Max Brand 
Way of the Lawless 

Max Brand’s ‘Way of the Lawless’ is a riveting Western novel that delves into themes of morality, justice, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the American frontier, the story follows the protagonist, Jerry Strann, a notorious outlaw with a hidden past. The narrative is rich in vivid descriptions of the harsh landscapes and the gritty realities of life in the Wild West. Brand’s writing style is characterized by its fast-paced action and authentic dialogue, drawing readers into a world of gunfights and showdowns. The novel captures the essence of the Western genre, with its exploration of individualism and the conflict between law and lawlessness. Max Brand, known for his prolific output of Western novels, brings his expertise to bear in ‘Way of the Lawless’. His own experiences as a ranch hand and his deep knowledge of the Western landscape inform the authenticity of the narrative, providing readers with a compelling and immersive reading experience. I highly recommend ‘Way of the Lawless’ to fans of Western fiction and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of morality and justice in a lawless land.

About the author

Max Brand, the pen name of Frederick Schiller Faust (1892–1944), was an American author known for his prolific output in the Western genre, as well as for creating stories in diverse genres such as detective fiction, romance, and adventure. Faust adopted multiple pen names, but ‘Max Brand’ became the most famous, under which he achieved great success and left an indelible mark on the Western literary landscape. ‘Way of the Lawless’ is among Brand’s notable works; it exemplifies his mastery in crafting narratives that meld action-packed adventure with nuanced character development, setting it apart from the standard pulp fiction of his era. Brand’s literary style is marked by a blend of swift pacing, rich descriptive prowess, and an understanding of human nature that added depth to his archetypal characters. His work evokes the rough and tumble world of the Old West, creating an enduring mythology that continues to captivate readers. In addition to his novels, Brand’s contributions include short stories and serials that further underscore his versatility and productivity as a writer. The influence of his stories extends beyond literature into film and television, underscoring his status as a foundational figure in Western storytelling. Despite his death in World War II, Max Brand’s stories remain popular, testifying to the timeless appeal of his narrative artistry and his place in American literary history.