What do you think?
Rate this book
Five Wakes and a Wedding
Undertaker Nina Sherwood is full of good advice. For example, never wear lip gloss when you’re scattering ashes.
Nina is your average 30-year-old with a steady job, a nice home – and dead bodies in her basement. As an undertaker, she often prefers the company of the dead to the living – they’re obliging, good listeners and take secrets to the grave.
Nina is on a one-woman mission to persuade her peers that passing on is just another part of life. But the residents of Primrose Hill are adamant that a funeral parlour is the last thing they need… and they will stop at nothing to close down her dearly beloved shop.
When Nina’s ‘big break’ funeral turns out to be a prank, it seems like it’s the final nail in the coffin for her new business. That is, until a (tall, dark and) mysterious investor shows up out of the blue, and she decides to take a leap of faith.
Because, after all, it’s her funeral…
The perfect antidote to all those books about weddings, this book will make you laugh until you cry, perfect for fans of Zara Stoneley’s Bridesmaids, Four Weddings and a Funeral and The Good Place.
Nina is your average 30-year-old with a steady job, a nice home – and dead bodies in her basement. As an undertaker, she often prefers the company of the dead to the living – they’re obliging, good listeners and take secrets to the grave.
Nina is on a one-woman mission to persuade her peers that passing on is just another part of life. But the residents of Primrose Hill are adamant that a funeral parlour is the last thing they need… and they will stop at nothing to close down her dearly beloved shop.
When Nina’s ‘big break’ funeral turns out to be a prank, it seems like it’s the final nail in the coffin for her new business. That is, until a (tall, dark and) mysterious investor shows up out of the blue, and she decides to take a leap of faith.
Because, after all, it’s her funeral…
The perfect antidote to all those books about weddings, this book will make you laugh until you cry, perfect for fans of Zara Stoneley’s Bridesmaids, Four Weddings and a Funeral and The Good Place.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 29, 2019
9 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
July 25, 2019
2.5 Stars
What can I say except that I was looking for a cute rom com and I should have known by the title that the novel didn’t fit that bill.
Nina is an undertaker who starts her own business in Primrose Hill after getting fired. Little does she know that the residents of Primrose Hill have no interest in funerals and therefore they try and make life very difficult for Nina and the rest of the staff at Happy Endings.
Unfortunately little went on for much of “Five Wakes and a Wedding” and when it did it made me realize that I was simply the wrong reader for this novel. That being said the relationships made between Nina and and several others characters were great and I really enjoyed the character development throughout the novel.
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Karen Ross for an arc of this novel in exchange for an arc.
Published on Goodreads on 7.25.19.
What can I say except that I was looking for a cute rom com and I should have known by the title that the novel didn’t fit that bill.
Nina is an undertaker who starts her own business in Primrose Hill after getting fired. Little does she know that the residents of Primrose Hill have no interest in funerals and therefore they try and make life very difficult for Nina and the rest of the staff at Happy Endings.
Unfortunately little went on for much of “Five Wakes and a Wedding” and when it did it made me realize that I was simply the wrong reader for this novel. That being said the relationships made between Nina and and several others characters were great and I really enjoyed the character development throughout the novel.
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Karen Ross for an arc of this novel in exchange for an arc.
Published on Goodreads on 7.25.19.
July 13, 2019
How many books do we get to read on undertakers? For me: Not a single one. So without a doubt, this was a fresh breeze in a genre I love so much. But don't be misled by the blurb, it is not as intriguing as it sounds. It is your usual relaxing story even if it is all about funerals. Oh! don't make that face like the residents of Primrose Hill. Death is one of the realities of life and we need to face it whether we like it or not. But how you want to make your grand exit is entirely up to you.
Yes! I know love and death are polar opposites. One is a nourisher while the other is destruction. So a love story featuring funerals (five in fact) is strange indeed. What is stranger is that we are going to love the funerals much more than the wedding at the end. Nina's passion for business clearly dominates the story of her love life. If I have to pick a favourite among the funerals, it is going to be the second one. It was spectacular as well as surprising.
If you haven't thought about your funerals yet, this book is a good place to start. Do you want everyone to weep over your death or be glad about the moments they were able to share with you? So don't miss this precious gem, you are bound to get a lot of ideas.
Yes! I know love and death are polar opposites. One is a nourisher while the other is destruction. So a love story featuring funerals (five in fact) is strange indeed. What is stranger is that we are going to love the funerals much more than the wedding at the end. Nina's passion for business clearly dominates the story of her love life. If I have to pick a favourite among the funerals, it is going to be the second one. It was spectacular as well as surprising.
If you haven't thought about your funerals yet, this book is a good place to start. Do you want everyone to weep over your death or be glad about the moments they were able to share with you? So don't miss this precious gem, you are bound to get a lot of ideas.
August 11, 2020
FORMAT READ: eBook (ADE)
READ FOR: feel-good writing, something to make you smile
⟹ MY BLOG ⟸
⟹ SUPPORT ME ON KO-FI ⟸
*All of my reviews are as spoiler-free as possible unless states otherwise*
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
Adorable light and fun read. I really liked Karen Ross’ writing style in this book. It was engaging and it was intriguing to read about Nina.
There was nothing too heavy and the characters were very easy to relate to. They were very easy to care for and are the kind that I look for in a contemporary. I really liked that the plot is centered around wakes and a wedding, it made it very intriguing for me since these events are opposites of each other in terms of how people react to them.
It was honestly a real fun read and I would recommend this to anyone who just wants something light-hearted. I read this book to break up a fantasy streak of mine and it worked really well for me… so if you want to do that I really recommend you try this out.
PLOT: ★★★★☆
WRITING STYLE: ★★★★★
CHARACTERS: ★★★★☆
THEMES: ★★★☆☆
PACING: ★★★☆☆
PAGE TURNER: ★★★☆☆
Thank you to Avon Books UK for sending me an ARC to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
READ FOR: feel-good writing, something to make you smile
⟹ MY BLOG ⟸
⟹ SUPPORT ME ON KO-FI ⟸
*All of my reviews are as spoiler-free as possible unless states otherwise*
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
Adorable light and fun read. I really liked Karen Ross’ writing style in this book. It was engaging and it was intriguing to read about Nina.
There was nothing too heavy and the characters were very easy to relate to. They were very easy to care for and are the kind that I look for in a contemporary. I really liked that the plot is centered around wakes and a wedding, it made it very intriguing for me since these events are opposites of each other in terms of how people react to them.
It was honestly a real fun read and I would recommend this to anyone who just wants something light-hearted. I read this book to break up a fantasy streak of mine and it worked really well for me… so if you want to do that I really recommend you try this out.
PLOT: ★★★★☆
WRITING STYLE: ★★★★★
CHARACTERS: ★★★★☆
THEMES: ★★★☆☆
PACING: ★★★☆☆
PAGE TURNER: ★★★☆☆
Thank you to Avon Books UK for sending me an ARC to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 26, 2019
‘So tell me Nina.” His voice is soft, husky, urgent. ‘Have you ever done it in the back of a hearse?’
I know I said I wasn’t down with romances or chick-lits as of late but if said romance/chick-lit involves death, then you know I gotta do it em.
Meet Nina Sherwood, an ambitious undertaker who has taken on the business of a lifetime (hehe). Nina has just opened her first funeral parlour on the grand street of Primrose Hill. Recently fired from her swanky undertaker job, Nina has decided that she wants to open a funeral home that cares not about profit but the dead and their family. It’s all very grand of her and all but she faces opposition on all sides as none of the residents of Primrose much want her shop of death scouring the land of the rich and fabulous. Who on earth wants to think about death while sipping a fancy latte across the way? The resistance comes fast and furious but Nina is determined to prosper one way or another. . Nina is not one to back away from a challenge, why should she? She has the grim reaper on her side.
This was a fun, light read that although dealt with the heavy subject of death, never took itself too serious. Nina is a fun character. She’s sweet, smart, brave, and stubborn. Sometimes too accommodating to people who are downright nasty to her but I have to give her that, because me? I would be slinging attitude left and right at certain characters, maybe cackling like a witch and leaving them ominous notes that simply stated a future date.
I know this is romance/chick-lit but I really didn’t think the romance aspect was necessary at all. It felt very strongly convoluted since the beginning and I never warmed up to the man of Nina’s choosing. He made my skin itch actually.
I do have a problem with this novel in terms of pacing as well. Everything seemed so quickfire, such a nonissue that sometimes I had to go back and make sure I had read correctly. The characters other than Nina also felt one-dimensional. They were just there, simple caricatures and it’s a shame because they seemed like amazing people, but I couldn’t really feel it at the same time. Likewise the plot is predictable. It’s fun, don’t get me wrong but very very predictable.
I loved the funeral aspect of the novel. It’s well done and original and I actually learned quite a lot about different methods of funeral, wakes. I sobbed at one character’s demise although you knew that one way or another it was certainly coming. Like I said, it’s a tough subject but necessary to think about. Because unless you’re a Super Saiyan with all the dragon balls eventually you will die. And its much better to prepare you and your own family for it. I’ve gone to way too many funerals in my life to know that this is an absolute necessity. As morbid as it sounds.
All in all, I give this grim peppy book a 3.5/5
Don’t worry, death is but just another journey.
‘I am the resurrection and the life’ the minister began. ‘The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’
I know I said I wasn’t down with romances or chick-lits as of late but if said romance/chick-lit involves death, then you know I gotta do it em.
Meet Nina Sherwood, an ambitious undertaker who has taken on the business of a lifetime (hehe). Nina has just opened her first funeral parlour on the grand street of Primrose Hill. Recently fired from her swanky undertaker job, Nina has decided that she wants to open a funeral home that cares not about profit but the dead and their family. It’s all very grand of her and all but she faces opposition on all sides as none of the residents of Primrose much want her shop of death scouring the land of the rich and fabulous. Who on earth wants to think about death while sipping a fancy latte across the way? The resistance comes fast and furious but Nina is determined to prosper one way or another. . Nina is not one to back away from a challenge, why should she? She has the grim reaper on her side.
This was a fun, light read that although dealt with the heavy subject of death, never took itself too serious. Nina is a fun character. She’s sweet, smart, brave, and stubborn. Sometimes too accommodating to people who are downright nasty to her but I have to give her that, because me? I would be slinging attitude left and right at certain characters, maybe cackling like a witch and leaving them ominous notes that simply stated a future date.
I know this is romance/chick-lit but I really didn’t think the romance aspect was necessary at all. It felt very strongly convoluted since the beginning and I never warmed up to the man of Nina’s choosing. He made my skin itch actually.
I do have a problem with this novel in terms of pacing as well. Everything seemed so quickfire, such a nonissue that sometimes I had to go back and make sure I had read correctly. The characters other than Nina also felt one-dimensional. They were just there, simple caricatures and it’s a shame because they seemed like amazing people, but I couldn’t really feel it at the same time. Likewise the plot is predictable. It’s fun, don’t get me wrong but very very predictable.
I loved the funeral aspect of the novel. It’s well done and original and I actually learned quite a lot about different methods of funeral, wakes. I sobbed at one character’s demise although you knew that one way or another it was certainly coming. Like I said, it’s a tough subject but necessary to think about. Because unless you’re a Super Saiyan with all the dragon balls eventually you will die. And its much better to prepare you and your own family for it. I’ve gone to way too many funerals in my life to know that this is an absolute necessity. As morbid as it sounds.
All in all, I give this grim peppy book a 3.5/5
Don’t worry, death is but just another journey.
‘I am the resurrection and the life’ the minister began. ‘The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’
November 20, 2019
Although it took me a moment to get into this book, I quite enjoyed the story of Nina the female undertaker trying to get her new shop up and running in a posh part of London.
The biggest twist in this story is the female undertaker as main character, which includes a lot of actually very interesting information on death and funerals. Death being a taboo topic is a big issue in real life and within this novel. That's what made me push the book to 3.5 stars (or 4 stars) instead of just 3 stars.
The biggest twist in this story is the female undertaker as main character, which includes a lot of actually very interesting information on death and funerals. Death being a taboo topic is a big issue in real life and within this novel. That's what made me push the book to 3.5 stars (or 4 stars) instead of just 3 stars.
June 1, 2019
Such a light and easy read which I loved.
Five Wakes and a Wedding follows Nina Sherwood, a single undertaker as she sets up her new business in Primrose Hill. The troubles of a start-up, business neighbours, and conflict are all covered. Throw in a bit of romance and voila!
I loved the character of Barclay Banks, he didn't take life too seriously and made the most of it. Gloria and Edo were fantastic secondary characters who really cared for Nina and the ending also had a lovely little twist that I actually wasn't expecting.
The bright pink cover initially drew me in but I've always been interested in funeral directors, crematorium and the like. It's not often you get someone creating a business plan for an undertaker for their Business Studies GCSE - but that was me! Don't worry, I have the non-fiction and memoirs in my TBR pile, but I couldn't help smile at the title of this book.
Wonderfully written, I flew this this book with ease. It was fast paced, just the right length and a delight to read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for providing me with an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Five Wakes and a Wedding follows Nina Sherwood, a single undertaker as she sets up her new business in Primrose Hill. The troubles of a start-up, business neighbours, and conflict are all covered. Throw in a bit of romance and voila!
I loved the character of Barclay Banks, he didn't take life too seriously and made the most of it. Gloria and Edo were fantastic secondary characters who really cared for Nina and the ending also had a lovely little twist that I actually wasn't expecting.
The bright pink cover initially drew me in but I've always been interested in funeral directors, crematorium and the like. It's not often you get someone creating a business plan for an undertaker for their Business Studies GCSE - but that was me! Don't worry, I have the non-fiction and memoirs in my TBR pile, but I couldn't help smile at the title of this book.
Wonderfully written, I flew this this book with ease. It was fast paced, just the right length and a delight to read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for providing me with an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2019
⭐️⭐️
2 STARS
I hate it when this happens, but I just wasn't super fond of this one. It was a cute and sweet quick read, but the plot was generally slow and didn't really capture much of my interest.
This is the story of Nina, an undertaker who has recently started her own business after being let go from her previous position.
From the title, I was expecting more details about funerals and the stories behind them and that isn't what we get. It was almost halfway through the book before Nina had anyone even seek out her new business. Once we did see some funerals that our MC organized, I can't say there was anything spectacular about them. They actually felt rather odd and dull, even though Nina's undertaker business wants to "make funerals more personal" I just didn't get that vibe from them.
The plot was just OK, and I also think it was TOO fictional if that makes any sense. Things were too easy and convenient, and VERY over-the-top unrealistic. I much preferred the story in the middle of the book that talked about Nina's husband who had died. I thought this was much better written and I would have loved to have heard and seen more about it.
I personally did not like the character of Barclay. I thought his character was the most over-the-top and out there. I also found that he seemed to be so very immature, and it just did not fit a Romantic leading male? He had an EXTREMELY privileged life and he just does so many stupid and ridiculous things that I still can't get over.
There were a few parts that made me laugh, as Nina's character is quite witty. She has a lot of little asides that were humorous, such as her advice on not wearing lip gloss when spreading ashes. I also liked how her unusual profession played a unique roll in the book. It isn't something normally seen in this genre.
Overall, this was a sweet and unrealistic story that makes for a nice light read. It isn't a complex or moving story, but if you are looking for a read to kill some time, or need something super light then look no further. Looking through other reviews I see that there were quite a lot of people who enjoyed this one, but I just don't think it was for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the Advanced copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
2 STARS
I hate it when this happens, but I just wasn't super fond of this one. It was a cute and sweet quick read, but the plot was generally slow and didn't really capture much of my interest.
This is the story of Nina, an undertaker who has recently started her own business after being let go from her previous position.
From the title, I was expecting more details about funerals and the stories behind them and that isn't what we get. It was almost halfway through the book before Nina had anyone even seek out her new business. Once we did see some funerals that our MC organized, I can't say there was anything spectacular about them. They actually felt rather odd and dull, even though Nina's undertaker business wants to "make funerals more personal" I just didn't get that vibe from them.
The plot was just OK, and I also think it was TOO fictional if that makes any sense. Things were too easy and convenient, and VERY over-the-top unrealistic. I much preferred the story in the middle of the book that talked about Nina's husband who had died. I thought this was much better written and I would have loved to have heard and seen more about it.
I personally did not like the character of Barclay. I thought his character was the most over-the-top and out there. I also found that he seemed to be so very immature, and it just did not fit a Romantic leading male? He had an EXTREMELY privileged life and he just does so many stupid and ridiculous things that I still can't get over.
There were a few parts that made me laugh, as Nina's character is quite witty. She has a lot of little asides that were humorous, such as her advice on not wearing lip gloss when spreading ashes. I also liked how her unusual profession played a unique roll in the book. It isn't something normally seen in this genre.
Overall, this was a sweet and unrealistic story that makes for a nice light read. It isn't a complex or moving story, but if you are looking for a read to kill some time, or need something super light then look no further. Looking through other reviews I see that there were quite a lot of people who enjoyed this one, but I just don't think it was for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the Advanced copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
May 29, 2019
Fun, funny, romantic and wonderful. This book is absolutely hilarious. It will make you laugh out loud. And you will love he romance in this book as well. I loved it.
July 26, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books UK, and One More Chapter for an e-arc of this title for review.
I really enjoyed the unique premise of Five Wakes and a Wedding - Nina is starting her own business (awesome) as an undertaker (whaaaaat). Most of the book is set in Primrose Hill, which was super cool (I love when an author sets their story in a specific neighborhood, rather than just "New York" or "London").
After a slightly slow start, the plot clips along - this is definitely a book you could devour in a day poolside this summer.
I do wish there had been less discussion of dieting. It felt out of place given that this is a book about a woman who's an entrepreneur (and not a book about a model, or a cookbook). In the same chapter that Nina identifies mansplaining, she thinks to herself about calories (and how she's about to dive in because they don't count in her current situation. I.e. that's the reason she's allowing herself to enjoy a good meal). I get it - I'm a woman raised in the same body-focused, fat-shaming world as the author. But I'm trying not to relate to food like it's the enemy, and so it's jarring when the word "diet" appears 10x in a book not about food. (I imagine the reader is supposed to interpret it as humorous, but I didn't.)
I'll also note that it threw me off a bit when the point of view switched for each wake. I assume these chapters will be formatted differently in the final version, so that won't interpret the flow of other readers.
Overall, I liked it, and would recommend if that premise sounds interesting to you too!
I really enjoyed the unique premise of Five Wakes and a Wedding - Nina is starting her own business (awesome) as an undertaker (whaaaaat). Most of the book is set in Primrose Hill, which was super cool (I love when an author sets their story in a specific neighborhood, rather than just "New York" or "London").
After a slightly slow start, the plot clips along - this is definitely a book you could devour in a day poolside this summer.
I do wish there had been less discussion of dieting. It felt out of place given that this is a book about a woman who's an entrepreneur (and not a book about a model, or a cookbook). In the same chapter that Nina identifies mansplaining, she thinks to herself about calories (and how she's about to dive in because they don't count in her current situation. I.e. that's the reason she's allowing herself to enjoy a good meal). I get it - I'm a woman raised in the same body-focused, fat-shaming world as the author. But I'm trying not to relate to food like it's the enemy, and so it's jarring when the word "diet" appears 10x in a book not about food. (I imagine the reader is supposed to interpret it as humorous, but I didn't.)
I'll also note that it threw me off a bit when the point of view switched for each wake. I assume these chapters will be formatted differently in the final version, so that won't interpret the flow of other readers.
Overall, I liked it, and would recommend if that premise sounds interesting to you too!
July 20, 2019
Nina Sherwood believes everyone deserves a happy ending, but the retailers of Primrose Hill’s high street, seem determined to deny her her’s. Within weeks of Nina’s funeral parlour, ‘Happy Endings’ opening, she is denied membership of the Primrose Hill Traders Association, harassed by a council inspector, and presented with a £22,000 bill for roof repair from her crabby new neighbour, and when Nina finally receives a booking for a funeral, it turns out to be a cruel hoax. Will her business die a slow death, or will Nina get her happy ending after all?
The topic of death could be considered the antithesis of the romance genre but Ross makes it work, and it’s a point of difference that I found appealing. What I really enjoyed about this story was Nina’s championing of individualised, modern funerals, which Ross portrays in a respectful and matter of fact manner. I have to admit I don’t like to think about my death, however inevitable, but I was quite intrigued by the funeral ideas explored in this novel, especially those showcased at the ‘Death Expo’. I also liked that Ross framed organ donation in such a positive way, I happen to agree that it should be an opt out process.
Nina is an engaging protagonist, but I concur, she has terrible taste in men. Unfortunately I wasn’t really a fan of the romance between Nina and Barclay, whom I thought was too much of a cliche as a handsome, wealthy, lawyer with a reputation as a thrillseeker and playboy. I didn’t find him much more appealing than Nina’s very awful ex-husband, especially at first, and I think he only redeemed himself by the skin of his teeth. Nina and Endo, an artist and her housemate, seemed a more likely match.
I did like Nina’s friendship with her other housemate, Gloria (who also has awful taste in men), and her brief friendship with celebrity, Kelli. I also thought several of the other characters were interesting, even the unpleasant ones, and I was amused by the identity of wedding party.
Five Wakes and a Wedding is an easy, lighthearted romance novel, despite the spectre of death.
The topic of death could be considered the antithesis of the romance genre but Ross makes it work, and it’s a point of difference that I found appealing. What I really enjoyed about this story was Nina’s championing of individualised, modern funerals, which Ross portrays in a respectful and matter of fact manner. I have to admit I don’t like to think about my death, however inevitable, but I was quite intrigued by the funeral ideas explored in this novel, especially those showcased at the ‘Death Expo’. I also liked that Ross framed organ donation in such a positive way, I happen to agree that it should be an opt out process.
Nina is an engaging protagonist, but I concur, she has terrible taste in men. Unfortunately I wasn’t really a fan of the romance between Nina and Barclay, whom I thought was too much of a cliche as a handsome, wealthy, lawyer with a reputation as a thrillseeker and playboy. I didn’t find him much more appealing than Nina’s very awful ex-husband, especially at first, and I think he only redeemed himself by the skin of his teeth. Nina and Endo, an artist and her housemate, seemed a more likely match.
I did like Nina’s friendship with her other housemate, Gloria (who also has awful taste in men), and her brief friendship with celebrity, Kelli. I also thought several of the other characters were interesting, even the unpleasant ones, and I was amused by the identity of wedding party.
Five Wakes and a Wedding is an easy, lighthearted romance novel, despite the spectre of death.
February 11, 2020
First of all that title!👏🏻 This was an entertaining story with an unusual premise. Nina Sherwood loses her job at a posh funeral parlor and tries to open up her own undertaking business in an up-and-coming part of London. The residence of Primrose we’re not having it, it gave all the wrong impressions of this newly transformed neighborhood. A lot of the story was about Nina convincing the locals that a funeral parlor will benefit everybody, because eventually we will all need to use it. A bit morbid, but true. At first I was having a hard time believing that people who live in a city the size of London would care one way or another, but then I remembered people like to complain about lots of things and I imagine it’s the same in the UK as it is in the US. But I honestly could not tell you where the nearest funeral parlor is around me. I’m sure there is one I live in a pretty big city, but I’d have to Google it (hopefully no time soon). There is some romance in the story as well, to contrast with the death theme. I’m still not sure how I feel about Nina‘s choice though? There were a few other secondary characters in the story that seem very interesting, I would’ve perhaps like them to have been be developed a little bit more. If Nina hadn’t been such a dynamic character, I definitely would not have liked this book as much as I did. All in all this was a clever little story.
This book in emojis. 🖤 ⚰️ ⚱️ 🏘
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book in emojis. 🖤 ⚰️ ⚱️ 🏘
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
February 15, 2020
Tired of grief being monetized in her job at a chain undertaker, Nina quits to set up her own boutique business, wanting to give people both dignity and the choice to be sent off in the way they want. Unexpectedly getting an opportunity to set up in the rather ritzy London suburb of Primrose Hill, she soon discovers the other local business owners aren’t as welcoming as she’d hoped… they seem to think death will be bad for their business.
Nina has an intriguing cast of friends, and she’s the kind of person who makes more easily. Even some people who don’t want to like her are drawn into reluctant admiration for both her drive and her compassion. She’s easy to like and to root for. The issue I had was with her love interest, Barclay, who’s basically a bored, rich manchild, with his never-ending succession of expensive time-wasting hobbies. Honestly, I wanted Nina to get together with her artist friend Edo, who was much more interesting and hard-working. Maybe even a healthy poly relationship with Edo and bestie Gloria, who deserved a lot more page time than she got.
Billed as a rom com, this… didn’t really hit the comedy spot at all. Nina spends too much time struggling, financial pressures constantly on her mind, and, frankly, death is a pretty depressing topic. The book’s title is obviously meant to be a callback to Four Weddings and a Funeral, but if you remember the movie… the funeral was the serious, depressing part. There are FIVE funerals here, two of them of characters we’ve really come to care about, and when the wedding comes around, we know one of the characters very slightly and the other has been mentioned three times in passing. We don’t really CARE about them. Even the bits which could have been funny like the pet funeral were played very straight, no real humour there at all.
Now, pointing out the lack of humour doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the read… just that this is being billed as something it’s not. If you’re picking it up looking for something light-hearted to make you laugh, this is really not that book. And as I said, I didn’t particularly like Nina’s love interest… but the romance isn’t the major theme of the book. What this REALLY is, is a very good women’s fiction coming-of-age story as Nina finds her niche and builds her own success. It just seems to be being marketed all wrong, and it’s going to get panned in a lot of reviews because of that. I’m going to give it five stars for the book it actually is… just don’t be expecting a rom com.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
Nina has an intriguing cast of friends, and she’s the kind of person who makes more easily. Even some people who don’t want to like her are drawn into reluctant admiration for both her drive and her compassion. She’s easy to like and to root for. The issue I had was with her love interest, Barclay, who’s basically a bored, rich manchild, with his never-ending succession of expensive time-wasting hobbies. Honestly, I wanted Nina to get together with her artist friend Edo, who was much more interesting and hard-working. Maybe even a healthy poly relationship with Edo and bestie Gloria, who deserved a lot more page time than she got.
Billed as a rom com, this… didn’t really hit the comedy spot at all. Nina spends too much time struggling, financial pressures constantly on her mind, and, frankly, death is a pretty depressing topic. The book’s title is obviously meant to be a callback to Four Weddings and a Funeral, but if you remember the movie… the funeral was the serious, depressing part. There are FIVE funerals here, two of them of characters we’ve really come to care about, and when the wedding comes around, we know one of the characters very slightly and the other has been mentioned three times in passing. We don’t really CARE about them. Even the bits which could have been funny like the pet funeral were played very straight, no real humour there at all.
Now, pointing out the lack of humour doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the read… just that this is being billed as something it’s not. If you’re picking it up looking for something light-hearted to make you laugh, this is really not that book. And as I said, I didn’t particularly like Nina’s love interest… but the romance isn’t the major theme of the book. What this REALLY is, is a very good women’s fiction coming-of-age story as Nina finds her niche and builds her own success. It just seems to be being marketed all wrong, and it’s going to get panned in a lot of reviews because of that. I’m going to give it five stars for the book it actually is… just don’t be expecting a rom com.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
July 23, 2019
A romantic comedy with noir
I have never encountered a romantic comedy featuring an undertaker as its protagonist before and so was quite drawn to this novel. That the cover art is reminiscent of wedding-themed titles yet also contains two crows (or ravens) caught my eye and further intrigued me.
Thirty-year old Nina Sherwood had been working for five years as an undertaker for an independent funeral director. When the business is sold to a chain that prioritises profit over customer service, she clashes with management and is fired.
With help from her family she opens her own funeral parlour in Primrose Hill called ‘Happy Endings’. However, the neighbours are not keen on a funeral parlour in their posh community and seek to drive her out of business.
This was a refreshing take on the popular trope in chick-lit of a singleton starting up a new business and facing initial hostility. Usually though the businesses are teashops, chocolatiers, and the like, not a funeral parlour.
Karen Ross approaches the subject of death very sensitively and also addresses the recent changes in attitudes towards end-of-life care, death, and funerals. It’s a subject that has been of interest to me for years so I welcomed this novel not only as entertaining but for highlighting these important subjects.
This struck me as a very well balanced novel as although a serious subject there is plenty of humour and romance. Yet it’s not too fluffy, which was a big plus for me.
I feel that this novel will be one that will appeal to reading groups given the scope in its storyline for discussion. Karen Ross has usefully included a series of questions for book clubs.
Karen Ross has called this novel ‘rom com noir’ and I applaud this designation. It’s a bit of a balancing act to combine a traditionally gothic subject with romantic comedy but I feel that she has done it.
Highly recommended.
Note: I originally received an eARC via NetGalley from Avon Books U.K. in exchange for an honest review. However, as I enjoyed it so much I purchased my own copy.
I have never encountered a romantic comedy featuring an undertaker as its protagonist before and so was quite drawn to this novel. That the cover art is reminiscent of wedding-themed titles yet also contains two crows (or ravens) caught my eye and further intrigued me.
Thirty-year old Nina Sherwood had been working for five years as an undertaker for an independent funeral director. When the business is sold to a chain that prioritises profit over customer service, she clashes with management and is fired.
With help from her family she opens her own funeral parlour in Primrose Hill called ‘Happy Endings’. However, the neighbours are not keen on a funeral parlour in their posh community and seek to drive her out of business.
This was a refreshing take on the popular trope in chick-lit of a singleton starting up a new business and facing initial hostility. Usually though the businesses are teashops, chocolatiers, and the like, not a funeral parlour.
Karen Ross approaches the subject of death very sensitively and also addresses the recent changes in attitudes towards end-of-life care, death, and funerals. It’s a subject that has been of interest to me for years so I welcomed this novel not only as entertaining but for highlighting these important subjects.
This struck me as a very well balanced novel as although a serious subject there is plenty of humour and romance. Yet it’s not too fluffy, which was a big plus for me.
I feel that this novel will be one that will appeal to reading groups given the scope in its storyline for discussion. Karen Ross has usefully included a series of questions for book clubs.
Karen Ross has called this novel ‘rom com noir’ and I applaud this designation. It’s a bit of a balancing act to combine a traditionally gothic subject with romantic comedy but I feel that she has done it.
Highly recommended.
Note: I originally received an eARC via NetGalley from Avon Books U.K. in exchange for an honest review. However, as I enjoyed it so much I purchased my own copy.
July 22, 2019
Happy Publication Day!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
If you are looking for a book that will make you feel good, want to cheer on the main character, love her supporting cast of characters, and hope that love will win out in the end - this is a book for you.
When I saw it on Netgalley, the description ended with "perfect for fans of ..."Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "The Good Place" - and it's true.
Nina is a 30- year old who runs her own business - as an undertaker. She takes pride in her ability to meet the needs of mourners - or of individuals who want to plan for the future - by creating funerals that properly represent the person. However, just because she's good at her job, doesn't mean that everyone in her neighbourhood is comfortable with an undertaker in their backyard.
And so begins the adventures of Nina Sherwood.
This is definitely a romcom - a little romance, big on friendships, overcoming a betrayal and then all is well with the world. Plus a few funerals are thrown in for good measure.
It started off a little slow - honestly - this could have been more of a 3.5 star read if the beginning had been tightened up a bit - get to the backstory a little sooner - but the last 1/3 of the book was cute and I really wanted to keep reading to see how it all ends.
Not a super lovey type of romantic read - more about friendships and believing in oneself, but a nice little love story (or two... or three) thrown in for good measure.
Enjoyable read.
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
If you are looking for a book that will make you feel good, want to cheer on the main character, love her supporting cast of characters, and hope that love will win out in the end - this is a book for you.
When I saw it on Netgalley, the description ended with "perfect for fans of ..."Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "The Good Place" - and it's true.
Nina is a 30- year old who runs her own business - as an undertaker. She takes pride in her ability to meet the needs of mourners - or of individuals who want to plan for the future - by creating funerals that properly represent the person. However, just because she's good at her job, doesn't mean that everyone in her neighbourhood is comfortable with an undertaker in their backyard.
And so begins the adventures of Nina Sherwood.
This is definitely a romcom - a little romance, big on friendships, overcoming a betrayal and then all is well with the world. Plus a few funerals are thrown in for good measure.
It started off a little slow - honestly - this could have been more of a 3.5 star read if the beginning had been tightened up a bit - get to the backstory a little sooner - but the last 1/3 of the book was cute and I really wanted to keep reading to see how it all ends.
Not a super lovey type of romantic read - more about friendships and believing in oneself, but a nice little love story (or two... or three) thrown in for good measure.
Enjoyable read.
July 22, 2019
This book had great writing. It was easy to read and the flow was kept fairly steady. However, I just couldn't get into this book. It was, in my opinion, a bit slow which is why it didn't really capture my interest. This book just didn't reach its potential for me. I wanted to see more funerals and the stories surrounding them. Unfortunately, that didn't happen until about halfway through. What did manage to grab my interest was the story surrounding the death of Nina's husband. Which again, unfortunately, didn't happen until just over halfway through the book. I wish we would have heard more about it though. I did like Barclay. I thought he was an interesting character. Also, I did find some humor in some moments of the book. In particular, some of Nina's observations made me chuckle. Although I didn't enjoy the book, many people did enjoy it so you shouldn't base your opinion about whether to read the book based on my review.
"I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review."
"I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review."
July 31, 2019
Join Nina the undertaker as she sets up her small business in Primrose Hill, much to the consternation of the Traders Association and neighbours. Nina is a fantastic heroine, feisty, vulnerable, funny, determined, passionate and someone for whom you want the world to work out for. Along the way meet Zoe Banks, the wicked witch of Primrose Hill, her flat share lawyer friend Gloria who is into urban gardening to bring vital political messages to the masses and there is Edo, who also ends up living with Gloria and Nina, bringing along a rescue dog Chopper and many brilliant and 'out-there' artistic ideas. The love interest is Barclay, wealthy playboy. Does he have a heart of gold or is there a hidden agenda? Will Happy Endings, Nina's funeral business thrive or will it be thwarted?
This is such a funny, laugh out loud book that was a dream to read. Loved the originality, loved Kelli the celebrity and all the people we meet who need Nina's modern day funeral services. Highly recommend you pick up this book to brighten your reading days.!
This is such a funny, laugh out loud book that was a dream to read. Loved the originality, loved Kelli the celebrity and all the people we meet who need Nina's modern day funeral services. Highly recommend you pick up this book to brighten your reading days.!
June 12, 2019
A book with so many points of connection, and overall a laugh-out-loud experience that made me wake up early a few times just to get further into this one. It's a pleasant surprise that we can get so into plotline about funerals, but here we are thinking about the afterlife and the business of death, not turned off or unsettled at all. This story walks in the same shoes as The Good Place and Four Weddings and a Funeral, and we find great comfort in the familiarity. Ross handles the chick lit narrative style well, we're engaged in the connections between characters and I found myself liking supporting characters as much as the main ones. This was time well spent in a nicely-crafted bit of entertainment, and I'll be looking for more of Karen Ross's novels to enjoy as well.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a review. This was a good one.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a review. This was a good one.
June 5, 2019
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
With years experience working as an undertaker, Nina Sherwood had anticipated opening her own funeral home would be a much less overwhelming endeavor. Not only are her pretentious fellow business owners completely against the idea of a funeral home in their neighborhood, but her first scheduled funeral turns out to be a very public, very humiliating hoax. Despite her struggles with her business, however, comes the unorthodox friendship of the recipient of said faux funeral, as well as the unexpected attraction to the charming man-child, Barclay. But of course nothing is simple in Nina's life, as unforeseen events occur.
Five Wakes and a Wedding was an incredibly NetGalley find, I've got to say. I'm not convinced that this novel is really something I would have picked otherwise, as it really isn't my usual taste, but I quickly fell in love with Nina and her quirky group of friends. I loved Ross' storytelling, and really enjoyed how she incorporated the titular fives wakes and a wedding (especially the wedding; did not see that coming!), and was completely engrossed in this story.
Overall, this was a great story full of likeable characters, and I'm excited to read more from this author. Fans of women's fiction and romantic comedies will absolutely love this book, and I would highly recommend it!
4/5
With years experience working as an undertaker, Nina Sherwood had anticipated opening her own funeral home would be a much less overwhelming endeavor. Not only are her pretentious fellow business owners completely against the idea of a funeral home in their neighborhood, but her first scheduled funeral turns out to be a very public, very humiliating hoax. Despite her struggles with her business, however, comes the unorthodox friendship of the recipient of said faux funeral, as well as the unexpected attraction to the charming man-child, Barclay. But of course nothing is simple in Nina's life, as unforeseen events occur.
Five Wakes and a Wedding was an incredibly NetGalley find, I've got to say. I'm not convinced that this novel is really something I would have picked otherwise, as it really isn't my usual taste, but I quickly fell in love with Nina and her quirky group of friends. I loved Ross' storytelling, and really enjoyed how she incorporated the titular fives wakes and a wedding (especially the wedding; did not see that coming!), and was completely engrossed in this story.
Overall, this was a great story full of likeable characters, and I'm excited to read more from this author. Fans of women's fiction and romantic comedies will absolutely love this book, and I would highly recommend it!
4/5
July 11, 2019
# Five Wakes And Wedding # Netgalley.
No this is as far away as one of my normal type of book. However once in awhile something will catch my eye and I read synopsis and suddenly want to read it because it is so different. Well this ones very well written, Nina opens a undertakers where no one what that kind of business where they live. They have this dence opinion that no one in their area will ever a undertaker. Some try to get rid of her, they are a few laughs and tears along the way. Nina is coming to a breaking point at one stage. Bloody good book you will have to read to find out lots more, it’s definitely worth reading. Very enjoyable especially when your not really into a dark murder type. This one gives you a lift up just what’s need sometimes I will be reading more of Karen Ross without doubt
No this is as far away as one of my normal type of book. However once in awhile something will catch my eye and I read synopsis and suddenly want to read it because it is so different. Well this ones very well written, Nina opens a undertakers where no one what that kind of business where they live. They have this dence opinion that no one in their area will ever a undertaker. Some try to get rid of her, they are a few laughs and tears along the way. Nina is coming to a breaking point at one stage. Bloody good book you will have to read to find out lots more, it’s definitely worth reading. Very enjoyable especially when your not really into a dark murder type. This one gives you a lift up just what’s need sometimes I will be reading more of Karen Ross without doubt
July 16, 2019
This book was definitely something to remember.
I love the idea of the undertaker as a heroine and at the end a business woman in a man’s world.
Nothing is so easy as you might think and mistake after mistake, she won’t give up on her business no matter how many obstacles she encounters. I really enjoyed her thoughts and insecurities and everything in between.
The love story is great as well because he doesn’t treat her like a crazy person and takes her in beautiful places on dates.
The writing is good and the book has an interesting and original story.
#netgalley
I love the idea of the undertaker as a heroine and at the end a business woman in a man’s world.
Nothing is so easy as you might think and mistake after mistake, she won’t give up on her business no matter how many obstacles she encounters. I really enjoyed her thoughts and insecurities and everything in between.
The love story is great as well because he doesn’t treat her like a crazy person and takes her in beautiful places on dates.
The writing is good and the book has an interesting and original story.
#netgalley
June 26, 2019
Cute but not perfect. Nina was a bit too whiny for my tastes and I couldn't understand what she saw in Barclay. Especially after figuring out what he was up to. Nina has terrible taste in men.
Expected more about the funerals and planning to be honest, it is called Five Wakes and a Wedding... but not much is included about each of those items.
Quick read and not too bad.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
Expected more about the funerals and planning to be honest, it is called Five Wakes and a Wedding... but not much is included about each of those items.
Quick read and not too bad.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
July 16, 2019
I wasn’t caught by the book at first. The more I read, the more I got into the life happenings of Nina, undertaker with a new business. Her friends, Gloria and Edo, are true blue. They keep her
moving forward in her pursuit of business. There are several surprises that add to the flavor of the book.
I loved it overall.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
moving forward in her pursuit of business. There are several surprises that add to the flavor of the book.
I loved it overall.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 22, 2019
This book was a perfect quick read! I'd consider it a must read for any fans of chick-lit! I really liked Nina's character as well as Barclay, even though he had some rough spots! I thought it was cool how the author tries to portray death in a lighter manner. At parts I found this book kind of gloomy but overall I enjoyed the humour and the romance within the novel~!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review. :)
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review. :)
June 1, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon books for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book is perfect for lovers of chick lit books. I didn’t want to put it down. This is the first book I’ve read by Karen Ross, but I will definitely be looking for more. This book has made me laugh and cry! It is definitely a fab read and I highly recommend this book.
June 23, 2019
Aww that's a shame but sadly I wasn't too keen on this book. There was nothing wrong with the writing. Easy to read, kept a fairly steady flow of different things happening but generally I found it slow and it didn't really capture my interest. I expected more funerals and the stories behind them. Instead the book seemed to reach half way, with Nina drumming her fingers on the counter top before eventually finding someone willing to seek out her undertaker services. Of the funerals she did organise, of which I think there were four including one for a dog, they were rather bizarre even for Happy Endings whose mission was to make funerals very personal to the deceased and their families.
The premise of the story was OK I just thought it all went a little over the top even for a fictional undertakers. I didn't personally like the fact that it was a book that seemed to lean towards the rich and famous, even if they were fictional characters, but that's just me. I'm not a great follower of celebrities and tended to agree with one of the journalists attending one particular funeral when he muttered something about them having more money than sense.
I much preferred the story that surrounded the death of Nina's husband and the story behind it, which was revealed just over half way through the book. I would have liked to have heard more about this. I also thought Barclay was an interesting character, although there again it went way over the top when it came to living a somewhat privileged life. You know, lets just whisk someone away for a day trip to Paris in their private helicopter, as one does! However that's fiction, it isn't meant to be real. I think looking back, its the fact that it really was about the affluent of London that irritated me somewhat which is why I didn't really take to it.
Having said that, it did have a lot of light moments and things that did make me laugh. There was Barclay's surname for a start but I don't want to spoil the bit where its revealed in the book. Then there was early on in the book, two of Nina's observations made me smile. Referring to a woman and her hair dye, she described it as Menopause Red which I thought was funny. I know exactly the red she means and I always wonder why women of a certain age go for that colour, is it the new purple rinse of old? Then there was Zoe Banks with her collagen enhanced lips which Nina described as looking like a pair of scarlet bananas. It did have its funny moments.
Many reviewers did enjoy the book so don't just take my word for it, it just wasn't one for me.
The premise of the story was OK I just thought it all went a little over the top even for a fictional undertakers. I didn't personally like the fact that it was a book that seemed to lean towards the rich and famous, even if they were fictional characters, but that's just me. I'm not a great follower of celebrities and tended to agree with one of the journalists attending one particular funeral when he muttered something about them having more money than sense.
I much preferred the story that surrounded the death of Nina's husband and the story behind it, which was revealed just over half way through the book. I would have liked to have heard more about this. I also thought Barclay was an interesting character, although there again it went way over the top when it came to living a somewhat privileged life. You know, lets just whisk someone away for a day trip to Paris in their private helicopter, as one does! However that's fiction, it isn't meant to be real. I think looking back, its the fact that it really was about the affluent of London that irritated me somewhat which is why I didn't really take to it.
Having said that, it did have a lot of light moments and things that did make me laugh. There was Barclay's surname for a start but I don't want to spoil the bit where its revealed in the book. Then there was early on in the book, two of Nina's observations made me smile. Referring to a woman and her hair dye, she described it as Menopause Red which I thought was funny. I know exactly the red she means and I always wonder why women of a certain age go for that colour, is it the new purple rinse of old? Then there was Zoe Banks with her collagen enhanced lips which Nina described as looking like a pair of scarlet bananas. It did have its funny moments.
Many reviewers did enjoy the book so don't just take my word for it, it just wasn't one for me.
July 13, 2019
An amusing, light read. An undertakers is certainly a different setting to a cafe or bakery!
Nina was a likeable character but the story didn’t quite gel in parts and felt at times it needed a jump to get going.
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for the arc and the opportunity to read this in exchange for my review.
Nina was a likeable character but the story didn’t quite gel in parts and felt at times it needed a jump to get going.
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for the arc and the opportunity to read this in exchange for my review.
June 1, 2019
A totally different spin on a contemporary romance with unusual characters and a plot line that kept you turning the pages. I received an e-book from NetGalley in return for an unbiased review.
July 18, 2019
I need to read light, funny and entertaining book in this period of my life and this book was perfect.
I loved the humour, the quirky cast of characters and the brilliant plot.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I loved the humour, the quirky cast of characters and the brilliant plot.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
June 25, 2019
Five Wakes and the Wedding by Karen Ross is a charming love story about a young female undertaker.
Classic love story placed in unusual romantic setting of undertaker world where Nina Sherwood mourns a loss of both her husband and her job. Being left without means to live she gathers up her courage and her father's savings to open up her own funeral parlor.
With help of her two friends and roommates Gloria and Edo. However, things don't go smoothly as other residents of the affluent suburb abhor the idea of funerals and death, as it doesn't fit into their perfect world and will stop at nothing to have her close her shop.
For the first time after her husband's death Nina starts to have feeling for a man. Yes, he quite often behaves like an idiot and says wrong things at the wrong time, but underneath it all he seems like a decent sort.
Full of twists and turns, and so many unexpected things thrown reader's way this book will delight and empower you.
It is a book about love between two people, about love between friends and about love for your pet.
Beautiful and lovable characters, so full of joy and life, so well portrayed you will wish to become part of their circle.
You will root for them, you will cry and laugh with them, and you will be so sorry when the end comes.
Highly recommended not just for romance reader but for everyone who enjoys well told story.
Classic love story placed in unusual romantic setting of undertaker world where Nina Sherwood mourns a loss of both her husband and her job. Being left without means to live she gathers up her courage and her father's savings to open up her own funeral parlor.
With help of her two friends and roommates Gloria and Edo. However, things don't go smoothly as other residents of the affluent suburb abhor the idea of funerals and death, as it doesn't fit into their perfect world and will stop at nothing to have her close her shop.
For the first time after her husband's death Nina starts to have feeling for a man. Yes, he quite often behaves like an idiot and says wrong things at the wrong time, but underneath it all he seems like a decent sort.
Full of twists and turns, and so many unexpected things thrown reader's way this book will delight and empower you.
It is a book about love between two people, about love between friends and about love for your pet.
Beautiful and lovable characters, so full of joy and life, so well portrayed you will wish to become part of their circle.
You will root for them, you will cry and laugh with them, and you will be so sorry when the end comes.
Highly recommended not just for romance reader but for everyone who enjoys well told story.
July 5, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is was a cute but predictable story. That isn't necessarily the worst thing, but I found it took quite a while to get going. The characters are quite enjoyable, and Ross sets the scene well.
This is was a cute but predictable story. That isn't necessarily the worst thing, but I found it took quite a while to get going. The characters are quite enjoyable, and Ross sets the scene well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews