Hello, dear friends and readers. 

Happy summer! We are in the midst of a heat wave here in the Finger Lakes region of western New York, as is much of the country. I hope you're staying cool!

Today we're featuring Heidi Skarie, a prolific and talented writer of the Star Rider series. Not only are her stories intriguing and heart-pounding, but Heidi has interwoven spiritual themes that fascinated me. See what she has to say, below!

- Aaron Paul Lazar

HEIDI SKARIE - THE SPIRITUAL ASPECTS OF THE STAR RIDER SERIES

Aaron suggested I write about the spiritual aspects of the Star Rider Series. The first book in the series, Star Rider on the Razor’s Edge, came to me in a series of six dreams. I wasn’t a novelist at the time; the story was the impetus that sparked my interest in writing. After that first novel, the next six books poured in like a river flowing into the ocean.

 

The series is science fiction and a cross between Star Wars and Outlander. Like Star Wars my heroes tap into a force that I call the sound current or Eternal Life Stream. This Life Force is comparable to what Christians call the Holy Spirit. 

 

The series is also like Star Wars in that the characters are embroiled in an interplanetary war between a totalitarian empire and freedom fighters. 

 

The story is like Outlander in that it deals with loving relationships in two generations of characters. Both series explore the many aspects of love, marriage, and sacrifices. Outlander explores the idea of time travel whereas the Star Rider series takes place in a futuristic world in another galaxy.

 

The main character in the first three books is Toemeka Ganti. She follows the Ancient Path of Light and Sound, can communicate telepathically, and travel out of the body into heavenly worlds. She marries a man who becomes the spiritual leader of the Ancient Path.

 

Toemeka’s son, Baymond, is the main character in the next two books and an important character in the last two. In my latest book, Heir to Jaipar, the seventh book in the series, Baymond, who has mystical abilities, travels to a distant planet to do missionary work. The evil galactic ruler captures him. His close friend Everette and Everette’s wife Morisa, set off on a dangerous mission to rescue Baymond and his family. 

 

Heir to Jaipar explores the themes of unconditional love, death, courage, and loyalty. The insights into life and spiritual aspects set it apart from other science fiction books.

*** This also happens to be the week of Heidi's newest release - Heir to Jaipar. Here's a bit about it! Heir to Jaipar, A Space Opera Adventure was launched Saturday, June 15th.  The book is still at the special introductory price of 99 cents. It will be going up soon so grab one now! Here is a review of Heir to Jaipar: "This thrilling space opera masterfully combines intergalactic politics, mystical intrigue, and romance, making for a fast-paced and engaging read. The well-developed characters and exciting plot twists will keep you hooked from start to finish. " -A. B. Amazon reviewer. The previous book Golden Cord of Light: A Space Opera Adventure,which introduced Morisa, the heroine in Heir to Jaipar, is still on special for $1.99.  Here is a review of Golden Cord of Light: "This sci-fi/fantasy blend sucked me right in! I loved following Princess Morisa's journey of self-discovery dealing with sorcery, romance, and politics. Her fiery chemistry with Prince Everette amid the chaos was super entertaining. The dogfight scene with the starfighters was such an adrenaline rush."  -D. W. Amazon reviewer Golden Cord of Light Heir to Jaipar  Enjoy these deals while they last! - Aaron Paul Lazar

Spring is here. Enjoy The Seadog: a love story, for free.

 

As pure as can be - these backlit cherry blossoms make my heart sing. There's just something so sublime about sunlight filtering through petals. Here are a few more shots from my yard. 

So, how am I doing with the process of losing the love of my life? I'm slowly healing. I'm staying positive. I'm letting the beauty of spring buoy me up. I know it will take forever. But having a loving family to support me makes all the difference in the world. And of course, having my dog, Biscuit. He is with me 24/7 and is such a comfort. 

We discovered that the old invisible fence we had for 12 years for Balto and Amber is still functioning! So Biscuit is in training. He's doing well, but his "chase the ball" instincts are still stronger than his aversion to the flags. And he does NOT like those flags, most particularly the sound that comes when he gets close. He cried the two times it happened! (he didn't get shocked at all, just horrified at the sound that came from his collar, poor little guy!)  

I'm working on updating For Keeps: a green marble mystery. In it, Sam's wife, Rachel, is murdered, and he has to go back in time to reverse it. But the weird part is how I wrote about Sam's loss so explicitly without having really lost my wife. Now it all feels too familiar. It's hard to work on this part, but I'm pushing through. In the book, Sam gets her back again. I wish it were true in my life...

I'm sharing another eBook for free this week. It happens to be one of my favorites - set in Brewster on Cape Cod. It's the third book in the Paines Creek Beach love story series and can easily be read as a standalone. But there's much more than a typical "love story" in this - I couldkn't help but keep the mysteries and the suspense out of it. ;o) Help yourself and let me know what you think of it!

 

FREE EBOOK FRIDAY MAY 3RD THROUGH TUESDAY MAY 7TH.

***Winner of the 2016 Best Indie Book Award, romance category*** 

THE SEADOG: A PAINES CREEK BEACH LOVE STORY

 

A mysterious man with no past, a troubled young woman running from hers…and a powerful love that may heal them both. 

Scout Vanderhorn has lost her mother, her home, and all hope of security. In a desperate bid to escape her abusive stepfather, she travels to a seaside mansion on Cape Cod in search of the real father she never knew—and finds a secret sister who welcomes her into the family, troubles and all. But it’s not long before trouble comes looking for Scout. 

Unaware of his past, or even his own name, Jack Remington is lost. He spends his days scavenging for survival and compulsively searching the seas in his battered old kayak. At night, alone in his beach cave, he’s haunted by nightmares. But from the moment he glimpses Scout, a powerful connection is forged that begins to bring him back from the brink. 

Neither expects to fall for the other, but Scout and Jack can’t deny their explosive mutual attraction. Can this love remake a broken man and save a woman with nothing to lose…before the past drowns them in the oncoming storm? 

Set on beautiful Cape Cod, The Seadog is a story of trauma and redemption, of mysteries and revelations -- and above all, the incredible power of love.

FREE EBOOK FRIDAY MAY 3RD THROUGH TUESDAY MAY 7TH.

THE SEADOG: A PAINES CREEK BEACH LOVE STORY

The Seadog audiobook will be given away to four lucky winners at this event. Just show up and comment to be eligible! This book is narrated by hugely talented Gwendolyn Druyor - you'll love hearing all the different voices she does!

From our wonderful audiobook event group leader, the award winning author and artist, Uvi Poznansky.  "A select group of authors has joined forces with me To bring you amazing stories, beautifully narrated. Looking for your new favorite story?  Join us as a GOING guest  In this Mother’s Day celebration For a chance to win our audiobooks: Love Mom"

 

It's been gorgeous weather here in the Finger Lakes region of NY. Today it's going to 80! On May 3rd! I love it.

Allison and I got the peas planted yesterday and we bought our annuals for the porches. I love the colors and fragrances! We are excited about potting them today. 

Let me know how you're doing when you can.

Bless you all,

Aaron Lazar

PS You know I love hearing from you. Write if you like, and if you have thoughts about any of the books above, please let me know! 

aaron.lazar@yahoo.com

 

Please enjoy these two free titles this week!

FREE eBook 3/25 - 3/29/24

https://www.amazon.com/Disappearance-Billy-Marble-Mysteries-featuring-ebook/dp/B016A6YWRY/ref=monarch_sidesheet

 

Fifty years ago, Sam Moore’s little brother Billy vanished without a trace—leaving Sam with guilt that haunts him to this day. Fifty years with no body, no leads, and no answers. Until now. 

https://www.amazon.com/Whole.../dp/B0BXVXNF5X/ref=sr_1_1...

“The Best in the Whole Wide World is an epic western saga, steeped in delicious portrayals of nature, love, and the best of family life.” Aaron Paul Lazar, USA Today bestselling author

Spring is almost here! (and a few free books)

Welcome, dear friends and readers. 

 

Spring is coming!

I saw my snowdrops happily nodding their pristine white heads the other day. And the purple crocus as coming up in their usual spots and in some surprising areas, where I guess the chipmunks moved them very steathily. Little rascals.

I love it. Spring makes my spirits soar, even in this time of huge adjustment.

Free eBooks

Today I'm going to share two FREE eBooks with you, Robert Sells' new romantic murder mystery, An Affair with Murder, and my first "Young Gus" mystery from the LeGarde Mystery series, Tremolo: cry of the loon. 

An Affair with Murder

Rob Sells is an all-round great guy. One of the best I've ever known. Compassionate, giving, and more. Oh, and he can also write!!! So I took him on as a client ;o) (Just for the record, I don't get any money for promoting clients' books that I love and believe in - I just want to share.) 

 

FREE 3/18 - 3/22/24. 

An Affair with Murder is set in a small town and bristles with intrigue, suspense, and plot-twisting romance. The main character is a writer (who doesn't love that?), but past traumas haunt her. 

When a a formerly dormant serial killer starts stealing and murdering women, she wants to help, and reaches out to old friends on the police force. But she doesn't know who to trust, and has very good reasons to doubt each one.

Here's the official book blurb:

***

Devastated by the murder of her best friend after the prom, Rebecca has a nervous breakdown and flees her hometown. 

Twelve years later, now a successful author, she struggles with agoraphobia. Her therapist insists she return home for closure. But when she arrives, she's horrified to find there’s been another grisly murder identical to the first one.

The three officers of the law handling the investigation are former friends of Rebecca and, coincidentally, love interests in high school. Knowing she is writing a murder-mystery, the three men agree to share their findings with her. Rebecca stumbles upon a note from the original homicide suggesting that the killer has be one of the three investigators. But which one?  

Not knowing who to trust, Rebecca decides to solve the case on her own. As she gets closer to uncovering the truth, it looks like she will be the next victim.

***

Grab a copy of the free eBook this week. 

***

NEXT: One of my books will be free in parallel with Rob's book. 

Tremolo: cry of the loon, book one in the "Young Gus Mysteries."

Get your free eBook March 18th - 22nd.  

"As in other great literary works, the description of meals, pastimes and interests are a wonderful satisfying eavesdropping that takes this babyboomer back to a slower time. There is an innocence that is difficult to find in current living and yet these young people still were presented with the evils we all have in our lives today."  - DC from Washington

Summer, 1964: Beatlemania hits the States, and the world mourns the loss of JFK. 

For eleven-year-old Gus LeGarde, the powerful events that rocked the nation serve as a backdrop for the most challenging summer of his life. After Gus and his best friends capsize their boat at his grandparents’ lakeside camp, they witness a drunk chasing a girl through the foggy Maine woods. She’s scared. She’s hurt. And she disappears. 

The camp is thrown into turmoil as the frantic search for Sharon begins. Reports of stolen relics arise, including a church bell cast by Paul Revere. When Gus stumbles on a scepter that may be part of the spoils, he becomes a target for the evil lurking around the lake. 

Will he find Sharon before the villain does? And how can Gus--armed only with a big heart, a motorboat, and a nosy beagle--survive the menacing attacks on his life?

 

This is the actual "Loon Harbor" Camp where Gus spent his childhood summers. It was named "Snug Harbor" in real life and belonged to my grandparents. This is a photo of the cabin Gus lived in, "Wee Castle." See the that room that juts out front? That's where Gus and Shadow slept. And there's his grandfather's boat, rocking in the waves.

I loved writing this book. It basically was a testimonial to the nostalgia I felt for "Camp," one of the best parts of my childhood. It's not there anymore, but I wanted to keep it alive, as it still is in my memory. The mysteries that go on in the background are just gravy, ha ha. 

"Anyone who's read any of Aaron Paul Lazar's Gus LeGarde mysteries will recognize the protagonist in this coming of age novel. Young Gus hangs out round the lake with his friends Siegfried and Elsbeth, slowly learning that girls are not boys, just beginning to feel that protectiveness and curiosity that give depth to his later life. JFK's death was recent news; someone's robbing local churches; and a young girl has disappeared--the safety of childhood is tipping on the cusp of slipping away." - Sheila Deeth

***

If you enjoy Tremolo, there are two more books in the "Young Gus" series. 

Don't Let the Wind Catch You is the second book. 

"Aaron Paul Lazar has written a beautiful story, one that will stay with me for a long time. The characters have become friends I don’t want to lose. I laughed out loud at some of their antics, held my breath in some places, and at times wiped away tears...Lazar’s writing flows smoothly throughout; he created scenes so rich I felt I was there and shared in the experiences. Don’t Let the Wind Catch You is a coming of age story that reveals deep understanding of the human condition. There’s tragedy, humor, compassion, and love. It touched me on many levels--definitely a keeper."  -- Ellis, Amazon reviewer

Voodoo Summer finishes up the Young Gus series.

"Voodoo Summer by Aaron Paul Lazar is an incredible read. Although it is actually the 11th book in the LeGarde Mysteries, this one flashes back to the summer when Gus is 13. There have been so many references to this summer in the previous books, yet I was strangely unprepared for the impact it would have on me. Lazar is a master of the details and that has always been my favorite aspect of his writings. In Voodoo Summer, I was brought back to childhood emotions and misunderstandings. Wanting so much to grasp the adult world and being too far removed from the facts to reach the realities. Although I already knew the events told in this novel, the emotions are astounding. This is an excellent read, as are all books in this series. Lazar is a master. And Voodoo Summer is flawless." Marsha Jean Thalleen  

So, I'm moving through this whole process of losing the love of  my life. Above is a picture Alli took of my hand over Dale's. I cherish it. She had such petite hands and feet. 

Anyway, I'm okay. I'm keeping extremely busy... yet I'd be lying if I said it was easy. I still feel kind of raw and broken inside, but on the outside, I'm functioning, laughing with grandkids and dog, and starting to heal. 

Bless you all, 

Aaron Lazar 

PS You know I love hearing from you. Write if you like, and if you have thoughts about any of the books above, please let me know!

Brokenhearted here...

  

Hello, dear friends and readers.

 

I know I've been essentially absent for the past few years. No new books. No regular newsletters. I didn't say too much about it then, but now I'm ready to share. 

 

My wife and soulmate, Dale, passed on January 20th, 2024 due to covid pneumonia. She'd been so sick with complications from her MS for several years that it was a blessing for her to be released, as heartbreaking as it is for those of us left behind. She was ready to go.

 

We were married almost 43 years and there's a great, ripping hole in my heart right now. It's hard to talk about it, which is why I put this off for so long.

 

Thankfully, she was able to be with and communicate with (most) of her family the day before she passed. Love spilled from that ICU room.

I'll link to the obituary, but for now I wanted to share again her experience she had in 2012 when almost died. This is the story as I captured it. Do you remember it? Now she is with Him and her parents and all our animals we've loved and lost along the way. https://www.johnwmartinfuneralhome.com/obituary/dale-lazar

 

I still talk to her all the time and I know she's preparing a beautiful spot for us up there as we agreed before she died - a cabin near a crystal clear lake, gardens riotous with color and NO weeds, and a field full of all the horses we've loved over the years. Of course the dogs and cats are everywhere.

 

A Message From God.

https://murderby4.blogspot.com/2012/01/message-from-god.html

This photo needs editing for scratches and dust spots, but I no longer have my Photoshop program so I have to search for a way to fix it. Dale is young in all these pictures because that's how I imagine her now in Heaven. Deliriously happy, overwhelmed at the beauty of Heaven, and thankfully no longer in pain. She promised she'd take each of our past horses on rides every day when she arrived. 

 

If you read my books, you know Elsbeth, Camille, and Rachel. These three characters are all based on parts of Dale. It wasn't intentional, really, but she found her way into all of them. 

 

My daughters have been taking excellent care of me. Even though they’ve all lost their mother, they are coming together to check in with me every day. I'm so lucky to have all three of them. It’s a strange feeling, when I’ve always been the caretaker. Then again, it’s very nice. I’m also taking great solace in my beautiful grandchildren and of course, in dear little Biscuit. He has been such a comfort, all day long. 

Thank you for hanging in there with me, dear friends. I'll be back soon to share some new books from my authors that I want you to take advantage of. Stay tuned.   God bless you all,   Aaron Lazar aaron.lazar@yahoo.com author@lazarbooks.com