The Funeral Planner: A Dark Comedy Short
About
Liam Graves’ acting career is dead on arrival, just like the funeral home he unexpectedly inherits from his late Aunt Mildred. Turning his failed theatrics into a macabre business venture, Liam transforms dull funerals into outrageous spectacles. From a Wild West send-off to a space-themed farewell gone hilariously awry, each ceremony is more chaotic than the last, earning Liam both local fame and a host of lawsuits. With unforgettable misadventures and a flair for the dramatic, “The Funeral Planner” is a dark comedy about finding purpose in the most unexpected places. Dive into this uproarious tale where death truly becomes the ultimate performance!
Beth Curry, known for her gripping suspense thrillers and intricate mysteries, delights in finding humor even in the darkest places. She shares with you this dark short. Fans of her thrilling novels won’t have to wait long for more, as her two upcoming serious works, ”Autopsy of the Mind” and ”Dissection of the Soul” are set to release on September 1, 2024.
Praise for this book
Great blend of dark humor and unexpected twists.
This is a quirky story. Beth’s writing is sharp and funny, making this book a quick and entertaining read. If you're looking for something different and full of laughs, The Funeral Planner is a great choice.
It's always a surprise to me when I find myself laughing out loud while reading a story. I think this would make a great sitcom. Wonderful characters.
The humor in "The Funeral Planner" is sharp and often dark, with a satirical edge that pokes fun at both the funeral industry and the desperation of those seeking fame. The story explores themes of failure, reinvention, and the absurdity of life (and death) with a light touch that makes even the most macabre moments laugh-out-loud funny.
Beth Curry's writing is crisp and witty, with a knack for comedic timing. The dialogue is snappy and character-driven, and the descriptive passages bring the bizarre funeral scenes to life. The author's ability to balance humor with moments of genuine emotion adds depth to the story, making it more than just a series of comedic set pieces.
"The Funeral Planner" is a delightful and original story that showcases Beth Curry's talent for blending humor with heartfelt storytelling. It's a wild and entertaining read that leaves a lasting impression. Fans of dark comedy and quirky characters will find much to enjoy in this tale of theatrical funerals and the man who brings them to life (or death). RATING: 4.5/5
"The Funeral Planner" is a darkly comedic and highly entertaining short story that successfully blends humor with the macabre. Beth’s writing shines in her ability to create increasingly absurd scenarios while maintaining a coherent narrative thread.
The character of Liam Graves is well-developed, with his desperation as a failed actor and his manic enthusiasm for his new career providing a solid foundation for the story's humor. The progression of his funeral productions from merely unconventional to completely outrageous is well-paced and keeps the reader engaged.
Curry's strength lies in her vivid descriptions of the theatrical funerals. Each scenario is more ridiculous than the last, building to the hilarious and chaotic climax of "Millicent's Millions." The author's ability to find humor in death without being overly disrespectful is commendable.
The story also offers a subtle commentary on the commercialization of death and the human need for spectacle, even in times of grief. This adds a layer of depth to what could otherwise be a purely comedic tale.
While the humor occasionally verges on the over-the-top, it generally hits the mark. Some readers might find the concept of comedic funerals distasteful, but Curry manages to walk the line between funny and offensive skillfully.
Overall, "The Funeral Planner" is a highly entertaining read that showcases Curry's talent for comedy writing and her ability to find humor in unlikely places. The story's ending leaves room for potential sequels, which would be welcome given the entertaining world she has created.