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.