What do you think?
Rate this book
Alfonzo #14
Armored
There's an arrogance when a ring hand is waved and obeyed. The fear of a name can have men bow to a Don's bidding. But, hidden in the fine threads of associates are strings of resentment which lead to deadly conspiracies that threaten to topple a Mafia family.
Armor Up!
Armor Up!
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 25, 2013
5 people are currently reading
139 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."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 29, 2013
QUICK REVIEW
Spoiler Free
5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Suspenseful Romance
Reflection..Family...Death...Love...Revelation...Ancestry... W A R.
When a grown man cries it’s because there’s something pulling so hard on him, and he feels either helpless or too damn angry to do anything else. The glistening of Alfonzo’s eyes were brilliant blue crystals on a bitter face. He didn’t have any words; famiglia was falling, one by one like leaves on an autumn tree. The invisible fingers gripping his throat, choking and shaking him were not as injurious as the emotional blow he dealt himself.'
As I finished this book the first thing I thought was DAMN that was G O O D. The second thing I thought was Alfonzo is one bad MOTHERFU**ER!
I devoured this book in one day. And not just on any day mind you, nope, I did it on Christmas Eve the busiest day of the year. WHY? Because I had to know what happens next silly!
In Armored, love and family is put to the test and the result was UTTER DEVASTATION. Every character has a platform in this story and you must read carefully to see who they really are. S.W. Frank delivered a jaw dropping book where you question everything you think you know about these characters.
I give Armored 5 STARS because it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end with twists and turns that seem to either jack up your heart rate in anticipation. Or bring tears to your eyes due to the treacherous implications. The writing is top notch with an eloquent prose that can easily trip up a person who is not well versed in art, history and music **clears throat** REAL MUSIC aka classical music.
(NOTE: that statement was not meant to put down other music genres, I consider classical music real music because it is done with live instruments not a sound board in a studio. It consists of stages, tempo changes and can be felt with no words telling you what or how to feel)
Unfortunately I can not expand further without spoiling the book so I will say this. READ THE BOOK!!!
Spoiler Free
5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Suspenseful Romance
Reflection..Family...Death...Love...Revelation...Ancestry... W A R.
When a grown man cries it’s because there’s something pulling so hard on him, and he feels either helpless or too damn angry to do anything else. The glistening of Alfonzo’s eyes were brilliant blue crystals on a bitter face. He didn’t have any words; famiglia was falling, one by one like leaves on an autumn tree. The invisible fingers gripping his throat, choking and shaking him were not as injurious as the emotional blow he dealt himself.'
As I finished this book the first thing I thought was DAMN that was G O O D. The second thing I thought was Alfonzo is one bad MOTHERFU**ER!
I devoured this book in one day. And not just on any day mind you, nope, I did it on Christmas Eve the busiest day of the year. WHY? Because I had to know what happens next silly!
In Armored, love and family is put to the test and the result was UTTER DEVASTATION. Every character has a platform in this story and you must read carefully to see who they really are. S.W. Frank delivered a jaw dropping book where you question everything you think you know about these characters.
I give Armored 5 STARS because it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end with twists and turns that seem to either jack up your heart rate in anticipation. Or bring tears to your eyes due to the treacherous implications. The writing is top notch with an eloquent prose that can easily trip up a person who is not well versed in art, history and music **clears throat** REAL MUSIC aka classical music.
(NOTE: that statement was not meant to put down other music genres, I consider classical music real music because it is done with live instruments not a sound board in a studio. It consists of stages, tempo changes and can be felt with no words telling you what or how to feel)
Unfortunately I can not expand further without spoiling the book so I will say this. READ THE BOOK!!!
August 5, 2014
SPOILERS***********
Before I get into the plot I have to get my views of the characters off my chest first.
I have been a fan of this series from the start having said that I still have mixed feelings when it comes to Solange and Shanda. Shanda I especially have never warmed up to. She's too abrasive and insecure. That bitch slap she got from Ari was a long time coming also Ari assessment of her was pretty accurate. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around Nico's need to continually cheat on his wife. I get why a man like him would be attracted to Bianca however he's married. One should seriously consider if such a man has earned the right to have his cake and eat it too. It's pretty ironic that a man who is so uncompromising when it comes to enemies of the family regarding loyalty, trust, and honour continually does the opposite when it comes to his personal life. Geo has come a long way from the dick swinging, gun toting, loud mouth from the first book. He's an ass but he continues to be my favorite character because unlike others in the family he doesn't try to front and be something he's not. Also he's shown growth by end of the book unfortunately it comes a too late. I've always liked the sculptor has a better match for him and I didn't like Solange's strong arm tactics when it is Geo who pursues her. Alfonzo is still my man but I found myself skimming through the pages with him and his Solange because it was way to sugary sweet for my tastes. Okay I would just like to say I love Sophie's story! It's not often an older woman gets much attention or an exciting story in most mafia books like this. Go on girl! Okay onto the plot.
Overall it's not my fav book in the series and overload of information regarding history and current affairs was too much. There's an assumption that the reader doesn't know what's going on or not enough. I get the need to inform people but too much of it will have the reader skipping through most of it wanting to get back to the story. It bogged down parts of the book and I was skimming through all of it whenever I came across the history lessons or the overly long inner monologues of the characters. A suspension of belief a given rule when reading fiction however the rescue in Africa was a bit too much and had me shaking my head and laughing.
I am still a fan of the series and will continue to read it up until the last book which I understand is coming soon :(
Before I get into the plot I have to get my views of the characters off my chest first.
I have been a fan of this series from the start having said that I still have mixed feelings when it comes to Solange and Shanda. Shanda I especially have never warmed up to. She's too abrasive and insecure. That bitch slap she got from Ari was a long time coming also Ari assessment of her was pretty accurate. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around Nico's need to continually cheat on his wife. I get why a man like him would be attracted to Bianca however he's married. One should seriously consider if such a man has earned the right to have his cake and eat it too. It's pretty ironic that a man who is so uncompromising when it comes to enemies of the family regarding loyalty, trust, and honour continually does the opposite when it comes to his personal life. Geo has come a long way from the dick swinging, gun toting, loud mouth from the first book. He's an ass but he continues to be my favorite character because unlike others in the family he doesn't try to front and be something he's not. Also he's shown growth by end of the book unfortunately it comes a too late. I've always liked the sculptor has a better match for him and I didn't like Solange's strong arm tactics when it is Geo who pursues her. Alfonzo is still my man but I found myself skimming through the pages with him and his Solange because it was way to sugary sweet for my tastes. Okay I would just like to say I love Sophie's story! It's not often an older woman gets much attention or an exciting story in most mafia books like this. Go on girl! Okay onto the plot.
Overall it's not my fav book in the series and overload of information regarding history and current affairs was too much. There's an assumption that the reader doesn't know what's going on or not enough. I get the need to inform people but too much of it will have the reader skipping through most of it wanting to get back to the story. It bogged down parts of the book and I was skimming through all of it whenever I came across the history lessons or the overly long inner monologues of the characters. A suspension of belief a given rule when reading fiction however the rescue in Africa was a bit too much and had me shaking my head and laughing.
I am still a fan of the series and will continue to read it up until the last book which I understand is coming soon :(
December 27, 2013
In Armored,fourteenth in the Alfonzo series, Ms Frank does it again. Fromm start to finish you are on the edge of your seat, not sure what's going to happen next. Alfonzo and the Giacanti clan come together again to protect and preserve the family and its history. Ms Frank takes you on a thrilling ride where you will feel anger, laugh, cry and cheer. You'll also experience betrayal, loyalty, and unconditional love. The entire Alfonzo series is a must read.
June 12, 2015
What can I say, this series is my addiction, my guilty pleasue. This is truly the best series ever, you can feel the emotions coming off of the pages. I cannot get enough of The Diaz-Giacanti family! each book reveals another layer of the clan that just sucks you in as a reader. I really hope HBO or some network turns these books into a series, It would be amazing to see!
May 30, 2016
Back to the high packed action and this didn't let me down one bit. I can't get over how detailed and good these are, they stick to the story and the pieces come together more and more. Not surprised with Ari at all in this one but I was starting to wonder just where Sergio was. I thought Nico would have a fit and put hands on him but the boys seem to be coming into their own. After their go with Yosef I think they need a ton more training just in case they need to step in.
Hate the guy in the beginning was taken down, for them to face the darker side of Semira would've been great. Amelda and Sophia held it down and didn’t need to hide behind the guys to do it. Hopefully Selange will take this as a wake up and stop trying to rescue everyone. Glad everyone made it through this one and hopefully more of the story will come out with a solution so they can have some sort of peace. With any luck whatever Bruno is up to is for the good of the family and not some backstabbing bs, as well as whatever Yosef is up to. I’m ready for the record to be set straight so they can deal with it upfront and it all be out for the world to know the truth.
Hate the guy in the beginning was taken down, for them to face the darker side of Semira would've been great. Amelda and Sophia held it down and didn’t need to hide behind the guys to do it. Hopefully Selange will take this as a wake up and stop trying to rescue everyone. Glad everyone made it through this one and hopefully more of the story will come out with a solution so they can have some sort of peace. With any luck whatever Bruno is up to is for the good of the family and not some backstabbing bs, as well as whatever Yosef is up to. I’m ready for the record to be set straight so they can deal with it upfront and it all be out for the world to know the truth.
Read
March 21, 2014Loved it!!!!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next installment. Get your copy today!!!!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next installment. Get your copy today!!!!
December 28, 2013
Another great book in the series,looking forward to the finale next,hate that the series is ending
April 25, 2016
Best book in the series.
June 17, 2018
Suited Up
This is one of the best in the series. It is packed full of intrigue, danger, betrayals, revenge and retaliation. Alfonzo has to deal with it all. It's difficult when family members become betrayers. Still, they must be dealt with as enemies.
How does Amelda deal with Matteo's cheating and betrayals? Is she furious because he cheated on her or because he's implicated in her father's death? Shockingly, like Alfonzo, she handles things herself. She's cold blooded. Are Sophia and Yosef guilty? Or does Sophia think Yosef is guilty of harming her family? If so, how does she handle him? If Geo believes both of them to be guilty, does he allow retribution for Yosef as well as his mother? Why would Teresa betray Alfonzo through Selange? Is Bruno a part of the attacks on the Giaccantis? If so, what does Maria do?
We know that Anna is pregnant by Darren. How does Ari and Nico deal with it? Does Ari find out that Bianca is pregnant by Nico? Does she accept that Nico was deceived by his mother into thinking he had to protect Bianca, thus she became pregnant? Is she that weak for Nico or does she trust his word. Does Tony tell Tiffany what he really does for Alfonzo? Is Geo and Nicole developing a relationship? Who is Lorenzo and what part will be play in the family? Is Sergio maturing or he as foolish as ever?
From the Prologue to the Epilogue, this book keeps you breathless, shocked, amazed and even makes you laugh. On to Atavus!
This is one of the best in the series. It is packed full of intrigue, danger, betrayals, revenge and retaliation. Alfonzo has to deal with it all. It's difficult when family members become betrayers. Still, they must be dealt with as enemies.
How does Amelda deal with Matteo's cheating and betrayals? Is she furious because he cheated on her or because he's implicated in her father's death? Shockingly, like Alfonzo, she handles things herself. She's cold blooded. Are Sophia and Yosef guilty? Or does Sophia think Yosef is guilty of harming her family? If so, how does she handle him? If Geo believes both of them to be guilty, does he allow retribution for Yosef as well as his mother? Why would Teresa betray Alfonzo through Selange? Is Bruno a part of the attacks on the Giaccantis? If so, what does Maria do?
We know that Anna is pregnant by Darren. How does Ari and Nico deal with it? Does Ari find out that Bianca is pregnant by Nico? Does she accept that Nico was deceived by his mother into thinking he had to protect Bianca, thus she became pregnant? Is she that weak for Nico or does she trust his word. Does Tony tell Tiffany what he really does for Alfonzo? Is Geo and Nicole developing a relationship? Who is Lorenzo and what part will be play in the family? Is Sergio maturing or he as foolish as ever?
From the Prologue to the Epilogue, this book keeps you breathless, shocked, amazed and even makes you laugh. On to Atavus!
September 11, 2020
Sheesh
There were hits coming from all directions. The amount of deception and betrayal was Something else. I'm still not sure Yosef. What's he really up to? And what a mess with Teresa. Now here is Bianca back in a very big way. I'm not sure what Sri is going to do. Darren is so young, I'm not liking his situation. That Allie is a little hellion who needs to be put straight.
Great series!
There were hits coming from all directions. The amount of deception and betrayal was Something else. I'm still not sure Yosef. What's he really up to? And what a mess with Teresa. Now here is Bianca back in a very big way. I'm not sure what Sri is going to do. Darren is so young, I'm not liking his situation. That Allie is a little hellion who needs to be put straight.
Great series!
October 5, 2017
Alfonzo💗💗💗
I can't get enough of this series! The characters as whole are make up such a wonderful story. Can't wait to read the next
I can't get enough of this series! The characters as whole are make up such a wonderful story. Can't wait to read the next
July 30, 2019
The plot thickens
This book had me all in my feelings stuff done in the dark always come to light the hurt betrayal but love always reigns
This book had me all in my feelings stuff done in the dark always come to light the hurt betrayal but love always reigns
February 24, 2024
Traitors everywhere
It hurts when traitors are family, but Al doesn't send anyone to deal with family. He takes care of it himself and so does the other family members like his cousin Amelda. Greed and jealousy can be the undoing of a person as seen with Mateo and Teresa who paid for their deceit. I was taken by surprise by Mateo's underhandedness and equally surprised how Amelda handled her deceitful husband. I like how S.W. Frank reached back in a previous book of Teresa's interaction with Alfonzo a long time ago. I had forgotten about that until they end of this book. Alfonzo has a long memory and really won't stand for anyone harming the love of his life, Selange.
Nico is lucky to have a wife like Ari. She continues to be the force that brings light into Nico's life. He has come to an epiphany that he will do all he can to love and protect his wife and family. He's trying to turn over a new leaf in life to be the husband that Ari deserves as she grapples with becoming a grandmother and deal with Bianca's pregnancy.
Tiffany and Tony are at an impasse as Tiffany is jut trying to understand the type work Tony does for the don. All while they are working on their long time relationship, I can't believe that her sister Nicole and Geo got married. My heart was bleeding for the big bully who wants the love of a good woman and mother for Carlo so bad. Sophie finally got her wish for her son to settle down.
This was a wonderfully written book with twist and turns and surprises throughout that kept my attention from the beginning to end.
It hurts when traitors are family, but Al doesn't send anyone to deal with family. He takes care of it himself and so does the other family members like his cousin Amelda. Greed and jealousy can be the undoing of a person as seen with Mateo and Teresa who paid for their deceit. I was taken by surprise by Mateo's underhandedness and equally surprised how Amelda handled her deceitful husband. I like how S.W. Frank reached back in a previous book of Teresa's interaction with Alfonzo a long time ago. I had forgotten about that until they end of this book. Alfonzo has a long memory and really won't stand for anyone harming the love of his life, Selange.
Nico is lucky to have a wife like Ari. She continues to be the force that brings light into Nico's life. He has come to an epiphany that he will do all he can to love and protect his wife and family. He's trying to turn over a new leaf in life to be the husband that Ari deserves as she grapples with becoming a grandmother and deal with Bianca's pregnancy.
Tiffany and Tony are at an impasse as Tiffany is jut trying to understand the type work Tony does for the don. All while they are working on their long time relationship, I can't believe that her sister Nicole and Geo got married. My heart was bleeding for the big bully who wants the love of a good woman and mother for Carlo so bad. Sophie finally got her wish for her son to settle down.
This was a wonderfully written book with twist and turns and surprises throughout that kept my attention from the beginning to end.
June 7, 2014
I am so tempted to give this book a 2.5 because i am disappointed about the coupling and still mad about the progression of the storyline. I was also hoping the series would end with this one bc i dont want read anything about Geo and his new wife. i didnt like the way this storyline was handled and i never saw cause to why Shanda was kill just to make Geo move on in 7wks. What type of BS is that, Nico might have been a cheater but i dont think or Alfonzo wouldve moved on like that. Its disgusting.
August 16, 2016
Okay now we are talking. This book was action packed.
More Betrayal by family members no matter how caring Alfrozo and Selenge are to family they still end up betraying them.
Well Amelda shows us what happens when the Donnas in the family discover betrayal they will take out the very people they love. The ladies showed us what they were made of in this book.
It looks like Geo has found his match in Nicole. Glad to see him finally learning how to treat a woman he says that he loves.
More Betrayal by family members no matter how caring Alfrozo and Selenge are to family they still end up betraying them.
Well Amelda shows us what happens when the Donnas in the family discover betrayal they will take out the very people they love. The ladies showed us what they were made of in this book.
It looks like Geo has found his match in Nicole. Glad to see him finally learning how to treat a woman he says that he loves.
September 21, 2014
As always, this installment was great. I have followed the Alfonzo series from the beginning, and this book was right on point with the rest. I love her character development and she always keeps it real to the character(s). I will continue to support this author, as I love all of her novels thus far.
December 21, 2014
Jessia stated it best,
Mo' money, mo' problems. This new family member has caused a lot of trouble. The fall out would be another series but I hope not. I've enjoyed the history woven into the stories and the growth of the major characters. I'm still team Nicolo & Ariana just be caused their relationship has no power issues.
Mo' money, mo' problems. This new family member has caused a lot of trouble. The fall out would be another series but I hope not. I've enjoyed the history woven into the stories and the growth of the major characters. I'm still team Nicolo & Ariana just be caused their relationship has no power issues.
March 31, 2014
I so love this series with Alfonzo, Solagne, Nico and the rest of the crew and will have to see it end.
April 16, 2015
Wowwww
Th is all I can say about this book. This is the best book out of the entire series to me. So much action I stayed up all night reading. I loved it!!!!
Th is all I can say about this book. This is the best book out of the entire series to me. So much action I stayed up all night reading. I loved it!!!!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews