In the Hands of the Gadiantons

by Cameron Staley

For over two millennia the history of the Lamanites has been concealed, their legacy fading through the passage of time. Now, in a sweeping narrative based on the unique and often misunderstood Lamanite nation, the momentous events surrounding the birth of Christ are reimagined as never before . . . 

From the time he was a boy, eighteen-year-old Ishmael has been regaled with incredible stories of his ancestors. His father is record-keeper of the Lamanite archives, a role that Ishmael will soon take on himself. Though his focus should be on his impending acceptance into the Lamanite tribe, Ishmael’s thoughts are elsewhere. Long has he admired the lovely Maija, the woman he hopes to marry. But she refuses to wed a man who does not share her faith in the teachings of the Nephites and the words of Samuel the Lamanite about the sign of the Savior’s impending birth.

After beginning his work in the archives, Ishmael makes a momentous discovery when he unearths the lost record of the Lamanites—a history started by Laman himself. As he reads the accounts of Laman, Ishmael embarks on a journey of spiritual introspection as the seeds of faith in the words of Samuel begin to grow in Ishmael’s heart. Yet even as he discovers the light of faith, a darkness spreads across the land. The Gadianton robbers are hunting all those who believe on the words of Samuel, and Ishmael must make a join their brotherhood, or lose the people most precious to him.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2016

About the author

Cameron Staley is a clinical psychologist and an advocate for truth, equality, and compassion. He lives with his wonderful wife and four incredible children in southeast Idaho. You can learn more about his professional work and resources on his website: https://cameronstaley.com/

Reviews

[Julie A. Raybould · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Perspective!

I didn't know what to expect when I saw this book but the title caught my interest. To my surprise, I found it a very entertaining and captivating read. I loved reading about the Lamanites from the perspective of a Lamanite, and how cleverly the scriptures were adapted to this young Lamanite's journey through conflict, trials and finally conversion. I would definitely recommend this book.

[Cambria Hazard · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In the Hands of the Gadiantons" is a unique peek into a side of a story few have considered. Staley's unique writing style was refreshing, as his vivid imagery paints a clear picture in the reader's mind. I also enjoyed the very playful and teasing relationship between two young lover's, a side of love that I don't often see portrayed in books the way he did.

The story, set in Mesoamerica, portrays the conflict that must have existed between two different civilizations as they tried to coexist. The main character is set in a conflict as his talents interest those who want them for personal gain, but would harm the people he loves. The problems he faces become convoluted until he comes up with a very surprising, innovative way to save what he most cherishes.

I very much enjoyed seeing new perspectives on a very familiar story to me from the Book of Mormon, paradigms I had never considered. In the preface the author quotes a few scriptures that had never caught my attention before that made me ponder how some of the events in the book could be very plausible. To those who are not familiar with the Book of Mormon, this book has both a fascinating fantasy side that anyone can enjoy while still gaining valuable insights to their own lives or spiritual journeys. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys finding pockets of insights and truths inside a gripping fictional story.

[Alan White · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and its fresh perspective on the Book of Mormon, focusing on the Lamanites, their view of Book of Mormon events, and how history is recorded. Admittedly the books discussions of these topics are a bit simplistic, but there is only so much you can do with just the Book of Mormon. The characters, while simple, kept my attention. The romance was fun to read, though nothing too special. I also enjoyed the conflicts the main character Ishmael went through.

[Kevin Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this several years ago before I was on Goodreads