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Alfonzo #23
Alphas
I was almost out of this mob game, Alfonzo opines while sprawled atop concrete. On the ground, pinned by gunfire and bleeding out, isn't a place a person wants to be. But, that's Alfonzo's life and it's a violent one. He figures, If he didn't have love; he wouldn't have nothing good to live for.
- GenresInterracial Romance
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2017
25 people are currently reading
29 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 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 13, 2017
Alphas, book 23 in the Alfonzo series, picks up right after the big explosion that took place in the very end of book 22. We were left wondering what happened to Alfonzo, Sal, Geo and other family members. Well, all those questions and more were answered in Alphas. Even when this family is thinks all is good and they can get on with just living like your ordinary everyday family, someone or something comes along and reminds that they are so far from being ordinary.
Alfonzo wants to step away from the life to protect his wife and kids, but there is always a new threat on the horizon that makes sure he stays right where he is. With every new threat, Solange shows how strong she has become, and proves that no one should take her position as the Mafia Queen lightly. This couple has been through so much and are still standing. That's why I love this series and that's why I keep coming back for more, and will continue to as long as Ms Frank keeps The Giacanti's taking names and kicking a@$! I'm giving this 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
Alfonzo wants to step away from the life to protect his wife and kids, but there is always a new threat on the horizon that makes sure he stays right where he is. With every new threat, Solange shows how strong she has become, and proves that no one should take her position as the Mafia Queen lightly. This couple has been through so much and are still standing. That's why I love this series and that's why I keep coming back for more, and will continue to as long as Ms Frank keeps The Giacanti's taking names and kicking a@$! I'm giving this 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
January 23, 2017
Rise up!
You're either in or out!!
A few of the family proved they're all in in this book! Lorenzo got sh*t popping, Sergio got his gangster on, my young Sal showed his cahones and FINALLY Shanda made it into the fold!!
Never EVER doubt Selange is ride or die for Alfonzo....these two right here give me LIFE!! I love the way they love each other...yes they disappoint each other but when the chips are down, it's them against the world!!
Kudos S.W. Frank....you did that!!
You're either in or out!!
A few of the family proved they're all in in this book! Lorenzo got sh*t popping, Sergio got his gangster on, my young Sal showed his cahones and FINALLY Shanda made it into the fold!!
Never EVER doubt Selange is ride or die for Alfonzo....these two right here give me LIFE!! I love the way they love each other...yes they disappoint each other but when the chips are down, it's them against the world!!
Kudos S.W. Frank....you did that!!
June 27, 2018
All Together Again
This was one the best in the Lorenzo's series but one of the shortest. I was happy to see all the family together again. What was the press conference for and how did the Princessa use it for her purposes?
I have other questions that will be answered when I read four of the books that I skipped. Why did the Princessa kidnap Shanda? Who is the Sergio gambling with the Prince in the Prologue? How long was Shanda gone and how did she return? What happened to Lucia? Why does Lorenzo and Alfonzo dislike each other?
I know some of Yosef's backstory but really, who is Yosef and where in the world does he gets his power and authorty. I think it rivals the Diaz/Giacantis. How is Diana his daughter and how do they find out? What happened between he and Sophie? Will Shanda and Geo marry? Will Sophie will able to do anything with GiaShanda or does she have to much of Geo and Shanda in her? Will Carlo turn to Shanda or blame her for Kenya leaving? Is the marriage of Shanda and Asante valid and, if so, will she divorce him for Geo? Will Asante have a relationship with Amelda? Who is Kenya? Who's raising Darren's daughter and what is her name?
I'm looking forward to reading more about Sal, Aaron, Darren and the other Diaz/Giacanti children. I'm especially happy that Shanda is back even not knowing how?
This was one the best in the Lorenzo's series but one of the shortest. I was happy to see all the family together again. What was the press conference for and how did the Princessa use it for her purposes?
I have other questions that will be answered when I read four of the books that I skipped. Why did the Princessa kidnap Shanda? Who is the Sergio gambling with the Prince in the Prologue? How long was Shanda gone and how did she return? What happened to Lucia? Why does Lorenzo and Alfonzo dislike each other?
I know some of Yosef's backstory but really, who is Yosef and where in the world does he gets his power and authorty. I think it rivals the Diaz/Giacantis. How is Diana his daughter and how do they find out? What happened between he and Sophie? Will Shanda and Geo marry? Will Sophie will able to do anything with GiaShanda or does she have to much of Geo and Shanda in her? Will Carlo turn to Shanda or blame her for Kenya leaving? Is the marriage of Shanda and Asante valid and, if so, will she divorce him for Geo? Will Asante have a relationship with Amelda? Who is Kenya? Who's raising Darren's daughter and what is her name?
I'm looking forward to reading more about Sal, Aaron, Darren and the other Diaz/Giacanti children. I'm especially happy that Shanda is back even not knowing how?
March 6, 2019
Always a great read with these. Did Nico show up and show out or what?! Hated that it seemed so short especially that part of the read. I thought for sure it was going to be an all out battle when they arrived. I thought Selange was going to come in with reinforcements but with the company she was with I was over her actually being of help. Not sure why the Princess plan was but it seemed like a waste of time especially after the guy going over. Hopefully the next one will clear up a bunch of issues.
September 15, 2020
The Phoenix Rises
Well now that Shanda has risen from he dead, will she have her head on straight? Some may like her ghettolicious persona, but I absolutely don't. I hope Giuseppe finally has the love he needs, whether Shanda can give that is questionable.
I know Alfonzo worries about his family but they need him there. Let's hope he doesn't do something that will be regrettable.
Well now that Shanda has risen from he dead, will she have her head on straight? Some may like her ghettolicious persona, but I absolutely don't. I hope Giuseppe finally has the love he needs, whether Shanda can give that is questionable.
I know Alfonzo worries about his family but they need him there. Let's hope he doesn't do something that will be regrettable.
January 24, 2017
I love Ms. S.W. Frank and everything that she stands for with the creation of this timeless masterpiece series. The book begins on level 10 when we are immediately thrown into the remnants of a dangerous attack and many of our favorite characters come perilously close to their eternal demise. The book overall was a great read. I was on the fence with book 22 because I didn't get the opportunity to see more of Shanda and her maturity or lack thereof. Ms. Frank did resolve for some of my concerns but the way they were resolved made it almost seem to easy and a little anticlimactic. Selange has always and will continue to be my absolute favorite female character. I love her loyalty, resiliency, strength, and strong moral compass that she allows to guide her while dealing with the myriad personalities that make up the ladies of the Giacanti family. I think that of all of the books this one had me crying virtually throughout the entire story. Alfonzo's weight of responsibility is enough to break even the strongest man and yet he somehow and someway finds the strength from deep within to carry on and shoulder the weight of the many problems that are forced on his magnificent albeit arguably human shoulders. He longs to be just another normal guy who can work, love his family, and build his familial legacy without all of the death, subterfuge, and mayhem that seems to stalk his every move. Geo was much more likable in this book now I don't know if that is because he is knocking on death's door or if he has, in fact, started to grow as a man willing to set aside his little boy ways and step into the shoes that he is destined to fill. I enjoyed seeing the twins, Lorenzo, Sergio, and Sal step up to give us a glimpse of what we have to look forward to in the younger generation. That Sophia and Amelda are a HAWT mess. Amelda is turning into a cold deadly fish in many aspects but who wouldn't after having endured the many traumas she has had to face. I just don't know what to do with Sofia. I can tell you that I've had a love/hate relationship with her throughout the series but in this installment, I have to say that I walked away with a feeling of admiration for all that she has gone through and still endured. Now she still has her faults and issues but for the most part, Sofia is about her family and she is willing to do ANYTHING sacrifice ANYONE for La Familia. Shanda, Shanda, Shanda. When the book opened I was like this heifer still doesn't have it together what in the heck is wrong with her?? But as the story progressed I really was able to see that she has truly grown. She is still selfish in many aspects but her vulnerability was able to shine through. I had to commiserate with her and show empathy due to the unfair situations she found herself thrust into due to no fault of her own. When she started to blame Selange for everything she had gone through and was about to play the victim role I wanted to jump through my kindle and slap the hell-fire and piss out of her. But alas, Selange being the lady that we all love she straightened sister-girl quick fast and in a hurry. Now with all of that being said my ranking would be 4.5 if Amazon allowed us to rate the book like that. I think that the situation between Kenya, Shanda, and Geo was just over entirely too quickly. Kenya was so adamant about being a proper wife to Geo and making their marriage work I just don't think she would have walked away the way that she did. Even if ultimately she found that she couldn't compete with the long-lasting love that Geo & Shanda had for one another it just stands to reason that there would have been more than just the scene with them at Sofia's home. Lastly, the issues with Yosef, Diana, and Lorenzo. I'm a little lost as to where this is going to go. I despise Yosef with everything in my being simply because he can't be trusted to uphold or do what is best for the family. He may have come through in this situation but it never leaves the back of my mind that if he is in a situation where he will benefit greater by pressing his own agenda his base nature is going to win out every single time. A man like this, in my opinion, has no business to even be allowed to trail in the wake of the Diaz-Giacanti clan. I really want Sergio to either get a spin-off or have more facetime in the upcoming installments. I think there is more to him than what we get to see in the limited scenes he appears in. With the DNA of Nico Serrano flowing through is veins he should be more of a force to be reckoned with. Seeing him in action in this installment was refreshing but I just want more. I really think this character is as popular with the readers as he is because of the things that we saw him go through and the level of growth that he has exhibited. All-in-all Ms. S.W. Frank didn't disappoint. She delivered a quality stellar read and I will ALWAYS be one of the ones that will read this series until I am old and decrepit. Thank you, Ms. Frank for always providing us with historical information, knowledge, and broadening our scope outside of the narrow worlds that encompass our everyday reality!! Kudos lady I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. All I know is that it is sure to be something cataclysmic because your pen game never ever ceases to AMAZE ME!!!
March 15, 2018
This series is the best!!!!
Another page turner. All for one and one for all. Together forever. On to book 24. I highly recommend this series.
Another page turner. All for one and one for all. Together forever. On to book 24. I highly recommend this series.
August 8, 2019
When is enough.. enough?
The gang seems to be on the same page well see because it's twists and turns at every corner but Al and Selange can handle it
The gang seems to be on the same page well see because it's twists and turns at every corner but Al and Selange can handle it
February 18, 2017
Marvelously Written
At first I was I was a bit worried about being able to keep up with this book and the deep roots of the Giacanti family... But almost immediately I was drawn in to a story of a family at war. The characters like Sal, Aaron and Darren, Luzo, Giuseppe, Selange, Asante, Amelda and Sophie were so real and raw that I was unable to choose who I enjoyed the most. The family bond that the author portrays is remarkable and their conversations were charming. while reading their Sicilian dialect I often times felt like I was reading a urban fiction book. It was interesting to see that two cultures that seemed so much different actually have some similarities on how they walk, talk and approach life in general. The plot had me at page one when the Giacanti family finds themselves at war all on the count of Princessa Remelda. Again, I am new to this series so even though I didn't know what this war was over, NONE OF THAT MATTERED because the books intensity had me turning the pages to see what happened next. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that Alfonzo had me for a scare and Sal completely showed a side of him that I was proud of. The way he was described in the beginning of the book, being a witty high school kid who asked his dad for a pair of sneakers made me think of him as kind of a dorky, average kid. But, at the end he morphed into a warrior refusing to leave his father's side. I love the fact that this family runs off loyalty. I thought that Yosef was something else lol... and I LOVE how Diane checked him. And I am looking forward to book 24 so that I can find out more about Princessa, she's a cold piece of work. Overall, I found this story to be a breath of fresh air. S.W. wrote this book in a intricate way that I enjoyed. Her vocabulary was flawless and the caliber of her characters left me laughing, crying and rejoicing in the end. This was an amazing ride. Hats off to S. w. Frank whose talent is EXTREMELY evident in her writing. I am so impressed that I am eager to start at book one and learn all the underlining plots that this story did so well of tying together.
At first I was I was a bit worried about being able to keep up with this book and the deep roots of the Giacanti family... But almost immediately I was drawn in to a story of a family at war. The characters like Sal, Aaron and Darren, Luzo, Giuseppe, Selange, Asante, Amelda and Sophie were so real and raw that I was unable to choose who I enjoyed the most. The family bond that the author portrays is remarkable and their conversations were charming. while reading their Sicilian dialect I often times felt like I was reading a urban fiction book. It was interesting to see that two cultures that seemed so much different actually have some similarities on how they walk, talk and approach life in general. The plot had me at page one when the Giacanti family finds themselves at war all on the count of Princessa Remelda. Again, I am new to this series so even though I didn't know what this war was over, NONE OF THAT MATTERED because the books intensity had me turning the pages to see what happened next. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that Alfonzo had me for a scare and Sal completely showed a side of him that I was proud of. The way he was described in the beginning of the book, being a witty high school kid who asked his dad for a pair of sneakers made me think of him as kind of a dorky, average kid. But, at the end he morphed into a warrior refusing to leave his father's side. I love the fact that this family runs off loyalty. I thought that Yosef was something else lol... and I LOVE how Diane checked him. And I am looking forward to book 24 so that I can find out more about Princessa, she's a cold piece of work. Overall, I found this story to be a breath of fresh air. S.W. wrote this book in a intricate way that I enjoyed. Her vocabulary was flawless and the caliber of her characters left me laughing, crying and rejoicing in the end. This was an amazing ride. Hats off to S. w. Frank whose talent is EXTREMELY evident in her writing. I am so impressed that I am eager to start at book one and learn all the underlining plots that this story did so well of tying together.
February 5, 2017
Made up for the last book
I always get nervous with a book from this author. Again, pacing is a big issue. These short novellas are written in a "soap opera" day to day operations sort of way. It's just the storyline doesn't drag out but it almost goes too fast.
By the midway point, you can tell the pace is speeding up. If she is gong to write these novellas, pacing is key. She has the materiel, but because there are sooo many books with past characters, I'm forgetting who is who. I would like for the La Princessa character to stay around and be a thorn in their side. I need more substance from a villain. I need one of the kids to get involved in with the wrong person. I was expecting Geo and Shanda's situation to be more in dept. This author seems to be very aware of the political issues and usually does a good job with implementing those issues with the character. Shanda had a number of things that I believe should have been rolled out slowly, which made Kenya's decision a bit disappointing because I wanted this dramatic but mature response with Shanda's issues mixed with the love square, that turned into a love Pentagon, turned into a possible love hexagon. Yes, I wanted the mess of it all! Lol
The one story that is lacking and eluding is Diane, Lo, and Yosef. I'm not sure what is happening here but I feel like this will be something crazy. I also want some sort of tale's from the crypt to happen. I need a long dead royal relative to be alive after 200 yrs. Some special drink has been keeping them alive lol
I'm sure there is a next.....to be continued lol
I always get nervous with a book from this author. Again, pacing is a big issue. These short novellas are written in a "soap opera" day to day operations sort of way. It's just the storyline doesn't drag out but it almost goes too fast.
By the midway point, you can tell the pace is speeding up. If she is gong to write these novellas, pacing is key. She has the materiel, but because there are sooo many books with past characters, I'm forgetting who is who. I would like for the La Princessa character to stay around and be a thorn in their side. I need more substance from a villain. I need one of the kids to get involved in with the wrong person. I was expecting Geo and Shanda's situation to be more in dept. This author seems to be very aware of the political issues and usually does a good job with implementing those issues with the character. Shanda had a number of things that I believe should have been rolled out slowly, which made Kenya's decision a bit disappointing because I wanted this dramatic but mature response with Shanda's issues mixed with the love square, that turned into a love Pentagon, turned into a possible love hexagon. Yes, I wanted the mess of it all! Lol
The one story that is lacking and eluding is Diane, Lo, and Yosef. I'm not sure what is happening here but I feel like this will be something crazy. I also want some sort of tale's from the crypt to happen. I need a long dead royal relative to be alive after 200 yrs. Some special drink has been keeping them alive lol
I'm sure there is a next.....to be continued lol
February 8, 2017
Wow I'm still I. Love with this series!!
After all this time a countless books I still love this series and S.W. always delivers something different. I had to beam at the mentioned or Gee running all the way to get to Gio I love that part. I guess something's will never change with Shanda it always takes Salange to bring that Brooklyn attitude to keep her in line. I love read!!
After all this time a countless books I still love this series and S.W. always delivers something different. I had to beam at the mentioned or Gee running all the way to get to Gio I love that part. I guess something's will never change with Shanda it always takes Salange to bring that Brooklyn attitude to keep her in line. I love read!!
March 9, 2024
All of the Diaz/ Giacanti men are ultra alphas...
...including the Sal, Aaron and Darren. This family is something else. Somebody is always coming after them. As Selange says " can we catch a break? " This story was hot from beginning to end. It just wasn't long enough.
I love The way Gee knew something was wrong and went to be by Geo side in his time of need. Al is having thoughts about his being selfish by bringing all the drama and danger to the family. He better not do what I'm thinking. Nico told him right.
This family has endured crisis after crisis but yet they stay strong. They may have disagreements with each other but they always come together for the sake of the family. Now that the history of the family is out, hopefully the family can live in peace. Hopefully Shanda and Geo can have the marriage they've wanted so much. Even the years that separated them had not seemed to dim the love they feel for each other.
Great book. Absolutely loved the story.
...including the Sal, Aaron and Darren. This family is something else. Somebody is always coming after them. As Selange says " can we catch a break? " This story was hot from beginning to end. It just wasn't long enough.
I love The way Gee knew something was wrong and went to be by Geo side in his time of need. Al is having thoughts about his being selfish by bringing all the drama and danger to the family. He better not do what I'm thinking. Nico told him right.
This family has endured crisis after crisis but yet they stay strong. They may have disagreements with each other but they always come together for the sake of the family. Now that the history of the family is out, hopefully the family can live in peace. Hopefully Shanda and Geo can have the marriage they've wanted so much. Even the years that separated them had not seemed to dim the love they feel for each other.
Great book. Absolutely loved the story.
February 3, 2017
Much Better......
A little more time was taken in this book wIth the typo's. I don't know how far these books will go, but I don't want them to end in either of the 6 main characters. It would be sacrilege to the whole series. But I also know (as well as the characters) , you never leave this lifestyle once your in it. There's a few more books to be written though
A little more time was taken in this book wIth the typo's. I don't know how far these books will go, but I don't want them to end in either of the 6 main characters. It would be sacrilege to the whole series. But I also know (as well as the characters) , you never leave this lifestyle once your in it. There's a few more books to be written though
February 5, 2017
I'll never get enough
I love this series I was so afraid we were about to lose Al or Gee thank goodness they survived shondas back . Great read too short.
I love this series I was so afraid we were about to lose Al or Gee thank goodness they survived shondas back . Great read too short.
June 4, 2019
they go by too fast
this series gets better and better. Get in a comfy place because this ride/read is fast and furious. the characters are growing and i love
this series gets better and better. Get in a comfy place because this ride/read is fast and furious. the characters are growing and i love
January 27, 2017
Great novella answered questions from the previous book. Looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews