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Alfonzo #1

Alfonzo

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A young Mafia Capo is bringing sexy back in this first installment in the series, Alfonzo!

Alfonzo Diaz has the quintessential New York City swagger and tough attitude borne from growing up in a neighborhood where respect hinge's on how much you're feared. The only male role-model in Alfonzo's life is his beloved Uncle Al but even he can not curb the youth's rebellion or alter the course of Alfonzo's destiny. Alfonzo's fate was written the moment he emerged from the protection of his mother's womb. The blood of a faceless father runs deep in a son's veins and blue eyes are only part of a deadly royal legacy.

When Uncle Al and his wife are brutally murdered the door to the past is sprung open. Lies, greed and a quest for power began on the shores of Italy reaches its bloody hand to New York's inner city to strike at a young man perched to inherit a mafia empire!

A pulsating, adult drama packed with heat!

Look for Volume II entitled: ASCENSION in this riveting series.

389 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 23, 2011

80 people are currently reading
1627 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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5 stars
416 (40%)
4 stars
277 (27%)
3 stars
165 (16%)
2 stars
61 (5%)
1 star
98 (9%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Alexis *Reality Bites*.
757 reviews3,656 followers
April 23, 2013
SPOILER FREE
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: Contemporary Romance -Crime/Mystery

This book was UNPUTDOWNABLE I started it on a whim Sunday afternoon and before I knew it I was finished and purchasing book 2!

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I will not be posting a full review for this at the moment I am reading faster than I can review. Currently, I am in the middle of book 2 Ascension and I will post a full review for it when I finish.

My Thoughts
Alfonzo is half Puerto-Rican, half Italian with piercing blue eyes and I WANT HIM!LOL!! I loved this book! There was some grammatical errors but overall I enjoyed it! Alfonzo has some great characters and an even greater plot! I have stepped away from my usual romance/chick lit reads and have found that I enjoy a book with a cast of colorful characters and multiple plot lines.
Profile Image for  ~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~.
1,177 reviews7 followers
January 5, 2025
My Alfonzo..
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I'm a "Godfather" girl at heart. So it was a given I think, that I would love this 1st book in this fresh Mafia Saga.

Alfonzo's story will capture your heart.
This is a non stop rollercoaster of a ride. It's packed with gruesome violence. Passionate love and an undeniable sense of loyalty, sacrifice & redemption. This is just the first installment and it packs quite a punch. I only hope this series continues to get better & better. I highly recommend this read.

On to book 2!
Profile Image for Vallsykes.
1,138 reviews13 followers
October 13, 2012
Update: I wish GR had 1/2 stars, part stars or whatever! LOL
3.75 stars for exposition

4 stars for suspense and Godfather-like entertainment!
description

I was pleasantly surprised by the unfolding of this plot. The writing instilled a quick pace that wrinkled at points due to quick POV changes either mid-paragraph or between.

This romance features a half Puerto-Rican, half Italian hero (YOWZA), and an African American woman who is not over-stereotyped (thank God).

The most exciting thing is the underlying story that depicts the hero as an unbeknownst Mafia Prince, and the plays of suspense deal with double-crossing, old feuds, juxtapositions between street gang and organized crime, and codes of honor. This Godfather-like swirl sort of eclipses the romance, but not so much as to be left wanting.

My only beef is that the heroine isn't given a lot of importance, outside of what she means to the hero. This conflicts with how she is introduced, but it makes sense, as it mirrors how the hero comes to her: as a lifeline. Therefore she looks shy and timid, yet the romance is delivered with sweetness that justifiably belies the hero's dark world.

This could easily get 4 stars for its genre, adequate plot and reasonable characterization(though this area has room to improve). However, there needs to be some serious re-editing Doesn't stop the enjoyment of the story, but a clean-up would definitely enhance it. I will try the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Savannah- Quad Motherin' Book Readin' Diva.
230 reviews34 followers
June 3, 2015
Oye vey. Where to start.

OK, so I know where the author is trying to go with this book. I know the feel, the...depth she's reaching for. But for the love of reading, I cannot figure out why she feels like she needs to beat me over the head with it.

First off, there is an over abundance of superfluous inner dialog in this novel. Like every page. This man (who is repeatedly referred to as a "boy" even at 24) spends so much time arguing with himself its almost confusing. He gets to a point where it SEEMS like he's settled some inner battle, but then strikes up his internal monologue a few sentences later. And its not just him, its ALL the characters except the heroine. She's evidently too clueless to discuss anything internally LOL.


Second, I have no idea who this heroine is. I mean that literally. I know her mama won a ton of cash in the lottery and that Al finds her everything goodness and light. I know THAT because that's pretty much the only way he seems to think of her. SO every tidbit of info we get about his chick comes as a surprise. Like she's been written on the fly. Had no idea how she lived or what her job was til halfway through the book, though maybe that was a lack of diligent reading on my part. She comes off as one dimensional and borderline dumb. There are some things you just QUESTION even if you are relatively sure you can live with the answer no matter what it is. Its like she's trying to play at being in control but she's such a CHILD its ridiculous.

Third, one of my biggest reading pet peeves is being TOLD something I should be able to glean from reading along the way. I'm getting mugged on every page with how, though Al is street tough and volatile, he's intelligent. He has a degree. He has a real estate business. He reads poetry. yada yada yada, I get it. Looks can be deceiving, theres more than meets the eye, hard life, hard knocks but he's making good even with one foot in the streets. I KNOW!!! All that could be accounted for on the journey in bits and pieces. Instead, I'm repeatedly bludgeoned with the stuff. Stop telling me who he is and SHOW ME!!!Because for all that hype about how well rounded dude is, all you've shown me so far is the street side. And even that is lacking to be honest.

And last, there is no place in any type of sex scene for the word "copulate". Ever. Let alone repeatedly in all its tenses. There just isn't. Eeeuw! The loves scenes here are so UNsexy I can't even picture them in my mind, which is pretty much the point of a sex scene as far as I'm concerned.
Profile Image for Lady Raven RAVE!.
1,824 reviews1,506 followers
July 30, 2012
Story: GREAT
Intimacy Level: VERY GOOD
Enjoyment: GREAT
Length: 8436 kindle / 241 pages

Bravo to the author, as well, as a standing ovation to a job well done. When you've read as much books as I have, you learn to appreciate when one comes along that has such great story telling, as well as talent that shines through each page.

This story was unique and can appeal to any romance reader, who is looking for something different. I enjoy what the author did by infusing a bit of street lit then transition into a mob atmosphere. As the book starts, you get to know a bit of who Alfonzo and Selange are in their surroundings. As young as Alfonzo was, I kept saying to myself, he seems mature for his age. I love that the author made him smart and educated and he was not only street smart. Alfonzo's physical description was like chocolate melting in your mouth. That boy was, fine. I also love that he was Puerto Rican, but as the story progress, he learns he is much more. With his latino heritage in play, the author fuses a lot of Spanish into the story, which I did not find at all confusing or irritating. If anything, it enhances the feel and the atmosphere of the story and that was different for me. Selange was beautiful, and with innocence, mix with beauty, she meshed well with Alfonzo. Although their coming together was through hurt and grief, seeing his growing feelings for her and needing to protect her, it was entertaining to see.

What made me more in love with this book, there was never a dull moment. Each scene brought characters to the forefront, and if they were or weren't relevant, they were being killed, shot at or kidnapped. The mob aspect gel so well in the story and the climax left me excited as the mob aspect comes into play and reveals a lot, which leaves room for book 2. Being from and in New York, I enjoyed the scenery of New York the author uses,and the use of Juniors, gets a thumbs up.

Job well done. I hope to get the same experience with each volume of Alfonzo's story.

http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
January 14, 2016
I love Mafia series and I had heard so much about this one that I decided along with a reading buddy that this would be the year to start this one.

Alfonzo is the young Mafia Don in the making. Book 1 sets the scene. The book starts off more slowly for me than what I am used to in reading Mafia stories and I cannot understand what all the fuss is about. The book does hold my attention but it does not have me holding on to the edge of my seat like reading say, the Mob Boss series. Alfonzo meets Selange through a common tragedy and their relationship begins.

I will have to read a couple more books in this series before I make up my mind if this the kind of Mafia story that appeals to my tastes. The jury is still out on this series for me.
Profile Image for Isadora.
59 reviews
January 11, 2013
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Wow. What a great start of a very good series! SW did a great job drawing me into some very flawed, and at times very bad, that I learned to care about and root for. I don't quite know where this ride will take me, but I have buckled my seat belt and with seven more in my TBR, I don't think I will be getting any sleep anytime soon. Also, I think someone needs to let beautiful British model David Gandy (http://davidgandy.wix.com/site) know that he is the poster boy for romance/mafia Don. He images pop up on numerous Reviews/Facebook/Fanfic of the genre. I agree.
Profile Image for Sally.
465 reviews2 followers
May 11, 2013
I was truly excited to start this book/series & I was so disappointed :( I love Contemporary Romance with Crime/Mystery, Precisely why I love books like Kathleen Turner Series & the Heller Series. I figured this was going to be great with the book having the whole mafia twist & the setting being in NYC. This book had “ME” written all over it! The book had so much potential & right from the beginning it didn’t feel right. I almost DNFed it but I NEVER do that so I plowed through. Let’s start with it being written in the third person…it bugged me, but around 30% I adjusted to it (didn’t say I liked it but I got used to it).The author uses a lot of slang….ALOT! It got to the point I felt like it was being shoved down my throat. Alright I get that she was trying to set the vibe, but it was a bit much. The Spanish talking didn’t bug me at all, I actually happen to understand Spanish so it was all good. All & all I never connected enough to ANY of the characters or their relationships. It never evoked any emotion out of me when all the dangerous, sad or happy scenes occurred. Nothing I felt …nothing. Sorry :( 2.5 stars for me
Profile Image for Suzanne.
1,454 reviews24 followers
August 16, 2013
I really wanted to get into this book and it felt like I was teetering on the edge but it just didn't come. The characters were good, the story was interesting, there just seemed to be missing a spark to get my interest spiked. Kept thinking it would pick up soon. Be at one point I checked how far I was into the book, because I was so sure that it would turn soon,, only to find I was at 95%!

This has been on my TBR list for a while and I initially added it because it came highly recommended. What I did like abut the book ,was that it. was a little different from the books I had been reading and that's a fresh change. Tossing up beween 2 to 2.5,maybe even 3 stars, mainly because i kept hoping for more but settled for 2 when it just didn't happen.
Profile Image for Cat22 Barron.
30 reviews12 followers
May 9, 2013
A good read I luv the story line it has my attention S.W. Frank gets straight to the point she does not drag nothing on which is refreshing but there are some things I would like a bit more detail on but it still doesnt hurt the book for me!! I love when the characters speak other languages as well its always a turn on when the hero does :)

Oh and Alfonzo what can I say other then 1/2 Puerto Rican 1/2 Italian with blue eyes need I say more and speaks spanish dress's well and has that New YOrk Swag = just haawtttt hawwttt & more hawtttt!!
Profile Image for Liz.
331 reviews16 followers
July 5, 2015
I still don't understand how Selange and Alfonzo fell in love with each other. Through out the entire book you were reading inner monologues of EVERY character, even people who offered no significance to the story. I knew more about the drunks and random nurses than I did about Selange and Alfonzo. I have to say this was the worse book I've read this year. Very disappointed.
Profile Image for Kellsea.
121 reviews5 followers
August 31, 2012
Too short and the person who wrote this needs to go back to school. I like some slang in my books but I also want to understand everything. The mob scenes were good.
Profile Image for Debra Raupe.
48 reviews2 followers
September 27, 2017
Alfonzo had shot but he is alive. Seem he is police officer. His father is passed away. I will read the next book #2.
Profile Image for Sistar Tea.
296 reviews
August 7, 2012
Destined For Greatness

While there was drama and bloodshed very early in this novel, I was having a hard time following the mob theme until a little after half way through. Once all the pieces were in place, then the beginning started to make a lot of sense to me. It all came into play and worked well. I like this author’s style of writing and I can honestly say that I am looking ahead to reading more into this series. I happen to know at this point that there are six parts. I can commit to reading at least the next part and I hope she wows me to read more.

The novel starts with typical mother and daughter stuff and this leads to much regrets when Selange, the daughter, leaves the house mad. Her mom and new husband are packing to leave their Brooklyn hood for suburban Long Island as the mom has just hit the hood dream of winning the lotto. However, they never get the chance as they are murdered in their home, to be found by Selange. What a clever way to introduce Alfonzo into the story (Yes, I know he’s the main character, but it was still great way to introduce him.) There is no turning back when he answers the distress call in Selange’s voice when she answers his Uncle Al’s phone, (who is married to her mom). Alfonzo rushes to the house to find his beloved Uncle has been killed and Selange in no shape to be alone. The budding affair that ensues is a great storyline. By the time the mob ties were introduced, I knew Alfonzo was to be on top. The supporting cast is a wonderful fit. Maria is Alfonzo’s mother, Luzo and Alberti were classy men, Shanda is Selange’s best friend and she was a trip, Nico and Vincent are great henchmen.

With a consistent storyline, I fell in love with the blue eyed Rican. I look forward to following the street smart as well book smart man Alfonzo. Ready to see where he takes us next. It won’t be long before I pick up part 2 in this series. Thanks Author S.W. for the exciting and very different read for me

SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
4.5 stars
Aug 6th 2012
Profile Image for Tanielle.
Author 0 books38 followers
May 15, 2015
Really good read. This one came as a surprise, don't even know how I found it but I'm glad I did. I thought this was going to be just a run of the mill dope boy story and I was soooo ready to end the madness, had Alfonzo's character been like Jay or Carlos, I doubt I'd continued on. This started off as just another street punk and drama in the projects but quickly turned into something worth reading. The fact alone that Alfonzo was educated and ready to do more then just hustle in the illegal game was great. Add on top of that how Selange wasn't some jump off or simple minded and just out to hook up with a clown was even better.

Freddie's a slippery one and crazy or not he was a good enemy to have. Still not sure what happened with the lottery winnings or how she could afford such a car on her earnings but the story kept me going to get the goods on what was going on. I can't wait for the next one because the ending seems like its about to get even better.
Profile Image for Kristin.
128 reviews5 followers
June 25, 2012
This was a really good read. I was pleasantly surprised. I kept forgetting how young Alfonzo is, but at the same time you get glimpses of his youth. The only thing i didn't like was that Solange was a bit of a hothead then kinda became a doormat. I've ordered the second book in the series, hopefully she's matured and won't embrace the "dark side"
Profile Image for Deloris.
970 reviews42 followers
July 28, 2012
I started this book today and finished because I could not put it down. Alfonzo a blue eyed Puerto Rican with a cold heart until he meet Selange. They meet because his uncle and her mother are killed and that really just the beginning I can't wait to read the rest of this series I know am going to enjoy the ride. This is my first book by S.W. Frank but it will not be my last.
Profile Image for Vanessa.
3 reviews
November 3, 2012
This was my first mafia/romance book and the author has a fantastic writing style. From the first page I was hooked and loved the fast pace of the story. It feels as if you're watching a movie. Loved it!
Profile Image for Angelia.
489 reviews64 followers
December 3, 2012
This was a GREAT story.....there was a little of every thing in this one romance,drama, suspense all rolled into one......Loved the chemistry between Alfonzo and Selange....Can't wait to get started on the next one......
Profile Image for Selipperydickdip.
581 reviews1 follower
April 25, 2016
Enjoyed this first book, looking forward to the next.

Alfonzo might be from the hood but his life skills will come in handy for the next stage of his life. He is HOT, loyal, hard, and lethal with a sexy arse brain... yummy.
Profile Image for Purplegirl .
345 reviews84 followers
June 23, 2012
Good book. It laid the foundation for Alonzo's rise as a mob boss. The story was interesting and engaging. On to book 2.
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,160 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2024
Who's after Alfonzo?

The same group that whipped out the Giacanti family is coming for Alfonzo, but they bungled the job. This introduced him to his future wife Salange. They both bonded on the tragedy of her mother and his uncle's murder. Alfonzo, worked hard to get an education and not resort to what his cousins and homies were doing. But the power-hungry Gina will not let him live a life earned. With Luzo being terminally ill, she was determined that his bastard child will not inherit anything. But she does not know that he has the protection of the family and Luzo wants to meet his son and let him know he was watched over all his life despite what Maria wanted.

The story had me hooked from page one to the end.
471 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2020
Wow

This is some crazy stuff right here. What An adventure for Selange and Alfonzo. From the streets of Brooklyn to the hierarchy of The Mafia.
This starts out with such tragedy and continues to infuse more and more potential hurt throughout.
It was good to see Selange and Alfonzo working through their pain together. I'm not so sure Selange's friend Shandra is what she needs in her life. And this hit man , Freddie is like a cockroach, he just won't die.
It will be interesting to see some of these other characters get fleshed out. Nick and Vincent seem interesting and what will happen to Alfonzo's old crew? I'm excited for more.
Profile Image for TOwens.
313 reviews2 followers
July 25, 2017
Alright now!

Over the last couple of years, S.W. Frank's Alfonzo series has come up in conversations about good books to read. I hesitated because there are sooooooo many of them. I thought, " How good could they be?" Finally said screw it and downloaded book 1 after another friend told me to just try it. BOY AM I GLAD THAT I FINALLY LISTENED! The twists are great, only a few editing issues, and loving the whole storyline. Now onto book 2😀!
Profile Image for Renita.
206 reviews2 followers
May 17, 2017
Brilliant read!

Author took me on an emotional roller-coaster ride. The death, the love, the loyalty. I am so ready to start the next book. I have a new author to read.
Profile Image for V. Rena.
1,662 reviews16 followers
June 20, 2017
Good

This was a good book with good a storyline and good characters. Alfonzo had to understand his history in order to accept and embrace his future, even if he didn't want to.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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