The Watchman of Ephraim (Cris De Niro, Book 1) by Gerard de Marigny

Mar 02, 2012 Zohar - ManOfLaBook.com rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012

The Watchman of Ephraim by Gerard de Marigny is a fictional book taking place a decade after 9/11. The book takes place in all over the United States.

Cris De Nero’s pregnant wife died in the World Trade Center on 9/11/01. Ten years later, still recovering from the shock of losing his wife, Cris creates The Watchman.
The Watchman are a private organization, funded by Cris, a self made millionaire.

The organization which is made out of ex military, uses high-tech equipment and...more The Watchman of Ephraim by Gerard de Marigny is a fictional book taking place a decade after 9/11. The book takes place in all over the United States.

Cris De Nero’s pregnant wife died in the World Trade Center on 9/11/01. Ten years later, still recovering from the shock of losing his wife, Cris creates The Watchman.
The Watchman are a private organization, funded by Cris, a self made millionaire.

The organization which is made out of ex military, uses high-tech equipment and knowledgeable human resources to fight terrorism in places the government cannot or will not.

The Watchman of Ephraim by Gerard de Marigny is a fast paced thriller full of intriguing characters and suspense. The dialog is tight and the plot moves along in a fast pace.

Cris De Nero, the protagonist, is a self made man, a good father and husband. The characters, their interaction and relationships are well defined. The recruiting efforts for The Watchmen are described in a fascinating way and the way the company is transforming under Cris’ leadership could make a book by itself.

There are several themes throughout the novel, patriotism, G-d and country, safety of others, loyalty and ethics being a few. I’d like to have read more about how the protagonist, an ethical smart man, navigates the filthy swamp which we call Washington DC.

The plot is enjoyable and solid, yet somewhat predictable and the main character is somewhat hypocritical (a devout Christian drive by revenge — but it's not like there aren't enough precedences of that in history). That being said, I understand that this book is the first of a series and I know that it is always difficult to create an origin story in any medium while keeping the final product down to a manageable size.

For more reviews and bookish posts please visit: http://www.ManOfLaBook.com (less)

like · see review

Jan 16, 2012 Wendy Hines rated it 4 of 5 stars

Christian 'Cris' Stephen De Niro lost his wife in the terrorists attacks on 9/11. Since, he has been raising their boys alone. He's a billionaire and one of the most respected businessmen in the world, so when he called his brother-law Ricci, ex-SEALS, to help him head up an anti-terrorism consulting firm, he knew he wouldn't say no.

De Niro and his newly assembled team work quickly to turn their newly acquired ground zero building into The Watchman for the United States. However, when they begi...more

like · see review

Jan 15, 2012 Kate's Reads rated it 5 of 5 stars

"The Watchman of Ephraim" - Book 1 of the Cris De Niro series by Gerard de Marigny is a timely thriller that will keep you thinking long after the last page.

Cris De Niro lost his wife, Lisa, on 9/11 in Tower 1 of the World Trade Center, even as he raced up the tower stairs to rescue her. Devastated and left to raise his two young sons alone, he moves to Las Vegas for a fresh start. A billionaire hedge fund operator he invests his money in starting a civilian counter-terrorism agency to ensure th...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 11, 2011 aobibliophile™ rated it 5 of 5 stars

The prophet, along with my God, is the watchman over Ephraim, yet snares await him on all his paths, and hostility in the house of his God. - New International Version (©1984)

Cristiano Stephen De Niro lost his wife Lisa on September 11, 2001 when a plane hit Tower One. after the tragedy, he relocates to Nevada with his sons. inspired by a passage from the Christian Bible, he acquires a counter-terrorism agency. ten years later, evil is afoot once more when Aref Sami Zamani partners with a Mexica...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 05, 2011 Wynter Adelle rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The book begins on the morning of 9/11/01, and we follow Cris De Niro’s story through losing his wife, dealing with single fatherhood, and the ways in which the man attempts to save other families from having to deal with what he went through.
In the beginning it started out a little slow for me. There was a lot of catching up to do, as far as De Niro and his relationships were concerned. Eventually, however, the book picked up the pace considerably. The incredibly wealthy De Niro funds the forma...more The book begins on the morning of 9/11/01, and we follow Cris De Niro’s story through losing his wife, dealing with single fatherhood, and the ways in which the man attempts to save other families from having to deal with what he went through.
In the beginning it started out a little slow for me. There was a lot of catching up to do, as far as De Niro and his relationships were concerned. Eventually, however, the book picked up the pace considerably. The incredibly wealthy De Niro funds the formation of an independent counter-terrorism agency. He seems to have unlimited resources as he outfits them with top of the line equipment and resources.
Something I thought was interesting about the book was how the author described the relationships between De Niro and his friends and business partners. Generally, with this many characters I would expect to be confused, trying to keep them all straight. I never had that feeling here. The author introduces us to characters in such a way that they are memorable, and reminds us of who they are just enough to the point where we understand, but are not annoyed with repetitive details.
Overall the book kind of had the feel of a heist story, like Oceans Eleven or The Italian Job, only here they are trying to protect the country, not stealing anything. It was exciting, and made me want to keep reading.
I did have one issue with the book. Though I thought it was great in almost every respect, I feel obligated to share my opinion about this issue. (This section may contain spoilers, if you don’t want the ending spoiled, skip down to the bolded text). In many places in the book, and also in the synopsis Cris De Niro identifies himself as a Christian, Judeo-Christian, “Biblical view” etc. In my opinion this makes the character inconsistent. Let me explain what I mean… Throughout the book De Niro sets himself up as judge, jury and executioner. When he is targeted in his home, he mercilessly puts to death every person who invaded his home, and then flies to NY to do the same to the leader of the terrorist operations, as well as every person in the building they encountered. In the end he leaves the head-terrorist hanging from the top of a tall building and claims, ‘I’m not going to kill you, you’re going to kill yourself,’ which is based on the idea that the man will kill himself when he doesn’t have the strength to hold on any longer. To this the terrorist replies something to the effect of, ‘I know your Bible, you’re not supposed to murder.’ De Niro then justifies his actions by saying,’I'm not letting the sun go down on my anger.’ These actions and statements go against what the Bible teaches.
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus teaches that we are to love our enemies, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who misuse you. Jesus calls us to love our enemies because the primary goal of a Christian is to be the emulation of Christ. Christ did it, therefore we are to do it. The Bible also teaches that all people are created in the image of God, that includes terrorists, that includes Osama Bin Laden, that includes Hitler. All people were created in the image of God. When we forget this we begin to see terrorists, or anyone else that does not share our beliefs or even preferences as somehow less-than, somehow evil. The truth is that we are all equally evil, and Jesus died for Bin Laden’s sins as well as ours.
Now, I am not saying that De Niro should not have defended his family. It is his duty as a father to protect his boys, just as it is the job of the government to protect it’s people, but this does not give him the prerogative to hunt down everyone that was involved and murder them. There is no reason he could not have bound them all up and shipped them off for a lawful trial. This would have been in accordance with his self-proclaimed Judeo-Christian faith.
The other reason we are to love our enemies is to show them what it means to follow Christ, and hope that they will be led to do the same by our example. it should go against the very nature of a Christian person to wish a non-Christian person to die, whether a terrorist or not. When a terrorist dies we should weep at the loss of one more soul that will not see heaven; One more person, made in the image of God that was not reconciled with Him. Are we God that we can decide who lives or dies?
I read and review many books. All of them feature characters that do things they shouldn’t do. That is part of life, part of human nature. The reason I shared these opinions with you today is because in this case we have a character that is presented as a Christian, but acts in a way that is in opposition to what the Bible teaches, then tries to justify these actions with out-of-context scriptures. I, as a Christian, felt that I could not in good conscience review this book without pointing this out and giving my opinion on it. Thanks for taking the time to read it.
When I give it the rating below, it is based on the fact that it was a well-written, exciting book that I thought deserved a good rating and recommendation. My bible-based disagreements with certain aspects of the character’s morals do not change that.
My final word on the book: This book was exciting, fast-paced and hard to put down. Overall a very good fiction read, though the main character had one inconsistent quality, we were made to feel poignantly the loss he had suffered, and why he so ardently desired revenge. I would recommend it for anyone that loves a good action/heist story or Political Thrillers.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Sep 01, 2011 Stephanie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I really enjoyed The Watchman of Ephraim, and with the tenth anniversary of 9/11 coming soon, this novel is certainly a testament to those who lost their lives in one of the most horrific terrorist acts to take place on American soil. The Watchman begins ten years earlier when Cris De Niro is in New York City to surprise his wife who is pregnant with their third child. Coming to the realization of how important his family is to him, he buys her flowers and is on his way to the 104th floor when t...more I really enjoyed The Watchman of Ephraim, and with the tenth anniversary of 9/11 coming soon, this novel is certainly a testament to those who lost their lives in one of the most horrific terrorist acts to take place on American soil. The Watchman begins ten years earlier when Cris De Niro is in New York City to surprise his wife who is pregnant with their third child. Coming to the realization of how important his family is to him, he buys her flowers and is on his way to the 104th floor when the first plane hits the Tower. As the terrifying events unfold, they are told with beauty and utmost respect by the author, leaving me breathless. Even though I watched everything on television as it was happening, the horror and pain came back like it was yesterday, and my heart went out again to all those who lost loved ones that day. Mr. de Marigny did a wonderful job recreating the shock, fear, and heartbreaking loss of those who experienced the tragedy of 9/11.

Ten years later, Cris is still reeling from the shock of losing his wife through such an act of terrorism, looking for answers that do not come. As hugely successful hedge-fund investor, he buys a counter-terrorism company in order prevent something like 9/11 from ever happening today. This is part of the novel I found really fascinating as the author took the reader through some of the steps of setting up such a company, and what kinds of tools would be necessary for such a company to function. I read with vivid interest all of the scenes between the CEOs and Cris, and how people were recruited to how things were going to be developed. Usually in novels, the companies are already functioning, or have been running for years, so you don't see this kind of thing. The characters fit in smoothly with this scenario, and I really enjoyed the dialogue between all of the characters, even when things weren't necessarily functioning smoothly.

While I enjoyed the plotline very much, I did find it somewhat predictable and I definitely was able to predict the ending to the problem. I would have liked to have seen a little more complicated plotline, and I would have liked the 'mole' so to speak to be a little less out there in the sense that I would have preferred to figure out who it was rather than be in my face. Other than that, I enjoyed the characters tremendously. The witty dialogue and fun interactions between the characters kept the novel entertaining, and I do have to admit that I developed a special liking for David, even if he wasn't in the novel for very long. The Scotch bottle scene had me laughing out loud, and I am still chuckling over it today. That comic bit of humour amidst the death that took place around the scene is one of the things I enjoyed about this novel. I do have to admit to frustration at times over things the characters didn't do considering how brilliant they are supposed to be; why didn't they look up Zamani's picture while they were researching his information? And how did such brilliant techies miss what was researched on the 'cellphone' as I would have thought that was easy to find? To suddenly find this information at the last moment certainly adds to the suspense, but still...

With several themes flowing through this novel, the main one being the sense of patriotism one has for their country and the safety of those in it. This is what sends Cris on the path to protecting his fellow citizens and there are some interesting discussions revolving around this topic in this novel; to what extent does one go to protect the innocent citizens of one's country, those who have no political involvement, but may be victims of attacks without their knowing it? The other strong theme in this novel is loyalty, friendship, and love. It is great to feel deeply for someone, but how does someone get over the feeling of betrayal for someone when that loved one is dead? It's an interesting theme, and a sad one as well, one that motivates Cris in everything he does. I am curious as to how the author deals with these emotions, and with Cris in future novels. With strong and wonderful writing skills, Mr. de Marigny has created characters that you want to believe in and in whom you want to succeed so that nothing like 9/11 ever happens again.

The Watchman of Ephraim is a great beginning to what promises to be a wonderful series. This novel is the one that sets up events for future novels, and while it definitely has its tension and suspenseful moments, it was more about introducing us to some very interesting and intriguing characters whom I hope we will definitely see in his next novel, Signs of War, to be released September 2011.

(less)

like · see review

Aug 09, 2011 cyberbookworm rated it 4 of 5 stars

This day next month it will be exactly 10 years since the horrific act of terrorism that was 9/11 in New York city. I am sure that everyone can remember that fateful day as if it was yesterday, they will know exactly where they were when the biggest act of cowardice, deemed terrorism, was afforded on the west leading to the death of over 3000 innocent people. All for the selfish cause of the few. Their deaths will not be forgotten nor will the heroes that emerged from the aftermath.
This is where...more This day next month it will be exactly 10 years since the horrific act of terrorism that was 9/11 in New York city. I am sure that everyone can remember that fateful day as if it was yesterday, they will know exactly where they were when the biggest act of cowardice, deemed terrorism, was afforded on the west leading to the death of over 3000 innocent people. All for the selfish cause of the few. Their deaths will not be forgotten nor will the heroes that emerged from the aftermath.
This is where Cris de Niros story starts. Cris, a successful hedge fund manager, goes to surprise his wife who is breakfasting with some old colleagues who work in the world trade centre, when the planes hit. Cris's wife is trapped on the 104th floor of the second tower. Unable to fully comprehend what was happening Cris rushes into the tower in an attempt to save his wife, unaware that her fate has already been determined. He is saved by a fire-fighter called Keith Tompkins who pulls him to safety just as the second tower collapses.

It is almost 10 years later and Cris and his 2 sons now live on a ranch in Nevada. There were too many memories in New York and Cris is slowly piecing his life back together. A patriot through and through, Cris wants to protect his family, his friends and the United States and decides to acquire a counter-terrorism agency to help him do just this.

An innocent investigation into the owners of a proposed mosque in down-town New York, close to Ground Zero, unwittingly puts him in the cross hairs of a terrorism group who are ready to wreak havoc on the anniversary of 9/11. When an agent goes missing on a low risk intelligence gathering mission, it soon becomes apparent that things are not as they seem and that the agency may have a mole.

Can Cris and his team save his family and avert another act of terrorism as devastating as 9/11?

The opening chapters of The Watchman of Ephraim are powerful and emotive and I was transported back to that day 10 years ago when I watched the Internet feed with shock, fear and finally grief at the events that where transpiring in down town New York. Gerard has captured the intensity and fear that was felt by all at the time.

The major theme in The Watchman of Ephraim is patriotism, this is represented by the main character Cris de Niro, he firmly believes in his country and that it should be protected at all costs. There is a sense of calm and determination that is present in the book that seems to be created by Cris's persona. Gerard has created a strong character who you want to believe in and a powerful hero in Cris de Niro.

After a strong opening, the plot unfolds smoothly and rolls along, each piece of the puzzle elegantly placed, nothing has been included that doesn't need to be there. This is dramatic and moving book which I enjoyed immensely and I hope to be able to read more of Cris de Niros adventures in the future.

If you want to know more about Gerard de Marigny you can check out his website at: http://www.gerarddemarigny.com/
Or follow him on twitter @GerarddeMarigny(less)

1 like · like · see review

Apr 14, 2011 Fran rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Title: The Watchman Of Ephraim
Author: Gerard
Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Ash, cinders, smoke and fog filled the air, blinded the vision and burned the hands, faces and bodies of many as the two planes minutes apart crashed into the Twin Towers forever changing the skyline of our magnificent city and leaving in its wake a carnage that would forever be embedded in the mind, hearts and soul of every American. Air permeating with a foul and burnt smell that would remain as a lingering perfume that would h...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 25, 2011 Ronnie Dauber rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I enjoyed reading this book because it touched on all the emotions that held my interest without losing the emphasis of the story. The first chapter was dynamic and drew me into the book right away, however, there were a few instances where I thought simple conversations or meetings could have been said with less words. As needed as these instances are, too many idle words steal from the anxiousness of the story. Nevertheless, the author was able to continually draw the reader back into the pace...more

like · see review

Jan 27, 2011 S.M. Carrière rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Before I start this review, it's important to note, in the spirit of full disclosure, that I know and am friends with the author. Despite this fact, I promise you none of the claims made herein are in any way exaggerated.

This was a great read.

To be sure, there were some things that I didn't like so much. Mr. de Marigny makes no apologies for either his faith or his political orientation - and nor should he! However, as an extremely liberal cynical agnostic myself, some views expressed by the her...more

like · see review

Aug 16, 2012 Lynda Coker rated it 4 of 5 stars

One wonders how they would respond, reason, or survive a crisis as horrendous as described in The Watchman of Ephraim. Through author Gerard de Marigny's considerable writing skills, we get to experience such a thing through one man, Cris De Niro. The emotions are intense and raw. If you get to page 17, you'll not be able to put this book aside for long.

This cat and mouse thriller with it's straight, yet curvy plot, explores the threat and violence of terrorism without coloring the pages with un...more

like · see review

Sep 05, 2011 CorLostForWords rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, e-book, for-review

Source: Received from author. Many thanks goes to Gerard de Marigny for sending me a copy of his book for review. I received a copy of this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

My rating: 3.5/5

Cris de Niro had everything. A beautiful wife, two young sons, with a third child on the way. Then, in one moment, tragedy struck, and the world would never be the same again. When the towers fell, taking the life of his wife, Lisa, and their unborn child, Cris was left bereft, lost in a s...more Source: Received from author. Many thanks goes to Gerard de Marigny for sending me a copy of his book for review. I received a copy of this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

My rating: 3.5/5

Cris de Niro had everything. A beautiful wife, two young sons, with a third child on the way. Then, in one moment, tragedy struck, and the world would never be the same again. When the towers fell, taking the life of his wife, Lisa, and their unborn child, Cris was left bereft, lost in a sea of emotions. With despair setting in, Cris turned to the Bible for comfort and sustenance. Now, ten years later, Cris is starting up an agency to watch out for terrorism, to make sure another terrorist attack never happens on U.S. soil again.
With the ten year anniversary of 9/11 fast approaching, Cris is left with a growing sense of urgency. He forms a business that is on the lookout for terrorism within the United States borders. What he doesn't realize, is how quickly he will stumble upon a plot meant to extrapolate and incapacitate those on the anniversary of 9/11.
With topics taken straight from the headlines, and our worst fears, de Marigny takes us on a wild ride as we follow Cris, and his compatriots on their search for any terrorist plots. When their worst fears are realized, we are right there with them, trying to figure out just what is going to happen next, and who will end up the victor.
There are a slew of characters in The Watchman of Ephraim, and at times it was hard to differentiate between them as some of them seemed to have the same voice, however they are united in their goal to keep America safe. The structure of The Watchman of Ephraim is sound, and it has great bones. I just wanted the story fleshed out a little bit more. Also, with a little tightening up, this read could be an excellent one.There is a lot of technical jargon in association with different weapons, and military terms, and definitions are given in the back of the book which helps the non-military reader.
All in all, this is a heartbreaking subject to write about, and de Marigny writes with dignity and grace, while keeping in mind the grief of those who lost someone on that fateful day. I rooted for Cris to come out on top, and hoped that he would achieve the goals he set for himself, and those around him. I am definitely interested in seeing what happens next for Cris and his new agency.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Oct 19, 2012 Maryellen rated it 5 of 5 stars

THE WATCHMAN OF EPHRAIM (Cris De Niro, Book 1) by Gerard de Marigny is an intense and sometimes disturbing book that will awaken your every emotion conceivable. Our main character, billionaire Cristiano De Niro, suffers the unimaginable loss of pregnant wife and soul mate, Lisa, in the terrorist attacks on September 11th. Cris is left to raise his two sons as a single father while he mourns his loss and tries to come to terms with a world that changed on that day. What is born of his loss is “Th...more

like · see review

Mar 05, 2012 Chuck rated it 4 of 5 stars

A billionaire ex hedge fund manager and patriot, Cris DeNiro, buys a private counter-terrorism consulting firm. He changes the name of the firm from Liberty Defense Contractors to The Watchman Agency. He installs his brother in law and formerly Commanding Officer of the Naval Special Warfare Center as the agency's President. Add a cabal of Iranian terrorists with ugly plans for the U.S. of A. and you have a great plot. I liked this one.

Gerard is one of my Goodreads friends. If you haven't tried...more

1 like · like · see review

view all 5 comments

Chuck Sir Gerard:

We do have some things in common. I, too, come from a very close family. My dad, brother and I were the best of friends as well. My brother...more
Mar 07, 2012 12:52pm

Gerard Marigny Do that! I enjoyed the entire series. To tell you the truth, I could have gone on reading about Killer McCoy, Pickering, et. al indefinitely.

Little se...more
Mar 07, 2012 02:35pm

Mar 31, 2012 Joy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Gerard de Marigny carries his readers along in a religious thriller set around the decade-long fallout of the terror of 9/11. The Watchman of Ephraim examines the life of one man in particular, Cris De Niro, and the lives of all those close to him as they search for meaning in a world deprived of a loved one. De Niro, an extraordinarily wealthy man, finds a purpose and a direction for his overflowing passion for the wife and unborn child he lost in the first Tower. He puts all his financial reso...more Gerard de Marigny carries his readers along in a religious thriller set around the decade-long fallout of the terror of 9/11. The Watchman of Ephraim examines the life of one man in particular, Cris De Niro, and the lives of all those close to him as they search for meaning in a world deprived of a loved one. De Niro, an extraordinarily wealthy man, finds a purpose and a direction for his overflowing passion for the wife and unborn child he lost in the first Tower. He puts all his financial resources and societal status into backing an anti-terrorism agency that soon finds itself in the middle of another national crisis.

The book also parallels the worldview of two vastly different religions—Christianity and Islam—and, specifically, the differing definitions of sacrifice and heroism between the two.

This book kept my attention all the way through; I never once wanted to put it down! The storyline was engaging and the characters were magnetic and made me want to continue the series to discover what happens next in their lives—I’m particularly interested in Dr. Moriah Stevens! I appreciated the mirroring I saw of the author’s own life in his book—the similarities in his and his protagonist’s last names, the similarities in his family and that of his character’s (wives with the same name, fathers to sons).

I did find the book lacking in editing—mostly for punctuation and grammar and some clarification and development. However, that did not deter it from being a page-turner for me; and, if you knew me, you’d know that’s a HUGE compliment! I’m a stickler when it comes to that stuff and I’ve been known to toss a book aside for fewer errors. I do think a revised printing of The Watchman of Ephraim is in order; it’s too good of a story to not be perfected, tweaked and made all it can be.

Although I liked most of the characters, I had trouble relating to the protagonist. It’s hard for me to sympathize with someone who is that wealthy (and his wealth did seem pretty out there!); however, I appreciated his commitment to utilizing his resources to preventing another tragedy like the one that shattered his life. A wealthy man with morals and religious convictions is certainly unique!(less)

like · see review

May 11, 2012 Toni Osborne rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Book 1, in the Cris de Niro series

The "Watchman of Ephraim " is a sparkling debut novel by author Gerard de Marigny, a great geopolitical thriller which intricately weaves current events into an exciting story of international espionage.

The story opens with Cris De Niro, the main protagonist, a successful hedge fund entrepreneur on his way to meet his wife at the World trade Center on 9/11/01 when disaster strikes the twin towers killing her and their unborn son. Many years after the terrible tr...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 09, 2012 Mark rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, on-kobo

The Watchman of Ephraim introduces us Cris De Niro a billionaire who lost his wife in the twin towers on 9/11. Ten years later De Niro purchases a anti-terrorism agency to help prevent further attacks from happening. Of course this sets up a series of events that puts his family, friends, and country in danger.

This is a promising start to the series. Cris De Niro is a very likable millionare who is willing to go to any lengths to keep his country safe. This book is not short on action. At many t...more

like · see review

Jan 22, 2012 Holly Morey rated it 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book which was suggested to my by the author on goodreads. It is the story of a man who lost his wife in the World Trade Center on 9/11. He and his brother-in-law buy a business that watches for terrorist activities. While I enjoyed the storyline and the characters, what I didn't like was the footnotes throughout the book. If I am reading a nonfiction book, footnotes are important, but when I am reading fiction, these same footnotes are distracting. I also found the ending slightl...more

like · see review

Oct 04, 2011 Nicole rated it 3 of 5 stars

I won this book as part of the Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.
I was pleasantly surprised. 3 1/2 stars would be more accurate of a rating. Cris DeNiro, the main charcter and a self made billionaire, lost his wife in Tower One of the World Trade Center attacks. After losing his wife, Cris moves out west and purchases a counter terrorism intelligence agency. He discovers a plot between the Iranians and Mexican drug cartels in which they plan to smuggle a nuclear weapon across the US border. The bo...more

like · see review

Apr 17, 2012 Bobby J rated it 4 of 5 stars

Intriguing page-turner. Put me in a vengeful mood right from the beginning and was sated fully. Using 9/11 as a base to begin a tale will always elicit emotion as was truly put to use in

The Watchman of Ephraim (Cris De Niro, Book 1)

. Found the characters believable and Chris had to be a fountain of wealth to create his private small army....and he did. Sure hope Chris finds some closure to Lisa though! About to move on to Chris De Niro #2!!

like · see review

Apr 11, 2012 Monnie rated it 4 of 5 stars

It's a trend I've seen more and more over the last half-dozen years or so - I suppose because publishing companies are cutting their editorial staffs to the bone - but it bothers me enormously to feel the need to get out my editor's red pencil to correct grammar and punctuation mistakes in "professionally" produced books. Unfortunately, my appreciation of this otherwise enjoyable book was marred by the sheer number of them, from incorrect words (it's "short-sighted," not "short-sided," "you're,"...more

like · see review

Jan 27, 2012 Kathy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction-general

September 11, 2001 changed the lives of thousands of families forever, as well as a nation. Cris De Niro witnesses the death of his wife and unborn child as World Center tower they are in collapses. Cris survives because a firefighter reminds him that he can't save his wife and unborn child, but he can save himself for their other two children. This billionaire then devotes his life to protecting his family and country from additional terrorist acts.

"The Watchman of Ephraim" by Gerard de Marigny...more September 11, 2001 changed the lives of thousands of families forever, as well as a nation. Cris De Niro witnesses the death of his wife and unborn child as World Center tower they are in collapses. Cris survives because a firefighter reminds him that he can't save his wife and unborn child, but he can save himself for their other two children. This billionaire then devotes his life to protecting his family and country from additional terrorist acts.

"The Watchman of Ephraim" by Gerard de Marigny (who sent me his first two books to review) is a moving work which combines mystery, international intrigue, faith, humor and personal growth into an excellent work. It was hard to put the book down in part because of the intense rush of emotions de Marigny built through his writing. While I have never served in the military, I was drawn into the patriotism and devotion to honor that these characters possessed. de Marigny highlights the characteristics of the people who dedicate their lives to keeping all of us safe, especially in these changing times.

Cris uses his immense wealth to create a new life for his personal and professional lives. After relocating his family, he purchases a counterterrorism firm and puts his brother-in-law (a former Marine) in charge. Their mission is to serve as "the watchman for our country." We are given insight into how these agencies (governmental and private) work to keep us safe from additional attacks. This is not a business for the weak of heart or for those who do not have a fierce dedication to our country.

While some may say the storyline in "The Watchman" could never happen - they would have said the same thing about commercial airliners crashing into multiple targets in New York and Washington, DC prior to 9/11. The reality that de Marigny points out is that when evil forces work together, very bad things can and do occur. Vigilance is critical to our safety.

In addition to the intrigue storyline, we get to see the emotional challenges those who lost loved ones continue to go through as they live each day since 9/11. How do you continue your relationships with those friends and families who are left? How do you deal with new romantic emotions without feeling like you are betraying the one you lost? How do you live your life when the plans you made for the future will never be the way you planned? de Marigny gives us some insight into how some survivors and families are handling these questions.

I'm looking forward to reading more of this series. Having grown up with a wide variety of international intrigue works of fiction and nonfiction, I was impressed with "The Watchman of Ephraim." (less)

like · see review

Jan 06, 2012 Sharon Martin rated it 5 of 5 stars

A successful hedge fund entrepreneur is on his way to meet his wife, who is pregnant, at the twin towers. Disaster strikes as two planes crash into the towers killing his wife and unborn child. He makes the decision that this can never happen again and decides to recruit the elite from the marines, secret services and government to set up an independent agency to ensure the terrorists never succeed again.

Whilst setting up the agency, an Iranian businessman along with a Mexican drug cartel infilt...more A successful hedge fund entrepreneur is on his way to meet his wife, who is pregnant, at the twin towers. Disaster strikes as two planes crash into the towers killing his wife and unborn child. He makes the decision that this can never happen again and decides to recruit the elite from the marines, secret services and government to set up an independent agency to ensure the terrorists never succeed again.

Whilst setting up the agency, an Iranian businessman along with a Mexican drug cartel infiltrate the new agency by buying one of the board members, but when an undercover agent, from the agency, goes missing, then turns up dead, the bribed board member panics. What is the real reason for the link between the Iranian and the drug cartel? Can the agency find out who has betrayed them and discover the link? Is it a question of National Security? Can they react in time to save the country?

For a real page turning thriller with twists and one which keeps the reader hooked, read this book. Billed as a thriller and page turner, the book definitely did not disappoint. The story kept me on the edge of my seat with no idea which way the plot was going to turn, which is exactly the type of book I love.

The storyline and research shown throughout the book was first class, you really feel the emotions of all the characters and really getting a real gist of how both sides felt. The writing style used was very easy to follow and digest, therefore adding to the excitement and tension that was created. The storyline is a very topical one which will provoke discussion to whoever reads it. I believe this is the most important part of any novel, the discussions afterwards, and I believe this is a book which will be wildly discussed which will in itself builds a good novel and one which will live on and on.

I can imagine each and every character as the author brings every one of them to life and you can imagine yourself in the background, whether it is the boardroom scene or when he is describing the ranch the hero owns, again first class and superlative.

This is a book I will be definitely recommending, as a debut I found it to be absolutely amazing. I think I could read a lot more of the authors writings. A first rate, excellent and up to date thriller, which will, and should, cause a great debate about the issues of the storyline for a long time to come.

(less)

like · see review

Aug 19, 2012 Donna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-books-read, 2011-new-authors

This is a debut novel that is written as if he has been a published author for a number of years. If you didn't know, you wouldn't be able to guess either. This is one of the best political suspense thrillers I have read in a while.

The first couple of chapters are hard to read as someone that distinctly remembers 9/11 and knew people both in NYC and DC on the day of the attack. But after those intro chapters, which really are necessary to the story. The rest of the story takes place 10 years lat...more This is a debut novel that is written as if he has been a published author for a number of years. If you didn't know, you wouldn't be able to guess either. This is one of the best political suspense thrillers I have read in a while.

The first couple of chapters are hard to read as someone that distinctly remembers 9/11 and knew people both in NYC and DC on the day of the attack. But after those intro chapters, which really are necessary to the story. The rest of the story takes place 10 years later. You follow Cris as he moves his family to Las Vegas and starts on a new mission for his life. To keep Americans safe for something like 9/11 ever happening again. A tough calling but he has the funds and the friends to put together a top notch team. Shortly after assembling his team they are faced with trouble. There is another attack planned for the 10th anniversary.

The story moves at an almost nonstop pace. And you have to keep reading in order to find out what happens next. The characters are real. They are believable and you can easily imagine that there are people out there who are civilians but are dedicated to keeping another terrorist attack from happening.

I only had a few little problems with the book. One is that while the author does a good job of identifying terms and phrases that ordinary civilian might not know in the footnotes, early on in the story he misses a few that you know involve military or technology terms and practices but you really dont know what they are or do. Also when Cris is setting up his new company, it seems to be a bit rushed to get to the action. When you go in to meet the new team you are introduced so fast that later when they reappear you have to go back to see what role they have again. And lastly, during the climax when people are being killed. It just seems hard to believe that no one in all the locations these are taking place notices if they are not part of the story. And while I admit I am sure that with knowing the right people and knowing the situation that is going on and that it was basically a matter of national security that it is likely they would not be punished. It just seemed to me that it needed a bit of "official" explanation, even if it is just what goes on behind closed doors that the normal civilian would never hear about. For me that would have provided a little more closer to the story.

I am really glad this is a series. And I am really looking forward to the next book coming out soon. This is one writer you do not want to pass up, especially if you are a thriller fan.(less)

like · see review

Feb 07, 2012 Brett Tompkins rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I thought this book was just okay. The story was fairly original and it enacted I'm sure what many of us wish we could do on our own. At times I felt like the dialoge was silly; just not the way people speak out loud in real life. I thought it was lacking in descriptions. The scenes weren't painted very well, if at all, and a book is where you need that the most. It is difficult to picture the setting without at least a little description. The book was mostly action and dialogue. A paragraph or...more

like · see review

Mar 03, 2012 Annabeth rated it 3 of 5 stars

I haven't even finished this book. Really, it probably should get more stars. But my goodness, for a thriller, the prologe was great, and then it DIED. I'm 42% through, and I just feel like the story is dragging big time! There has been no action, people are still being brought into the story, just a lot of talking, talking, talking! But I can tell that it has the makings of a good story...maybe I'll finish it, maybe not. (for what that's worth!) Update: I did finish it, but boy.....that was a l...more

like · see review

Sep 03, 2011 Ms.tiptress rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: really-liked-it

A really good well written, heart wrenching, non stoppable ride to the finish line. I felt overpowered and overjoyed with this novel. Easy and quick read with satsifying action and conspiracy therories. Some parts of the story were a little slow and took some time getting to the action. At times there were so many characters that had different nick names that I got confused on who was speaking. And some parts were left unexplained. But once I made it to all the action I was caught up and couldn’...more

like · see review

May 25, 2012 Robert T. Garcia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: military-stuff

Love the blend of high moral character of the main character of the story. Excellent story plot.
Very well paced. Enjoyed the way the story unfolded. Great details.
I was taken to an incredible journey with the Mr. De Nero.
A must read to anyone who enjoys a well spun thriller. Mr de Margny is an excellent writer with great details that comes in a nice packed thriller story.

like · see review

Dec 30, 2011 Darlene Hull rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction

A fun read. Lots of action, good story line. Could use a little more character development, but all in all a good read.

like · see review

Sep 11, 2011 Carrie marked it as to-read

Shelves: first-reads

Looks interesting, thanks for the win!! I won this on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. I'll be looking for it in my mailbox!

1 like · like · see review

title link	preview: The Watchman of Ephraim
avg rating	preview: The Watchman of Ephraim Goodreads rating: 4.00 (51 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10769606-the-watchman-of-ephraim?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348220028l/10769606.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10769606-the-watchman-of-ephraim?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Watchman of Ephraim by Gerard de Marigny[/url]

The Watchman of Ephraim (Cris De Niro, Book 1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (7)

Videos About This Book

Popular Shelves

About Gerard de Marigny

Books by Gerard de Marigny

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About The Watchman of E...

Quotes from The Watchman of Ephraim