ARA Review by Ankith Wanted of The Deserving

[Ankith Wanted]

[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, The Deserving.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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The Deserving is a gripping historical fiction novel set during the American Civil War in the New Mexico Territory. It follows E’mile Deschampes, an eighteen-year-old Union soldier, who is wounded in battle and saved by Carmen Reyes, a brave villager. Their bond deepens, but their lives are threatened by Confederate lieutenant Aubrey McGrath, whose personal grudge turns into a two-decade-long pursuit for revenge. The story builds toward an emotional and intense climax in Santa Fe.

What I liked most about this book is the realistic historical setting and the emotional journey of the characters. The author clearly did a lot of research, and it shows in the detailed descriptions of the battles, the land, and the time period. The characters, especially E’mile and Carmen, are well-developed and believable. Their struggles and strength kept me interested throughout the book.

The story also shows the long-term impact of war—not just the physical injuries, but the emotional ones too. It’s not just about survival, but about healing, purpose, and love. I appreciated how the book blends history with human emotions.

One downside is that the story moves slowly at times. There are some sections filled with detailed historical background, which may not appeal to readers who prefer fast-paced action. Also, there are a few small grammar or punctuation mistakes, but nothing that ruined the experience.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

I recommend The Deserving to anyone who loves historical fiction with deep characters, realistic settings, and emotional depth. If you enjoy stories about war, survival, and personal growth, this book is definitely worth reading.

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