LeGarde Mysteries

 

Geneseo "Ladies" Book Club, 2006

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Tremolo: Thumbs up!

by Debbie G.

We are not going to make it.

Aaron Lazar's first line in Tremolo, immediately transported me from my couch potato perch into danger, mystery and adventure. Young Gus, caretaker and protector of his grandfather's boat desperately pulls on the oars in an attempt to reach the safety of the shore before the thick fog descends. You hear the wooden paddles creak, and the lake slosh, and feel the fear as the three young friends hear a motorboat bear down on them. In that initial scene the reader loses real time and enters Gus Legarde's childhood, never to be disappointed. Within the fabric of a well written, engaging mystery Aaron has perfectly captured the essence of childhood days, and relationships.

As the boat sinks and Gus and his friends scramble to the shore, Gus's "My father's going to kill me" quickly takes a distant concern when they encounter a young injured girl racing through the woods, pursued by an angry man. Later, the girl is reported missing, but who will listen to children who believe they have the answer?

  Loon Harbor Resort, the Legarde family home and business is an idyllic childhood setting even during an era of cultural change. Amidst the Beatles successful storm of the radio waves, and the tumultuous stirrings of the Civil Rights movement, Gus and his friends experience danger, first crushes, and the thrill of the first tugs toward independence.

 Aaron's characters, if you haven't already met and fallen in love with them through the other Gus Legarde mysteries, willl delight and warm your heart and imagination. Tremolo stands alone as a rich story, with living breathing characters, but a new Aaron Lazar reader is sure to want more. Already enthralled with these characters I found that joining Gus, Elsbeth, and Siegried's days of youth across the lake into the woods, through blueberry patches, and headlong into their childhood brush with history an engaging, absorbing adventure. I think you will be also. 

You should read this book if you love mysteries, and childhood memories and details that make the adventure your own. These characters are so real that you miss them when the last line is read. Here is an excerpt from one tense scene.With an older friend, the threesome have secreted away from their home at night to raid a blueberry field. 

 

The berries were clustered in bunches. I reached my hand along one branch and blindly scooped off a handful... I shoved them into my mouth, tasting the incredible sweetness when they burst against my tongue.They were huge, nearly as big as the concord grapes that grew wild at home...

We'd all heard it: the crunching tires along the dirt road. We sat quietly,waiting for the rumbling to pass..Rather than drive by however, it stopped. A car door clanged. Someone had parked at the entrance of the field and was removing the barricade.

 

I won't give away the scene's conclusion or it's frightening role in the disappearance and search for a missing girl, but I will tell you that Tremolo is a must read for my fellow mystery lovers and Aaron Lazar fans everywhere.

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Aaron, since I'm a great admirer, as well as an opportunist, when you stop by I have a few questions for you. 

 

In Tremolo fear and tension are carved with such expertise. The lake/boat scene and the fire scene immediately come to mind. Can you tell us if these have real past experiences as their genesis? 

 

My next question is: Will you tell us what inspired the theater scene?

Now to answer your questions (and I'm up for any others that your connections might ask!)

When I sculpt a story, I try to vary the vignettes between warm and comforting and fearful scenes that scare the heck out of me. Yes, I mean me. I think about what scares me, and then imagine it happening to Gus. My worst fear is that something awful would happen to my family - especially my little grandsons. So, in Double Forte', I had Gus's grandson, Johnny, go missing. I'll tell you, even though I knew the outcome of that scene, it had my heart pounding for hours. Such a frightening thought. I'm petrified of fire and of drowning, probably pretty common fears, I imagine. So when Gus is almost burned up in that little shack, it shot sparks of real fear through me.

The foggy boat scene came from my actual childhood. I wasn't on the boat, but on the shore, when the cabin boy and the kids he took for a ride got stranded out on the foggy lake. We called and called, it got dark, and finally they came safely back to shore at camp.

The scene at the movie theater, where Gus sees "To Kill a Mockingbird" for the first time, actually happened to me. My dad and mom took me to the movies (a rare treat) to see it. I'll never forget that experience, and it remains my favorite to this day. After it was over, at home in our dining room, my dad turned his forearm in the light and said how lovely it would be to have golden brown skin like Tom Robinson. That statement was the epitome of his warm and loving, open soul. He was such a good man, I wanted that scene to be recorded for posterity.

Thanks, Debbie, for your kind words.

Tremolo: cry of the loon

 It has been my pleasure to take part in a "virtual" or online book tour for the book, Tremolo: Cry of the Loon, a book written by Aaron Paul Lazar. As a bit of an introduction to this review, I put a "heads up" interview and teaser on Gather yesterday. You can see it here and get a glimpse into the author's world as well as some suggestions and tips for aspiring writers:

http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleid=281474977233972&Nav=namespace

I also strongly recommend you visit one or more of Mr. Lazar's sites online. They can be found at the earlier article (just click my name and check my other articles if you have touble finding it)

 This time around, I'd like to focus on a review of the book. This novel set off powerful waves of memories and pure nostalgia in me. I remembered those days  when the Beatles were popular and Beatlemania was in full swing, when John Kennedy and Martin Luther King were well-known and children spent summers outside, not in front of video games.

 The power and importance of spending time outside is not a minor them in this book but a major factor. I think nature is almost like another character here, multi-faceted, haunting. Those sections renewed my desire to take the family camping and to enjoy life's simple pleasures, those that are all around us, from a misty morning to the glare of sun on a bright patch of snow. 

 At the heart of this book is a missing girl, the mystery surrounding her disappearance and  young Gus, turning from child to man, coming of age during one memorable summer at a lakeside camp in Maine. From the first sentence in Chapter One: "We're not gonna make it" to the closing lines I felt swept into this book and wanted to know what would happen next.

     From that powerful opening, I was captured by the main story, that lost girl and the three children (Gus and his friends, Sigfried and Elsbeth) who try to find out what happened to her. Along the way, mysterious guests arrive, ominous men appear and Gus has to deal with real danger as well as the inevitable turbulence of adolescence, from those first stirrings of love to the odd feelings he has about changes in his family.   

    One of the hardest jobs as a reviewer is trying to give a sense of the style and power of a book. In Tremolo, I'll note that several things grabbed my attention; the msytery at the heart of the book and also the strong sense of time and details about that particular time in history. I also loved the personality of Gus as well as the way Mr. Lazar intersperses some very real events in his own life with those that are fictional. 

    In many ways, this book came about - and is a testimony - to Mr. Lazar's father. This makes it particularly special for me. It is impossible to read the Preface to this book and learn about the incredible man who was Mr. Lazar's father without feeling his spirit in many parts of the book, from an incident when a bat gets into the house (those mouselike, flying creature) to sections covering racism, To Kill a Mockingbird and other scenes that paralleled Mr. Lazar's upbringing.

    At the same time, this is not a memoir, not in the sense that every event described actually happened in "real" life. If you lived through the '60s, you won't be able to help feeling nostalgic. The icing on the cake is the suspense and mystery in the book, backed up by one boys' take on the whole situaton.

      I urge you to visit the author's website at :

          www.legardemysteries.com

and also to visit the author interview to get a fuller look at the author's life and writing habits and suggestions. Most of all,  urge you to read this nicely crafted book and discover a promising voice whose mystery series and books are worth savoring. 

 

August, 2006

Tremolo: cry of the loon

"A coming of age story set in the summer of ‘64, it’s a nostalgic and adventurous romp through summer camp. Blood brothers Gus, Siegfried and Elsbeth help search for Sharon Adamski – a young girl they’d seen being chased by an enraged drunk the night before. Between swimming holes and horseback riding, slide shows and carnivals, Gus comes to grips with his crush on Betsy, a pretty waitress at the camp, and the jealousy he feels for the older William, who is determined to make Betsy his own; as well as the new brother or sister Gus will soon have. There’s a mysterious guest in Cabin Fifteen, and some sinister-looking men in dark sunglasses lurking around. Chills, thrills, spills and danger lurk around every corner of this sylvan lake setting. Gus, Siegfried and Elsbeth manage to get into one dire predicament after another as they follow clues in their own search for the missing girl, as well as the mysterious guest’s missing cat, and Gus finds out what it’s like to be in mortal peril more than once. The denouement had me literally holding my breath. Tremolo makes me want to run down to the dock and splash in, clothes and all. Last one in is a rotten egg!"

 

Lesia Valentine

www.lesiavalentine.com

 

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Virtuoso:

I’m enjoying the descriptive family setting prose of Virtuoso. Color me a deep shade of impressed by your talent, once again…I will also point out (as if you didn’t know) that this book would be very helpful for an adolescent, sort of like Judy Blooms stuff. So far your description of Shelby and Gus's struggles with the pains of adolescence are very universal, and would be great for anyone going through that whole mess, to comfort them. If nothing else, it would make people realize they aren’t alone in their plight. I can see this book being read and thoroughly enjoyed by 6-9th grade kids and their parents. Not that everyone wouldn't love it, that’s not what I’m saying. You have a real honest connection there that you have plenty of experience with, and that comes across loud and clear. Just like your gardening stuff, but adolescence is much more universal than gardening, so this will ring true with more people...Finished Virtuoso a few days ago, haven't had a chance to compliment you yet. This was another very nicely done piece. I really quite liked the story line on this one. I am developing a managable night time habit with your books. I take some sugar free butterscotch disks and a glass of water to bed with the printout of your book and I'm just happy as a clam. I have to be really careful with the candy wrappers so as not to wake the kids with the crinkling. I try to get caught up into the story every night, although sometimes it just doesnt / won't / can't happen for a myriad of reasons. When it does sweep me away to East Goodland with Gus and the gang, there is nothing finer. I really really want you to know how enjoyable your books have been to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart :)

 

Jason Jarvis, Groveland, NY

Upstaged:

I just finished Upstaged last night and I loved it!!!! I could hardly put it down! I had no idea who it was right up until the scene on opening night. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. I was also glad that Camille got Boris back, and he was ok! =) My mom is reading the book now, and I'm sure she'll love it as well! I can't wait to read more!!!

Lindsay Power- engineering student, NY

 

 

August 2006

Double Forte' :

Double Forte' had me at the first paragraph and I could not put the book down!  Aaron Lazar is a master at captivating readers and having them feel like they are "living" the story with the rest of the characters.  His descriptive writing style and his depth of knowledge constantly amazed me!

I am an avid reader, and I especially love mystery novels, but this book is also an educational work.  It teaches us about gardening, cooking, being kind and loving to four-legged friends, being appreciative and tolerant of everyone, how we have different ways of dealing with devastating events, and so much more.  

I was born and raised in the Rochester area but have always taken the four seasons for granted.  Aaron Lazar's writing has given me a whole new appreciation of the beautiful scenery and landscapes of the Genesee Valley.

This is a book for every member of the family!

Gail Schilling

Marketing Consultant, Rochester, NY

 

"I was a prisoner of Double Forte'! The enthralling list of characters, the vivid and picturesque setting of Upstate New York, and the electrifying storyline kept me spell-bound until I finished this book. I literally could not put it down. There were moments when I couldn't physically read fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. After I turned the last page, I was energized with excitement and satisfaction. I am anxiously awaiting the next novel in the Gus LeGarde series. Everyone needs to read this book!"

 Jennifer Shoemaker,  New York

http://www.avondanceemporium.com/

 

 

February  2006:

Mazurka:

 

First of all, from someone living over here, you've given the readers a virtual sense of Europe – a light for the eyes, a lilt to the ears, a scent of flowers, and a taste of the delicacies that are such a treat over here.

 

Your writing brings readers as close to being in Paris as one can get without stepping foot inside France … from perfumed walkways, to the quiet reverence of Notre Dame Cathedral; from buttered croissants to the thrumming of a tour boat's engine.   I loved the words:  "… the subway swayed as it accelerated."

 

Your contrast from serene and peaceful (Siegfried the gentle giant and the love of Gus & Camille) to the hatred and violence that erupted is quite dramatic and gives a realistic edge to your words.

 

I enjoyed your description of Denkendorf – it's an excellent description for a small German town – especially the stucco sided houses clustered side by side, the window boxes dripping with geraniums, and half-timbered houses.

 

 Francine Biere, author

 

 

Double Forte'

"Gus has thus far shown me that cooking a pot of stew, reading a stack of books and watching Bambi with the 'little ones' in our lives certainly seems more important and time best spent than studying P&L statements, pro-formus and packing for the next business trip.

I feel as if Gus, through your words, is actually slowing me down a little bit. Wednesday night is my alone night with the girls. Tonight, because of your book, I spent a little extra time with them while tucking them in. Kennedy and I shared an extra bedtime story and Liberty and I rocked in her bedroom for 10 minutes or so.

FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I could see it in my minds eye. So much hurt, fear, turmoil and upheavel within a family....a family of "misfits" nonetheless....yet, SO MUCH LOVE...your descriptive writing allowed me to smell the marinara. I could feel the sunshine on my own face, thinking about our own pool and those hot summer days of splashing around. I could feel the steam on my face from the boiling pasta. Adam and Freddie will, I hope, remain figures in your books. the last scenes and the final chapter absolutely provided closure to a wonderful, heart pounding story. You left no stone unturned (except Freddie/Adam..lol) and allowed me to reflect on the story without wondering "what did he mean, why didn't he wrap this up, etc.) I like books that have a beginning, middle and END!!!! So, my grade...A++++++++++. I could smell Cam's hair, I could feel the burning in Gus' legs as he ran from Baxter. Yet, you closed it up nicely for me. You gave me and the LeGarde family peace and that is the right thing to do.......

Thanks Mr. Lazar, never before has a book provided so much excitement, calm, anticipation and reflection as Double Forte'"

Mr. Jamie Shoemaker, New York

http://www.statewidesettlement.com/index.html

 

 

Double Forte'

"Just finished Double Forté last night.  Good ending - the last twenty pages read very fast (exciting).  The scene at the trailer took me by surprise so much that I literally sat up in my chair, and the chase scene through the woods and at the fence was a great climax.  I'm picturing Harrison  Ford as Gus, and that guy with the silver teeth from the Bond movies, or maybe Randy Quaid, as Baxter!  A great job; your attention to detail was fabulous; I think I can visualize floor plan of Gus's house in my sleep, so good were your descriptions!  Nicely done!"

Peter Pellissier, Pennsylvania

Author of Ham Loaf Hawaiian

 

 

"As for Double Forte'. I started out this morning to read the first chapter in my office . I just finished Chapter 13 and I had to take it out to my car because I have a proposal I need to work on!  I will almost certainly finish the book tonight or tomorrow. So far I think my favorite characters are Siegfried, he seems both vulnerable and strong at the same time, Baxter who is really scary, and Harold who we hate a lot at this point anyway. I like your pace a lot, especially your action chapters. They move fast, but not at the cost of imagery. I was with you all the way on Gus's third trip to the Baxter house.
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I was up 'til 1:30 am finishing Double Forte'. Congrats again on a great job.  My favorite characters remains as before, Sig, Baxter and Harold. I am anxious to see how you develop Sig in the coming books. I like the pace that you use in dealing with romance between Gus and Camille--the false alarms and indecision on the part of both parties rings very true to me. Finally, of course I recognize and appreciate your love for that part of the country. "

Rik Lennox, North Carolina

 

Double Forte'

Terrific, Aaron!!!!! I read it in one sitting. Nice pacing and description. I loved the way Baxter keeps coming back.
It will make a great movie with all those dramatic twists and turns. My vote for Gus is Harrison Ford! I would like to swap recipes with you some time. How soon can they print the next one!

Debbie Baker, New York

 

Double Forte’ arrived yesterday afternoon and after I had my dinner, I picked it up and began reading.    Read it while seated on my sofa, read it in my bath, and read it in bed till I finished it.  WOW!  It was a page-turner-can't-put-it-down novel. 

 

I love your characters - Gus is the perfect man, I must tell you.  He's the epitome of a wonderful father and home person.   His knowledge of music, gardening, and the art of culinary was meshed into the story superbly, and his empathy for the hurt and wounded is heartwarming.   Gus Legarde is a wonderful protagonist for your mystery series.   

 

His brother-in-law, Siegfried, was portrayed beautifully, and it was perfect the way he begins and winds through the story to the end.   Gus's grandson is adorable.  As a reader, you want to reach into the novel and hug the little dickens.   All your characters come alive on the pages.

 

The murder of Bob was a mystery till the end, although all along I was hoping Harold did it, because I wanted him OUT of Freddie's life for good.   Your characterizations of Baxter was chilling and  Sadie was such a fragile little being. 

 

One really clever thing you do that I admire. . . you tell your story without any lengthy descriptions and history of character, but manage to reveal it all, painlessly, before the end of the book.  We, the readers, close the book understanding and knowing enough about the characters and the setting to want to buy another Aaron Paul Lazar novel and another Gus Legarde mystery.

 

The way you connected the story to the title was endearing. 

 

Thank you for a terrific murder mystery!

REBECCA RANDOLPH BUCKLEY
http://www.beckybuckley.com

 

O mio babbino caro, by Puccini, sung by Melanie K. Lazar, accompanied on piano by A. David Hurd