A Sexton's Work... (Is Never Done)

Would You Love a Monster-Man? #1

by M.F. Moody

Kevin's had enough. Thanks to his father, he's now unemployed and homeless, and he's feeling the pressure to conform to his father's demands. Luckily for Kevin, though, his guardian-angel-in-disguise has other plans for his future.

Tully's whole afterlife revolves around the haunted grounds of Saint Sébastien's. But when the powerful undead spell caster lays eyes on his new, human sexton, unlife as he knows it gets turned on its head.

This short and haunting M/M story features an unflappable human, an array of supernatural and undead creatures, oceans of snark, flamboyant melodramatic meltdowns, naughty uses of magic, hurt/comfort, and found families. It contains adult language and explicit sexual content. That means if you're not 18 or older, this book is not for you, so put it back. Go on, shoo!

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Fae, Monsters, Queer, Found Family, Fantasy

151 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2023

About the author

M.F. Moody is a purveyor of Contemporary, Rom-Com, Dark, Mafia, Fantasy, Paranormal, LGBTQ+, RH/Poly, and Sci-Fi Romance novels. She has a vivid and active imagination, is often blunt to the point of brutality, has a dark and warped sense of humour, absolutely no filter, no shame, is an absolute genre whore, and aspires to the giddy heights of the gutter.

M.F. Moody is married to a VERY understanding man, and together they have a boy-child, 3 cats, and apparently WAAAAY too many books and alcohol, especially as she’s the only one who drinks. Although really, is there such a thing as having too many books? And as for the alcohol, well, she’s Australian. They live in a little corner of Kent in the UK, and she enjoys confusing the locals with her accent and colloquialisms, reading, coffee, wine, reading, baking, sleeping, and did we mention reading?

Reviews

[Rae (semi-hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s crazy seeing the progression of MF Moody’s writing! They’ve continually improved with each new release and this book is one of the best I’ve read from them 🤩

Kevin was so relatable to me! I adored him and the relationship/conversations with Sully. The romance was blossoming right in front of my eyes and I couldn’t help being giddy (Kevin deserves the best).

There were unanswered questions amidst the plot line (i.e. the undead) but I’m hoping that will be answered later. In the meantime this was quite an entertaining and cheesy and sweet read! 🥰

[Cristal Juarez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. Kevin and Tully are great and sweet. I found myself looking up the meanings in a French translator. Ended up finding the translations at the end of the book. I wish the book was longer. It kind of just ended. I haven’t read the second book yet, but from the first page it looks to be another couple. I wish that they had more to the story. They spoke of many things, but didn’t have any episodes pertaining to the door/portal. Hopefully this story continues with more of the first couple. I will be looking forward to the next book.

[OneDayI'll · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun

Trigger warnings for anti LGBTQIA speech by a character's parent. This was a fun introduction to a budding series. The characters are interesting, even with little background. The world building is scant but is done in a way that keeps readers intrigued. There's not exactly a plot yet, but there's a mystery hinted at at the very end that lures readers to explore book 2.

[Darcy’s Good Opinion · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

MM
Paranormal
Supernatural Entity/Human
Protective MMC
Delightful Characters
Halloween Lore

Tully is a VERY old soul. He protects not only the people in his area, the ancient church & graveyard in the community, but also (don’t tell the humans) a portal to other dimensions that precariously keeps the balance between good and evil. The poor guy is all work and no play until the cemetery is in need of a new sexton.

Kevin is a delicious cinnamon roll that cares deeply for all the found family around him. He embraces every individual for their uniqueness because it was not something he always found in his own family.
When Kevin takes the sexton position and crosses paths with Tully, sparks fly.

I loved this story. The characters, both main and secondary, were absolutely enchanting. The rich history and charm of Louisiana were depicted to spooky perfection. A fast, fun read.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin is now homeless and unemployed because of his father. He finds himself wondering if he should do just what his father wants. They have other plans for him and it is not to work with his father. A powerful spell has been used and the undead are appearing. What is going to happen next? Can he stop it all? Will he finally get a break from it all? See how he gets on in this thrilling short read

[Rune · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why did I wait so long?!

Just read was so well edited and well paced that I absolutely flew through it. If you're a fan of gargoyles, a great balance of tension and inner challenges and growth, this is the read for you! I can't wait to see what comes next in this world. 😍

[antonia🫧 · Rating 4 out of 5]

SO MANY INTERESTING AND UNIQUE MONSTERS! i really enjoyed this story and all the characters, except you alexander wager, except you.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the bits of French sprinkled into the story. However, a lot of the dialogue was over the top. Both too lengthy and too saccharine, I found myself skipping some of it.

Now, few musings about logistics… The undead… Do they eat, do they sleep, do they have other bodily functions? What about undead ejaculate? There are a lot of things unanswered here….

[Trip · Rating 3 out of 5]

"You own my heart, my soul, and every molecule of the power I wield. There is nothing, nothing I won’t do for you. I will turn the sun to ash because it shines too brightly, I will raise an army of the dead to avenge your slights, I will turn dark and do all that and more if you ask it of me."

I adored the concept and setting of this story, it was so interesting and fun with the various types of paranormal creatures & spirits. It's a fast-paced and entertaining read, the alternating povs worked well and the romance was lovely.

Kevin's dedication to his role and wanting to keep the graveyard in perfect condition, his outrage over it's previous care. I adored him so much and the found family feels as his story of revealed, I'm glad his dad gets what he deserves in the end - rather creatively handled.

Oh and Tully is stunning, his style and flirting along with his passion & devotion - just instantly charming. Along with his form without the glamour, the backstory and reveals were fascinating.

The romance is quick and spicy, these two compliment one another beautifully though and I enjoyed their relationship. While the ending felt abrupt is Happy for Tully & Kevin, also I'm excited for the next in series to see Hugo's story as he was wonderful here.


Undead
Versatile
Insta Lust/Love
Boss/Employee
Found family

Injuries
Childhood Trauma
Homophobia [from parent]

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Sexton’s Work…(is Never Done) by M.F Moody is book one in the Would You Love a Monster-Man Series. This is a M/M romance and is a quick paranormal read. I thought this was an interesting story that touched on some great tropes such as found family in particular. But my favorite thing about this book was Kevin, the way he just accepts people because it was something that he didn’t always receive in his own family. My only tiny criticism is that the romance felt a little rushed; but that’s just because I wanted to read more of the fireworks between the characters. It didn’t necessarily take away anything from the story, I would have just enjoyed more build up but then again this story is less than a hundred pages. The spice and banter was good; a favorite. I enjoyed the lore that was in the story as the location itself is a wonderful backdrop. Not only that but I loved the message of learning to accept yourself and others that was woven throughout this novella. It was written well and had a good pace with the plot that had me hooked that I needed to know more. Overall I had a great reading experience and would recommend this if you like a good paranormal story. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[Paula Sabol (Never Choose Fantasy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Sexton’s Work…(is never done) by
M F Moody is a short MM paranomal romance. Kevin has found himself jobless.and homeless after the death of his grandfather and betrayal of his father. However this is short lived as Hugo and Tully hire him to take care of an old cemetary now privately owned by Tully. As Tully and Kevin find themselves flirting and feeling a pull but when Kevin discovers the men and many of his friends are monsters will he stay or run?
This is a short yet perfectly paced romance. It didn't feel rushed yet at the same time it moved quickly. It has some minor world-building but mainly builds on common folklore… I love stories where the mosnters have 2 sides…similar to humans. Their good side is reserved for friends, family, and those that show respect while the other side is reserved for those that are disrespectful, unkind, or evil.
I rated this 5 stars. For a short story it had wonderful characters, drama, action, violence, and love. If you enjoy MM romance with Monsters, found family, and spice you'll enjoy A Sexton’s Work….(is never done).

[Julorie Siefert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin knew who he was and even though his father basically pushed him aside for a new marriage and family. Leaving Kevin with his grandfather and his grandmother to raise, Kevin and his grandfather developed a business and with his grandfather making a a codicil to his will that Kevin was to be able to live in the house and run the business. Kevin's father took advantage of a loop hole and basically left his son homeless and jobless. Little did Kevin know that his life was to change and how! Kevin not only got a great job and his mind was opened up to what most of us only have superstitions about. While this is not a long story it is big in the concept and characters, and about the concept of not judging when some one is different in their choice of loving and accepting themselves and their family loving them as they are.

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story throws an unsuspecting human, Kevin, into the world of the supernatural. After his dad-of-the-year disregards the will of his father and Kevin's grandpa, rendering Kevin homeless and jobless within hours, pushing his son to comply to his standards, Kevin turns around... and walks straight into an opportunity that is too good to pass. Do you expect a catch? Rather expect many, because from the point Kevin starts working as sexton at Saint Sebastien, nothing is as it seems..
Fast M/M supernatural story with creatures that do not appear that frequently in fantasy books (at least some of them). There is a high ratio of male characters in this book but I totally didn't mind, after all, the focus is on M/M :) All main characters are very distinct and interesting, standing out despite the relatively short length of the story, and I enjoyed the ride a lot.

[isthisakink · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5. There was a lot of detail and world building, but where you expect and anticipate finding any showing of anything instead of telling, you’re going to be disappointed. Two seconds of read time with them on-page together before they’re in love was a total letdown. And I mean, okay, I fuck with the instalove vibe, but it just felt like too many gaping holes (heh) where things you want/need/like to see should be. It was cute and fun and a quick read, but the potential for it to be so much more kinda banked the fire for me. Quick-‘n-dirty is never my absolute fav as far as books/stories/novellas go, but this was just a teaser for a larger story in my unwanted opinion and that makes me sad. I’d love to see this fully-fleshed and actualized.

[Holly Rife · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Kevin finds himself jobless and homeless due to unforeseen circumstances, it seems there may be a perfect opportunity just around the corner.

When Kevin and Tully meet, their chemistry is off the charts!! And they just keep growing as a couple - the 🔥🔥🔥 oh my heavens, is this book HOT!!! They connect emotionally too and that doesn't always happen in a paranormal romance such as this and I am so down for it!!! I love found family in books and this one is strong as nails and quite beautiful. This book has all sorts of spice and all sorts of spice and all sorts of feels! I thoroughly enjoyed it!

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good story and at 117 pages was a quick read. Kevin was such a great character and even though his dad had done all those terrible things, he still had a sunshine nature and thanks to his grandad had all the skills for his new job. The connection between him and Tully was electric. I loved when Tully slipped into French, I had fun guessing what he said( there are footnotes if you want the translations). The found family that Kevin had were fun and you knew that he was cared for.
As a new to me author I am going to look for more of their works, starting off with Sing a Song of Summoning

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure about the cover, but the blurb really drew me in, so I requested it. I’m so glad I did! The writing is fantastic, and I just loved all the characters. They are kind, caring, and dangerous to the right, or should I say wrong, people. This is an introduction to Tully, Hugo, and Kevin and the people in their lives. I’m hoping that this is the beginning of a series because I’d love to see more with a little bit more mystery thrown in. Fun, interesting, well-written, and captivating. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy.

[Ines · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a pretty cute MM standalone, and I enjoyed it a lot. It’s a short read, so you shouldn’t start it if you’re looking for deep plot development, but it fits perfectly with the desire for a palate cleanser. The characters are lovely, and they reminded me a little of Richard Amos’ male characters. It resulted in a cute lovestory with a touch of spice involved.

One thing I love about this author, is the originality of her storylines and it absolutely reflects on this short paranormal standalone as well. This author is slowly becoming a new favorite of mine.

[Joy Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

MF gives us a short and sweet standalone book in this offering! The story of Kevin and Tully starts with the firing of the previous sexton for gross negligence and Kevin being left homeless and unemployed when his dad shuts down the business started by Kevin and his grandfather, leaving him available to take the sexton's job at Saint Sebastien's. Kevin is perfect for the job, and for Tully. Dive into this wonderfully written book with complex characters and plot twists that keep you turning pages throughout. I loved reading this story and highly recommend it. Don't miss out on this book!!

[Taylor Loewe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short read with such a sweet plot and a great characters.

Kevin is left homeless and jobless following the loss of his grandfather. A man approaches him about taking a job at the local cemetery without fully disclosing the truth of the cemetery’s history.

Tully is the protector of the cemetery and a portal that could lead to the destruction of the world. Kevin and Tully fit together perfectly, able to protect each other and fill the holes in their souls and lives.

Such a simple story with plenty packed in to give you a satisfying conclusion.

[Brandi Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨
I absolutely devoured this hilarious and emotional paranormal romance. I immediately fell in love with both main male characters, each for their own unique reasons. I also was so warmed to the heart reading about a beautifully represented LGBTQ+ relationship and community. I loved the way MF Moody handled real life problems in a fantasy setting. It made the book relatable while still being a world I could escape into. If I had any criticism I would have liked to see more detailed world building, however the less detailed nature still made for a wonderful reading experience.

[Naurarwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a short, fun read. And looks like I discovered that a sexton is also an actual job. It's not one I've heard of before so I totally looked it up. Kevin one of our MMC's has had it rough, his grandfather left him things in his Will but his own father takes them away and leaves him homeless and jobless. Kevin doesn't want to comply with his father's demands. Then along comes Tully, he's the monster is the story and actually super adorable.

It's a quick, spicy read where Kevin finds his "found family". I also want to say how much I adored Delores!

[Emma Braddock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has everything I love, monsters, m+m romance, sarcasm, innuendos and humour for days.
It also covers topics that are close to my heart. Reading this book has been a cathartic experience for me.
Kevin bless his heart hasn't had the best relationship with his father and after his grandfather passes away and Kevin takes over as sexton (gravestone and graveyard maintenance) he soon discovers family isn't always about blood.
In Hugo and Tully he finds conradery and love.
You will cry with tears of laughter and heartbreak and will end the book needing to read the next.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another out-of-the-park home run by this author. She combines sassy characters, paranormal, and steam to create a one-of-a-kind story. This one centers around Kevin, a gay man who has been abandoned by his horrific father, and Tully, the lich tasked with protecting a mystic gate. Along the way a found family helps him become the man he should be! This is a beacon towards being yourself and finding those who support you always!

[Ashley Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed it. I like how Kevin is a relatable character. He has father issues. He has a found family and grandparents that raised him. Kevin gets a new job working in the cemetery. He has to deal with his father trying to get back in his life. He finds out some interesting things about the cemetery. He also is starting a new relationship. He also finds out some things about his new bosses and his new lover. This is a great MM paranormal romance.

[MandyViolete · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is an interesting combination and I love our guy, Kevin, and his transition into the paranormal world. Tully gives me Magnus from Shadowhunters’ vibe and I’m so here for it! I love the variety of creatures we get and the justice for Kevin will make you cheer. The steam is hot even for it being a shorter read, but came through very naturally. A great read and I can’t wait to see what’s in Ireland

[Mrs R · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short MM PNR romance but packed in loads of world-building. I would love to read more about this world. I also enjoyed all the side characters.

Kevin has a dad that kicks him out once his beloved grandfather died. He has some great 'found family' and ends up as a sexton. Tully protects the area and has lived for a long time.

Tully is smitten from the moment he meets Kevin, who doesn't take much longer. It's very sweet and a bit spicy.

[Kristin Lindes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has once again created a phenomenal world with real, relatable characters that draw you into their chaotic, supernatural worlds. While I don't generally read purely M/M books, this one's backstory, the lore and creatures described and the love described is just pure magic. It's a very quick read, that's full of spice, drama and magic that is a very nice filler/palate cleanser.

I 100% recommend reading this if you're looking for different. This author is magical.

[Elitta Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin has grown up with his grandparents. His mother left when he was small and his father left when he was a teen. His father disagreed with everything about him. When his grandfather passed, his father disregarded his wishes and closed the business and took the house. The townsfolk of White Bluff help Kevin find a job and place to stay. Kevin starts working as the new sexton. This is where his life truly begins. Full of twists and turns. I highly recommend giving this book a try.

[June McKibben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin is a human that had his life ahead of him until his father found a loophole in the will and made Kevin jobless and homeless. Tully and Kevins attraction is instant and will have you feeling all kinds of things. With a new world of supernatural and showing love is love you will enjoy every moment.