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Funeral with a View
Thirty-two-year-old Richard Franchitti didn’t believe in love at first sight until he met free-spirited Catherine and started a brand new life. A devoted father and husband, Richard fought to keep his family together when it would have been easier to walk away.
Tragedy left him with unfinished business.
Now a disembodied spirit, Richard relives his most important days. From the beginnings of unconditional love, to the joy of his daughter’s birth, and all of the difficult times in between, each treasured moment brings him closer to answering the question:
“Why am I still here?”
He was born Richard Franchitti, but his friends call him Ricky. Welcome to his funeral.
Tragedy left him with unfinished business.
Now a disembodied spirit, Richard relives his most important days. From the beginnings of unconditional love, to the joy of his daughter’s birth, and all of the difficult times in between, each treasured moment brings him closer to answering the question:
“Why am I still here?”
He was born Richard Franchitti, but his friends call him Ricky. Welcome to his funeral.
- GenresFiction
Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2014
24 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Matt Schiariti
8 books152 followersWhen an ill-fated joint writing venture went horribly awry, mild mannered engineer Matt Schiariti decided to strike out on his own. The result? Selling his short story 'Hollow' to Padwolf Publishing for inclusion in the recently published anthology, 'Apocalypse 13' in late 2012. Gaining confidence from seeing his first ever published story in print, he plowed on and dove into the self-publishing pool with the dark fiction/horror short story, 'Words With Fiends'.
Matt has always been a voracious reader and reviewer of books and, after 37 years, has decided to make the transition to writer. Better late than never. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, 1.75 children, crazy dog, and overly personable guinea pig. He's written two novels in 2012 which is he currently editing and continues to work on short stories. Look for more from the self-proclaimed "dude who writes" in 2013.
Matt has always been a voracious reader and reviewer of books and, after 37 years, has decided to make the transition to writer. Better late than never. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, 1.75 children, crazy dog, and overly personable guinea pig. He's written two novels in 2012 which is he currently editing and continues to work on short stories. Look for more from the self-proclaimed "dude who writes" in 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 22, 2014
***Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy in exchange for a review. And I am also a friend of the author’s.***
Having said that, Funeral With a View is one of the better books you’ll read this year.
The story of Richard Franchitti will, of course, immediately bring to mind Frank Capra’s timeless classic film- It’s a Wonderful Life. But instead of seeing what life was like without him, our guy looks back upon his life and wonders what’s left for him to do.
Richard Franchitti is an ordinary man. And as we all know, there’s nothing more special on this earth than an ordinary man. He rises and falls, stumbles and carries on, triumphs and fails. He toasts little victories and drinks away small failures… ok, he actually chews his fingernails but you get the point.
After a momentary lapse of reason that ends up costing him his life, Richard’s soul somehow fails to move on. Something’s keeping him tethered to both the world and his family and he needs to figure out what it is and come to terms with himself and the choices he’s made. To finally be at peace with himself, albeit after the fact.
Matt Schiariti has an amazing talent for characterization, dialogue and making the plot flow smoothly, so his books are very easy to dive right into. You get to know his characters through their words, gestures and little quirks (“Glenn? Glenn!”). Their laughter, pain and tears are real to you because you can identify with their struggles; situations we’ve all been in at one time or another or know someone who has. And you’ll want the characters to overcome them because of it. Which makes FWAV all the more human because you already know Richie didn’t make it. But he has a chance to set a few things right.
Funeral With a View is a story that’ll draw you in and hold you close. You can’t ask for anything more than that.
Having said that, Funeral With a View is one of the better books you’ll read this year.
The story of Richard Franchitti will, of course, immediately bring to mind Frank Capra’s timeless classic film- It’s a Wonderful Life. But instead of seeing what life was like without him, our guy looks back upon his life and wonders what’s left for him to do.
Richard Franchitti is an ordinary man. And as we all know, there’s nothing more special on this earth than an ordinary man. He rises and falls, stumbles and carries on, triumphs and fails. He toasts little victories and drinks away small failures… ok, he actually chews his fingernails but you get the point.
After a momentary lapse of reason that ends up costing him his life, Richard’s soul somehow fails to move on. Something’s keeping him tethered to both the world and his family and he needs to figure out what it is and come to terms with himself and the choices he’s made. To finally be at peace with himself, albeit after the fact.
Matt Schiariti has an amazing talent for characterization, dialogue and making the plot flow smoothly, so his books are very easy to dive right into. You get to know his characters through their words, gestures and little quirks (“Glenn? Glenn!”). Their laughter, pain and tears are real to you because you can identify with their struggles; situations we’ve all been in at one time or another or know someone who has. And you’ll want the characters to overcome them because of it. Which makes FWAV all the more human because you already know Richie didn’t make it. But he has a chance to set a few things right.
Funeral With a View is a story that’ll draw you in and hold you close. You can’t ask for anything more than that.
August 25, 2014
A Five Hanky Read
I cried while reading the ARC. On a construction site. In front of 30 guys. And that's probably all you really need to know about the book.
Rick Franchitti is happily married man trying to talk to his wife on the cellphone when he has an unfortunate encounter with a beer truck that leaves him dead but still tethered to his body. During his funeral he relives the many high and low points of his courtship and married life. Without going into too many details Rick is a character who adores his wife and child and filled his short but well lived life with love and friendship. Secondary characters fly off the pages and you can feel not just his grief, but theirs, at having to say goodbye to such as good friend. If only they knew he was hovering in the background, able only to observe, not knowing why he's unable to pass on.
This was in the vein of The Lovely Bones and If I Stay--but the key character is an adult man-not a teenage girl. For the record I enjoyed it more than both those books.
I cried while reading the ARC. On a construction site. In front of 30 guys. And that's probably all you really need to know about the book.
Rick Franchitti is happily married man trying to talk to his wife on the cellphone when he has an unfortunate encounter with a beer truck that leaves him dead but still tethered to his body. During his funeral he relives the many high and low points of his courtship and married life. Without going into too many details Rick is a character who adores his wife and child and filled his short but well lived life with love and friendship. Secondary characters fly off the pages and you can feel not just his grief, but theirs, at having to say goodbye to such as good friend. If only they knew he was hovering in the background, able only to observe, not knowing why he's unable to pass on.
This was in the vein of The Lovely Bones and If I Stay--but the key character is an adult man-not a teenage girl. For the record I enjoyed it more than both those books.
December 1, 2018
This novel raises one question: is death something that makes an ordinary life interesting ?
My personal answer would be no...
My personal answer would be no...
January 1, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've been waiting for this blasted thing for a year. Okay, over a year. I was part of both the beta and ARC teams, but I always prefer to read the final version of a book - so I know how it ends up.
I loved it a year ago, and I love it even more now. Matt Schiariti is one of my favorite authors for good reason. His stuff is hilarious, but not in a cheesy way, and it has enough drama to keep you glued to it.
WARNING: This book has feels. Strong ones. I cried. I also got upset with some characters, and I wanted to kick a couple in the butt. They know what they did!
This is a fabulous book and was well worth the wait.
5/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/f...
I've been waiting for this blasted thing for a year. Okay, over a year. I was part of both the beta and ARC teams, but I always prefer to read the final version of a book - so I know how it ends up.
I loved it a year ago, and I love it even more now. Matt Schiariti is one of my favorite authors for good reason. His stuff is hilarious, but not in a cheesy way, and it has enough drama to keep you glued to it.
WARNING: This book has feels. Strong ones. I cried. I also got upset with some characters, and I wanted to kick a couple in the butt. They know what they did!
This is a fabulous book and was well worth the wait.
5/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/f...
November 3, 2014
I was given this book from the author in exchange for a fair review. (thank you!)
When the person over the blog that I submit my reviews to ask me to review this book, I was like...ugh it's kinda paranormal isn't it? I don't do anything paranormal, ever. I read Twlight, but that is as much as paranormal as I ever got. Jude was like, noooo, not really. So, I went into this book with a preconceived notion that I wasn't going to like this book. I read a little bit. oh, great he is a ghost! Ugh!! Well, if you know me (which you probably don't)I do not leave a book unread, especially if someone is counting on me, plus this was going to broaden my genre. So, it's Halloween night, spooky right, good time for a ghost book, I start to really read this book. To my surprise and delight, this is a romance novel, now we are talking. Jude knows how much I love my romance novels, what a good friend!
Funeral With A View by Matt Schiariti proves to me that not only can not judge a book by it's cover but not by it's genre either. This is one of the best love stories. At times, the characters made me want to throw my kindle across the room for being so stupid, and others they were so sweet and loving, I was cooing (no joke). This book goes through Rick's and Cat's relationship, all the ups and downs. From beginning to the end, you travel along as Rick remembers all the important stuff. While he is trying to figure out why he is still here on Earth or in this Realm. (See I don't know the jargon here, so please excuse me.
I loved this book, I wanted to know these characters and be their friends. He brought them to life for me, well almost all of them... heehee. I cried at the end of this book, which surprised me too. It made me teary eyed and I was not prepared for that! I'm now a fan at least of Matt's here, but can't say I can accept the whole genre... it scares me and I have to sleep alone too often!
I give Funeral With a View 5 Platypires
Bama Love!! Roll Tide!! and Keep Reading Y'all
When the person over the blog that I submit my reviews to ask me to review this book, I was like...ugh it's kinda paranormal isn't it? I don't do anything paranormal, ever. I read Twlight, but that is as much as paranormal as I ever got. Jude was like, noooo, not really. So, I went into this book with a preconceived notion that I wasn't going to like this book. I read a little bit. oh, great he is a ghost! Ugh!! Well, if you know me (which you probably don't)I do not leave a book unread, especially if someone is counting on me, plus this was going to broaden my genre. So, it's Halloween night, spooky right, good time for a ghost book, I start to really read this book. To my surprise and delight, this is a romance novel, now we are talking. Jude knows how much I love my romance novels, what a good friend!
Funeral With A View by Matt Schiariti proves to me that not only can not judge a book by it's cover but not by it's genre either. This is one of the best love stories. At times, the characters made me want to throw my kindle across the room for being so stupid, and others they were so sweet and loving, I was cooing (no joke). This book goes through Rick's and Cat's relationship, all the ups and downs. From beginning to the end, you travel along as Rick remembers all the important stuff. While he is trying to figure out why he is still here on Earth or in this Realm. (See I don't know the jargon here, so please excuse me.
I loved this book, I wanted to know these characters and be their friends. He brought them to life for me, well almost all of them... heehee. I cried at the end of this book, which surprised me too. It made me teary eyed and I was not prepared for that! I'm now a fan at least of Matt's here, but can't say I can accept the whole genre... it scares me and I have to sleep alone too often!
I give Funeral With a View 5 Platypires
Bama Love!! Roll Tide!! and Keep Reading Y'all
January 3, 2015
As I read the opening scene of Funeral with a View, I braced myself for a depressing read. After all, it’s hard to expect a happy ending when the main character starts off the book by dying. But Matt Schiariti’s second full-length novel surprised me by being both less gloomy and more heart-wrenching than I expected.
Ricky and Cat are ordinary people, and their story is an ordinary one, with a few twists. What makes it extraordinary is the way it’s told. Ricky is the narrator of his own story, from beyond the grave—or, to be more accurate, slightly above it. The chapters switch between scenes of Ricky observing his own viewing and graveside service and extended flashbacks of the years before his untimely death-by-beer-truck. Schiariti ties each flashback into the current events in such a way that the story flows smoothly: past and present each inform the other, adding emotional depth to the story as a whole.
Another distinguishing feature of the narrative is Ricky’s voice. Even when he’s observing the events taking place rather than participating in them, it’s impossible to mistake him for some nondescript voice-over; his individuality comes through in unique speech patterns, expressions, and metaphors that both fit the character and enrich our view of him.
By the end of the book I was invested, engrossed, and, as Schiariti no doubt intended, a bit wrecked. The story did manage to end on a slightly uplifting, even hopeful note, which somehow made it all the more gutting. In the hands of another author, this tale might have fallen tragically flat—in Schiariti’s, it’s one that I’ll no doubt pick up again the next time I need a cathartic cry.
Ricky and Cat are ordinary people, and their story is an ordinary one, with a few twists. What makes it extraordinary is the way it’s told. Ricky is the narrator of his own story, from beyond the grave—or, to be more accurate, slightly above it. The chapters switch between scenes of Ricky observing his own viewing and graveside service and extended flashbacks of the years before his untimely death-by-beer-truck. Schiariti ties each flashback into the current events in such a way that the story flows smoothly: past and present each inform the other, adding emotional depth to the story as a whole.
Another distinguishing feature of the narrative is Ricky’s voice. Even when he’s observing the events taking place rather than participating in them, it’s impossible to mistake him for some nondescript voice-over; his individuality comes through in unique speech patterns, expressions, and metaphors that both fit the character and enrich our view of him.
By the end of the book I was invested, engrossed, and, as Schiariti no doubt intended, a bit wrecked. The story did manage to end on a slightly uplifting, even hopeful note, which somehow made it all the more gutting. In the hands of another author, this tale might have fallen tragically flat—in Schiariti’s, it’s one that I’ll no doubt pick up again the next time I need a cathartic cry.
December 12, 2014
There is so much to this wonderful book that it’s hard to know where to begin a review. Funeral with a View is a poignant tale of one man’s life and experiences. When Richard Franchitti’s life is brought to an untimely end by a freak accident, he finds himself in an out of body experience as he attends his own funeral and relives the memories – both beautiful and tragic – of his all-too-short life.
Ricky is not a perfect man, but I think he epitomizes a good man; a man that others would look up to and admire. This book drives home so many of life’s experiences, from the highs of being in love with that one person who completes you and the birth of your child, to the lows of loss and death, as well as everything in between. The writing style is fluid and is incredibly well done, while the editing is excellent. The imagery is vivid and the story sucked me right in. Many times I found myself either laughing out loud at the antics of some of the characters (like Ricky’s mother – she’s a hoot) or wallowing with a broken heart at the unfairness of it all. Something else I really enjoyed seeing in the book was the character growth as they grew older and more mature. These are not two-dimensional characters that are established early on and never change, these characters seem real. They are people that grow, learn and change as time goes on and as they gain life experiences. They have fears, flaws and emotions, and I think that many of us could stand to learn a few things from them, especially Ricky. Life is just too short and we should all make the most of every moment.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and award it 5 platypires!
Ricky is not a perfect man, but I think he epitomizes a good man; a man that others would look up to and admire. This book drives home so many of life’s experiences, from the highs of being in love with that one person who completes you and the birth of your child, to the lows of loss and death, as well as everything in between. The writing style is fluid and is incredibly well done, while the editing is excellent. The imagery is vivid and the story sucked me right in. Many times I found myself either laughing out loud at the antics of some of the characters (like Ricky’s mother – she’s a hoot) or wallowing with a broken heart at the unfairness of it all. Something else I really enjoyed seeing in the book was the character growth as they grew older and more mature. These are not two-dimensional characters that are established early on and never change, these characters seem real. They are people that grow, learn and change as time goes on and as they gain life experiences. They have fears, flaws and emotions, and I think that many of us could stand to learn a few things from them, especially Ricky. Life is just too short and we should all make the most of every moment.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and award it 5 platypires!
December 17, 2014
This is a 3 1/2 star read for me.
I heard about this book through a friend who was constantly posting about it and then I was in the same facebook group as the author. This peeked my interest. I already read Words with Fiends but that short story was not in a genre that I normally read in. Funeral with a View on the other hand was defiantly my genre but I was still hesitant because I am not a fan of the cover. Yes, I judge book covers and I'm honest about it. Anyways, I picked up this book and started reading it and I can see the author has talent. At first I couldn't help but compare him to author Jonathan Tropper who is also a male author who writes contemporary fiction with male leads and who has written books with funerals as the setting. I couldn't help but compare especially after a risque scene in the beginning of the book feature 3 of the main characters but after that the similarities ended. The book had strong opening but then fell flat for the first half of the story. I couldn't get into how perfect the characters were to each other and how they lived perfect lives. It was too neatly packaged for my taste and I guess I preferred characters who are a little bit more flawed. Well, the story definitely picked up somewhere around the midway point and I was engrossed with the characters lives. Even the most perfect marriages have issues and nobody is that perfect. Overall, I thought this was pretty good read and like I said before the author has talent. Can't wait to see what he does next.
I heard about this book through a friend who was constantly posting about it and then I was in the same facebook group as the author. This peeked my interest. I already read Words with Fiends but that short story was not in a genre that I normally read in. Funeral with a View on the other hand was defiantly my genre but I was still hesitant because I am not a fan of the cover. Yes, I judge book covers and I'm honest about it. Anyways, I picked up this book and started reading it and I can see the author has talent. At first I couldn't help but compare him to author Jonathan Tropper who is also a male author who writes contemporary fiction with male leads and who has written books with funerals as the setting. I couldn't help but compare especially after a risque scene in the beginning of the book feature 3 of the main characters but after that the similarities ended. The book had strong opening but then fell flat for the first half of the story. I couldn't get into how perfect the characters were to each other and how they lived perfect lives. It was too neatly packaged for my taste and I guess I preferred characters who are a little bit more flawed. Well, the story definitely picked up somewhere around the midway point and I was engrossed with the characters lives. Even the most perfect marriages have issues and nobody is that perfect. Overall, I thought this was pretty good read and like I said before the author has talent. Can't wait to see what he does next.
January 18, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a tough review for me; usually as I read a book I keep a Word doc going so that I can easily keep track of my thoughts both negative and positive. Reading this book, I was just so bored. I didn't have any productive thoughts worthy of noting; nothing good to say, but nothing terrible to say either. The book is fairly well written, though could use a little help with grammar at times.
The characters, while horribly boring are very well developed and consistent. The descriptions are well designed and I was easily able to develop a clear image while reading this book. The plot: it has completely been done before. I've seen/ read this very plot in more media than I can list here. I kept reading and waiting for it to take a turn that would have some sort of originality but it never did. I predicted every step of the way, and every aspect of this plot has been done before - and more than a little. '
There isn't any grand adventure or action or anything like that- and that is perfectly fine as a book can have other aspects of course. However the drama that there was felt canned, emotionless and redundant. I was tempted to give up on this book but I kept on, hoping for some drastic turn or some originality - however, there was none.
Not a bad read, just not an original or exciting read either. It is hard to find originality these days and I do not fault the author. I suspect that many people would like this book and get into the family dynamic it has going on.
This is a tough review for me; usually as I read a book I keep a Word doc going so that I can easily keep track of my thoughts both negative and positive. Reading this book, I was just so bored. I didn't have any productive thoughts worthy of noting; nothing good to say, but nothing terrible to say either. The book is fairly well written, though could use a little help with grammar at times.
The characters, while horribly boring are very well developed and consistent. The descriptions are well designed and I was easily able to develop a clear image while reading this book. The plot: it has completely been done before. I've seen/ read this very plot in more media than I can list here. I kept reading and waiting for it to take a turn that would have some sort of originality but it never did. I predicted every step of the way, and every aspect of this plot has been done before - and more than a little. '
There isn't any grand adventure or action or anything like that- and that is perfectly fine as a book can have other aspects of course. However the drama that there was felt canned, emotionless and redundant. I was tempted to give up on this book but I kept on, hoping for some drastic turn or some originality - however, there was none.
Not a bad read, just not an original or exciting read either. It is hard to find originality these days and I do not fault the author. I suspect that many people would like this book and get into the family dynamic it has going on.
November 12, 2014
This is the first book that I have read from this author and I can tell you it won't be my last. Matt Schiariti has captured so many emotions that are true to the human spirit in just this one book.
Richard Franchitti has been hit by a truck at the beginning of this story and dies, the end. But it's not the end, it's only the beginning. After his death he relives his life from the time he was young and getting to know his future wife, till his death. Such a true to life story, not drama, so many of the experiences that happened during Richard's life happen to normal people and the author seems to be able to interject all those feelings. I laughed, cried, got really mad, found a new best friend in Richard's mother, cussed at Richard's friend Bill and on and on, but then the book did end at the right time. It left me feeling good about what was going to happen to this family. I loved this story and will probably read it again! Wonderful book Matt! I give you 5 well-deserved stars!
Richard Franchitti has been hit by a truck at the beginning of this story and dies, the end. But it's not the end, it's only the beginning. After his death he relives his life from the time he was young and getting to know his future wife, till his death. Such a true to life story, not drama, so many of the experiences that happened during Richard's life happen to normal people and the author seems to be able to interject all those feelings. I laughed, cried, got really mad, found a new best friend in Richard's mother, cussed at Richard's friend Bill and on and on, but then the book did end at the right time. It left me feeling good about what was going to happen to this family. I loved this story and will probably read it again! Wonderful book Matt! I give you 5 well-deserved stars!
October 12, 2014
Another captivating story by Matt Schiariti!!
This book felt very real to me. The characters aren't perfect and larger than life, they are just normal people that are easy to relate to.
If you are looking for something different, something that has heart, wit, a few twists, and feels real, then Funeral With a View is just what you are looking for. I read this book almost two months ago and I'm STILL feeling it.
I'll read anything Matt Schiariti writes, I even love his blog. His style is witty and engaging, his characters real and relateable. I'm looking forward to whatever he writes next!!
This book felt very real to me. The characters aren't perfect and larger than life, they are just normal people that are easy to relate to.
If you are looking for something different, something that has heart, wit, a few twists, and feels real, then Funeral With a View is just what you are looking for. I read this book almost two months ago and I'm STILL feeling it.
I'll read anything Matt Schiariti writes, I even love his blog. His style is witty and engaging, his characters real and relateable. I'm looking forward to whatever he writes next!!
December 7, 2014
This book begins when the main character is hit by a beer truck and then dies. He is attending his funeral as a ghost and reminiscing on his life. The book is then told in flash backs. This is a really touching and poignant story. The pacing is really good. I liked Rick. The writing is good and also clever and funny. This writer does have a great talent for characterization and dialogue. This book was amazing and sad and had me on the verge of tears. I loved it. Really really. 5 stars
December 26, 2014
This is honestly one of the best books of 2014. I am looking forward to future books from Matt Schiariti.
November 4, 2017
This book has it all...
This wonderful story has left a huge impact on me. Truly touched my heart for the love and forgiveness it conveys.
This wonderful story has left a huge impact on me. Truly touched my heart for the love and forgiveness it conveys.
November 21, 2017
Loved it.
Little schmaltzy, but in a good way. I frittered away a whole afternoon in my jammies. Cried a little, laughed a little. All in all, an enjoyable read.
Little schmaltzy, but in a good way. I frittered away a whole afternoon in my jammies. Cried a little, laughed a little. All in all, an enjoyable read.
November 9, 2017
How would you like to be at your funeral. Really enjoyed this book.
February 15, 2015
I received this book to give an honest review.
You know when I read the title I figured it was probably going to be a sad book but it was actually far from it.
It was hilarious a majority of the time. Yes there was some sadness but I found the book far more enjoyable than I planned to.
This is a story about Richard. He is viewing his funeral and we go from the past to the in between to the present of where he is now. And that I enjoyed doing. I loved reading about his life and how he lived. I enjoyed his relationship with his now wife Catherine but then she was his girlfriend. They have been to hell and back and some how still survived.
Each character was different in their own way, but my favorite character was Richard's mother. She doesn't play a huge role in the story and we read about her here and there but her sense of humor was a trip.
Catherine's sister Jude just as funny. I loved the relationship that Jude and her sister Catherine had with each other. It is a relationship that I wish me and my own sister had.
Richard and Catherine they are not serious people they are free-spirited and are just as humorous as their own family members. Catherine and Richard remind me of my husband and I when we were in the dating stage.
There were some surprises and twists along the way and I have to say that when they came to light on more than one occasion I was sitting with my mouth opened looking cray-cray. I literally didn't know even think of those things happening.
Now Richard has a daughter who of course believes in Angels and I thought that was amazing. I have to say what got me to tears was when Celeste was telling her daddy goodbye for the last time and she goes "Bye bye, Daddy. Wuv you." It was something that just hit me hard in the chest.
Richard is being tied to this world for some reason and he has to figure that out, and he does eventually do that but in the process of him figuring it out he relives his past and it is a past.
I do believe I would be looking into more of this author's work. He has a great story line to tell, his characters are diverse, overall he seems to write a great book.
You know when I read the title I figured it was probably going to be a sad book but it was actually far from it.
It was hilarious a majority of the time. Yes there was some sadness but I found the book far more enjoyable than I planned to.
This is a story about Richard. He is viewing his funeral and we go from the past to the in between to the present of where he is now. And that I enjoyed doing. I loved reading about his life and how he lived. I enjoyed his relationship with his now wife Catherine but then she was his girlfriend. They have been to hell and back and some how still survived.
Each character was different in their own way, but my favorite character was Richard's mother. She doesn't play a huge role in the story and we read about her here and there but her sense of humor was a trip.
Catherine's sister Jude just as funny. I loved the relationship that Jude and her sister Catherine had with each other. It is a relationship that I wish me and my own sister had.
Richard and Catherine they are not serious people they are free-spirited and are just as humorous as their own family members. Catherine and Richard remind me of my husband and I when we were in the dating stage.
There were some surprises and twists along the way and I have to say that when they came to light on more than one occasion I was sitting with my mouth opened looking cray-cray. I literally didn't know even think of those things happening.
Now Richard has a daughter who of course believes in Angels and I thought that was amazing. I have to say what got me to tears was when Celeste was telling her daddy goodbye for the last time and she goes "Bye bye, Daddy. Wuv you." It was something that just hit me hard in the chest.
Richard is being tied to this world for some reason and he has to figure that out, and he does eventually do that but in the process of him figuring it out he relives his past and it is a past.
I do believe I would be looking into more of this author's work. He has a great story line to tell, his characters are diverse, overall he seems to write a great book.
January 26, 2015
We follow the story of Ricky Franchitti, a successful graphic designer and loving family man, whose life comes to a tragic end. Manifesting as a ghost tethered to his mortal remains, Ricky observes the events of his own funeral, reliving the highs and lows of his life while learning just how much of an impact he’s made on the people around him.
Provocative and touching, FUNERAL WITH A VIEW could very well be a slice out of anyone’s life, or even death. The dialogue is rich and natural, with many hilarious pop culture in-jokes and interesting location references, particularly for New Jersey residents. Matt Schiariti’s decision to set the story largely in the New Jersey area, not in some fictionalized Nowhereville, USA, assists in erasing the line between art and life. Like some of the author’s other protagonists, Ricky is a down-to-earth, regular character whom we could just as easily meet in the real world. Ricky may not be the guy who specializes in dealing with the strange and unusual, like Seth Gabriel does in GHOSTS OF DEMONS PAST, but he comes across with such an easygoing, friendly personality that we’re hooked in and along for the entire ride. We laugh along with him and we mourn for him as each of his memories unfolds.
Shaking things up a bit, Schiariti also effectively sets this tale apart from his previous one by keeping the ghostly side of Ricky more in the periphery of the narrative. FUNERAL WITH A VIEW is not a “ghost story” in the usual sense of the term, but more of a moving, human drama with a finale that at first seems inevitably futile, then eventually instills feelings of closure and reassurance. So as not to spoil the greatest mystery of all, the speculation of what ultimately happens after death is kept to a minimum, while the greater importance of how Ricky has lived, and what he’s left behind, is emphasized.
An engaging novel loaded to the brim with the curveballs a lifetime can throw at you, I really recommend FUNERAL WITH A VIEW. Really really.
Provocative and touching, FUNERAL WITH A VIEW could very well be a slice out of anyone’s life, or even death. The dialogue is rich and natural, with many hilarious pop culture in-jokes and interesting location references, particularly for New Jersey residents. Matt Schiariti’s decision to set the story largely in the New Jersey area, not in some fictionalized Nowhereville, USA, assists in erasing the line between art and life. Like some of the author’s other protagonists, Ricky is a down-to-earth, regular character whom we could just as easily meet in the real world. Ricky may not be the guy who specializes in dealing with the strange and unusual, like Seth Gabriel does in GHOSTS OF DEMONS PAST, but he comes across with such an easygoing, friendly personality that we’re hooked in and along for the entire ride. We laugh along with him and we mourn for him as each of his memories unfolds.
Shaking things up a bit, Schiariti also effectively sets this tale apart from his previous one by keeping the ghostly side of Ricky more in the periphery of the narrative. FUNERAL WITH A VIEW is not a “ghost story” in the usual sense of the term, but more of a moving, human drama with a finale that at first seems inevitably futile, then eventually instills feelings of closure and reassurance. So as not to spoil the greatest mystery of all, the speculation of what ultimately happens after death is kept to a minimum, while the greater importance of how Ricky has lived, and what he’s left behind, is emphasized.
An engaging novel loaded to the brim with the curveballs a lifetime can throw at you, I really recommend FUNERAL WITH A VIEW. Really really.
November 7, 2014
(A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.)
While it would be easy to say that Funeral With a View is, on the surface, a ghost story, it is so much more than that. It goes a lot deeper because it is ultimately about the relationships between individuals. I found that I was drawn into the story from the prelude. Funeral With a View is written well, and the flow of the story maintains its pace. With all those things being true, what really stood out in my mind were the characters.
I liked Rick Franchitti, and through the novel, it was apparent he loved Cat, his wife. As with any relationship, there were times when they faced conflict and struggle in their marriage, and there were times when they had to deal with tragedy. Through it all, I got the sense that both of them were real characters, and I could empathize with both of them at various points of the story and found them to be very much three-dimensional. I loved Celeste, their daughter. She was so cute, and perceptive as well.
Two of the secondary characters that became my favorites were Beth, Rick's mom. Both she and the Colonel, Cat's father, were sources of humor in the story. Beth, for her interactions with her partner Glen, and The Colonel with some of his dialogue when he was talking to Rick. Another reason Beth stood out was because she was there to offer motherly advice when Rick needed it the most. I also liked Jude, Cat's older sister.
This book, while it definitely did have its sad moments, was one I really liked. My rating is 5/5 platypires.
While it would be easy to say that Funeral With a View is, on the surface, a ghost story, it is so much more than that. It goes a lot deeper because it is ultimately about the relationships between individuals. I found that I was drawn into the story from the prelude. Funeral With a View is written well, and the flow of the story maintains its pace. With all those things being true, what really stood out in my mind were the characters.
I liked Rick Franchitti, and through the novel, it was apparent he loved Cat, his wife. As with any relationship, there were times when they faced conflict and struggle in their marriage, and there were times when they had to deal with tragedy. Through it all, I got the sense that both of them were real characters, and I could empathize with both of them at various points of the story and found them to be very much three-dimensional. I loved Celeste, their daughter. She was so cute, and perceptive as well.
Two of the secondary characters that became my favorites were Beth, Rick's mom. Both she and the Colonel, Cat's father, were sources of humor in the story. Beth, for her interactions with her partner Glen, and The Colonel with some of his dialogue when he was talking to Rick. Another reason Beth stood out was because she was there to offer motherly advice when Rick needed it the most. I also liked Jude, Cat's older sister.
This book, while it definitely did have its sad moments, was one I really liked. My rating is 5/5 platypires.
November 1, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Have you ever wondered what happens to us when we die? Is there a heaven or hell? For Richard “Rick” Franchitti there is neither. He finds himself floating around his body at his own funeral. Rick is watching his loved ones and people he met throughout his life coming to pay their respects. It’s difficult watching his family, especially his wife Catherine grieve for him. Catherine made a collage of pictures of him and while looking at certain pictures, Rick goes back in time. Some memories good and some not so good. This sets off a journey of his life starting when he started dating Catherine. We never know when our last day on earth will be and for Rick, remembering them is like living them all over again.
This book was amazing. The story had my emotions all over the place. I went from laughing to pissed off then crying! Not necessary in that order. Many heartfelt moments though. Matt Schiariti did a great job with the characters. I found myself relating to an unlikely character. This story was unlike anything I have ever read. I highly recommend this book!! 5 stars!!
Have you ever wondered what happens to us when we die? Is there a heaven or hell? For Richard “Rick” Franchitti there is neither. He finds himself floating around his body at his own funeral. Rick is watching his loved ones and people he met throughout his life coming to pay their respects. It’s difficult watching his family, especially his wife Catherine grieve for him. Catherine made a collage of pictures of him and while looking at certain pictures, Rick goes back in time. Some memories good and some not so good. This sets off a journey of his life starting when he started dating Catherine. We never know when our last day on earth will be and for Rick, remembering them is like living them all over again.
This book was amazing. The story had my emotions all over the place. I went from laughing to pissed off then crying! Not necessary in that order. Many heartfelt moments though. Matt Schiariti did a great job with the characters. I found myself relating to an unlikely character. This story was unlike anything I have ever read. I highly recommend this book!! 5 stars!!
December 18, 2014
Ricky is a graphics designer with a Best Friend named Bill. Catherine used to date Bill but after they didn't work out Ricky and Catherine fell in love. This book is about Ricky reliving moments in his life during his funeral. He's not really sure why he is there hanging around. But each newcomer seems to stir up a new memory. Some good. Some bad. Some wonderful and some awful.
My Opinion:
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 +
I have read some of Matt's other work and this book is definitely different then what I have read before. I have to say that it is rare for a book to touch me the way that this one did. This book brought out a lot of different emotions in me. Humor, joy, anger, and sadness. I definitely shed some tears during this book, along with sporatic bursts of laughter, making my husband constantly ask me what. So I proceeded to tell him about this amazing book then he was just doomed to be my sounding board for the rest of the book. lol. This book is definitely worth way more then 5 stars! Funeral with a View has definitely made it's way to one of my favorite books and I highly recommend reading!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
My Opinion:
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 +
I have read some of Matt's other work and this book is definitely different then what I have read before. I have to say that it is rare for a book to touch me the way that this one did. This book brought out a lot of different emotions in me. Humor, joy, anger, and sadness. I definitely shed some tears during this book, along with sporatic bursts of laughter, making my husband constantly ask me what. So I proceeded to tell him about this amazing book then he was just doomed to be my sounding board for the rest of the book. lol. This book is definitely worth way more then 5 stars! Funeral with a View has definitely made it's way to one of my favorite books and I highly recommend reading!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
November 3, 2014
I received a copy of Funeral with a View for a review. I am so glad that I received a copy because on the surface Funeral with a View is not a book I would have picked up to read on my own. I really enjoyed reading it. It's a great read that explores an interesting topic.
I have never read a book where the main character has passed away but is still hovering around. I kind of expected at some point to find out that Richard wasn't really dead but instead in a coma or something That doesn't happen, and even though death is sad I was glad to read the Richard was not alive because him being gone made the story a more powerful read. It's an emotional read and at some points I was a little teary eyed.
We get bit and pieces of Richard's life with his wife, friend, and his daughter through flash backs. I loved reading those parts because it really brought the characters out. All the characters are well written and I felt like I was along with them on their journey.
A Funeral with a View is a amazing read. This one is a definite one click.
I have never read a book where the main character has passed away but is still hovering around. I kind of expected at some point to find out that Richard wasn't really dead but instead in a coma or something That doesn't happen, and even though death is sad I was glad to read the Richard was not alive because him being gone made the story a more powerful read. It's an emotional read and at some points I was a little teary eyed.
We get bit and pieces of Richard's life with his wife, friend, and his daughter through flash backs. I loved reading those parts because it really brought the characters out. All the characters are well written and I felt like I was along with them on their journey.
A Funeral with a View is a amazing read. This one is a definite one click.
January 13, 2016
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Where to begin? Words. I should use words.
This book was beautiful, like a celebration of life. You get Ricky's good times, as well as the bad ones. As corny as it sounds, this book is a reminder to all to live life to the fullest. It's about forgiving and letting go of the grudges you may hold, and to try to enjoy every moment, so when you look back on your life, you can say it wasn't all a waste of time.
I think some of us have wondered at least once in our lifetime how life would continue on after we're gone. Will people miss us? Will they cry? How have you affected their lives? None of us really knows what happens after we die, but Funeral with a View allows us to imagine what it would be like.
You know what will happen eventually, because Ricky is dead and it's inevitable. But it didn't make make me cry any less because you grow attached to the characters and saying goodbye is never easy.
Funeral with a View was a funny, sad, happy, angry book that deserves all 5 Platypires!
Where to begin? Words. I should use words.
This book was beautiful, like a celebration of life. You get Ricky's good times, as well as the bad ones. As corny as it sounds, this book is a reminder to all to live life to the fullest. It's about forgiving and letting go of the grudges you may hold, and to try to enjoy every moment, so when you look back on your life, you can say it wasn't all a waste of time.
I think some of us have wondered at least once in our lifetime how life would continue on after we're gone. Will people miss us? Will they cry? How have you affected their lives? None of us really knows what happens after we die, but Funeral with a View allows us to imagine what it would be like.
You know what will happen eventually, because Ricky is dead and it's inevitable. But it didn't make make me cry any less because you grow attached to the characters and saying goodbye is never easy.
Funeral with a View was a funny, sad, happy, angry book that deserves all 5 Platypires!
March 15, 2015
This is an interesting and unique approach to a love story. I liked how the MC's story was told in flashbacks, building up to the end. The authors use of foreshadowing was pretty good, although maybe a little too obvious (but I might be more perceptive than the average reader, not to brag or anything, LOL.)
I liked how the MC was talking to me, the reader, throughout the story.
My one real complaint is that there were a few too many spelling/grammar errors for a book of this size. There were not a whole lot of them and would not impede the flow of the story for most readers, but for a spelling/grammar fanatic like myself, they stood out.
I liked how the MC was talking to me, the reader, throughout the story.
My one real complaint is that there were a few too many spelling/grammar errors for a book of this size. There were not a whole lot of them and would not impede the flow of the story for most readers, but for a spelling/grammar fanatic like myself, they stood out.
January 16, 2015
This story is so alive and heartfelt. (A bit odd to say alive considering Rick is dead and experiencing his life over in spirit form but nonetheless you could feel everything…)
The story flows so well and it is so hard to put down. The characters are believable, every day people (and ghosts LOL) and that alone makes you fall in love with this story. I can’t fully express the grip on my heart this book had.
There were so many tears shed throughout this story. And I would definitely recommend the whole world to read it!
This is the first, but certainly not the last, of Matt’s books I have read and I am officially a HUGE fan!
The story flows so well and it is so hard to put down. The characters are believable, every day people (and ghosts LOL) and that alone makes you fall in love with this story. I can’t fully express the grip on my heart this book had.
There were so many tears shed throughout this story. And I would definitely recommend the whole world to read it!
This is the first, but certainly not the last, of Matt’s books I have read and I am officially a HUGE fan!
March 12, 2015
Review for Razzlefraternizer's Reviews
Received free copy for my honest opinion
So with a title like this I figured it would be a sad sappy story. I love how this story unfolded. It's not a death story, but a living life story. I loved this book! The story was so well written and the characters were so well written and so personal. You really get sucked into these people's lives. There were some tear jerker moments, but they made the story that much better. Definitely a must read!
Received free copy for my honest opinion
So with a title like this I figured it would be a sad sappy story. I love how this story unfolded. It's not a death story, but a living life story. I loved this book! The story was so well written and the characters were so well written and so personal. You really get sucked into these people's lives. There were some tear jerker moments, but they made the story that much better. Definitely a must read!
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