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Deadly Undertaking
Lauren Staab knew there would be dead bodies around when she returned home. After all, her family is in the funeral business, Staab and Blood Funeral Home.
Still, finding an extra body on the floor of the garage between the hearse and the flower car shocked her. Lauren’s plan to return to her hometown to help care for her mother and keep the books for the funeral home suddenly turns upside down in a struggle to prove she and her family are not guilty of murdering the man. But will the real killer return for her, her dad, her brother? Her mother’s secrets, a killer, a handsome policeman, and a shadow man muddle up her intention to have a simple life.
Welcome home, Lauren!
Still, finding an extra body on the floor of the garage between the hearse and the flower car shocked her. Lauren’s plan to return to her hometown to help care for her mother and keep the books for the funeral home suddenly turns upside down in a struggle to prove she and her family are not guilty of murdering the man. But will the real killer return for her, her dad, her brother? Her mother’s secrets, a killer, a handsome policeman, and a shadow man muddle up her intention to have a simple life.
Welcome home, Lauren!
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2015
6 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
J.Q. Rose
14 books34 followersWhether the story is fiction or non-fiction, J.Q. Rose is “focused on story.” She offers readers chills, giggles and quirky characters woven within the pages of her mystery novels. Her published mysteries are Deadly Undertaking, Terror on Sunshine Boulevard and Dangerous Sanctuary released by Books We Love Publishing.
Using her storytelling skills, she provides entertainment and information in articles featured in books, magazines, newspapers, and online magazines. With her non-fiction book for girls, Girls Succeed! Stories Behind the Careers of Successful Women, she returned to her first love, writing about real people. J.Q. taught elementary school for several years and never lost the love for teaching passed down from her teacher grandmother and mother. She satisfies that aspect of her character by presenting workshops on Creative Writing and Writing Your Life Story. She penned a book, Your Words, Your Life Story, based on her workshops to help writers spark memories, share them with family, friends and/or publish them to share with the world.
Taking the advice she gives to her workshop participants to sit down and write their stories, she combined her experience in non-fiction reporting and her storytelling skills in fiction, to write her memoir, Arranging a Dream, The award-winning, best-seller, published by BWL Publishing, is the feel-good story about the first year JQ and her husband purchased and operated a floral shop and greenhouse business in 1975-76.
Blogging, photography, Pegs and Jokers board games, and travel are the things that keep her out of trouble. She and her husband spend winters in Florida and summers up north with their two daughters, two sons-in-law, four grandsons, one granddaughter, two grand dogs, four grand cats, and one great-grand bearded dragon.
Using her storytelling skills, she provides entertainment and information in articles featured in books, magazines, newspapers, and online magazines. With her non-fiction book for girls, Girls Succeed! Stories Behind the Careers of Successful Women, she returned to her first love, writing about real people. J.Q. taught elementary school for several years and never lost the love for teaching passed down from her teacher grandmother and mother. She satisfies that aspect of her character by presenting workshops on Creative Writing and Writing Your Life Story. She penned a book, Your Words, Your Life Story, based on her workshops to help writers spark memories, share them with family, friends and/or publish them to share with the world.
Taking the advice she gives to her workshop participants to sit down and write their stories, she combined her experience in non-fiction reporting and her storytelling skills in fiction, to write her memoir, Arranging a Dream, The award-winning, best-seller, published by BWL Publishing, is the feel-good story about the first year JQ and her husband purchased and operated a floral shop and greenhouse business in 1975-76.
Blogging, photography, Pegs and Jokers board games, and travel are the things that keep her out of trouble. She and her husband spend winters in Florida and summers up north with their two daughters, two sons-in-law, four grandsons, one granddaughter, two grand dogs, four grand cats, and one great-grand bearded dragon.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 15, 2016
Once I started this book I couldn't get enough of it. The story revolves around a funeral home, aptly called Staab & Blood. Lauren Staab is working in the family business, along with her father and brother. Lauren's mom is in the memory unit of a nursing home.
Finding a body in a funeral parlor is the norm for this family, but the body Lauren finds is not on of their clients. Who would leave a dead body at the funeral home? Who is the victim? Is the victim somehow linked to the Staab family? You won't want to miss out on this fantastic story!
This book is a whirlwind of mystery and I was on the edge of my seat at the end.
The author tells a good story and all the characters are believable. There are a few characters that really irritated me and that is a sign of a well told story.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Finding a body in a funeral parlor is the norm for this family, but the body Lauren finds is not on of their clients. Who would leave a dead body at the funeral home? Who is the victim? Is the victim somehow linked to the Staab family? You won't want to miss out on this fantastic story!
This book is a whirlwind of mystery and I was on the edge of my seat at the end.
The author tells a good story and all the characters are believable. There are a few characters that really irritated me and that is a sign of a well told story.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
June 13, 2017
In the small town, Mayfield, Michigan, Lauren’s father tells her to call the police and tell them there is a dead body in the garage at his funeral home, Staub and Blood.
Lauren grew up the family business but her father never allowed her to enter the embalming room. Her current job ‘is assisting in the office, helping grieving relatives and conducting services.
The police arrive and cordon off the garage.
Who is the murdered man? When his fiancé identifies him, no one can imagine who would kill that funny, kind man.
She is already grief-stricken because her mother, suffering from Alzheimer’s, is in a home, but, although Lauren doesn’t have all the answers about the murder, she is determined to find out whatever the cost.
A harmless ghost, called Henry who visits Lauren ‘through a slice of time from another dimension’ is another problem she must deal with.
Her boyfriend, Chip, is self-centred and inconsiderate so Lauren appreciates Gary, a protective police man, she knew at grade school.
When I began the novel, I thought the unusual setting, the funeral parlour, would be morbid. However, Ms. Rose, shows how much the bereaved need moral support from Lauren and her father.
Deadly Undertaking is fast paced with realistic characters both good and bad. At the end, all the loose ends are skilfully tied up. The novel has so much to offer, murder, a small community where most people support each other, the paranormal, the tragedy of dementia and its effect on the family, and a love story. I am confident that this novel won’t disappoint you.
I look forward to reading the author’s next book.
Lauren grew up the family business but her father never allowed her to enter the embalming room. Her current job ‘is assisting in the office, helping grieving relatives and conducting services.
The police arrive and cordon off the garage.
Who is the murdered man? When his fiancé identifies him, no one can imagine who would kill that funny, kind man.
She is already grief-stricken because her mother, suffering from Alzheimer’s, is in a home, but, although Lauren doesn’t have all the answers about the murder, she is determined to find out whatever the cost.
A harmless ghost, called Henry who visits Lauren ‘through a slice of time from another dimension’ is another problem she must deal with.
Her boyfriend, Chip, is self-centred and inconsiderate so Lauren appreciates Gary, a protective police man, she knew at grade school.
When I began the novel, I thought the unusual setting, the funeral parlour, would be morbid. However, Ms. Rose, shows how much the bereaved need moral support from Lauren and her father.
Deadly Undertaking is fast paced with realistic characters both good and bad. At the end, all the loose ends are skilfully tied up. The novel has so much to offer, murder, a small community where most people support each other, the paranormal, the tragedy of dementia and its effect on the family, and a love story. I am confident that this novel won’t disappoint you.
I look forward to reading the author’s next book.
March 2, 2019
Genre – Mystery, Paranormal, Romance
First Line: “Lauren, quick, call 911, there’s a dead body out here in the garage!”
Review:
Lauren Staab, daughter of Jensen Staab - the owner and mortician of Staab and Blood Funeral Home, finds navigating through murder victims, drug cartels, the funeral business, her mother’s secrets, her personal love relationships, and a ghost that won’t leave her alone a bit taxing.
I adore Ms. Rose’s characters, but most especially Lauren. Who knew life could lead a person into a parade of major and sometimes traumatic events that would forever change her life?
This book instills a refreshing way to enjoy a darn good mystery, portrays a nice dollop of the paranormal, and acquaints romance with a realistic twist and kick. I’m an intrigued fan and look forward to reading her next mystery:)
First Line: “Lauren, quick, call 911, there’s a dead body out here in the garage!”
Review:
Lauren Staab, daughter of Jensen Staab - the owner and mortician of Staab and Blood Funeral Home, finds navigating through murder victims, drug cartels, the funeral business, her mother’s secrets, her personal love relationships, and a ghost that won’t leave her alone a bit taxing.
I adore Ms. Rose’s characters, but most especially Lauren. Who knew life could lead a person into a parade of major and sometimes traumatic events that would forever change her life?
This book instills a refreshing way to enjoy a darn good mystery, portrays a nice dollop of the paranormal, and acquaints romance with a realistic twist and kick. I’m an intrigued fan and look forward to reading her next mystery:)
July 28, 2018
Read in one setting for the full effect of the fast-paced story. While a dead body in a funeral home isn't an unusual occurrence, when a murdered one appears at Staab & Blood (Yes, that is the firm's name) it sets in motion events that change what was known about some residents' pasts and rip apart preconceived notions of their current ones. This book has humor, pathos, suspense, love and hope. And mingled with the mystery, did I forget to add there is also a touch of the paranormal? This was the first book I read of J.Q.'s, but the writing and characters she brought to life will bring me back for more.
June 13, 2019
An entertaining mystery. Obviously, the author has had experience in funeral homes. That authenticity filters through the book. Unfortunately, she's also had experience with a close relative who had Alzheimer's. (I recognize what the character went through.)
Lauren is a sympathetic character, as is her dad. Her brother and his friends are shown as weaklings. Good characterization. I liked the growing romance between Lauren and Gary, the policeman she knew as a teen. But the main plot was who killed Tony and why. The setting of a small Michigan town appealed to me because I live in one, too.
Lauren is a sympathetic character, as is her dad. Her brother and his friends are shown as weaklings. Good characterization. I liked the growing romance between Lauren and Gary, the policeman she knew as a teen. But the main plot was who killed Tony and why. The setting of a small Michigan town appealed to me because I live in one, too.
September 23, 2023
Although the details involving a funeral home were correct, the book felt a bit irreverent. The name of the funeral home (one of the owners was Staab) set a tone that was a bit light. The storyline wasn't bad, it made for a light, easy read.
February 15, 2021
lots of subplots to keep you guessing. a great read
March 25, 2016
Mercy me, how do I write a review for a dead body that shows up in a funeral home?
Hmm?
You got any ideas?
Oh, you say, what's unusual about that?
Well, this particular funeral home is named Staab & Blood. Yeah, it is, and outside its steps is one dead body -- as in murdered.
I don't want to give much away, but there are surprises in this story and one which, after you think about it, fits just like you'd expect -- and that's Henry. How does he "fit"? I ain't tellin'. You gotta read the book and find out for yourself.
There are a lot of bad guys, and yes, they are GUYS. Well, there're one or two good guys, but I'm not telling who they are either. :) And the girls? Are they bad? Are they good? Let's just say -- there's a few surprises there too. :)
But, let me tell you, I could've smacked the teeth right out of some of these guys, they pissed me off that much. I was glad to see them get their just "desserts" though I'd never allow them to even get a taste of dessert!
Ms. Rose has written an original and unusual romantic mystery tale. I love the idea of a funeral home for a setting! (No, though it might seem creepily weird, it's really not spooky like you might imagine). I like how she brings out her surprises, and how she can make an undertaker appear human. No "Dark Shadows" music needed (though there are some shadows, hmm....)
I was highly entertained, and enjoyed this peek into Ms. Rose's mind....on second thought, maybe there should be some cue of Dark Shadows theme music....
***I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest, unbiased review***
Hmm?
You got any ideas?
Oh, you say, what's unusual about that?
Well, this particular funeral home is named Staab & Blood. Yeah, it is, and outside its steps is one dead body -- as in murdered.
I don't want to give much away, but there are surprises in this story and one which, after you think about it, fits just like you'd expect -- and that's Henry. How does he "fit"? I ain't tellin'. You gotta read the book and find out for yourself.
There are a lot of bad guys, and yes, they are GUYS. Well, there're one or two good guys, but I'm not telling who they are either. :) And the girls? Are they bad? Are they good? Let's just say -- there's a few surprises there too. :)
But, let me tell you, I could've smacked the teeth right out of some of these guys, they pissed me off that much. I was glad to see them get their just "desserts" though I'd never allow them to even get a taste of dessert!
Ms. Rose has written an original and unusual romantic mystery tale. I love the idea of a funeral home for a setting! (No, though it might seem creepily weird, it's really not spooky like you might imagine). I like how she brings out her surprises, and how she can make an undertaker appear human. No "Dark Shadows" music needed (though there are some shadows, hmm....)
I was highly entertained, and enjoyed this peek into Ms. Rose's mind....on second thought, maybe there should be some cue of Dark Shadows theme music....
***I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest, unbiased review***
November 29, 2015
DEADLY UNDERTAKING by JQ Rose
How can you resist a book with this title? So clever. And the whole book is that way. Ms. Rose has developed characters with real flaws, struggling with real issues, and makes us care about them.
Then she manages to bring humor to a story about a dead body showing up in garage of a funeral home—one that’s not supposed to be there. The heroine is Lauren Staab of the Staab and Blood Funeral Home, again the cleverness of the author. This book has humor, pathos, suspense, love, and ultimately consequences for actions. You’ll be sorry if you miss DEADLY UNDERTAKING.
How can you resist a book with this title? So clever. And the whole book is that way. Ms. Rose has developed characters with real flaws, struggling with real issues, and makes us care about them.
Then she manages to bring humor to a story about a dead body showing up in garage of a funeral home—one that’s not supposed to be there. The heroine is Lauren Staab of the Staab and Blood Funeral Home, again the cleverness of the author. This book has humor, pathos, suspense, love, and ultimately consequences for actions. You’ll be sorry if you miss DEADLY UNDERTAKING.
December 11, 2015
Lauren Staab may have an unusual job, running the business office of her father's funeral home, but she never expected to find a murder victim in the home's garage. That was just the first of many twists and turns that this book takes you on, and I enjoyed every minute of the ride. With the murderer still on the loose, Lauren must deal with not only that potential threat, but also family complications and an unpredictable love life.
I love mysteries, but had no idea that this book has a touch of the paranormal - another genre I really enjoy. This made the book even more of a hit for me.
I love mysteries, but had no idea that this book has a touch of the paranormal - another genre I really enjoy. This made the book even more of a hit for me.
March 26, 2016
While the writing is good, this book didn't give me the enjoyment of other J.Q. Rose books such as "Sunshine Boulevard." This is a straightforward light romance with a little danger and a bit of paranormal (which didn't seem to be necessary). Essentially, nothing to write home (or here) about.
If you like lightweight romance/mystery, you could choose far worse books.
If you like lightweight romance/mystery, you could choose far worse books.
June 25, 2016
Great book,read it in one setting. Thanks so much,hope there is more to come
Would enjoy a series out of this one,with all the characters involved. Even with mom and Hendry. Pick up this book and enjoy
Would enjoy a series out of this one,with all the characters involved. Even with mom and Hendry. Pick up this book and enjoy
October 8, 2016
Good
the daughter in this book has already lost her husband to death in the war and her mother was in a nursing home dieing.
the daughter in this book has already lost her husband to death in the war and her mother was in a nursing home dieing.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews