fearing them, you empathise and appreciate their reaction and feelings to betrayal and revenge even if you disagree with their methods.
I feel like Ms Frank is getter better and better as the series goes along and it's a joy to see and read the difference. Her writing style gives several points of views which allows you to see what characters are thinking but in a way that doesn't hinder the experience or create confusion.
My only one issue with the whole series is the cover of the books. I know, I'm being picky but first impressions count and I just don't think the quality of the cover reflect the quality of the writing and will put people off giving it a chance.
This book picks up where the last book ended. I actually think this and the last should have been combined. I was happy to see Sergio again. It seems like he has finally saw the light and just may do the right thing and finally become a real part of his new family. The ending on this all I can say is wow! It was crazy! I didn't expect that massacre to happen at all! Geo showed that family is above all else with his actions as did Alfonzo. I can't wait to read about the fate of this family since it is totally up in the air at this point. I hope Ms. Frank doesn't keep us waiting too long.
I loved this series LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. I can NOT wait to read the next installment in this wonderful mafia series!!! Geo is hilarious his character is priceless!!! Towards the end of the book...my heart started pumping faster... I was shaking my head noooo noooo I knew it was coming... I couldn't believe the last pages of the book...... Don't stop with this series SW Frank!!! This series is so damn good it can be made into a series on tv!!! HBO take notice!!
Screaming I love this book. Didn't even know it was out read it one seating can't wait for the next one to come out. Please please hurry. The series deserve more than five stars.