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The Sam & Laura Saga #1
The Law of Moses
Sam Moses was a hard and unforgiving man. Some said he was an angry man; others called him mean. He was all of these and he was none of them. Sam Moses was a man alone and in pain. It hadn’t always been so.
Born Samuel Moses Cardiff, he was the son of a church minister and school master. He was also a committed pacifist. As the threat of Civil War loomed ever larger, Samuel was determined to have no part in it. He returned from Teachers College the summer of 1860, determined to find a position, and marry the girl he dreamed of.
A call to arms changed it all, and Samuel finds himself in uniform, and marching south.
Trained in the military actions of warfare, Samuel is unprepared for the carnage at the Battle of Antietam. Samuel deserts the Army, and Sam Moses is born.
The Law of Moses is the story of a Civil War soldier, who suffers from PTSD, and it chronicles his struggles and attempts to once again find his humanity, spirituality and peace.
Born Samuel Moses Cardiff, he was the son of a church minister and school master. He was also a committed pacifist. As the threat of Civil War loomed ever larger, Samuel was determined to have no part in it. He returned from Teachers College the summer of 1860, determined to find a position, and marry the girl he dreamed of.
A call to arms changed it all, and Samuel finds himself in uniform, and marching south.
Trained in the military actions of warfare, Samuel is unprepared for the carnage at the Battle of Antietam. Samuel deserts the Army, and Sam Moses is born.
The Law of Moses is the story of a Civil War soldier, who suffers from PTSD, and it chronicles his struggles and attempts to once again find his humanity, spirituality and peace.
Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2013
247 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
Kwen D. Griffeth
18 books36 followersWinner of Readers' Favorite Silver Award for Historical Fiction/Western, Kwen knew he wanted to be a writer when he was fourteen years old. He felt the urge when he finished Earnest Hemingway’s masterpiece For Whom The Bell Tolls. The story touched him in a way no other book ever had. It transported a kid born and raised on a farm and ranch in Idaho to the mountains of Spain. It took him back in time forty years to witness the Spanish Civil War. Kwen knew he wanted to share that wonder with other people.
John Lennon said, “Life is what happens while you make other plans.” While Kwen lived a full and varied life, his dream of writing remained in the back of his mind.
Finally, in 2012, he wrote a novella named Dear Emma. He self-published through Amazon and asked people to read it. “The best way to see if I can write is to let people check it out,” he said. Like it, they did. Currently, Dear Emma enjoys a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating on Amazon.
Often asked what genre he writes, Kwen replies he writes stories about people and uses the genre that best fits the story. “I think of the genre, or setting as another character that interacts to help tell the story,” he says.
His most often received and constant comment is how real his characters seem. Upon the completion of his historical fiction trilogy Sam and Laura books, a reader telephoned Kwen and directed him to write more stories about the couple. When asked why the reader was so adamant about more stories, he replied he “wasn’t ready to tell Sam and Laura good bye yet.”
Kwen considers that comment one of his highest compliments.
Kwen’s books are getting some attention from the literary community. The Law of Moses, the Silver Award winner from Readers' Favorite, and The Tenth Nail both received the Gold Award from Literary Titan Book Review. The Gold Award is given to books “found to be perfect in their delivery of original content, meticulous development of unique characters in an organic and striking setting, innovative plot that supports a fresh theme, and elegant prose that transforms words into beautifully written novels.” Many of Kwen's books have received the Gold Award from Literary Titan. In addition, The Law of Moses was awarded five 5 Star Reviews from the reviewers of Readers' Favorite.
Kwen’s books are available in several formats; e-Book, paperback, and audio. He invites you to check his writings out. Who knows? He might become your next favorite author.
John Lennon said, “Life is what happens while you make other plans.” While Kwen lived a full and varied life, his dream of writing remained in the back of his mind.
Finally, in 2012, he wrote a novella named Dear Emma. He self-published through Amazon and asked people to read it. “The best way to see if I can write is to let people check it out,” he said. Like it, they did. Currently, Dear Emma enjoys a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating on Amazon.
Often asked what genre he writes, Kwen replies he writes stories about people and uses the genre that best fits the story. “I think of the genre, or setting as another character that interacts to help tell the story,” he says.
His most often received and constant comment is how real his characters seem. Upon the completion of his historical fiction trilogy Sam and Laura books, a reader telephoned Kwen and directed him to write more stories about the couple. When asked why the reader was so adamant about more stories, he replied he “wasn’t ready to tell Sam and Laura good bye yet.”
Kwen considers that comment one of his highest compliments.
Kwen’s books are getting some attention from the literary community. The Law of Moses, the Silver Award winner from Readers' Favorite, and The Tenth Nail both received the Gold Award from Literary Titan Book Review. The Gold Award is given to books “found to be perfect in their delivery of original content, meticulous development of unique characters in an organic and striking setting, innovative plot that supports a fresh theme, and elegant prose that transforms words into beautifully written novels.” Many of Kwen's books have received the Gold Award from Literary Titan. In addition, The Law of Moses was awarded five 5 Star Reviews from the reviewers of Readers' Favorite.
Kwen’s books are available in several formats; e-Book, paperback, and audio. He invites you to check his writings out. Who knows? He might become your next favorite author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 15, 2015
I had another story in mind when I started to write "Moses" but the characters Sam and Laura directed me to tell their story, not the story I intended. I know this sounds schizophrenic but it was as if the characters told the story and I was just there to take notes and document their lives. I came to look at them as real people and their story continues in "A Higher Calling - Laura's Tale" which is being written now. It is planned to be out this summer.
August 30, 2017
I must admit I'm was not a big Western fan, UNTIL NOW !! MR. Griffeth enticed me and drew me in, into the world of Marshall Sam Moses. The trials he went through leads one to believe it's okay that his mind and heart are completely shut down. No wonder he has the desire to die !
But, with his late Father being a Minister, and preaching to Sam, and the other parishioners,
suicide is a sin, he is trying to get other gun slingers to do the job for him. Except for the fact, that the Marshall is a much better shot than anybody else ! He is hated by the whole town, because he goes by the book !! There is only black or white, no middle of the road, no grey area.
Mr. Griffeth has made history exciting, again. To learn things about the Civil War was awesome, as I really didn't know that much about it !
His knowledge of weaponry is outstanding !
I am halfway through book two and I must say,
I'm crazy about Marshall Samuel Moses !!
But, with his late Father being a Minister, and preaching to Sam, and the other parishioners,
suicide is a sin, he is trying to get other gun slingers to do the job for him. Except for the fact, that the Marshall is a much better shot than anybody else ! He is hated by the whole town, because he goes by the book !! There is only black or white, no middle of the road, no grey area.
Mr. Griffeth has made history exciting, again. To learn things about the Civil War was awesome, as I really didn't know that much about it !
His knowledge of weaponry is outstanding !
I am halfway through book two and I must say,
I'm crazy about Marshall Samuel Moses !!
August 1, 2017
Here is a tale of a calculating sheriff chiselled from a reluctant soldier. After joining up to fight alongside his brother in the civil war, Sam Moses lost all that was dear to him. His life was one thing not dear to him at all, and while wishing for the sweet release of death he becomes the most feared gunman in the west. His only wish is that someone else would draw fast enough, aim true enough, and end his life since suicide just does not fit into his law.
Flowing like an episode of cherished westerns or serial paperbacks favoured by the genre, “The Law of Moses” lays it down proper. Small amounts of humour, and ample bloodshed keep the wheels greased for this horror fan. If there is something to be found in the western drama for readers, it is a tale of honour played out on the dusty dry landscape that author Kwen Griffeth paints for us with all the sand, wood, and horseflesh we imagine.
Set in the small town of Puebla Fresa - named after the strawberries that grew alongside the nearby La Ria de Fresa - Moses is the new sheriff of an idyllic pre-1900 western village. Meeting barman Ed West, who becomes the closest thing to a friend Moses will allow, comes in the first chapter and a vicious fight in his saloon. A great way to start out as we see Moses lay down the law, and learn a little about our iron-fisted hero. Little bits of his past are woven into the story as we go along. Artfully, this never feels like straight exposition. Although we do hear most of his past in whispers among townsfolk, it fits with a character that is not forthcoming. The dark and cold sheriff we meet has a past that shaped him into the fearsome man he has become. Therein lies the basis of the law, aside from a gnawing death-wish: Moses needs to be all the man he can be, not the man he became. This is what he expects of others too, and if they misstep, they are destined to pay the price he sees fit.
When not told by way of gossip about “Suicide Sam” or “Crazy Moses”, we learn much about him in flashbacks to his past. Handled well and never jarring from the main story, we learn of his brother Luke Moses and just why their mother wished them to war. Patsy Brown is a love interest, which clashes nicely with the abstinent and cold sheriff we know. These characters long forgotten are mirrored slightly in WIlliam and Laura Stoddard. As much as West and the local blacksmith Lincoln Lincoln - yes, first name and last - are the closest thing to Moses’ friends, the Stoddard's start out as more of a thorn in his side. By then though, we are pretty sure most of Moses’ life has been made of thorns so that fits his unwelcoming and weather-beaten demeanour.
Shakespeare and the work of Jane Austen make appearances in the book, adding to the literary flavour that is hinted at here and there. The mechanics of the book are steeped in genre, from Civil War slang and cowboy etiquette, to how to train a horse and the high cost of fresh milk. Underneath is the craft of drama, and plot tactics at home with those familiar with those literary greats.
The only thing I can never buy into, and not just in “The Law of Moses” but many stories, is when so many people go along with the lead character with only passing protest or question. Be it a hair-brained scheme or playing the part in a plan to which they have no privy, why the word of the main character is akin to the word of a god I have no idea. Having watched “Gone With the Wind’ not too long ago, that image of the war and the charm of the Old South is fresh in my mind. Otherwise, I‘m no expert on the era but am happy to say this story didn’t expect much of me. On the other hand, it is peppered with much historical Americana so the buffs will be served a fine dish of lore.
More than the lone star pinned to one man’s chest in “The Law of Moses” I would easily rate this story by Kwen Griffeth with four of five stars. As the story starts with such a bang, or a bang bang bang, there were less bangs to be had as we rode into the sunset with our dark hero. Some very brutal and imaginative moments await as Samuel lays down his version of the law, and I don’t know if it was the near promise of his demise or simply the rage and fearfulness he instilled had been put to pasture. Regardless, the four stars that light this lonely sky come with a good pace, well written theatrical scenery, and just enough levity during a very bleak tale, making this a western worth the whistle-stop.
Flowing like an episode of cherished westerns or serial paperbacks favoured by the genre, “The Law of Moses” lays it down proper. Small amounts of humour, and ample bloodshed keep the wheels greased for this horror fan. If there is something to be found in the western drama for readers, it is a tale of honour played out on the dusty dry landscape that author Kwen Griffeth paints for us with all the sand, wood, and horseflesh we imagine.
Set in the small town of Puebla Fresa - named after the strawberries that grew alongside the nearby La Ria de Fresa - Moses is the new sheriff of an idyllic pre-1900 western village. Meeting barman Ed West, who becomes the closest thing to a friend Moses will allow, comes in the first chapter and a vicious fight in his saloon. A great way to start out as we see Moses lay down the law, and learn a little about our iron-fisted hero. Little bits of his past are woven into the story as we go along. Artfully, this never feels like straight exposition. Although we do hear most of his past in whispers among townsfolk, it fits with a character that is not forthcoming. The dark and cold sheriff we meet has a past that shaped him into the fearsome man he has become. Therein lies the basis of the law, aside from a gnawing death-wish: Moses needs to be all the man he can be, not the man he became. This is what he expects of others too, and if they misstep, they are destined to pay the price he sees fit.
When not told by way of gossip about “Suicide Sam” or “Crazy Moses”, we learn much about him in flashbacks to his past. Handled well and never jarring from the main story, we learn of his brother Luke Moses and just why their mother wished them to war. Patsy Brown is a love interest, which clashes nicely with the abstinent and cold sheriff we know. These characters long forgotten are mirrored slightly in WIlliam and Laura Stoddard. As much as West and the local blacksmith Lincoln Lincoln - yes, first name and last - are the closest thing to Moses’ friends, the Stoddard's start out as more of a thorn in his side. By then though, we are pretty sure most of Moses’ life has been made of thorns so that fits his unwelcoming and weather-beaten demeanour.
Shakespeare and the work of Jane Austen make appearances in the book, adding to the literary flavour that is hinted at here and there. The mechanics of the book are steeped in genre, from Civil War slang and cowboy etiquette, to how to train a horse and the high cost of fresh milk. Underneath is the craft of drama, and plot tactics at home with those familiar with those literary greats.
The only thing I can never buy into, and not just in “The Law of Moses” but many stories, is when so many people go along with the lead character with only passing protest or question. Be it a hair-brained scheme or playing the part in a plan to which they have no privy, why the word of the main character is akin to the word of a god I have no idea. Having watched “Gone With the Wind’ not too long ago, that image of the war and the charm of the Old South is fresh in my mind. Otherwise, I‘m no expert on the era but am happy to say this story didn’t expect much of me. On the other hand, it is peppered with much historical Americana so the buffs will be served a fine dish of lore.
More than the lone star pinned to one man’s chest in “The Law of Moses” I would easily rate this story by Kwen Griffeth with four of five stars. As the story starts with such a bang, or a bang bang bang, there were less bangs to be had as we rode into the sunset with our dark hero. Some very brutal and imaginative moments await as Samuel lays down his version of the law, and I don’t know if it was the near promise of his demise or simply the rage and fearfulness he instilled had been put to pasture. Regardless, the four stars that light this lonely sky come with a good pace, well written theatrical scenery, and just enough levity during a very bleak tale, making this a western worth the whistle-stop.
June 15, 2018
“Become the man you were meant to be, not just the man you grew into,” is the highlight quote that is relatable because everyone grows up and life takes its course, but not many become whom God created them to be. We all have our own individual life journeys and we tend to stray off course to handle life the best way we know how, without knowing how much we’re wasting our given purpose away. Going through life the best way we know how even when we feel it within us that we deserve to live better. In “The Laws of Moses”, author Kwen Griffeth introduces his readers to the protagonist, Samuel Moses and his journey to self-forgiveness. Have you ever known someone who carried the weight of so much guilt on their shoulders that they feel they don’t deserve to live anymore? It’s sad to witness just what Sam is going through after his experience in war battles alongside his younger brother, Luke. Even though he didn’t want any part in politics, he accepted the responsibility of being his brother’s keeper while at war. This proves that, no matter what, those closes to and you truly care for, you’ll do everything in your power to help them. By accepting his new role, I noticed his attitude made a switch shortly after it became a reality, he grew further in maturity as well. I was happy to observe just how well his father’s teachings were instilled in him to have the love for everyone.
When he arrived home to hear devastating news about his father, I instantly felt sorry for Samuel, even would reach out and tell him how I understand how he feels. He never got the closure he needed per se, but he managed to make the most out of the situation since he had no control over it. His demeanor is stoic, strong, and fearless, but underneath that tough guy exterior, he’s trying to be strong for his future’s sake. People might be able to relate to him because he experienced challenges occurring in his life, feeling as if he has failed, and wanting nothing more but for things to end. Being the newest Marshal in town after his return was filled with mostly frustration as he continuously wanted “that day” to come where he would no longer have to have a care. It seems agonizing to know that he feels he is being tortured internally from all that has happened, he soon discovers he isn’t the only one.
A well-written perspective of a man struggling with inner demons from his past life at war, and getting a peek of understanding why he didn’t feel like he deserved to live. While reading, I felt submerged into the scenes, experiencing similar emotions as described by the author, making the reading experience excellent. I highly recommend everyone to consider giving this book a read, you learn so much about the main characters and how things can change for the greater despite all odds. Understanding that we’re all human, to know someone who is struggling and going through motions, is relatable for those doing their best to cope. This book has provided an interesting insight of an individual who doesn’t want to live anymore, and with that knowledge, we can come to an understanding, yet offer emotional support that things will get better.
When he arrived home to hear devastating news about his father, I instantly felt sorry for Samuel, even would reach out and tell him how I understand how he feels. He never got the closure he needed per se, but he managed to make the most out of the situation since he had no control over it. His demeanor is stoic, strong, and fearless, but underneath that tough guy exterior, he’s trying to be strong for his future’s sake. People might be able to relate to him because he experienced challenges occurring in his life, feeling as if he has failed, and wanting nothing more but for things to end. Being the newest Marshal in town after his return was filled with mostly frustration as he continuously wanted “that day” to come where he would no longer have to have a care. It seems agonizing to know that he feels he is being tortured internally from all that has happened, he soon discovers he isn’t the only one.
A well-written perspective of a man struggling with inner demons from his past life at war, and getting a peek of understanding why he didn’t feel like he deserved to live. While reading, I felt submerged into the scenes, experiencing similar emotions as described by the author, making the reading experience excellent. I highly recommend everyone to consider giving this book a read, you learn so much about the main characters and how things can change for the greater despite all odds. Understanding that we’re all human, to know someone who is struggling and going through motions, is relatable for those doing their best to cope. This book has provided an interesting insight of an individual who doesn’t want to live anymore, and with that knowledge, we can come to an understanding, yet offer emotional support that things will get better.
November 26, 2016
The Law of Moses: Sam and Laura's Story, Book 1
: Kwen Griffeth
This is a terrific historical/ western fiction. As I listened I felt as if I was reading Sam's memoir rather than fiction. The listener follows the Marshall as he protects his town to his utmost ability. We are treated to the beginnings of a romance, a murder, cattle drovers , and anything else that fits the story. I came away feeling like I knew the characters, and cared what happened to them. I will be looking for more in this series.
The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed. Joseph Durika's voice and inflection fit the story well.
"I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator."
: Kwen Griffeth
This is a terrific historical/ western fiction. As I listened I felt as if I was reading Sam's memoir rather than fiction. The listener follows the Marshall as he protects his town to his utmost ability. We are treated to the beginnings of a romance, a murder, cattle drovers , and anything else that fits the story. I came away feeling like I knew the characters, and cared what happened to them. I will be looking for more in this series.
The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed. Joseph Durika's voice and inflection fit the story well.
"I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator."
December 2, 2016
Audiobook review: (narrator Joseph Durika - 3 stars)
I would actually rate this book 3½ stars, because the narration ruined it for me. Another good author who hasn't done his homework right, when it comes to audiobooks. Please, choose a good narrator - a proffesional one. Joseph Durika sounded like a cozy grandpa, which I enjoyed, but his female voices are terrible and his pacing inconsistent.
This story is captivating if I'd read the book instead of listening to it. It's very well-written and has a great plot. It has a high level of historical elements from the time of the civil war and I loved the characters. I'll give the author 4 stars, because of the quality of the story, that's only fair.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
I would actually rate this book 3½ stars, because the narration ruined it for me. Another good author who hasn't done his homework right, when it comes to audiobooks. Please, choose a good narrator - a proffesional one. Joseph Durika sounded like a cozy grandpa, which I enjoyed, but his female voices are terrible and his pacing inconsistent.
This story is captivating if I'd read the book instead of listening to it. It's very well-written and has a great plot. It has a high level of historical elements from the time of the civil war and I loved the characters. I'll give the author 4 stars, because of the quality of the story, that's only fair.
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2017
This book is fantastic! I couldn't put it down!
It is full of pain, humor, loss, romance and history.
Warning: deals heavily with depression and PTSD
Sam wanted to be a teacher and instead finds himself on the battlefield in the Union Army. He falls in love with Patsy before he gets stuck in the Civil War. This book is surprisingly down to earth and easy to relate with on so many levels. The characters feel real and the narrative is genuine and makes you feel like you're with Sam on his journey.
It is full of pain, humor, loss, romance and history.
Warning: deals heavily with depression and PTSD
Sam wanted to be a teacher and instead finds himself on the battlefield in the Union Army. He falls in love with Patsy before he gets stuck in the Civil War. This book is surprisingly down to earth and easy to relate with on so many levels. The characters feel real and the narrative is genuine and makes you feel like you're with Sam on his journey.
May 29, 2018
The Law of Moses: Sam’s Story by Kwen Griffeth
Once Sam graduates with his teaching certification, he has a pretty simple plan. To go back home, find a position to work in and marry a nice girl. Just the usual white picket fence thing. Boring and common. But then, Sam had always been relatively boring and normal person. Never really interested in the political occurrences outside Elmira. Unbeknown to him, these very occurrences would take him away from his beloved home. These occurrences were about to change him completely.
Sam Moses Cardiff joined the Union Army a few years after that. He worked as he was supposed to. He was everywhere he was supposed to be whenever it was required of him. Soon, his ‘talents’ were noted and he became a Marshall. He can easily, without breaking a sweat, kill if someone crossed his path. He had become a dangerous assassin. However, behind that scary scowl lay an emotional and moral conflict. He hated the person he had become. He longed to go back to being the young energetic man with simple dreams. He longed for his home.
Sam was a rude and angry man until he met dear Laura. Laura had the difficult task of helping Sam love himself again. Her role in how his life changes yet again is profound. Together, they unravel his humanity.
‘The Law of Moses’ is a moving story. It is a story about façade and human sacrifice. It is about love and life’s struggles. Kwen Griffeth has weaved a tale so vivid the reader feels embroiled in the scenes. His descriptions of everything are so spot on and accurate. His prose flows effortlessly in silky fashion. The author obviously has some vast knowledge of weaponry. His masterful description of each weapon and the exact sounds each makes is evidence of that. He has an uncanny ability to take a reader on an emotional journey. He sculpts every scene with the appropriate punch of intensity. One thing is certain, you will be very sad to see the end of this book. You will be yearning for more when the tale of Sam ends.
Kwen Griffeth has a great gift. The gift of building wholesome characters. It is almost as if he takes time to develop one character. Get accustomed to them. Help them develop little quirks that fit just right. The character profiles are detailed down to the odd use of specific words or quips. This is what makes it so easy for a reader to connect with the characters. Sam’s emotional turmoil elicits very confusing empathy.
In a story like this where a man is stuck in a life and persona they loathe, there is almost always a girl. A girl who helps this man pull himself out of the hole. Laura is it. Kwen has given the reader that gift. The relationship is not exactly swoon worthy but it is heartwarming. You will be relieved to see that Sam can still be a human being. This time Kwen Griffeth gets five stars out of five.
Once Sam graduates with his teaching certification, he has a pretty simple plan. To go back home, find a position to work in and marry a nice girl. Just the usual white picket fence thing. Boring and common. But then, Sam had always been relatively boring and normal person. Never really interested in the political occurrences outside Elmira. Unbeknown to him, these very occurrences would take him away from his beloved home. These occurrences were about to change him completely.
Sam Moses Cardiff joined the Union Army a few years after that. He worked as he was supposed to. He was everywhere he was supposed to be whenever it was required of him. Soon, his ‘talents’ were noted and he became a Marshall. He can easily, without breaking a sweat, kill if someone crossed his path. He had become a dangerous assassin. However, behind that scary scowl lay an emotional and moral conflict. He hated the person he had become. He longed to go back to being the young energetic man with simple dreams. He longed for his home.
Sam was a rude and angry man until he met dear Laura. Laura had the difficult task of helping Sam love himself again. Her role in how his life changes yet again is profound. Together, they unravel his humanity.
‘The Law of Moses’ is a moving story. It is a story about façade and human sacrifice. It is about love and life’s struggles. Kwen Griffeth has weaved a tale so vivid the reader feels embroiled in the scenes. His descriptions of everything are so spot on and accurate. His prose flows effortlessly in silky fashion. The author obviously has some vast knowledge of weaponry. His masterful description of each weapon and the exact sounds each makes is evidence of that. He has an uncanny ability to take a reader on an emotional journey. He sculpts every scene with the appropriate punch of intensity. One thing is certain, you will be very sad to see the end of this book. You will be yearning for more when the tale of Sam ends.
Kwen Griffeth has a great gift. The gift of building wholesome characters. It is almost as if he takes time to develop one character. Get accustomed to them. Help them develop little quirks that fit just right. The character profiles are detailed down to the odd use of specific words or quips. This is what makes it so easy for a reader to connect with the characters. Sam’s emotional turmoil elicits very confusing empathy.
In a story like this where a man is stuck in a life and persona they loathe, there is almost always a girl. A girl who helps this man pull himself out of the hole. Laura is it. Kwen has given the reader that gift. The relationship is not exactly swoon worthy but it is heartwarming. You will be relieved to see that Sam can still be a human being. This time Kwen Griffeth gets five stars out of five.
June 2, 2018
Sam Moses is a tough but honest gunslinger. His travels took him far and wide across the Wild West after the end of the Civil war only to lead him to the little town of Puebla Fresa in New Mexico. The little town hired him to be their marshal and to uphold the law of the land. What nobody counted on was the Law of Moses, a set of rigid and stern rules that Sam developed over the years of hard life on the frontier. But he is in for a surprise as well, because he will have to confront demons of his mysterious past to become a man he was supposed to be and not settle for the man he had become.
“Law of Moses” by Kwen D. Griffeth is a quick but uneven ride. Individual scenes in the book can be quite enjoyable – the exposition of the Battle of Antietam was one of the most thrilling parts of the story. Griffeth excels in these kinds of descriptions and takes you right into the heat of his somewhat idealized New Mexico. He’s got it all, from the terse lawman who is a mixture of John Wayne’s classic characters with a touch of spaghetti western Clint Eastwood to a walking pastiche of Ed West, owner and bartender of the West House Saloon who can’t seem to keep his mouth shut. “Law of Moses” will give you all of that and more. There are “working girls” in the bar and brave men, talks and deeds of honour and stupidity, great victories and personal failures. You will be reminded of battlefields you’ve never been to and long love lost that you never had but still somehow miss.
“Law of Moses” will also bring uneven writing and characters that fight their maker. As strong as Kwen is in setting the stage of the story he is also keeps his protagonists on a tight leash. This sometimes gets them out of character that was established. Our Sam Moses is the toughest gunslinger in the territory, but he also reads Jane Austen. In fact, he has the book at the ready, so he can teach a young widow how to read!
Things like these have their purpose and do give characters another layer but appear heavy handed and forced upon them. They will get angry on command, and not because it makes sense for them to do so. They will love, hate, forgive and never forget even if the strings that are pulling them are somewhat visible.
“Law of Moses” brings the mentality of ‘50s westerns into the modern era. His heroes have flaws that make them less of an icon but more human. His Laura Stoddard, for example, starts as a typical female protagonist without much weight to her but as a reason for certain things to happen. When they do happen, she blossoms into Griffeth’s toughest character, a strong woman in an unforgiving world. She might be the only one who knows what she wants and how to get it.
Kwen D. Griffeth’s “Law of Moses” is a fun if uneven read that will bring you the winds of the Wild West in one sitting.
“Law of Moses” by Kwen D. Griffeth is a quick but uneven ride. Individual scenes in the book can be quite enjoyable – the exposition of the Battle of Antietam was one of the most thrilling parts of the story. Griffeth excels in these kinds of descriptions and takes you right into the heat of his somewhat idealized New Mexico. He’s got it all, from the terse lawman who is a mixture of John Wayne’s classic characters with a touch of spaghetti western Clint Eastwood to a walking pastiche of Ed West, owner and bartender of the West House Saloon who can’t seem to keep his mouth shut. “Law of Moses” will give you all of that and more. There are “working girls” in the bar and brave men, talks and deeds of honour and stupidity, great victories and personal failures. You will be reminded of battlefields you’ve never been to and long love lost that you never had but still somehow miss.
“Law of Moses” will also bring uneven writing and characters that fight their maker. As strong as Kwen is in setting the stage of the story he is also keeps his protagonists on a tight leash. This sometimes gets them out of character that was established. Our Sam Moses is the toughest gunslinger in the territory, but he also reads Jane Austen. In fact, he has the book at the ready, so he can teach a young widow how to read!
Things like these have their purpose and do give characters another layer but appear heavy handed and forced upon them. They will get angry on command, and not because it makes sense for them to do so. They will love, hate, forgive and never forget even if the strings that are pulling them are somewhat visible.
“Law of Moses” brings the mentality of ‘50s westerns into the modern era. His heroes have flaws that make them less of an icon but more human. His Laura Stoddard, for example, starts as a typical female protagonist without much weight to her but as a reason for certain things to happen. When they do happen, she blossoms into Griffeth’s toughest character, a strong woman in an unforgiving world. She might be the only one who knows what she wants and how to get it.
Kwen D. Griffeth’s “Law of Moses” is a fun if uneven read that will bring you the winds of the Wild West in one sitting.
June 20, 2018
The Law of Moses is a novel that focuses on the life of Samuel Moses Cardiff, a town marshal, who has recently taken up residence in Puebla Fresa, New Mexico. The year is 1875. Sam, or Marshal Moses, as he prefers to be called, takes to keeping crime out of the town with his zero tolerance policy towards it and his taste for violence. Clever and quick with a gun, Moses has no problem sending those who break the law and hurt others to meet their maker. Underneath his tough exterior though is a man who has experienced an immense amount of pain and loss within his lifetime, and the reader quickly learns that Moses is so eager to come face to face with murderers, crooks, and other gunmen because he carries a secret wish to die. Moses will gladly walk into the line of danger if there is a chance he could be ended and put out of his misery. This notion becomes problematic however when Moses begins to build relationships with some of the residents, and even animals, in Puebla Fresa.
I enjoyed Kwen D. Griffeth’s novel immensely because it dived into the inner workings of Moses’ mind and showed great character development. Even though most of the novel takes place in the small town where Moses is marshal, Griffeth provides history from an earlier time in Moses’ life – a time when he was a more innocent, caring, and loving man. The reader learns that Moses experienced many great losses at a somewhat young age, and as a result, had resolved to put up a shield around himself that allowed no one to ever get close to him again. This pretext is great because it helps the reader understand how the town marshal came to be the fearless man with a death wish that dominates most of the novel. The reader then gets to enjoy seeing how the other characters in the book try to break down that tough exterior. It seems that Marshal Moses is a hot topic within the small town he protects, and those that are associated with him out of necessity begin to bring out the better of him. Although Moses isn’t the same person as he was before his loss, by the end of the novel, he comes to the realization that he could be a better man than he has been.
A small note of criticism is within the conclusion to the story. Although I appreciate that it took a different turn than I was expecting, the ending seemed somewhat disconnected from the rest of the novel. Without giving too much away, what I mean to say is that the story is set up in a very realistic way – there are no fantasy or science fiction aspects to it; however, the ending somewhat dives into a supernatural realm, and I found it somewhat odd.
Overall, I would give this novel four out of five stars. Griffeth does a great job of showing the reader how the power of people, love, and companionship can soften even the hardest of hearts.
I enjoyed Kwen D. Griffeth’s novel immensely because it dived into the inner workings of Moses’ mind and showed great character development. Even though most of the novel takes place in the small town where Moses is marshal, Griffeth provides history from an earlier time in Moses’ life – a time when he was a more innocent, caring, and loving man. The reader learns that Moses experienced many great losses at a somewhat young age, and as a result, had resolved to put up a shield around himself that allowed no one to ever get close to him again. This pretext is great because it helps the reader understand how the town marshal came to be the fearless man with a death wish that dominates most of the novel. The reader then gets to enjoy seeing how the other characters in the book try to break down that tough exterior. It seems that Marshal Moses is a hot topic within the small town he protects, and those that are associated with him out of necessity begin to bring out the better of him. Although Moses isn’t the same person as he was before his loss, by the end of the novel, he comes to the realization that he could be a better man than he has been.
A small note of criticism is within the conclusion to the story. Although I appreciate that it took a different turn than I was expecting, the ending seemed somewhat disconnected from the rest of the novel. Without giving too much away, what I mean to say is that the story is set up in a very realistic way – there are no fantasy or science fiction aspects to it; however, the ending somewhat dives into a supernatural realm, and I found it somewhat odd.
Overall, I would give this novel four out of five stars. Griffeth does a great job of showing the reader how the power of people, love, and companionship can soften even the hardest of hearts.
August 1, 2017
The Law of Moses Vellum by Kwen Griffeths is set in the mid to late 1800’s in an old western town called Durango. We follow Sam, the main character, on his journey from after graduating Teacher’s College to his current life as the Marshal of Durango. Following Sam’s emotional journey through flack backs of his life before Durango, we get to see events that happened to lead to the present, including the Civil War, more specifically his opposition to the war, and how his carefully laid plans fell apart after graduating Teacher’s College.
This story starts out in an old western saloon on a quiet evening. We are introduced to a quiet, but tough man named Sam who we later find out is the marshal of the town. I really enjoyed Sam’s character because he was very complex and multi-dimensional. On the surface he is seen as tough and cold, but underneath he has been through a lot of personal tragedies and this is some of the best character development I’ve read in a while. His various emotions that he went through were believable and sad at the same time. I could feel his joy and excitement when he first arrived home after Teacher’s College, but then I could soon feel his sadness and loss when he found out his Father had passed away, and he never received the letter informing him. He had very strong opinions on things like the Civil War, and even when he was being tough, he was also still caring towards the ones he loved.
Another thing I really liked about this story was the descriptions of the old west and the setting of the story. I’ve never read a book based in the old west, but I’ve seen enough portrayals in movies and tv shows to get the general idea of what a town and saloon would look like, and the author did a spot on job of creating very vivid details in my mind. Everything was so well described, that it was very easy for me to picture the setting of this story.
My only complaint about this story was the setting. It just wasn’t a setting I am interested in, so I found myself struggling to be really engaged in the story. And as much as the descriptions were well laid out, it wasn’t anything new or exciting that I’ve come across, but again I can only go by movies and tv shows. I feel like I was hoping for more interesting descriptions and story line than what I’ve already seen.
Overall I give this story a 4 out of 5 rating. While it wasn’t a bad book, it just wasn’t something I would have picked up on my own, or have been interested in reading. I think what saved this book for me was Sam’s character and the complexity of him. I really felt for him and wanted to see how he progressed. It was also very well written and I wold recommend it for people who like old western style settings.
This story starts out in an old western saloon on a quiet evening. We are introduced to a quiet, but tough man named Sam who we later find out is the marshal of the town. I really enjoyed Sam’s character because he was very complex and multi-dimensional. On the surface he is seen as tough and cold, but underneath he has been through a lot of personal tragedies and this is some of the best character development I’ve read in a while. His various emotions that he went through were believable and sad at the same time. I could feel his joy and excitement when he first arrived home after Teacher’s College, but then I could soon feel his sadness and loss when he found out his Father had passed away, and he never received the letter informing him. He had very strong opinions on things like the Civil War, and even when he was being tough, he was also still caring towards the ones he loved.
Another thing I really liked about this story was the descriptions of the old west and the setting of the story. I’ve never read a book based in the old west, but I’ve seen enough portrayals in movies and tv shows to get the general idea of what a town and saloon would look like, and the author did a spot on job of creating very vivid details in my mind. Everything was so well described, that it was very easy for me to picture the setting of this story.
My only complaint about this story was the setting. It just wasn’t a setting I am interested in, so I found myself struggling to be really engaged in the story. And as much as the descriptions were well laid out, it wasn’t anything new or exciting that I’ve come across, but again I can only go by movies and tv shows. I feel like I was hoping for more interesting descriptions and story line than what I’ve already seen.
Overall I give this story a 4 out of 5 rating. While it wasn’t a bad book, it just wasn’t something I would have picked up on my own, or have been interested in reading. I think what saved this book for me was Sam’s character and the complexity of him. I really felt for him and wanted to see how he progressed. It was also very well written and I wold recommend it for people who like old western style settings.
May 2, 2019
1861, Confederate forces had recently attacked Ft. Sumter.
West House Saloon. Marshall Samuel “Sam” Cardiff (son/brother, Teachers College, Albany, Christian pacifist) was confronting Bushy (old man, freight driver) & his 3 other gunfighters/outlaws Axe Stillwell, & Parrot Plummer.
Ed West (owner/bartender) was hoping the place wasn’t going to get shot up.
1875, Puebla Fresa New Mexico Territory. William “Bill” Stoddard (husband, disabled Arkansas 3rd Infantry Confederate soldier), & Laura Stoddard (wife) introduced theirs-selves to Marshall Moses.
Marshall Moses was not a pleasant person.
2 more stops for the couple to drop off milk, Wilkinson’s Dry Goods, & West House Saloon.
Marshall Moses was tired of listening to Mayor Twilliger about the money the 3 dead robbers had stolen.
Sergeant Major Sheffield McBryce (Irish, Regiment, expert shot) had Sam (Welsh), Luke (son/ Sam’s brother) sign his papers. A proud Union Army solder of the 42nd New York State Militia Infantry Regiment (40 Deuce).
Sam was writing home to their ma & Patsy.
Mr. David Miller farm. In this battle against the Confederates Captain Sewell was killed.
Sam got a very bad letter. Patsy had died.
Thomas “Tops” Colton (cowpuncher) had shot Bill.
He died in Laura’s arms. William (son) was by her side.
Marshal Sam Moses promised Bill he would take care of his family.
Hack Baskin (Box 7-part owner/trail boss), Geeze (gunslinger), & Julio (Mexican) came to get Thomas out of jail.
Laura had just left.
Hack had given Laura 2 head for the loss of her husband. He was truly sorry.
Colton (cowboy, criminal) was fitted by Mr. Baskin (blacksmith) with a 40 lbs. ball/chain & will now work on Laura’s farm.
Marshal Moses stopped by. A lawyer had sent a letter stating Laura’s father had 150 acres of land/homestead in MO she needed to make claim to.
Will Laura move to Missouri?
What about Marshal Moses?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written western historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Civil War era movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookSends; Justkindlebooks; LisaatManybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
West House Saloon. Marshall Samuel “Sam” Cardiff (son/brother, Teachers College, Albany, Christian pacifist) was confronting Bushy (old man, freight driver) & his 3 other gunfighters/outlaws Axe Stillwell, & Parrot Plummer.
Ed West (owner/bartender) was hoping the place wasn’t going to get shot up.
1875, Puebla Fresa New Mexico Territory. William “Bill” Stoddard (husband, disabled Arkansas 3rd Infantry Confederate soldier), & Laura Stoddard (wife) introduced theirs-selves to Marshall Moses.
Marshall Moses was not a pleasant person.
2 more stops for the couple to drop off milk, Wilkinson’s Dry Goods, & West House Saloon.
Marshall Moses was tired of listening to Mayor Twilliger about the money the 3 dead robbers had stolen.
Sergeant Major Sheffield McBryce (Irish, Regiment, expert shot) had Sam (Welsh), Luke (son/ Sam’s brother) sign his papers. A proud Union Army solder of the 42nd New York State Militia Infantry Regiment (40 Deuce).
Sam was writing home to their ma & Patsy.
Mr. David Miller farm. In this battle against the Confederates Captain Sewell was killed.
Sam got a very bad letter. Patsy had died.
Thomas “Tops” Colton (cowpuncher) had shot Bill.
He died in Laura’s arms. William (son) was by her side.
Marshal Sam Moses promised Bill he would take care of his family.
Hack Baskin (Box 7-part owner/trail boss), Geeze (gunslinger), & Julio (Mexican) came to get Thomas out of jail.
Laura had just left.
Hack had given Laura 2 head for the loss of her husband. He was truly sorry.
Colton (cowboy, criminal) was fitted by Mr. Baskin (blacksmith) with a 40 lbs. ball/chain & will now work on Laura’s farm.
Marshal Moses stopped by. A lawyer had sent a letter stating Laura’s father had 150 acres of land/homestead in MO she needed to make claim to.
Will Laura move to Missouri?
What about Marshal Moses?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written western historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Civil War era movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookSends; Justkindlebooks; LisaatManybooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 4, 2018
It is bad enough for the loved ones of those who are in any military services, spare a thought for those who are actually in the middle of it. Those who die in the wars, and fall in the conflict, and those who survive, it is a mystery why his friend had to die, and why one survived. The difference being while those who fall, have wounds on the outside, so as their body falls, they fall. The survivors however, are the unlucky ones. They still fight a battle within, but their body endures, and so do they, wasting away bit by bit until they fade away or are called to Pearly Gates of heaven or den of Hell.
It is said that those who go to war, never really come back. Even if they are back physically, their mind is still on the battle field, it is as if a part of them was buried on the battlefield. We find something eerily similar in the “The Law of Moses” by Kwen Griffeth. The lead character Samuel ‘Sam’ Moses, is a traveling lawman/gun for hire, for a lack of better word. The lead scene in the beginning shows the reader his disdain for his own life, and clutching to the hope that he would be killed in the encounter. As a reader, one would definitely find more such instances as the story goes on. The character is coarse, crude, insulting and loner to the core, rebuffing any offer of companionship or solace. The background of the character is told in flashback, mostly in first person narrative.
The backdrop of the American civil war and the battles brought a never before viciousness in the American continent which was not seen earlier. The novel does provide justice while still keeping the narrative on a tight leash. Too many times, I have seen authors stumble into either a long winded description of the war itself, or introduce plot devices which come across as overtly forced upon the characters.
If there would be no complication, life would be so simple. But it is not in real life, and it is not in the story of Sam Moses, or the Marshall Moses of Puebla Fresa, a nondescript town in New Mexico. The coarse exterior has to give way through most innocuous things –pets, a tragedy and lastly, and most dependable one – love. What was a death-seeking person who waded into the fight, just so his life could end, now wants to live. Here, however his old convictions come into play and it is a constant battle of wills, between duty and love, between justice and forgiveness. It is a real literary treat to read how it plays out in the mind of the character and how it ends.
The arrival of ending comes as a surprise as a reader, I was enjoying the narrative far too much. This shows how good the author is in gripping the reader through his words.
It is said that those who go to war, never really come back. Even if they are back physically, their mind is still on the battle field, it is as if a part of them was buried on the battlefield. We find something eerily similar in the “The Law of Moses” by Kwen Griffeth. The lead character Samuel ‘Sam’ Moses, is a traveling lawman/gun for hire, for a lack of better word. The lead scene in the beginning shows the reader his disdain for his own life, and clutching to the hope that he would be killed in the encounter. As a reader, one would definitely find more such instances as the story goes on. The character is coarse, crude, insulting and loner to the core, rebuffing any offer of companionship or solace. The background of the character is told in flashback, mostly in first person narrative.
The backdrop of the American civil war and the battles brought a never before viciousness in the American continent which was not seen earlier. The novel does provide justice while still keeping the narrative on a tight leash. Too many times, I have seen authors stumble into either a long winded description of the war itself, or introduce plot devices which come across as overtly forced upon the characters.
If there would be no complication, life would be so simple. But it is not in real life, and it is not in the story of Sam Moses, or the Marshall Moses of Puebla Fresa, a nondescript town in New Mexico. The coarse exterior has to give way through most innocuous things –pets, a tragedy and lastly, and most dependable one – love. What was a death-seeking person who waded into the fight, just so his life could end, now wants to live. Here, however his old convictions come into play and it is a constant battle of wills, between duty and love, between justice and forgiveness. It is a real literary treat to read how it plays out in the mind of the character and how it ends.
The arrival of ending comes as a surprise as a reader, I was enjoying the narrative far too much. This shows how good the author is in gripping the reader through his words.
October 31, 2017
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Samuel Moses Cardiff wants to die. It's as simple as that. Worse still, he has spent a lifetime placing himself in positions that should guarantee his
death. But he's just too good at what he does to die, and maybe he doesn't want to after all.
Sam would eventually drop his last name and simply be known as Sam Moses; and, if he ever laid down the law of Moses on you in his job as the town marshal,
it usually meant you got very little mercy and probably didn't deserve any.
He had plans; he was going to graduate from a teacher's college in upstate New York, marry Patsy, his childhood sweetheart, and live a quiet life as a
good husband, a good dad, and a good teacher. But all that changed when his kid brother, Luke, enlists to fight in the civil war. Sam's dad had died only
days before he could return home from college, and his mother, more than a little distraught at Luke's decision, insists that Sam sign up and accompany
his brother into battle. Her perspective is that Sam can protect his more flamboyant brother.
But fate intervenes, Luke dies, and Sam blames himself from that day forward for breaking his promise to his mother. Worse still, his fiance dies while
he is at war.
His meaningless life is something Sam is eager to be rid of. He casts himself into situations that should guarantee his death, but they don't.
That's where we find Sam in post-civil-war New Mexico, where he has signed on as the marshal of a small town. The shield of bitterness he has erected around
him ensures that his relations with members of the community are perfunctory and superficial--just the way Sam likes it.
But things change dramatically for Sam when he encounters Laura. She's married to a disabled veteran who credits her with saving him from himself. But
a shooting leaves the disabled vet dead and opens a way for Sam to be forced to make choices he never thought he would make.
The author is highly talented, and if you read this, you benefit from a well-researched bit of romantic historical fiction. Quite frankly, I couldn't put
it down. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this, and if you enjoy romantic historical fiction, you can spend your precious reading time on this with no regret. This is
apparently a series, and the author crafts these characters well enough that you become invested in their lives, and you'll want to know what happens to
them. I hope to be able to listen to other books in the series.
Samuel Moses Cardiff wants to die. It's as simple as that. Worse still, he has spent a lifetime placing himself in positions that should guarantee his
death. But he's just too good at what he does to die, and maybe he doesn't want to after all.
Sam would eventually drop his last name and simply be known as Sam Moses; and, if he ever laid down the law of Moses on you in his job as the town marshal,
it usually meant you got very little mercy and probably didn't deserve any.
He had plans; he was going to graduate from a teacher's college in upstate New York, marry Patsy, his childhood sweetheart, and live a quiet life as a
good husband, a good dad, and a good teacher. But all that changed when his kid brother, Luke, enlists to fight in the civil war. Sam's dad had died only
days before he could return home from college, and his mother, more than a little distraught at Luke's decision, insists that Sam sign up and accompany
his brother into battle. Her perspective is that Sam can protect his more flamboyant brother.
But fate intervenes, Luke dies, and Sam blames himself from that day forward for breaking his promise to his mother. Worse still, his fiance dies while
he is at war.
His meaningless life is something Sam is eager to be rid of. He casts himself into situations that should guarantee his death, but they don't.
That's where we find Sam in post-civil-war New Mexico, where he has signed on as the marshal of a small town. The shield of bitterness he has erected around
him ensures that his relations with members of the community are perfunctory and superficial--just the way Sam likes it.
But things change dramatically for Sam when he encounters Laura. She's married to a disabled veteran who credits her with saving him from himself. But
a shooting leaves the disabled vet dead and opens a way for Sam to be forced to make choices he never thought he would make.
The author is highly talented, and if you read this, you benefit from a well-researched bit of romantic historical fiction. Quite frankly, I couldn't put
it down. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this, and if you enjoy romantic historical fiction, you can spend your precious reading time on this with no regret. This is
apparently a series, and the author crafts these characters well enough that you become invested in their lives, and you'll want to know what happens to
them. I hope to be able to listen to other books in the series.
May 25, 2018
Some plans do not always go according to plan and for Samuel Cardiff, this is the rule not the exception. After graduating with his teaching degree, he wanted nothing more than to return to his home town, settle down and live out a quiet life. He was not concerned nor wanted anything else. When his country is suddenly divided and there is a call to arms. It is not long that, despite every belief he has against it, Samuel is marching south in a Union uniform and changes his life forever.
The Law of Moses, by Kwen D. Griffeth, is an intimate western about war and the choices we make. The first of three books of the Sam and Laura series, Griffeth weaves a tale that is both exciting and moving. Sam is woefully unprepared for war and deserts after the battle of Antietam. He changes his last name to Moses to hide from the government and his real struggle is played throughout the rest of the book. He struggles to find peace and rediscover his humanity.
A very contemporary tale set in the historical Civil War, Samuel struggles to find his bearings in a world he can no longer make sense of. And really, we follow him with pity and sympathy as he struggles to make things right with himself and with the PTSD he suffers from the past conflict. Not many historical novels in my experience attempt to strike at such an intimate level, unless you read from a slave’s point of view during the Civil War or a prisoner at Auschwitz. Here we have a solider, who is dragged into the war by a current not of his own making and attempts to extricate himself from it, even if it wounds him emotionally.
I think Griffeth’s story pace would use a few more beats, but considering this novel is part of a series, it will be interesting to see how this ends up for Sam Moses. The prose itself is written with a skilled hand as are the moments when we are dropped into his head. The setting of the western is perfect for this novel, especially where our hero has to attempt to get their bearings. The wilds of the western USA is the perfect place to go out wandering and it is no accident that Samuel adopts the last name “Moses.” As the reader, we can hope that it doesn’t take him wandering forty years in the desert before he comes back into country, healed and made whole.
This is a great read for those who like westerns with depth and do not mind some intimacy shared with their characters. All in all a great story!
The Law of Moses, by Kwen D. Griffeth, is an intimate western about war and the choices we make. The first of three books of the Sam and Laura series, Griffeth weaves a tale that is both exciting and moving. Sam is woefully unprepared for war and deserts after the battle of Antietam. He changes his last name to Moses to hide from the government and his real struggle is played throughout the rest of the book. He struggles to find peace and rediscover his humanity.
A very contemporary tale set in the historical Civil War, Samuel struggles to find his bearings in a world he can no longer make sense of. And really, we follow him with pity and sympathy as he struggles to make things right with himself and with the PTSD he suffers from the past conflict. Not many historical novels in my experience attempt to strike at such an intimate level, unless you read from a slave’s point of view during the Civil War or a prisoner at Auschwitz. Here we have a solider, who is dragged into the war by a current not of his own making and attempts to extricate himself from it, even if it wounds him emotionally.
I think Griffeth’s story pace would use a few more beats, but considering this novel is part of a series, it will be interesting to see how this ends up for Sam Moses. The prose itself is written with a skilled hand as are the moments when we are dropped into his head. The setting of the western is perfect for this novel, especially where our hero has to attempt to get their bearings. The wilds of the western USA is the perfect place to go out wandering and it is no accident that Samuel adopts the last name “Moses.” As the reader, we can hope that it doesn’t take him wandering forty years in the desert before he comes back into country, healed and made whole.
This is a great read for those who like westerns with depth and do not mind some intimacy shared with their characters. All in all a great story!
August 4, 2017
“The Law of Moses” was an incredibly fascinating read for several reasons. As a huge historical fiction fan, I always appreciate a story which is immaculately researched and authentic so I feel fully immersed into a world of the past - this novel did just that. Another reason was that the author introduced such an unorthodox character to the reader that bonding with him can be initially challenging; however, as the story progresses and I get to know Sam, the new marshal in town, the more I felt for him and the internal battle he had to constantly fight with himself. To tell you the truth, such characters - broken, suffering, yet trying to disguise their suffering with almost inhuman strength - are my favorite. Sam is a perfect example of such a protagonist, who you will empathize with even more by the end of the story than you would have had he been a purely positive character.
The psychological side of the story and the masterfully presented emotional state of the main character was also another huge positive moment for me. Flashbacks to the past and the reasons of Sam’s behavior that slowly arose from the depth of his memory were a great way to tell the story not in a typical, chronological way, and it was another thing that I appreciated. And the way he eventually started changing due to the influence of different characters and situations (I won’t give away any spoilers not to ruin your enjoyment of the story) showed incredibly strong character development.
The snippets of the Civil War was another personal favorite moment of mine as I love military fiction. They were described in great detail and also showed a psychological state of the men going through the horrors of war, and how it affected them afterwards.
“The Law of Moses” is not your ordinary western. It really is an outstanding story that pulls you in and won’t let go until the last page is turned. Thoroughly researched, this riveting novel is definitely a must read for all fans of historical fiction genre. Five stars!
The psychological side of the story and the masterfully presented emotional state of the main character was also another huge positive moment for me. Flashbacks to the past and the reasons of Sam’s behavior that slowly arose from the depth of his memory were a great way to tell the story not in a typical, chronological way, and it was another thing that I appreciated. And the way he eventually started changing due to the influence of different characters and situations (I won’t give away any spoilers not to ruin your enjoyment of the story) showed incredibly strong character development.
The snippets of the Civil War was another personal favorite moment of mine as I love military fiction. They were described in great detail and also showed a psychological state of the men going through the horrors of war, and how it affected them afterwards.
“The Law of Moses” is not your ordinary western. It really is an outstanding story that pulls you in and won’t let go until the last page is turned. Thoroughly researched, this riveting novel is definitely a must read for all fans of historical fiction genre. Five stars!
June 14, 2017
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite By Grant Leishman
The Law of Moses by Kwen D. Griffeth introduces us to young Sam Cardiff. When Sam arrives home to his small town in upstate New York, after two years away at Teacher’s College, he has his future life all planned and in front of him. He plans to marry the girl he’s sweet on, settle down and have children while practicing his profession. Opposed to the Civil War that has broken out between the States, Sam has absolutely no intention of becoming involved. When his younger brother Luke, joins the Union Army, Sam’s mother begs him to go with him and keep an eye on his brother. After a series of personal tragedies, we flash forward to the new iteration of Sam Cardiff, who now calls himself Sam Moses. He has spent over twenty years as a tough, no-nonsense gunslinger and occasional Marshall in many western towns. A bad-tempered loner who seems to have a death wish, we wait to see if Sam’s heart of stone can be melted by the people of the small town he is now Marshall of.
I loved this story of an upright man of honour, with a past that continually weighed him down. Sam Moses was a complex character and was beautifully presented by Griffeth. The writing in The Law of Moses was simple and uncomplicated, which was more than could be said for the characters within the story. I’m not usually a reader of Westerns, but this book has changed my mind somewhat. I found myself drawn to the irascible Sam and his unintentional good heart. Even when he wanted to be mean, he somehow found a way to not be so. This is the first in a series of books based on Sam and his love interest Laura. The author has done a fantastic job of exciting me, as a reader, to want to find out what happens next in this story. An excellent read and one I enjoyed tremendously.
The Law of Moses by Kwen D. Griffeth introduces us to young Sam Cardiff. When Sam arrives home to his small town in upstate New York, after two years away at Teacher’s College, he has his future life all planned and in front of him. He plans to marry the girl he’s sweet on, settle down and have children while practicing his profession. Opposed to the Civil War that has broken out between the States, Sam has absolutely no intention of becoming involved. When his younger brother Luke, joins the Union Army, Sam’s mother begs him to go with him and keep an eye on his brother. After a series of personal tragedies, we flash forward to the new iteration of Sam Cardiff, who now calls himself Sam Moses. He has spent over twenty years as a tough, no-nonsense gunslinger and occasional Marshall in many western towns. A bad-tempered loner who seems to have a death wish, we wait to see if Sam’s heart of stone can be melted by the people of the small town he is now Marshall of.
I loved this story of an upright man of honour, with a past that continually weighed him down. Sam Moses was a complex character and was beautifully presented by Griffeth. The writing in The Law of Moses was simple and uncomplicated, which was more than could be said for the characters within the story. I’m not usually a reader of Westerns, but this book has changed my mind somewhat. I found myself drawn to the irascible Sam and his unintentional good heart. Even when he wanted to be mean, he somehow found a way to not be so. This is the first in a series of books based on Sam and his love interest Laura. The author has done a fantastic job of exciting me, as a reader, to want to find out what happens next in this story. An excellent read and one I enjoyed tremendously.
January 31, 2018
History? Wild West? Strong, flawed, well-drawn characters? Romance? Great plot? Check, check, check, check and check. Yup! Terrific book, well worth reading, with an interesting slant on PTSD (NOT so identified as that would be terrifically anachronistic, but I would speculate the horrors of combat and killing may have affected men going back to the caveman) which provides valuable insights.
But wait! There's more! I had the joy of listening to the audible version (standard disclaimer: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.) which is superbly narrated by Joseph Durika, who richly brought the characters to life.
But wait! There's more! I had the joy of listening to the audible version (standard disclaimer: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.) which is superbly narrated by Joseph Durika, who richly brought the characters to life.
May 18, 2020
A KDG. New Mexico Western Action Adventure (TLOM) (SALSB - 1)
KDG. has penned a New Mexico western action adventure titled, "The Law of Moses" which begins with Sam Moses graduating from a teaching college, returning home, Albany, NY, entering the New York Militia to fight n the Civil War. He survives the war, but carries a heavy burden for the men he has killed. He becomes a Marshal and works at various cities before settling in New Mexico. He leads a very quiet life until he meets Laura but she is married to a Civil War cripple. The man is killed and the Marshal swears he will take care of his family. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
KDG. has penned a New Mexico western action adventure titled, "The Law of Moses" which begins with Sam Moses graduating from a teaching college, returning home, Albany, NY, entering the New York Militia to fight n the Civil War. He survives the war, but carries a heavy burden for the men he has killed. He becomes a Marshal and works at various cities before settling in New Mexico. He leads a very quiet life until he meets Laura but she is married to a Civil War cripple. The man is killed and the Marshal swears he will take care of his family. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
March 24, 2020
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A new author for me and a job very well done. I’ve always loved books about the old west and people who lived through that part of our history. The first in this series kept me engrossed from beginning to end. Now I will explore his other works because I think they will satisfy my need for that history and the people who lived it. I thank this author for his body of work. I am well pleased!
A new author for me and a job very well done. I’ve always loved books about the old west and people who lived through that part of our history. The first in this series kept me engrossed from beginning to end. Now I will explore his other works because I think they will satisfy my need for that history and the people who lived it. I thank this author for his body of work. I am well pleased!
August 20, 2021
Respectable
I found this novel, The Law of Moses "Sam and Laura's Story, Book 1" by author Kwen Griffeth, solid and one I would rate for any age. Samuel Moses Cardiff is a tough man who knows how to handle a gun and is not afraid of anything. He is fair and not looking for trouble, although it seems to find him. The beginning was like an exciting Clint Eastwood western. The pace slowed down some but was still intriguing. The narrator, Joseph Durika, was perfect for this genre.
I found this novel, The Law of Moses "Sam and Laura's Story, Book 1" by author Kwen Griffeth, solid and one I would rate for any age. Samuel Moses Cardiff is a tough man who knows how to handle a gun and is not afraid of anything. He is fair and not looking for trouble, although it seems to find him. The beginning was like an exciting Clint Eastwood western. The pace slowed down some but was still intriguing. The narrator, Joseph Durika, was perfect for this genre.
May 9, 2019
This is an amazing read . Once I started, it was impossible to get out of my head . The characters become engrained into your soul . You love them and feel as if you are there with them as you read .. The descriptive ability of the author creates such vivid scenes in your mind , you can see it all happening as you devour each page .
July 14, 2018
Grief, anger, and solitude
This novel set in the Civil War era exposes the emotions that trap a man's heart after being exposed to the horrors of combat. Sam's soul was hardened by the death of his father, girl friend, and brother. Memory of his preacher father eventually freed him from this self-made prison.
This novel set in the Civil War era exposes the emotions that trap a man's heart after being exposed to the horrors of combat. Sam's soul was hardened by the death of his father, girl friend, and brother. Memory of his preacher father eventually freed him from this self-made prison.
February 28, 2019
Sam son of a preacher, a Christian, now a. graduate , and hoping to get a teacher in job, to marry and settle down. Till he was forced to enlist, the south changed him. Now he hopes some gun slinger will end his life.
He is now feared, and goes by the book.A different western, This is of a man who wonders what life is, when he lost what was dear to him.
He is now feared, and goes by the book.A different western, This is of a man who wonders what life is, when he lost what was dear to him.
December 12, 2017
A good post civil war novel, Lots of strong characters good & bad. A very good plot well edited and very well written and crafted.
Narration is excellent and draws you into the characters and story.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest reveiw.
Narration is excellent and draws you into the characters and story.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest reveiw.
August 10, 2018
I really enjoyed the story
If an author can keep me interested in the story the book gets 4 stars. A high percentage dont make it.This. Book went beyond that by quite a bit.
It was also a throwback kind of story. A very nice change.
If an author can keep me interested in the story the book gets 4 stars. A high percentage dont make it.This. Book went beyond that by quite a bit.
It was also a throwback kind of story. A very nice change.
December 10, 2018
The Law Of Moses
This was one of the most unusual western stories that I have read.It had gun play, war, death, bitterness, love, and the turning of a cruel and hard Man into one who could love again.
This was one of the most unusual western stories that I have read.It had gun play, war, death, bitterness, love, and the turning of a cruel and hard Man into one who could love again.
May 14, 2019
Really good read
Engrossing tale , well written, good characters ...even the bad
guys make you feel involved with the lives that got them to
the place we meet them meet each other.....this is my first
K.D.G. book and will look for another soon..
Thanx
Engrossing tale , well written, good characters ...even the bad
guys make you feel involved with the lives that got them to
the place we meet them meet each other.....this is my first
K.D.G. book and will look for another soon..
Thanx
January 12, 2021
A man and his dog
The story was well written and told in a way that makes you feel like you are there feeling the pain of Sam. The dog became his friend when he didn't want one. Then he started seeing how to get rid of his pain.
The story was well written and told in a way that makes you feel like you are there feeling the pain of Sam. The dog became his friend when he didn't want one. Then he started seeing how to get rid of his pain.
May 10, 2021
As I read this novel, I imagined it as a spaghetti western in my head, vastly improving the scenario. The vivid depiction of the Battle of Antietam was the best writing and most interesting aspect of the book for me.
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