This is the story of Lazarus of Bethany, told through tale and tribulation.
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{Lazarus, Man} - Scott ToneyToday I thought I'd try out something new... and, feeling like a bit of 'Scott Toney brilliance', I clicked into 'Lazarus, Man'. This is a terrific start and I absolutely love the crisp, fast-paced, dark beginning... You set the scene perfectly and woww I'm really excited because some of the images remind me of things in 'The Awakening'. I think you'll know what I mean! 'He tried to move but found he could not...' this reminded me of 'Black Pearl Tears' and how the mystical figure is prevented from touching the lost child lol.Anyway, you're a master and I'm so excited that, after I finish 'The Ark of Humanity', I have two other 'Scott books' to indulge in :) Reading your books is like eating amazing, delicious chocolate cake. Simply, you can't get enough.Cara
Hi Scott, this is a terrific start. The writing draws one in immediately; you can feel the entombment. Nice echo of the bible with the theme of light and dark. (light shone in the dark, but the darkness did not know it/John). Good luck with it. My backing. Malve (Falconello)
Scott you are a genius. This is exciting! I woke up this morning wrapped in sheets from a bad dream. I thought I was Scrooge. But lo, here is a rich and skillfully written book about Lazarus. I have to say that there are many who would love to see that scene. I am definitely going to ask God for a playback on that one! But this book takes us through the events after Lazarus’ rising from the grave and his feelings of being lost, disoriented perhaps. This bring a very human aspect to the miracle and I like how you convey his bewilderment in the first and second chapters. As he greets the crowd, my heart raced as he introduced himself. ‘I am Lazarus who Jesus raised from the tomb. These are my lands.’ High stars without hesitation. Prayers for publication in His time. Claire ~ Chasing Pharaohs.
Scott,WOW! This is an amazing piece! After just the opening two lines, I was absolutely compelled to read on. I love the premise... through the eyes of Lazarus; and your writing style beautifully takes it all the such higher ground. I love the line: "Earth caved in about him as he rose from the grave..." I think it actually gave me chills! This is truly amazing work. I will be back to finish what you have posted and look forward to the completion of this piece.All the very best,Faith RoseNow To Him
why no long pitch here? it deserves one! maybe it is under edit! you are a prolific and talented writer. you have told this story well. after being in israel, i can picture it all much better.jwhat every woman should know
{Lazarus, Man} – Scott ToneyChapters 2 and 3:Scott,How delighted I am that I have more of your work to read, after finishing ‘The Ark of Humanity’!I have continued reading Lazarus, Man, and am enjoying your portrayal of this story. I particularly like the perspective of Lazarus, and the struggle he faces – both internally as he ponders ‘Why bring me back from the dead, Lord, and then take back what you have given?’ and physically, as he is forced into hiding so as not be crucified alongside Jesus. I look forward to seeing how you will tell this story!I also loved Lazarus’ determination at the end of chapter 3; ‘determined to help Jesus in some way.’ Excellent stuff! :) Have a terrific day!Carap.s. I’m so excited that you finished reading ‘Dawn of Destruction’! I’m also glad you enjoyed my ‘extras’ – I didn’t realize I had them in the document I sent you! They were just random scenes I didn’t really want to delete as I was nonetheless editing and sharpening the rest of the manuscript!p.p.s. Thank you so much again for all your support, and again, have an amazing day :)
Ahh, very refreshingly easy to follow compared to the Arc of Humanity - at least for me. Up to chap. 4, and like to continue tomorrow. I have Lazarus in my book too, somwhere at the middle and near the end. I used him differently however, unless the end of your book coincides with mine. I feel he was a parabolic illustration that no man can make a free will decision to accept Christ. If one is 'dead' in one's sins before salvation, a dead thing or a dead man can do nothing by himself, as we know Lazarus could not of himself come out of the grave when he was 'first' called. George
What an imagiantion and your style of creatinng the stmosohere is great. Good reading, will make a great movie. Anyhow would that raise any issue from chaurche i wonder! Do your long pitch, anyway it would not matter as much now. I will, continue reading it. Highly rated.
Hi, Scott – I’m a sucker for stories about Biblical characters, so I’ve wanted to read this for a while. As you may know, I am accompanied on my reviews by my English teacher alter-ego, The Grammar Hag. Whatever you don’t agree with was likely her doing.I love the beginning. When Lazarus thinks to himself, “Jesus,” I chucked because I knew he was actually seeing Christ and not cursing. I don’t know if you did it on purpose, but it has a way of assuring us we are reading the work of a Christian writer.The Hag thinks you should revise the last line of chapter 1: “…headed to his room, lay down on his bed, closed his eyes, and gave in to the darkness and rest.”Course wood should be coarse wood. I’m guessing you haven’t had much time for line-edits, what with having a book on the desk. I’m amazed at the amount of work involved once a writer hits the top 20.I’m so caught up in the story that I’m not critting any longer. You’ve woven another remarkable story here. Well done!Hope this one is as successful as the other (=:~AudreyBForgiveness Fits
Scott,This is great stuff. I loved Lazarus's confused and compassionate character; no doubt he's forever changed by the miracle that has been done to him. I liked the crucifixion scene, a vivid scene, as told from the POV of Lazarus. You write in an unassuming and humble style that does not get in the way of the plot or the characters. That is hard to do. I compliment you on your hard work and dedication to your craft. I am touched by this man, and I think you have a solid audience out there who will enjoy this story immensely. Keep up the great writing and thanks again. God bless,Sam CroninMule
Scott,Well done with the opening chapters! This story is easy to read, a solid tempo with a conversational, unassuming prose that doesn't constrict the plot. That takes a terrific amount of skill. I like how you've painted Lazarus's character as one confused and compassionate, no doubt affected by the miracle that was done to him. I thought the crucifixion was poignantly vivid, and fresh, as told from Lazarus's angle. Your writing is filled with humility, and humility is very attractive to a reader. I compliment you on your work. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing your work!Sam Cronin
Scott, just finished all the chapters. It is a marvelous story, with powerful physical descriptions with even a more powerful message of a man's inner transformation and purpose. It is magnificent! Great pace, written in an easy to read flow.T. Donna Robison(No Kiss Good-bye)
The second book you authored that takes my breath away!T. Donna Robison (No Kiss Good-bye)
Here’s the rest of my comments/suggestions for you, Scott. Well done! I hope to see it in print as well!14- The sun baked his exposed flesh as he held the baby tight. … At times the baby boy had awoken and cried, but Lazarus was able to sooth [soothe];- As he opened his eyes sunlight burned into them, blinding him with light. [maybe ‘with light’ is not needed here];- His skin was so dry. Is this really John? … Lazarus held his sun burned hand [sunburned hand];- She has such a beautiful smile. How amazing is it that John had a midwife in his caravan? [consider, ‘How amazing it is that John had a midwife in his caravan!’]; - John waded out into the gentle river and Lazarus followed him. … As Lazarus neared John the man came to him [‘the man’ is a bit confusing here – for a moment I thought that another man came to the river; maybe it needs rephrasing];- Lazarus took John’s hand firmly and then clasped … in the short time since we’ve met.” [since we met.”];- Lazarus kneeled near the basket and kissed the baby’s forehead that he had rescued. [consider ‘the rescued baby’s forehead’ otherwise it sounds a bit awkward].15- The caravan entered Antioch’s main thoroughfare as a crowd thronged its market. … Then, suddenly, Lazarus heard the cry. [‘the cry’ or ‘a cry’?];- At this John called for the caravan to halt and stood in their cart. … And I bring you great news of Jesus the Christ’s [is ‘the’ necessary after ‘Jesus’?];- The man with the bread basket stood next to their cart. “I have never been baptized. I believe that Jesus was our Lord’s son. Would you baptize me?” [maybe reverse the sentences here, “I believe that Jesus was our Lord’s son, but I have never been baptized. Would you baptize me?”];- As John baptized and spoke with members of the crowd Lazarus … Once they are alerted of our presence then surely they will be upon us. [perhaps you don’t need ‘then’ here as you use it once more in the same paragraph];- “I will see what I can do. I’ll return shortly.” … “Excuse me sir, [“Excuse me, sir,];- After a moment’s hesitation the beggar stood and … in the direction he was lead. [led].16- Lazarus breathed deeply. It was a breath of purpose … “I can think of no better time then now [than now];- The dirt road they walked wove up [weaved up; you’d better consult a native speaker here but I’m pretty sure that’s how it should be];- “I love you both so much. I wanted to return to you in Bethany but could not for fear for my life.” [perhaps better, ‘for fear of my life’].Kindest regards,Ivan
Scott, you have another amazing book here. The way you left the pitch short, because it said a lot in just that.Also the idea of telling of Lazarus is really great. It is different! I never really stopped to think, what was Lazarus like after coming back to life. He knew he was risen from the dead, but then what? This is a good idea for a book.You did a good job writing it too.Super job!Shelby Z./Driving Winds
Dear Scott,I have had a chance only to look through your book and I liked it. That is a great theme that you have picked. I hope it will make to the top of the list. I will try to read all the book. Blessings!
With each chapter I'm falling in love with "Lazarus, Man" more and more. Chapter 12 is very, very beautiful. I look forward to reading the continuation.A few suggestions for you:Chapter 11 - “Barbacus!” Lazarus shouted as he neared land. … THUMP! his boat ran [perhaps ‘His boat …’ - capitalized];- It’s as if they’ve vanished. … I will leave the bags for them incase they return. [in case];- I am alone. Lazarus opened his eyes and stood as a tear raced down his face. “Why Lord? [not sure here, but maybe this should go with a comma: “Why, Lord?…”].Chapter 12:- Baah, a sheep sounded nearby … [perhaps it’s ok; consider ‘…a sheep bleated nearby…’];- “These sheep,” Jesus motioned … Sheppard over them [I believe it should be “Shepherd over them”].Sincerely Yours,Ivan
Scott,I love to read this style of book, so please forgive me if I seem overcritical of your work. I will try not to be.I like the opening scene in this chapter. You started it with Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead--a very poignant description of the event. You might explore Lazarus point of view a little more. How does he feel about being raised from the dead? After Jesus tells him he is healed. you change point of views. That was kind of confusing for a second. If I am reading it wrong let me know. I want to understand it. This is definitely one I will read to the end. Just thought I would let you know that up front."All I ask is your belief and your mouths to spread God's word...." That part doesn't sound quite right. You might consider changing the wording a little.You have two point of views in the first chapter,right? Lazarus and Jesus? People have made comments about point of view to me. I am changing it. You might watch your point of view. Make it obvious when you change from one to another.You have done an excellent job making your dialoge believable. I especially like the things Jesus says. It sounds just like him.I noticed very little in the way of grammatical errors, so you are pretty good there.Well, I hope this helps.Tina BurtonTears in HeavenBattle of Love
Hi Scott – here are just a few thoughts as I was reading the prologue and the first three chapters. The novel reads well, and I will be interested to hear how you develop the plot.In the prologue, why does Jesus tell people not to praise him? This seems to contradict in Chapter 1 when the crowd kneeled before Jesus.I would be surprised if Mary and Martha had servants (but I've been incorrectly surprised before).The spelling of “Pharoses” was not familiar. I am more familiar with the spelling “Pharisees”. Regardless, it might help to include some context of who they are, and why they would want to kill Lazarus.For some reason the phrase “He wasn’t alert in the sun of the day but instead focused on the blurred city in the distance” seemed to jar a little – maybe if he wasn’t alert it would be hard to focus? When you write: “Surely they will find Jesus guilty. How could such a man not be the Messiah?” My understanding was that Jesus was tried for “falsely claiming to be the Messiah”, and so was not found guilty and crucified by the Romans for actually being the Messiah.“because he has made himself the Son of God” – maybe change to “he has called himself the Son of God”?Minor typo “I was myself of this!” should be “I wash myself of this!”.Pilate says “Take him yourselves and crucify him…”, but then the crowd tries to convince Pilate to crucify him. I wondered if the sequencing is out a bit. Also, you don’t seem to mention that (I think) the Jews were not legally able to put anyone to death, so the Romans had to carry out the execution. Hope these comments are helpful.Peter.Falscastra – Journey to the King
Hey Scott,I am trying to add Lazarus Man to my watch list but so far it hasn't made it, but will keep trying. I'm looking forward to reading it, because it must be as good as the others! Monica Pride
Hey Scott, I was extremely glad to see the continuation of ‘Lazarus, Man’ and here are a few things for you to perfect your great book.Chapter 9- Nicholas’ eyes opened and Lazarus was heartened to see his hazy eyes had lost redness. [consider, ‘Nicholas opened his eyes and Lazarus was heartened to see they had lost their redness.’ – sounds smoother IMHO];- Moments passes and Lazarus looked to the sun above. [Moments passed];- “Matthew’s body must be moved and I alone can not move him. [cannot] Nicholas can not help [cannot];- “I can drag him into the cavern from here,” Barbacus said as sweat dripped down his scared forehead. [scarred forehead];- They laid Matthew’s frail, lifeless form … There were bones of many men here beneath were they set the body. [maybe, ‘where they set the body’ – not sure].Keep going like this, my friend! :)Sincerely Yours,Ivan
Hi Scott,Someone recently told me, and I'm not sure where they sourced this, that Lazarus went to live in Cyprus for fear of his life being taken. There he apparently helped the local people.I'm delighted that you're familiar with the scriptures to build a strong case for Lazarus of "what might have happened" and I have enjoyed reading the story thus far. One thing that may help in your opening chapter is a little research in relation to Jewish burial customs of the time. The corpse embalmed in linen strips and various spices was put into a cave, the stone door rolled closed, then and left there for a year or so, when the bones then would eventually be retrieved and placed into an ossuary. As far as I understand it, Jews did not bury all their dead in the soil; many were buried in caves -- this was certainly true of Lazarus and later Jesus. With this in mind, I would probably re-work the section about Lazarus' experience in awakening in relation to the "soil".A good read. Thanks.Thanks also for your encouraging words with Hope of the Resurrection.John
Faith, I hope you don't mind me posting your comment on the book's page. It really meant a lot to me!- Scott***********************************************************************************************************************Hey Scott,You are very welcome! Lazarus, Man is an amazing book, and it has the power to touch and change people... I love that! :)Thank you again for the re-backing... what a nice surprise!Thanks so much,Faith
I can't not back it, Scott!New chapter! Superb!A couple suggestions:- “You would risk our disease? What afflicts you sir that you [What afflicts you, sir, that you];- On a bed in a corner of the structure another man laid, his body completely covered [perhaps, ‘another man lay’, and I’d drop ‘completely’];- The second bed was near Lazarus and the man in it… as he watched the man in his bed [not sure if you need ‘in his bed’ – it’s implied by what has been mentioned earlier].Hope that will help.Sincerely Yours,Ivan
Hi Scott,I loved the way you use descriptive imagery to give the reader the feeling as if they were actually right there with Lazarus as the plot unfolds. You add a context around the existing scriptures that helped me to think about what it would be like to be Lazarus, Mary, or Martha in the story - the danger, the fear, the uncertainty about being given a second chance. Great job.Given 6 stars and backed.God bless,Julie Van MeterA Beautiful Gift
excellent :)
Hey Scott, terrific stuff! On my Watchlist for now. I enjoy what you're doing with the genre, the theme. Nice!blessings,Jim
Really liking this. Easy to read yet full of images and visual writing. Only on chapter two at the moment but will comment when finished. There's only one thing that jarred and that was the mention of soil and pushing through soil from his grave. I understood that the bodies were just laid in the cave in the dry air and wouldn't have been covered with soil - is this wrong? I'd be interested to know. Anyway - back to the book. A great idea, not come across it before, and very well written.Cariad.
Very interesting idea. Great writing. I stumbled in one place, but quickly pressed on. You're a good story teller. Good luck!D. S. Hale
Scott, Scott, Scott-You're amazing! What spin! What perspective! It reads like a missing book. This is well written, fascinating, and well researched. You obviously know your scripture well enough to tell the story through Lazarus' eyes. Very enjoyable. 6 stars. Dina
Happy Thanksgiving, Scott. Read the first two chapters, and am familiar with the Biblical passage. Interested in where you are taking this and will continue to shelve. Now back to eating! Dina
I read the first chapter and loved it. Backed!FD
Hello there, just read chapter 2. Nice. I read it with a broad smile. Quite creative, too. You are clearly still busy on this story so I won't comment on the need for editing... you're probably going there. Mary and martha were so privileged! As was Lazarus, of course. To write this story was pure inspiration. God bless you richly. I so much want to write an epic story about Saul of Tarsus, but I doubt I'll do it the justice it deserves...he's too big a personality. Blessings'tisha**************************************************************************************************************************tisha I posted this on the book because I enjoyed your comment so much! Have a wonderful day! - Scott***
ScottI am going to enjoy reading this. Chapter 1 has whetted my appetite.Perhaps this is just me, but when Jesus was worshipped, He received it. We know He is God therefore for Him to say, "There's no need to kneel for Me," it doesn't ring real. Mary is the sister who chose the better part, remember? Jesus would not have discouraged her from kneeling at His feet. If i'm wrong or being too pedantic, forgive me. Blessings'tisha
I had some time so I decided to dedicate it to the continuation of Lazarus, Man. Here are my suggestions for Chapters 5 to 7. I hope they’ll be useful :)Chapter 5- Nothing, he heard nothing but the breaths … He had heard Jesus speaking to the thieves on their crosses beside him [consider, ‘on the crosses beside him’];- He turned to see the soldier who had pursued him … Lazarus touched the doors handle and then let it go and went to the man. [‘the door handle’ or ‘the door’s handle’; consider also putting a comma after ‘handle’ instead of ‘and’];- Why? Why did you have to die? Couldn’t you have saved yourself … He clenched the course stone [coarse stone].Chapter 6- I will die in the heat and the desert’s animals will tear apart my body. [‘tear my body apart’ sounds better, IMHO];- Lazarus’ stomach ached with hunger as he lay … Then, for a reason unknown to him, he kneeled and then stood. [‘then’ is used twice in this sentence; better avoid using it];- He led the donkey for hours over the hot sand until the sun had set and the world was lit my moonlight [by moonlight];- “Here friend.” Lazarus returned to the river [“Here, friend.”];- What do I do? If I had never met the ass then I would be in the desert still. With a moments hesitation [moment’s].Chapter 7- “Fare well friend,” Lazarus said [consider, “Farewell, friend,”];- I will follow the river down Israel’s edge … Surely there is no better place for me to decide my future then that. [perhaps, ‘than that.’];- Lazarus’ hands went limp on the oar and it was braced … His body forced his mind to slumber. [to my mind, this sentence is not needed as it is implied by the previous one];- He awoke to the dark of night and clear stars above … Surly I should have been killed [Surely] … Lazarus laid back [lay back];- The river curved to the right and Lazarus steadied himself … he took a breath, in aw [awe] … Lazarus was in awe. He had not expected such beauty in the place [as you use ‘awe’ in this paragraph, perhaps it’ll be better to combine these sentences dropping this word: ‘Lazarus had not expected such beauty in the place’ – it would imply his state].Oh, you know how to intrigue the reader, Scott. I look forward to reading the continuation.Sincerely Yours,Ivan
Since I read chapter 1 before, I went on to read the continuation. Your talent is undeniable, Scott. Each manuscript that is written by you is an admirable piece of writing. This one is as great as the others. I’ll return for more, and here are a few suggestions for you on chapters 2-4:Chapter 2- Six days before Passover Lazarus sat at a large table made of course wood [coarse];- He sat silently. “No.” he replied. [“No,” he replied.];- Jesus placed his hand on Lazarus’ own. … you will do great things Lazarus.” [great things, Lazarus.”].Chapter 3- Lazarus did not look back, did not go toward his stables … Instead he rain straight [ran straight];- Warm sunlight blinded him as Lazarus awoke in the tree grove, seeing a round aura of sunlight mirroring the sun’s form above. [I love this sentence :)];- He looked to the open expanse of sand behind him. … Bethlehem, Jesus’ birth place. [birthplace – as one word];- The boy lifted a fig from the bowl before him … And I have a flask of water I will share with you [I think this sentence should be with quotes];- “They say he claims to be the Messiah … rebuild it as has been prophesized.” [perhaps, ‘prophesied’].Chapter 4- Jesus stepped through the curtain in a flowing purple robe as sunlight shown [shone];- Lazarus could see large splinters in their wood. [is this sentence ok, or is it just me?];- Lazarus pushed his way forward with the mob [IMHO, you may cut the -ing forms in this paragraph, esp. closer to the end];- Hours passed as soldiers led the crowd through the streets … People heckled Jesus as he bared the cross on his back [perhaps, ‘bore his cross’ or ‘was bearing his cross’];- “Let the Christ, the King of Israel [not sure of ‘the’ before ‘Christ’].I hope that’ll help.Ivan
I've been waiting for a while for this book to appear on authonomy. Finally you did it, Scott! Well done! I'm definitely going to read the continuation :)Ivan AmberlakeThe Beholder
Aaaahhh! This is IT man! This is the one! Keep going! I can't wait to find out what happens next! Omgoodness! I have pondered Lazarus myself. Go man! Get in his head and take it it all the way! This has got best seller written all over it! =)Laura A. Diaz"They Call Me Blanca"P.s. sorry for sounding like a cheerleader and not giving constructive feedback. Sure there are typos. Blah, who cares I know you're going to catch'em .( or some nice authonomite will do it for you.lol!). I am just all excited about this one!!!=). I'll be back to read more as you upload.