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The Deserving
In early 1862, General Henry Hopkins Sibley and his Confederate Brigade rode across the West Texas desert from San Antonio to El Paso, and followed the Rio Grande north into the New Mexico Territory . Their goal was nothing less than to conquer the entire Western US for the Confederacy.
During this time a young New Mexican named E'mile Deschampes who was only eighteen years old, enlisted in the Union Army to oppose the Confederates in New Mexico.
A prolific battle takes place at Valverde Ford near Socorro New Mexico in February of 1862, and E'mile is nearly killed there. He is rescued from the battlefield by a local villager Carmen Reyes. Together, at Valverde they begin their relationship and strange odyssey with a brutal Confederate Lieutenant, Aubrey McGrath. Their conflict with McGrath will last nearly twenty years and almost cost them their lives. And as luck and fate play a part in life's events, the couple encounter McGrath after the war in Santa Fe in the late 1800's. McGrath tries again without success to kill E'mile.
E'mile prepares for one final battle against his longtime rival as Carmen is kidnapped in Santa Fe by McGrath and his gang. Will Carmen and E'mile survive to tell the tale of their ordeal with their former Civil War enemy ? Or in 1881 will they both become victims to Aubrey McGrath and his evil gang ?
During this time a young New Mexican named E'mile Deschampes who was only eighteen years old, enlisted in the Union Army to oppose the Confederates in New Mexico.
A prolific battle takes place at Valverde Ford near Socorro New Mexico in February of 1862, and E'mile is nearly killed there. He is rescued from the battlefield by a local villager Carmen Reyes. Together, at Valverde they begin their relationship and strange odyssey with a brutal Confederate Lieutenant, Aubrey McGrath. Their conflict with McGrath will last nearly twenty years and almost cost them their lives. And as luck and fate play a part in life's events, the couple encounter McGrath after the war in Santa Fe in the late 1800's. McGrath tries again without success to kill E'mile.
E'mile prepares for one final battle against his longtime rival as Carmen is kidnapped in Santa Fe by McGrath and his gang. Will Carmen and E'mile survive to tell the tale of their ordeal with their former Civil War enemy ? Or in 1881 will they both become victims to Aubrey McGrath and his evil gang ?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2017
22 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 25, 2025
The Deserving by Efren O’Brien is an absolute masterpiece of suspense, drama, and moral complexity. From the very first page, this book hooks you with its intriguing premise and refuses to let go. O’Brien’s storytelling is razor-sharp, delivering a gripping narrative filled with unexpected twists, deep character development, and thought-provoking themes that linger long after you’ve turned the last page.
The story explores the idea of justice, morality, and who truly deserves redemption. The characters are layered and complex, each dealing with their struggles, regrets, and motivations. E’mille is especially compelling, drawing you into their journey of self-discovery and the difficult choices they must make. O’Brien does a phenomenal job of making you question right and wrong, forcing you to step into the character’s shoes and see the world from their perspectives.
What sets The Deserving apart is its perfect balance of suspense and emotional depth. The action keeps you on edge, while the deeper themes make you reflect on human nature and society. The pacing is flawless. Every chapter propels the story forward, keeping you eager to know what happens next.
Efren O’Brien’s writing is immersive and cinematic, painting vivid scenes that make you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters. If you love thrillers that challenge your mind as much as they entertain, The Deserving is a must-read. A five-star novel that will stay with you long after you finish it!
The story explores the idea of justice, morality, and who truly deserves redemption. The characters are layered and complex, each dealing with their struggles, regrets, and motivations. E’mille is especially compelling, drawing you into their journey of self-discovery and the difficult choices they must make. O’Brien does a phenomenal job of making you question right and wrong, forcing you to step into the character’s shoes and see the world from their perspectives.
What sets The Deserving apart is its perfect balance of suspense and emotional depth. The action keeps you on edge, while the deeper themes make you reflect on human nature and society. The pacing is flawless. Every chapter propels the story forward, keeping you eager to know what happens next.
Efren O’Brien’s writing is immersive and cinematic, painting vivid scenes that make you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters. If you love thrillers that challenge your mind as much as they entertain, The Deserving is a must-read. A five-star novel that will stay with you long after you finish it!
October 1, 2025
The Deserving by O’Brien is a historical fiction set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Southwestern landscape.
Through masterful research of the Civil War, the author follows the life of a young boy as he grows to be a resilient man. From searching for purposes, having a sense of duty, and falling in love, E’mille’s story is captivating. Moving from home at a young age, he finds a job as a carpenter, later joins the union, and finally settles down. The protagonist, E’mille, is again faced with the demons from his past, the antagonist, Aubrey McGrath. Whom I have the pleasure of saying I fully dislike.
The author's writing is both detailed and immersive. He captures the reader's attention through a blend of historical facts and fictional tales. However, being the hopeless romantic, my focus was fully on Carmen and E’mille. The character was well played out; their happiness, fears, and resilience were admirable. I highly recommend this book.
Through masterful research of the Civil War, the author follows the life of a young boy as he grows to be a resilient man. From searching for purposes, having a sense of duty, and falling in love, E’mille’s story is captivating. Moving from home at a young age, he finds a job as a carpenter, later joins the union, and finally settles down. The protagonist, E’mille, is again faced with the demons from his past, the antagonist, Aubrey McGrath. Whom I have the pleasure of saying I fully dislike.
The author's writing is both detailed and immersive. He captures the reader's attention through a blend of historical facts and fictional tales. However, being the hopeless romantic, my focus was fully on Carmen and E’mille. The character was well played out; their happiness, fears, and resilience were admirable. I highly recommend this book.
May 5, 2024
The Deserving can be loosely described as a “Civil War Western”. There’s nothing wrong with it, just how the story pans out. Overall, I liked the story, it had a good background for a fictional story. The good thing about the book is that the history is accurate (for what I believe as I’m not a historian), and the details are good and believable. Like all enemies, they also tend to be one-dimensional in some respects, and this story is no different, and neither is mine. Overall though the book has everything you need for a good western, the damsel in distress, and the unrelenting enemy. The enemies were thought of though, so I won’t knock the author for them, it is just a minor point. Overall I liked the book and might look forward to expanding my book choices so I can read more of his work. Also interspersed within the books are illustrations of the characters, and do represent elements within the story perfectly. I thought it was a good complement to the writing.
June 19, 2023
Initially, I was drawn to The Deserving by Efren O’Brien based on the description and my love of American history. However, after reading the book, I struggled with the rating. In the end, I decided to give The Deserving three out of five stars. That said, I would change my mind if some minor issues were to be resolved in a subsequent version. I will explain.
During the Civil War, Emile Deschampes joins the Union Army and begins a treacherous journey from his home in Louisiana through Texas and New Mexico where he encounters the dangerous and ruthless Confederate Lieutenant Aubrey McGrath. McGrath and his soldiers will join Confederate General Henry Sibley and his troops who want to conquer the western United States for the South. Emile nearly dies on the battlefield but is rescued by the young and tempestuous Carmen Reyes and the two fall in love. Emile and Carmen survive the war and start to build a life together but encounter McGrath years later. McGrath has become a rich but corrupt businessman and politician who attempts to kill them both once more.
To start with the positive, this story is quite good and the characters are engaging and well-defined. The story moved along at a good pace although at times became more like a history lecture which showed the author’s firm grasp of the events which took place during the Civil War and beyond. The fight scenes were exceptional, particularly the final face-off between Emile and McGrath. After decades of struggle, it was a surprising and satisfying ending to a long and bitter conflict between those characters.
Unfortunately, one issue in this otherwise engaging novel popped up quickly and became a distraction throughout. That issue is the use, and misuse, of punctuation. I read a lot of books and catch the occasional typo which is easily disregarded. Nevertheless, when the same punctuation error is repeated throughout the story, it ceases to be a typo and becomes an annoying interruption in what is otherwise a well-written and researched historical novel. For example, “I’m surprised they haven’t come by here yet?” and “I don’t know what they’ll do if they find him?” or “There’s no telling what this is?”. One thorough proofreader could have caught the many misplaced question and quotation marks. In addition, I must point out a sentence that read, “A Union army pistol belt and Union cavalry hat.” without a subject or verb. It may seem I’m being too particular, but accuracy is important if only in punctuation which would have made the story much more comfortable to read.
Because I made mental notes of the superfluous question marks and the misuse of quotation marks in the book, it led me to question other historical dates and details that were noted in the story. For example, were there Bond Fund referendums in 1860? (I didn’t research that.) When was corrugated cardboard invented? (1874) Are there basements in New Mexico? (Probably not in the 1860s) Finally, the term “white-collar crime” was first used in 1939 by sociologist and criminologist Edwin Sutherland, and was out of place in a story from the Civil War era. The Afterword in this book was exceptional for its information about the real-life characters who appeared in the story. Interesting for me was the lack of punctuation errors in that section. In fact, the writing in the Afterword was near perfect and contained no obvious punctuation mistakes. If Efren O’Brien writes another book, I’ll hope it is historical and not necessarily historical fiction.
During the Civil War, Emile Deschampes joins the Union Army and begins a treacherous journey from his home in Louisiana through Texas and New Mexico where he encounters the dangerous and ruthless Confederate Lieutenant Aubrey McGrath. McGrath and his soldiers will join Confederate General Henry Sibley and his troops who want to conquer the western United States for the South. Emile nearly dies on the battlefield but is rescued by the young and tempestuous Carmen Reyes and the two fall in love. Emile and Carmen survive the war and start to build a life together but encounter McGrath years later. McGrath has become a rich but corrupt businessman and politician who attempts to kill them both once more.
To start with the positive, this story is quite good and the characters are engaging and well-defined. The story moved along at a good pace although at times became more like a history lecture which showed the author’s firm grasp of the events which took place during the Civil War and beyond. The fight scenes were exceptional, particularly the final face-off between Emile and McGrath. After decades of struggle, it was a surprising and satisfying ending to a long and bitter conflict between those characters.
Unfortunately, one issue in this otherwise engaging novel popped up quickly and became a distraction throughout. That issue is the use, and misuse, of punctuation. I read a lot of books and catch the occasional typo which is easily disregarded. Nevertheless, when the same punctuation error is repeated throughout the story, it ceases to be a typo and becomes an annoying interruption in what is otherwise a well-written and researched historical novel. For example, “I’m surprised they haven’t come by here yet?” and “I don’t know what they’ll do if they find him?” or “There’s no telling what this is?”. One thorough proofreader could have caught the many misplaced question and quotation marks. In addition, I must point out a sentence that read, “A Union army pistol belt and Union cavalry hat.” without a subject or verb. It may seem I’m being too particular, but accuracy is important if only in punctuation which would have made the story much more comfortable to read.
Because I made mental notes of the superfluous question marks and the misuse of quotation marks in the book, it led me to question other historical dates and details that were noted in the story. For example, were there Bond Fund referendums in 1860? (I didn’t research that.) When was corrugated cardboard invented? (1874) Are there basements in New Mexico? (Probably not in the 1860s) Finally, the term “white-collar crime” was first used in 1939 by sociologist and criminologist Edwin Sutherland, and was out of place in a story from the Civil War era. The Afterword in this book was exceptional for its information about the real-life characters who appeared in the story. Interesting for me was the lack of punctuation errors in that section. In fact, the writing in the Afterword was near perfect and contained no obvious punctuation mistakes. If Efren O’Brien writes another book, I’ll hope it is historical and not necessarily historical fiction.
February 27, 2025
Meeting the momentum of recent success for historical fiction as a genre, Efren O’Brien has released his new book, The Deserving. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Émile Deschampes, we see the journey so many young men led in the mid-nineteenth century. The book follows a tender-aged Émile as he sets out to make a life for himself outside of the poor circumstances he had been born and thrust into. We obtain just enough backstory to create an understanding of his spirituality and belief system. However, moving forward, we travel with Émile on a journey through time, specifically through the Trans-Mississippi portion of the Civil War. While Émile is very much a fictional character, O’Brien has taken significant care to create an accurate depiction of the events that took place in the New Mexico Territory during the mid-to-late 1800s. I found his method of creating a story within a story (and almost within another story) of the period engrossing and to par with many other books within the shared genre.
Another equally captivating detail within O’Brien’s work that should be highlighted is the military history interwoven within the narrative. Without spoiling the intrigue, Émile became a Cavalry Scout for the Union cause. These were times well before the military was what it is now. Like the protagonist, my husband was a proud Cavalry Scout 19D, and it was fascinating to learn more about the history of reconnaissance. But like all soldiers, there is more to Émile than a poor upbringing and military service. The author does a fantastic job providing depth to his character.
If you enjoy historical fiction or military history, you should read Efren Obrien’s book, The Deserving. I am confident that, like me, you will find the fictional narrative interwoven with accurate history, leaving lasting impacts of satisfaction and enlightenment of the lesser-known parts of America’s origin story.
Another equally captivating detail within O’Brien’s work that should be highlighted is the military history interwoven within the narrative. Without spoiling the intrigue, Émile became a Cavalry Scout for the Union cause. These were times well before the military was what it is now. Like the protagonist, my husband was a proud Cavalry Scout 19D, and it was fascinating to learn more about the history of reconnaissance. But like all soldiers, there is more to Émile than a poor upbringing and military service. The author does a fantastic job providing depth to his character.
If you enjoy historical fiction or military history, you should read Efren Obrien’s book, The Deserving. I am confident that, like me, you will find the fictional narrative interwoven with accurate history, leaving lasting impacts of satisfaction and enlightenment of the lesser-known parts of America’s origin story.
October 2, 2025
It’s always a pleasure to read a historical novel that’s obviously authored by someone with a thorough knowledge of the period, facts, and cultural details. That’s the case with The Deserving, set during the Civil War in the western territories and also in the Reconstruction Era as it transitioned toward the Gilded Age. There’s a huge amount of historical detail here, as well as many historical and fictional characters, which could have been overwhelming. Yet the plot keeps moving at a steady pace, thanks to the engaging adventures of the relatable primary character, Émile Deschampes.
We’re introduced to Émile as a young Louisiana native—there are a few Voodoo references—who escapes a troubled childhood by moving to New Mexico just as the War Between the States is starting to be felt in the West. He joins the Union as a scout and is almost killed in one of the skillfully described battle scenes. He’s rescued by someone who will play an important role in the rest of his life, in an exciting episode that also involves a violent encounter with the villain of this epic tale, who will much later threaten him again.
The Civil War, with its vivid contrasts, moral complexities, and troubling aftermath, is always a rich backdrop for fiction. This story has that but also other exciting elements: organized crime, a mysterious coded document, and even a hidden treasure. It will appeal to readers interested in this critical period of American history and in tales of endurance and triumph.
We’re introduced to Émile as a young Louisiana native—there are a few Voodoo references—who escapes a troubled childhood by moving to New Mexico just as the War Between the States is starting to be felt in the West. He joins the Union as a scout and is almost killed in one of the skillfully described battle scenes. He’s rescued by someone who will play an important role in the rest of his life, in an exciting episode that also involves a violent encounter with the villain of this epic tale, who will much later threaten him again.
The Civil War, with its vivid contrasts, moral complexities, and troubling aftermath, is always a rich backdrop for fiction. This story has that but also other exciting elements: organized crime, a mysterious coded document, and even a hidden treasure. It will appeal to readers interested in this critical period of American history and in tales of endurance and triumph.
September 26, 2022
This book, set against the devastation of the Civil War, is equal parts exciting, suspenseful, just plain heart-wrenching, and heart-fluttering. The stakes are already high, given the war time setting, but add in a love story smack dab in the middle of it all, and you have my Titanic movie-loving sentimentality all satisfied. E'mile is a soldier for the union army, and when he cheats death, he meets and falls for town woman, Carmen. Their love story is just as powerful as any fight within the book. And, when the climactic battle has E'mile facing off against a rival while Carmen is being kidnapped...let's just say, I was a bit misty-eyed and practically clicking through my e-book fast enough to almost break the button.
Honestly, this story is a great find for anyone who has a love of American history and/or a love for forbidden-ish love. There's so much worldbuilding and character development; intrigue and excitement; devastation and hope. I enjoyed the epic spirit of the plot and the sincerity of the main characters. I felt invested in them, which is such an important component of my personal reading experience.
This was an outstanding find. Read it, and then watch Titanic. You'll be putty for the rest of the day.
Honestly, this story is a great find for anyone who has a love of American history and/or a love for forbidden-ish love. There's so much worldbuilding and character development; intrigue and excitement; devastation and hope. I enjoyed the epic spirit of the plot and the sincerity of the main characters. I felt invested in them, which is such an important component of my personal reading experience.
This was an outstanding find. Read it, and then watch Titanic. You'll be putty for the rest of the day.
November 14, 2018
Once again I am indebted to NetGalley for providing a kindle copy of this book for me to read and impartially review.
According to the author's preface, the novel is fiction based in large part in the actual "Transmississippi" Civil War Battles that took place in the New Mexico Territory in 1862, namely the Battle of Valverde Ford and Battle of Glorieta Pass, while a number of the characters portrayed in the story are real the two main protagonists are fictional.
This is a very well researched entertaining read and so in depth that at times it reads like non-fiction, but interesting throughout. It's a part Detective Mystery Spy and Western with buried treasure to boot, but also a sweet Love story, intriguing well written descriptive with excellent characterization throughout, and a real feel for time and place.
The only downside for me was the slightly dodgy kindle copy, which was occasionally poorly spaced, and all the illustrations were blacked out, however this did not in any way spoil my enjoyment of an otherwise entertaining read.
Recommended.
According to the author's preface, the novel is fiction based in large part in the actual "Transmississippi" Civil War Battles that took place in the New Mexico Territory in 1862, namely the Battle of Valverde Ford and Battle of Glorieta Pass, while a number of the characters portrayed in the story are real the two main protagonists are fictional.
This is a very well researched entertaining read and so in depth that at times it reads like non-fiction, but interesting throughout. It's a part Detective Mystery Spy and Western with buried treasure to boot, but also a sweet Love story, intriguing well written descriptive with excellent characterization throughout, and a real feel for time and place.
The only downside for me was the slightly dodgy kindle copy, which was occasionally poorly spaced, and all the illustrations were blacked out, however this did not in any way spoil my enjoyment of an otherwise entertaining read.
Recommended.
September 28, 2022
I truly enjoyed Efren O’Brien’s sweeping saga The Deserving, detailing the lives of young hero Émile Deschampes, his relationship with the beautiful Carmen Reyes, and their twisted entanglement with villain Aubrey McGrath. The novel begins amid the Civil War, with Émile fighting for the Union Army in New Mexico; he meets his future wife, Carmen, when she rescues him after a massive battle at Valverde Ford. They begin their life together, but the threat of McGrath remains with them for years—until their relationship eventually comes to a stunning head when Carmen is kidnapped.
Though the novel is fiction, the author has based it largely on the Trans-Mississippi Civil War battles that took place in New Mexico in 1862. I really didn’t know much about this part of the Civil War, and this novel has inspired me to research and learn more about those particular battles. O’Brien does a lovely job of detailing the “war within a war” in the afterword to provide even more background and details on this unique period in US history.
Though the novel is fiction, the author has based it largely on the Trans-Mississippi Civil War battles that took place in New Mexico in 1862. I really didn’t know much about this part of the Civil War, and this novel has inspired me to research and learn more about those particular battles. O’Brien does a lovely job of detailing the “war within a war” in the afterword to provide even more background and details on this unique period in US history.
May 3, 2024
The Deserving by Efren O'Brien is a descriptive fictional story taking place during the Civil War in the 1850s-70's. We begin by meeting Emile, a 15-year-old boy leaving his abusive home and family in Louisiana. Emile travels for months to get to the Southwest United States, specifically the New Mexico Territory. We experience his journey and meet the people he encounters. We watch as he grows, and begins to understand good, bad, love, and the war that is taking place. We experience the battles, confrontations, and love with Emile. We meet his most hated foe and his entrusted love during this time. We watch the sometimes hidden interactions continue between them. I enjoyed the intricate historical details of this historically-based fiction and the fictional inside story of the lovable and hated characters. Each part is developed thoroughly and is enjoyable to understand. Having never researched or studied the Civil War from the view of the Southwest part of the United States, I loved learning some of these facts as told by Efren O'Brien.
February 26, 2025
I enjoy historical fiction for lots of reasons, and Efren O’Brien’s "The Deserving" really checked all the boxes for me. First of all, the story covers a period of history that I had known nothing about before: the American Southwest during the Civil War era, including the Battle of Valverde Ford. And second, it contextualized that era for me through the fictional storyline of relatable and emotionally stirring characters.
The storyline is somewhat a coming of age one, as we practically grow up with Émile from age 18 until nearly 40, from young Union soldier to aged veteran, and antagonist Aubrey strikes fear in our hearts all throughout. The development of these characters kept me emotionally invested in the story, and the historical and cultural details of this era (this is where O’Brien’s historical expertise really shines through) brought the story to life and taught me a lot.
Occasional comic art grounds and orients us every few chapters, and the chapters themselves flow quickly, thanks to ample dialogue mixed with vivid imagery and context of this lesser-known time.
The storyline is somewhat a coming of age one, as we practically grow up with Émile from age 18 until nearly 40, from young Union soldier to aged veteran, and antagonist Aubrey strikes fear in our hearts all throughout. The development of these characters kept me emotionally invested in the story, and the historical and cultural details of this era (this is where O’Brien’s historical expertise really shines through) brought the story to life and taught me a lot.
Occasional comic art grounds and orients us every few chapters, and the chapters themselves flow quickly, thanks to ample dialogue mixed with vivid imagery and context of this lesser-known time.
March 2, 2025
THE DESERVING is very "deserving" of high praise, and I am so happy to be the one to give it with enthusiasm. Any history buff will enjoy this epic deep dive into the Civil War era. Specifically, this story takes us to the Southwest area of the United States, a wartime epicenter that rarely gets the limelight it deserves. Luckily, Efren O'brien exists to take on the task.
The characters are vivid, rich-in-backstory, and complex, and each have motivations that are well-developed. I was captivated with the interplay of setting, dialogue, and narration, which was balanced perfectly. And the added bit of romance created even higher stakes within the danger of battle. Everything is life or death here, you know? The agony and suspense of who is going to survive is brutal and so on point with the plot. My heart. Oh, my heart.
The themes of morality, good and evil, and redemption are met with the steady hand of a writer who knows what he's doing and is a master of his craft.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up. It's a historically accurate, intense, and superior read.
The characters are vivid, rich-in-backstory, and complex, and each have motivations that are well-developed. I was captivated with the interplay of setting, dialogue, and narration, which was balanced perfectly. And the added bit of romance created even higher stakes within the danger of battle. Everything is life or death here, you know? The agony and suspense of who is going to survive is brutal and so on point with the plot. My heart. Oh, my heart.
The themes of morality, good and evil, and redemption are met with the steady hand of a writer who knows what he's doing and is a master of his craft.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up. It's a historically accurate, intense, and superior read.
August 11, 2021
Historic fiction of a part of the Civil War
This is historic fiction. It is fictional. The author did his research and developed an interesting story. This is a good story set in New Mexico and I have to admit that alone was entertaining. The confederate desire to take over the west seems very relevant and I had to remind myself that the book was a look back at things that occurred with the author’s spin on it. I liked Emile, the young boy who was attempting to get away from the abusive stepfather and trying to figure out how to help his family. Seeing this historic moment through Emile’s eyes was clever. So as the Civil War is going on Emile enlists in the Union army and falls in love with Carmen. The idea of life going on in spite of the nation trying to tear itself apart was a great idea. The story slows down occasionally and there is a lot of telling at times. The only dingers. Overall, really enjoyed the book.
This is historic fiction. It is fictional. The author did his research and developed an interesting story. This is a good story set in New Mexico and I have to admit that alone was entertaining. The confederate desire to take over the west seems very relevant and I had to remind myself that the book was a look back at things that occurred with the author’s spin on it. I liked Emile, the young boy who was attempting to get away from the abusive stepfather and trying to figure out how to help his family. Seeing this historic moment through Emile’s eyes was clever. So as the Civil War is going on Emile enlists in the Union army and falls in love with Carmen. The idea of life going on in spite of the nation trying to tear itself apart was a great idea. The story slows down occasionally and there is a lot of telling at times. The only dingers. Overall, really enjoyed the book.
July 4, 2025
The Deserving tells a story about Emile, whose father died and whose mother remarried an abusive man. Emile can't bear seeing his mother suffer at the hands of the violent man, especially because there's nothing he can do. Since there's nothing he can do to help his mother, he leaves for New Mexico to start a new life. He starts off as a carpenter but later on joins the Union scouts and fights in the war, sometimes even against people he grew up with.This is an interesting, thrilling story that takes you on a wild journey through a soldier's eye, the violence, the loyalty, and the suffering. The book made my imagination run wild with the descriptions; the little pictures at the beginning of chapters also help keep your imagination active. I enjoyed this read. The story is very well written and keeps you interested; you wouldn't want to stop reading.
October 2, 2025
Efren O’Brien’s "The Deserving" is a powerful and engaging read that stands out in the crowded field of Civil War fiction. What makes it special is the setting — the Southwest deserts and villages, far from the better-known Eastern battlefields — which gives the story a vivid freshness. O’Brien has a real gift for balancing authentic history with heartfelt storytelling. The characters feel alive, especially Émile and Carmen, whose relationship adds warmth and humanity to the violence and upheaval around them. The writing is rich in detail but never overwhelming, making it easy to sink into the world and care deeply about what happens. There’s tension, romance, and grit, but also a sense of place and history that lingers after you finish. If you’re looking for historical fiction that combines accuracy with emotional depth, this novel delivers on every level.
May 15, 2020
This is a historical novel set in New Mexico, circa 1862. Emile Deschampes, a young New Mexican, escapes an abusive stepfather and joins the Union army at a time when Confederate General Henry Hopkins is trying to add the west to the Confederacy.
Local villager Carmen Reyes rescues Emile after the battle of Valverde Ford and they fall in love. Brutal Confederate Lieutenant Aubrey McGrath will haunt their relationship for over 20 years.
Efren O’brien (yes, lowercase b) is a brilliant military writer, a master of research, who will paint vivid and often gory war pictures for the reader. His characters are well developed and, as far as I can tell, historically accurate. He makes it real!
This novel deserves and gets Five Stars.
Local villager Carmen Reyes rescues Emile after the battle of Valverde Ford and they fall in love. Brutal Confederate Lieutenant Aubrey McGrath will haunt their relationship for over 20 years.
Efren O’brien (yes, lowercase b) is a brilliant military writer, a master of research, who will paint vivid and often gory war pictures for the reader. His characters are well developed and, as far as I can tell, historically accurate. He makes it real!
This novel deserves and gets Five Stars.
August 22, 2022
Fans of American history will love “The Deserving” by Efren O’brien. The story is steeped in historical descriptions, from landscapes and culture to Civil War strategies and battles. The story is set during a part of the Civil War I was personally not familiar with—the battles and regimens in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas. This makes the setting and conflict fresh, even though much of what the characters are fighting for will be familiar to readers. All of this history is framed around a young man’s search for his place in life, his military service, his love story with his wife, and his path to settling down and finding happiness. This brings the historical setting to life and gives stakes to the tale that will keep readers engaged to the end.
September 13, 2022
“The Deserving” is a highly engaging work of historical fiction set in an interesting location for Civil War era stories: the American Southwest.
Masterfully researched and written, this is a story of love, duty and a young man’s sense of purpose during a time of enormous historical significance in our country. The author’s accurate descriptions of the nineteenth-century Southwestern landscape and culture, and the references to actual Civil War participants, military maneuvers and battles really help plant the reader right in the middle of the action.
The love story between young E’mile and Carmen and the hardships they face as they fight to be together under the constant threats of war are compelling and keep the reader engaged until the very end. A great read!
Masterfully researched and written, this is a story of love, duty and a young man’s sense of purpose during a time of enormous historical significance in our country. The author’s accurate descriptions of the nineteenth-century Southwestern landscape and culture, and the references to actual Civil War participants, military maneuvers and battles really help plant the reader right in the middle of the action.
The love story between young E’mile and Carmen and the hardships they face as they fight to be together under the constant threats of war are compelling and keep the reader engaged until the very end. A great read!
September 26, 2025
From its rich American setting against the backdrop of Civil War drama, THE DESERVING is an instant classic for readers who salivate over historical stories that carry impact long after you close the book. Author Efren O'Brien is masterful at hooking you with well-rounded, complex characters whose decisions are sometimes impossibly hard--and life-changing. Here, we have a young man who's abusive homelife becomes the springboard for his destiny as a soldier...and then beyond even that. There's a perfect blend of action, introspection, and rising stakes, making for a delightfully satisfying story that tugged at every fiber of my being.
I love the intense tone of this book, and the way the plot comes to life through O'Brien's aptitude for putting pen to paper in an extraordinary way.
I love the intense tone of this book, and the way the plot comes to life through O'Brien's aptitude for putting pen to paper in an extraordinary way.
August 19, 2022
Efren O'Brien does a laudable job covering the American Civil War and its aftermath set against the not-too-typical backdrop of New Mexico. Weaving in real historical figures from the Union and the Confederacy, he takes his protagonist Emilé from Louisiana to the New Mexico territory with action, intrigue, romance, and surprises along the way.
The history lessons and the illustrations at the start of many chapters provide an immersive experience for readers. This is supported by an Afterword that gives further context to the events of the story. O'Brien does masterful work in keeping readers interested in the main story and the history behind it.
The history lessons and the illustrations at the start of many chapters provide an immersive experience for readers. This is supported by an Afterword that gives further context to the events of the story. O'Brien does masterful work in keeping readers interested in the main story and the history behind it.
August 22, 2022
This felt like the fun old paperback adventures I bought as a kid with lots of action and adventure, helped by the illustrations and even a cipher to translate! We always learn in school the broad, sweeping strokes of the general facts of a war, but they are really made of individual stories and experiences of the people who live the events.
The main players in this book are not the major historical figures most people are familiar with. This gives the author more freedom to create interesting people with their own goals to drive the story. There is also a light supernatural thread throughout that I quite enjoyed.
The main players in this book are not the major historical figures most people are familiar with. This gives the author more freedom to create interesting people with their own goals to drive the story. There is also a light supernatural thread throughout that I quite enjoyed.
August 23, 2022
This book is utterly fascinating. I love how this story blends history with the intense and almost fantastical adventures of Émile and Carmen. It reads like an old-school western, but where it deviates (and for the better, might I add) is the additional weight in what is happening. The writer of this text understands that these were events people lived through, that this cruelty was not only common, but expected in this era, in this part of the world, and they make sure to employ that in a way to leave the reader with the understanding that Émile and Carmen could, in some way or another, have been real people.
September 13, 2022
I love it when authors do their homework, and this one clearly has! Not only has Efren O’brien crafted a believable and rich work of fiction, he’s set it in the midst of a place that’s often overlooked in stories of the Civil War period: the New Mexico Territory.
He’s also populated his story with a likable, relatable protagonist and an easy-to-despise antagonist in Aubrey McGrath.
I also appreciate when an author goes the extra mile to explain a bit of the history outside of the story, and O’brien tacks on an afterword that does just that.
Lots of good stuff here. It’s deserving of five stars from me!
He’s also populated his story with a likable, relatable protagonist and an easy-to-despise antagonist in Aubrey McGrath.
I also appreciate when an author goes the extra mile to explain a bit of the history outside of the story, and O’brien tacks on an afterword that does just that.
Lots of good stuff here. It’s deserving of five stars from me!
September 13, 2022
The Deserving is about a Union soldier, Emile, the events he experiences, and the love he finds among the chaos of the American Civil War. O’brien’s historical details are so fascinating and help take the reader back to that time, and the book is very obviously well-researched. While you may know about the battles this story follows, you’ve never read them like this. The amount of detail is unmatched, and showing the battles from Emile’s perspective gives the events a much more personal and authentic feeling, rather than a cold, textbook feeling. This is a fantastic book for fans of historical fiction and historical romances.
September 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book because it mixes real history with a story that feels super personal. E’mile’s journey, starting as a young soldier at the Battle of Valverde, pulled me in right away. I loved how Carmen comes into the picture—her rescue of him makes their relationship feel fated, almost like light in the middle of all the darkness of war. The ongoing conflict with McGrath kept the tension alive, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see how their story would play out. It’s got history, romance, and suspense all rolled together, which made it a really fun and engaging read.
September 24, 2018
The Deserving was just an okay story for me. Just a little slower than I like to read. I am giving it three stars.
September 13, 2022
This book is a fantastically well-researched historical fiction novel with a lot of love and perhaps even more conflict.
E'mile is a young man with a troubled past (and so sad) who enlists in the Union Army to fight in New Mexico during the Civil War. When his life is on the line, a local villager named Carmen saves him. The journey they take to be together, stay together, and thrive together with the backdrop of war confronting them at every turn is nothing short of tearfully beautiful. I enjoyed these characters so much. Moreover, the author does a wonderful job with the setting. I felt like I was in the battles right alongside them at each turn. The descriptions are fantastic. Rich and well-crafted. Though hard to read at times, the payoff is a story you won't soon forget.
The stakes are so high it's hard not to stay up all night to see what happens. A little confession? I did. And it was worth it.
E'mile is a young man with a troubled past (and so sad) who enlists in the Union Army to fight in New Mexico during the Civil War. When his life is on the line, a local villager named Carmen saves him. The journey they take to be together, stay together, and thrive together with the backdrop of war confronting them at every turn is nothing short of tearfully beautiful. I enjoyed these characters so much. Moreover, the author does a wonderful job with the setting. I felt like I was in the battles right alongside them at each turn. The descriptions are fantastic. Rich and well-crafted. Though hard to read at times, the payoff is a story you won't soon forget.
The stakes are so high it's hard not to stay up all night to see what happens. A little confession? I did. And it was worth it.
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