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Absolution
Declan James was the perfect guy.
He was sweet. Charming. Caring. Until he wasn’t.
Fourteen years ago, his actions tore apart my family. He ruined my sister’s life and nothing was ever the same again. But now, more than a decade later, he’s back.
When he walks into my office, asking for my help, I’m shocked, but nothing prepares me for what I’m about to learn. I see how far he’s gone to redeem himself and I know that he’s changed. I also know that, as a priest, he’s more off limits than ever.
If I help him, my family will never forgive me.
If I fall in love with him, I will never forgive myself.
He was sweet. Charming. Caring. Until he wasn’t.
Fourteen years ago, his actions tore apart my family. He ruined my sister’s life and nothing was ever the same again. But now, more than a decade later, he’s back.
When he walks into my office, asking for my help, I’m shocked, but nothing prepares me for what I’m about to learn. I see how far he’s gone to redeem himself and I know that he’s changed. I also know that, as a priest, he’s more off limits than ever.
If I help him, my family will never forgive me.
If I fall in love with him, I will never forgive myself.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2017
45 people are currently reading
732 people want to read
About the author
Missy Johnson
85 books2,533 followersMissy lives in a small town in Central Victoria with her husband, and her confused pets (a dog who think she's a cat, a cat who thinks he's a dog...you get the picture).
When she's not writing, she can usually be found looking for something to read.
When she's not writing, she can usually be found looking for something to read.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
July 20, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Absolution (stand-alone). Hanny crosses paths with man responsible for shattering her family! Double guilt for their attraction since he is now a priest!
“We’re both embarrassed and ashamed, but for different reasons. He’s betraying his God and I’m betraying my sister.”
Absolution (stand-alone) follows child protective officer Hannah Masters, Hanny fifteen years after her life was irrevocably changed. Priest and ex-convict Declan James, Dec is the person responsible for wrecking her family.
Both Hanny and Dec are haunted by their pasts; weighed down by regrets, secrets and lies. Brought together to save a little girl they must learn to work together through the anger and pain while fighting a forbidden attraction.
Five words to describe Declan James, Dec: Broken, remorseful, despondent, lonely and in denial.
Five words to describe Hannah Masters, Hanny: Lost, caring, reflective, determined and conflcited.
Absolution, told from dual POVs, is a forbidden romance dealing with the ripple effect of one bad decision. The pain and self-loathing that linger; the lies we tell and the secrets we keep. It's about penance and forgiveness and surrendering it all for love.
***
Hero: ★★★★
Heroine: ★★★3/4
Plot: ★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★1/2
Sexual tension: ★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★1/2
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | HIGH FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Romance: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | LOW FOCUS |
ARC provided to me by author Missy Johnson in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2017
This is a really great cover. Good representation of the story. Great composition. Interesting and eye-catching typography.
There is something about this author's writing that pushes me to step out of my box and read a book I would usually avoid like the plague. Be it a non-traditional HEA or in this case I enjoyed this one a lot. It was well-written, and I found it well-paced (if a little rushed at the end, but more about that in a bit.) No OW/OM drama. I wouldn't even say it had a lot of angst. It's was also very low on the heat scale with just some kissing and one not very descriptive sex scene. That said, I didn't feel like that took away from the story in the least. There were a few interesting side characters, and both main characters were likable. All wrapped up in an OK ending. I would have liked to have seen some more details about how certain aspects were dealt with primarily concerning Declan.
So back to my issue with the pace. The first 70% of this book was slow relationship wise. I guess not slow, but more there wasn't much romance other than the heroine thinking Declan was hot. Then BAM the story goes from their somewhat friendship to kissing, sex, and "I love you" at the speed of light. I'll admit it was a little bit jarring. From that point on I felt we were rushed towards a conclusion. I would have liked to have seen us reach the kissing part a bit sooner and bit more time used to flesh out the romantic relationship and some of the details that are just glossed over. The church. Retribution...etc
Still, even with that issue, this was still a very enjoyable book, and I can't wait to see what this author has in store for us next. Two thumbs up from yours truly.
June 17, 2017
REVIEW ALSO ON MY BLOG
⚛ ABSOLUTION - KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS ⚛
ABSOLUTION: is a standalone ‘Contemporary Romance’ by Missy Johnson. Spoken in ‘Dual Perspectives’ (Declan - Priest & Hannah - Child Services Case Worker)
This was so easy to get into, as soon as you start reading the ‘Prologue’ you're so immersed in the story seconds, minutes, hours just fly by and before you know it you've reached the end of the story.
We meet a struggling family suffering from the death of a sister, a daughter, a loved one getting caught up in the wrong crowd had dire consequences that ended her life, which in an effect had a domino effect on Hannah’s family from the age of ten which all lead back to one name ‘Declan James’ who is connected to her sisters death. A family holding on by a thread just barely coping, another persons life destroyed within the family, which all lands on Hannah's shoulders who at the age of ten has had to be the pillar of strength for the family members left to face life without their loved ones.
Then the story jumps years
FOURTEEN YEARS LATER: Hannah Masters landed her dream job straight out of University at ‘Child Protection’ a job she loves, lives and breathes, but also breaks her heart.
After a case lands in her lap where she couldn’t offer more help lands a child orphaned she’s led to the church doors to a priest named ‘Declan James’
When Hannah uncovers who Declan is her world comes tumbling down. How can this man now a priest be responsible for the death of her sister all those years ago?
What happens when the one man that should be forbidden is the one man that you end up falling in love with?
I've fallen in love with the one person I never should've even given the time of day.
Brought together through circumstance and having to work together as a unit brings Hannah and Declan closer to each other than either of them we're prepared for.
What if what you knew was all lies? Two families destroyed.
How this ended I was left gasping for more, I didn't want it to end, I got so caught up in the story I never wanted their journey to finish..
June 18, 2017
There were so many elements about this story that made it interesting. For one the hero was a priest. Then you add in the fact that he was the convicted rapist of the heroine's sister, a sister who eventually committed suicide. Can you imagine falling in love with someone like that? An abandoned little girl forces these two into close quarters and Hannah is having a hard time being around the man who had a hand in taking her sister from her, no matter the fact that he's now a priest. But things are not always what they seem. There are always three sides to a story. It's just a matter of figuring out the truth behind it all.
Keeping it 100, I didn't have much love for the heroine of the story. I tried to be sympathetic and put myself in her shoes, especially when it came to how she dealt with Declan, but it was hard. Oh so very hard because I've always believed that if you don't know the details of everything it's not the wisest option to jump to conclusions. There were so many questions surrounding the rape. Many things left unsaid. And the victim wasn't around to clear anything up. Not to mention, Hannah was a little girl and most of the details were kept from her. There was no mention of her ever reviewing her sister's case files so why was she so certain that she knew everything??? Many times Declan offered clarity and was rejected by Hannah. I get that she wanted nothing to do with her sister's rapist, but c'mon. You don't know everything. And he's a freaking priest with no complaints or charges. WTF?! When the truth was finally revealed I felt that there wasn't enough remorse or sympathy for what happened to him. Where was his compensation?
Now Declan was a great hero. He was a priest who was conflicted in his faith and his strong belief in God and what he was doing as as a follower of God. He was a man of God, a man of the cloth and he was falling in love with someone, which obviously went against his vows and then left him to question everything. I genuinely felt his conflict. The author did an amazing job of describing it so that it was easy to see and understand. I felt so bad for him because of the position he was in, the thoughts he was having, and his own self recriminations. I felt his guilt, his shame, and his burdens as he fought for balance and against temptation.
I've never read anything from this author, but I admire her chutzpah. She took a topic that might seem a bit hard or difficult for others, a taboo subject that many authors won't even touch upon, but she dove right in and gave us the angst, the pain, and the beauty in order to create such a wonderful story.
Release Date: June 201
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 2 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone
Keeping it 100, I didn't have much love for the heroine of the story. I tried to be sympathetic and put myself in her shoes, especially when it came to how she dealt with Declan, but it was hard. Oh so very hard because I've always believed that if you don't know the details of everything it's not the wisest option to jump to conclusions. There were so many questions surrounding the rape. Many things left unsaid. And the victim wasn't around to clear anything up. Not to mention, Hannah was a little girl and most of the details were kept from her. There was no mention of her ever reviewing her sister's case files so why was she so certain that she knew everything??? Many times Declan offered clarity and was rejected by Hannah. I get that she wanted nothing to do with her sister's rapist, but c'mon. You don't know everything. And he's a freaking priest with no complaints or charges. WTF?! When the truth was finally revealed I felt that there wasn't enough remorse or sympathy for what happened to him. Where was his compensation?
Now Declan was a great hero. He was a priest who was conflicted in his faith and his strong belief in God and what he was doing as as a follower of God. He was a man of God, a man of the cloth and he was falling in love with someone, which obviously went against his vows and then left him to question everything. I genuinely felt his conflict. The author did an amazing job of describing it so that it was easy to see and understand. I felt so bad for him because of the position he was in, the thoughts he was having, and his own self recriminations. I felt his guilt, his shame, and his burdens as he fought for balance and against temptation.
I've never read anything from this author, but I admire her chutzpah. She took a topic that might seem a bit hard or difficult for others, a taboo subject that many authors won't even touch upon, but she dove right in and gave us the angst, the pain, and the beauty in order to create such a wonderful story.
Release Date: June 201
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 2 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone
June 21, 2017
We're in Melbourne, Australia
Hannah is a social worker.
After her sister killed herself after being raped 14 years ago, Hannah wanted to give her life meaning by helping others. And she's doing just that now by pulling a mom and her six-year-old daughter out of a dangerous home situation. But the mom goes back again that night - just like they so often do. And her boyfriend kills her.
The little girl meanwhile finds a home with priest Declan.
Who is no other than the guy who spent four jears in jail for raping Hannah's sister.
But everything is not as it seems - and even though she should hate him, Hannah is extremely drawn to him.
I really loved the idea of the story. I love priest romances.
And while I really liked parts of this, I felt it was too rushed. Too short, too emotionless.
I didn't feel any connection to the characters and I didn't feel any connection between them either - Bam - first kiss. Huh?
I think with a bit more work - some more pages, more depth to everything, more feelings and moments between them, and this story could've been really good!!!
June 19, 2017
Absolution - act of absolving; a freeing from blame or guilt; release from consequences, obligations, or penalties.
Wow, so much happens in this story, it took me on a huge emotional ride.
Hannah works in Child Protection Services. The past two years has given her a huge understanding and empathy for children affected by their circumstances. A lot of cases she is involved are family violence where she often sees repeat victims and offenders. On some occasions she gets frustrated with outcomes and in others she feels a sense of pride in having helped people get out of a potentially dangerous situation.
One of her clients, Amanda, is in a terrible relationship that has a repeat cycle of violence. She has a young daughter who is growing up in an environment that no child should have to endure. Unfortunately, this relationship does not have a happy ending, leaving a little girl an orphan. She is put in the care of the local Parish Priest, Declan James, a man she knows and trusts.
Now let’s go back 14 years…… Declan James was a young, good looking guy dating Hannah’s sister Cecily. Young teenage love with the boy who was a litle rough around the edges. Until one night changed everything. Lives were ruined, death came to Hannah’s family door and all the anger & hate she had was focused on one person – Declan James.
How can the man she despises, the man who caused her family so much pain now be a Priest? A very good looking, kind and caring Priest. A man who this grieving, wrecked child is clinging to for dear life. She can’t leave this child with a man like Declan James – can she?
Now all of this happens in the first half of this story, which isn’t a particularly long one but it really packs a punch, it had me from the first couple of pages and didn’t let go of me until the last page. This a story that provokes a lot of thought and explores subjects that I have not seen before in a book so bravo to Missy for being bold enough to do so.
Wow, so much happens in this story, it took me on a huge emotional ride.
Hannah works in Child Protection Services. The past two years has given her a huge understanding and empathy for children affected by their circumstances. A lot of cases she is involved are family violence where she often sees repeat victims and offenders. On some occasions she gets frustrated with outcomes and in others she feels a sense of pride in having helped people get out of a potentially dangerous situation.
One of her clients, Amanda, is in a terrible relationship that has a repeat cycle of violence. She has a young daughter who is growing up in an environment that no child should have to endure. Unfortunately, this relationship does not have a happy ending, leaving a little girl an orphan. She is put in the care of the local Parish Priest, Declan James, a man she knows and trusts.
Now let’s go back 14 years…… Declan James was a young, good looking guy dating Hannah’s sister Cecily. Young teenage love with the boy who was a litle rough around the edges. Until one night changed everything. Lives were ruined, death came to Hannah’s family door and all the anger & hate she had was focused on one person – Declan James.
How can the man she despises, the man who caused her family so much pain now be a Priest? A very good looking, kind and caring Priest. A man who this grieving, wrecked child is clinging to for dear life. She can’t leave this child with a man like Declan James – can she?
Now all of this happens in the first half of this story, which isn’t a particularly long one but it really packs a punch, it had me from the first couple of pages and didn’t let go of me until the last page. This a story that provokes a lot of thought and explores subjects that I have not seen before in a book so bravo to Missy for being bold enough to do so.
May 3, 2017
Are you DYING to read this, cause I can't FREAKING WAIT to release it!!! Coming June 28th
ABSOLUTION ~ (unedited excerpt):
“You’re not the first person to be shocked by my choice of calling.”
“Your family?” I guess. He nods. “I’m assuming they probably had bigger and better things in mind for you, but it’s a step up from rapist right?” His eyes widen and I cringe. Shit, I can’t believe I just said that.
“I can see why you might think that, but my father is very anti-religion, so I’m not sure he would agree,” he smirks and rubs his chiselled jawline, giving me a pointed look. “Are you done now?”
“I’m sorry that was way out of line," I mumble, admitting I went too far. "Sometimes I say things without thinking.”
“It’s okay,” He shrugs. His dark eyes penetrate mine. I'm shaking, but I hold his gaze, refusing to look away. “You get a free pass today to say whatever you like to me and then tomorrow you need to start giving me a chance. Is that fair?”
I’m not loving the part where I give him a chance, but I have so many questions burning inside of me that I’m dying to ask that I sit forward, and place my hands under my thighs.
“Okay I’ll play,” I say, staring at him. I question everything he says because it hurts too much to believe him. Why should he get to move on? “Why this?”
“Because it was the only way I could see getting my life back on track. I was at the point where I had nothing to live for, and God changed that for me. He gave me hope. I had something that was mine. I was making a difference.”
“How long have you been a Priest for?” I say the word like it’s dirty but only because he’s makes it that way. It’s like he’s taken one of the purest professions in the world and tainted it.
“Five years. After I got out of prison, I was in a bad place. Everything that happened with Cecily really messed me up and then hearing that she…. His voice trails off like he can’t complete his train of thought, so I make him, because he doesn’t get to do this. He doesn’t get to make this about him.
“You mean how she killed herself?” I say. I stare at him, my anger fuelling the strength I’m somehow finding within myself to confront him. This is what I’ve wanted for so long, to be able to face him and show him how much he hurt me. “How she ended her life after what you did to her and the way your family dragged her through the mud. Is that what you mean? You can’t even say it, Declan. Imagine how hard it was for me to live it.”
“I never wanted that all I wanted to do was plead guilty and move on—”
“Move on?” I whisper, tears spilling down my cheeks. “Like my sister got to move on? Like my dad moved on by ramming his car into a tree? You ruined our lives. Why should you get to move on?”
“I’m sorry about your father,” he says softly.
“You’re sorry?” I laugh. I throw my hands up in the air. “Well, so long as you’re sorry.”
“You have every right to be angry at me Hannah, but I’m just trying to explain it from my point of view. You asked me why I became a priest. This is why. Everything that happened is why.”
“But you don’t get to explain,” I whisper. “Because it’s not fair. All you get to do is sit there and take whatever I decide I need to say to you in order for me to get through this. That’s the only thing you need to do here. You don’t get to justify what you did, or tell me how much you’ve changed, because I don’t care. All I care about is being able to be in the same room as you without feeling like I’m going to be sick. Is that too much to ask?”
"No. No it’s not," he mumbles. His eyes cast downward and I laugh. He can’t even look at me.
ABSOLUTION ~ (unedited excerpt):
“You’re not the first person to be shocked by my choice of calling.”
“Your family?” I guess. He nods. “I’m assuming they probably had bigger and better things in mind for you, but it’s a step up from rapist right?” His eyes widen and I cringe. Shit, I can’t believe I just said that.
“I can see why you might think that, but my father is very anti-religion, so I’m not sure he would agree,” he smirks and rubs his chiselled jawline, giving me a pointed look. “Are you done now?”
“I’m sorry that was way out of line," I mumble, admitting I went too far. "Sometimes I say things without thinking.”
“It’s okay,” He shrugs. His dark eyes penetrate mine. I'm shaking, but I hold his gaze, refusing to look away. “You get a free pass today to say whatever you like to me and then tomorrow you need to start giving me a chance. Is that fair?”
I’m not loving the part where I give him a chance, but I have so many questions burning inside of me that I’m dying to ask that I sit forward, and place my hands under my thighs.
“Okay I’ll play,” I say, staring at him. I question everything he says because it hurts too much to believe him. Why should he get to move on? “Why this?”
“Because it was the only way I could see getting my life back on track. I was at the point where I had nothing to live for, and God changed that for me. He gave me hope. I had something that was mine. I was making a difference.”
“How long have you been a Priest for?” I say the word like it’s dirty but only because he’s makes it that way. It’s like he’s taken one of the purest professions in the world and tainted it.
“Five years. After I got out of prison, I was in a bad place. Everything that happened with Cecily really messed me up and then hearing that she…. His voice trails off like he can’t complete his train of thought, so I make him, because he doesn’t get to do this. He doesn’t get to make this about him.
“You mean how she killed herself?” I say. I stare at him, my anger fuelling the strength I’m somehow finding within myself to confront him. This is what I’ve wanted for so long, to be able to face him and show him how much he hurt me. “How she ended her life after what you did to her and the way your family dragged her through the mud. Is that what you mean? You can’t even say it, Declan. Imagine how hard it was for me to live it.”
“I never wanted that all I wanted to do was plead guilty and move on—”
“Move on?” I whisper, tears spilling down my cheeks. “Like my sister got to move on? Like my dad moved on by ramming his car into a tree? You ruined our lives. Why should you get to move on?”
“I’m sorry about your father,” he says softly.
“You’re sorry?” I laugh. I throw my hands up in the air. “Well, so long as you’re sorry.”
“You have every right to be angry at me Hannah, but I’m just trying to explain it from my point of view. You asked me why I became a priest. This is why. Everything that happened is why.”
“But you don’t get to explain,” I whisper. “Because it’s not fair. All you get to do is sit there and take whatever I decide I need to say to you in order for me to get through this. That’s the only thing you need to do here. You don’t get to justify what you did, or tell me how much you’ve changed, because I don’t care. All I care about is being able to be in the same room as you without feeling like I’m going to be sick. Is that too much to ask?”
"No. No it’s not," he mumbles. His eyes cast downward and I laugh. He can’t even look at me.
October 29, 2017
OMG! Absolution had me pulled in from the prologue. I was completely immersed in this story. Missy Johnson has been a favorite author of mine for a few years now, and this story is another reason I LOVE her words!!!
A family suffering a devastating loss. The loss of a child, a sister due to suicide. The backlash of a tragic event that drove her to kill herself. What happens next is just a continuation of spiraling and tragic events, when the father is killed after a huge fight with the mother. All this destruction to one family due to one man...Declan James.
We then see Hannah Masters fourteen years later. She's landed a job at CPS, that she loves doing. Even as heartbreaking as it can be, it's her life! Then an unexpected turn of events leads her back to the man responsible for ruining her childhood... Declan James!
Declan is now a Priest. And still hasn't forgiven himself for the tragic events that landed him in prison. When he meets up with a woman from 5 years earlier he learns they have a daughter.
What happens as a result of this information? Not only is he the father, but now he's a single father. Can he do right by this little girl, who watched her mother be brutally murdered?
Can Declan and Hannah have to work together for the sake of this little girl? Can Hannah forgive Declan, even though he can't forgive himself?
What happens when the one man that should be the last man in the world is the man you end up falling for?
And that ending!! OMG! HUGE twist, and turn of events! I didn't want the story to end, that's how enthralled with this book I was. Missy Johnson will have you on a rollercoaster of emotions with Absolution. From heartache and despair, to forbidden love, to WTF! 5 GLORIOUS FORBIDDEN STARS!!
*I voluntarily read an advance copy of Absolution from the Author.*
A family suffering a devastating loss. The loss of a child, a sister due to suicide. The backlash of a tragic event that drove her to kill herself. What happens next is just a continuation of spiraling and tragic events, when the father is killed after a huge fight with the mother. All this destruction to one family due to one man...Declan James.
We then see Hannah Masters fourteen years later. She's landed a job at CPS, that she loves doing. Even as heartbreaking as it can be, it's her life! Then an unexpected turn of events leads her back to the man responsible for ruining her childhood... Declan James!
Declan is now a Priest. And still hasn't forgiven himself for the tragic events that landed him in prison. When he meets up with a woman from 5 years earlier he learns they have a daughter.
What happens as a result of this information? Not only is he the father, but now he's a single father. Can he do right by this little girl, who watched her mother be brutally murdered?
Can Declan and Hannah have to work together for the sake of this little girl? Can Hannah forgive Declan, even though he can't forgive himself?
What happens when the one man that should be the last man in the world is the man you end up falling for?
And that ending!! OMG! HUGE twist, and turn of events! I didn't want the story to end, that's how enthralled with this book I was. Missy Johnson will have you on a rollercoaster of emotions with Absolution. From heartache and despair, to forbidden love, to WTF! 5 GLORIOUS FORBIDDEN STARS!!
*I voluntarily read an advance copy of Absolution from the Author.*
December 29, 2017
I am sure like a number of Catholics reading this you have a conflict of the written story and what would actually realistically happen in the real world.
yes this is fiction and that is where i have s major BUT..............
Hannah Masters hid from herself, her wants from life and really blamed life on everything instead of making the right decisions to make her life a proper life. I found it difficult to believe that a 10 year old would remember what happened to her sister and keep that hatred inside of her until she meets the perpetrator 15 years later.
Hannah was a real procrastinator. Even 15 years later. I actually could not sympathise with her character and the reasons she applied to why her childhood was destroyed - it just did not sit right in my head.
The situation with the Priest at his home when she is in her pants and shirt and him in his sweats and shirtless had my eyes rolling - yes this is fiction but due to the seriousness of the storyline, this would never happen. A Priest with a previous background trying to re-deem himself and a female who hated him because of what he did to her sister would just not put themselves in this situation especially when you bring the reason they have met again - a 5 year old child.
I had too many issues with the plot so I stopped reading around 42%. So it is parked for the time being and I will try and finish the story to see whether these two can absolve each other. No rating because its is unfinished.
Found the plot too plausible.
yes this is fiction and that is where i have s major BUT..............
Hannah Masters hid from herself, her wants from life and really blamed life on everything instead of making the right decisions to make her life a proper life. I found it difficult to believe that a 10 year old would remember what happened to her sister and keep that hatred inside of her until she meets the perpetrator 15 years later.
Hannah was a real procrastinator. Even 15 years later. I actually could not sympathise with her character and the reasons she applied to why her childhood was destroyed - it just did not sit right in my head.
The situation with the Priest at his home when she is in her pants and shirt and him in his sweats and shirtless had my eyes rolling - yes this is fiction but due to the seriousness of the storyline, this would never happen. A Priest with a previous background trying to re-deem himself and a female who hated him because of what he did to her sister would just not put themselves in this situation especially when you bring the reason they have met again - a 5 year old child.
I had too many issues with the plot so I stopped reading around 42%. So it is parked for the time being and I will try and finish the story to see whether these two can absolve each other. No rating because its is unfinished.
Found the plot too plausible.
June 19, 2017
I'll admit, while the blurb for this book intrigued me, I was also nervous.
I'm not one that's typically into priests or romance on the religious side, so going in, I was in foreign territory. But while Declan was a priest, the book wasn't really religious, it wasn't being shoved down my throat.
There was also the issue of Declan's past...with what he was accused & convicted of, I was really curious as to how he was going to be redeemed. Without giving anything away, I will say that I called it early on.
I definitely loved the connection Hannah and Declan had. And while there was great tension and build up between them, but I love you felt a little rushed.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable book that will take you on a roller coaster ride.
I'm not one that's typically into priests or romance on the religious side, so going in, I was in foreign territory. But while Declan was a priest, the book wasn't really religious, it wasn't being shoved down my throat.
There was also the issue of Declan's past...with what he was accused & convicted of, I was really curious as to how he was going to be redeemed. Without giving anything away, I will say that I called it early on.
I definitely loved the connection Hannah and Declan had. And while there was great tension and build up between them, but I love you felt a little rushed.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable book that will take you on a roller coaster ride.
June 25, 2017
ARC kindly provided by author.
Review to come...
Review to come...
April 9, 2018
The story begins with a struggling family suffering from the death of a daughter and a sister, Cecily, who got caught up in the typical rich bad boy. Cecily is raped and is unable to deal with it and commits suicide. Putting her family in even bigger turmoil.
Her sister, Hannah 10 years, hates Declan James, the boy who raped her sister, with a vengeance blaming him for the desperation her family is in.
The story skips with Hannah Masters being 24, working as a case worker for Child Protection. She rescues a girl, Anna, and her mother from a very hostile situation.
Hanna loves her job I love my job, because there is no better feeling in the world than knowing I’ve helped someone out of a situation that would potentially kill them or their kids. probably because she relates to children who are experiencing similar situations as she had, very well knowing that she is not able to save them all.
When Hannah learns that the addict mother she rescued the night before had return to her abuser and was subsequently killed and the child was taken care for by priest, Declan James.
The same Declan James, responsible for her sister’s and father’s death and for her family falling apart.
Hannah has a hard time accepting that the horrible person who destroyed her life is now a priest and the only one Anna responds to. And most frustrating is the way she responds to him He’s tall and athletic, and very attractive, with his chiselled jaw and the dark brown eyes.
Although having a hard time believing it, she wants to believe he has really changed. But I’ve fallen in love with the one person I never should’ve even given the time of day.
It does not stop them though and we are treated to a hot confession booth scene.
The book is told in dual POV’s, alternating between Declan and Hannah. Forced to work together to decide what is best for Anna the two try to fight their attraction towards each other with no avail.
I never should’ve helped him and I definitely should not have fallen for him.
I think this was a powerful plot, well executed and fast paced. Although it did left me unsatisfied with the ending. I would have like to see some form of redemption for Declan.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
by Missy
June 15, 2017
An ARC of Absolution by Missy Johnson was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Hannah Masters is a woman who cares about her job and strives to make the lives of the people she helps better. She knows every case doesn't always end well, but she doesn't let that stop her from trying her hardest. She knows the world and the people in it can be cruel.
Hannah's been through so much. She has suffered so much. She has lost the ones she's cared about. She's struggling in her day-to-day operations while continuing to mourn the death of her older sister. Her whole family was torn apart by a senseless act, a heinous one. Her family wasn't able to overcome the tragic event that forever changed their lives, shattering their entire universe.
Declan James is now a priest and he wants to write the wrongs of his mistakes. He wants to make up for all the hurt that he has caused, especially to the Masters family. He desperately wishes he can go back in time and make better choices. He has never fully forgiven himself for changing the lives of the Masters family.
Hannah and Declan are thrown together in order to help an innocent girl and it causes confliction, reopening old wounds along the way. Declan wants to explain, to make amends, and Hannah doesn't know if she can ever forgive Declan for having a part in her sister's demise.
Although, the story was too fast-paced in my opinion, it still didn't take away how much I loved it or how good it was. There's a lot of backstory and it was written rather perfectly in my opinion. Readers get ready to go on an emotional journey that's tied up with redemption, healing and forgiveness, and a twist that you won't see coming until the very end.
Missy Johnson does a great job capturing the many conflicts that Hannah and Declan were dealing with. These two just connected and developed feelings for one another, feelings they weren't expecting. It was like they needed one another to be whole again, to fill that lonely dark hole that resided in their heart. I gave this one a four star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐!
June 28, 2017
4.5 Stars
I'm always a sucker for books involving Priests, but was excited that Absolution by Missy Johnson was not your typical story in that sub genre. There was healthy doses of angst here and a great taste of the forbidden, but everything was in moderation and never felt over the top.
Hannah works for child protective services and her most recent case is heartbreaking. Amanda is in an abusive relationship and it turns deadly, leaving her little girl an orphan. When she finds out who has taken custody of the little girl she is shocked and determined to save her.
14 years ago Declan was in a relationship with Hannah's sister and one night changed her and her family's lives forever. She has blamed him ever since for what happened and finds it hard to believe he could change. When she finds out he is now a priest she is shocked. That seems like a drastic way to try and find absolution, but she isn't sure she,s buying into it.
Declan, has been through his own personal hell and has worked hard since to try and find meaning and forgiveness in his life. He takes his role as parish Priest seriously and plans to take his role as guardian just as seriously. Seeing Hannah again throws him and the feelings she brings to the surface are something he is far from prepared for.
I really loved this story. Their is lots of emotional upheaval and the forbidden aspect to the relationship that develops always makes for entertaining reading. Not your run of the mill priest storyline which I was very glad to see.
I'm always a sucker for books involving Priests, but was excited that Absolution by Missy Johnson was not your typical story in that sub genre. There was healthy doses of angst here and a great taste of the forbidden, but everything was in moderation and never felt over the top.
Hannah works for child protective services and her most recent case is heartbreaking. Amanda is in an abusive relationship and it turns deadly, leaving her little girl an orphan. When she finds out who has taken custody of the little girl she is shocked and determined to save her.
14 years ago Declan was in a relationship with Hannah's sister and one night changed her and her family's lives forever. She has blamed him ever since for what happened and finds it hard to believe he could change. When she finds out he is now a priest she is shocked. That seems like a drastic way to try and find absolution, but she isn't sure she,s buying into it.
Declan, has been through his own personal hell and has worked hard since to try and find meaning and forgiveness in his life. He takes his role as parish Priest seriously and plans to take his role as guardian just as seriously. Seeing Hannah again throws him and the feelings she brings to the surface are something he is far from prepared for.
I really loved this story. Their is lots of emotional upheaval and the forbidden aspect to the relationship that develops always makes for entertaining reading. Not your run of the mill priest storyline which I was very glad to see.
June 29, 2017
Absolution is unlike any of the books I've read from Missy Johnson, yet just as intense and emotional as she does so well.
I honestly, being Catholic, didn't know how I would feel about reading this forbidden romance. However, this book is so much more than that.
Get ready for some heart stopping, gasping moments that will make you question what you'd do if this was you. My heart broke for everybody involved. The blurb let you know what you're in for, but you really don't have a clue. Once I got started, I couldn't put this book down. This is a five-star read for me!
I honestly, being Catholic, didn't know how I would feel about reading this forbidden romance. However, this book is so much more than that.
Get ready for some heart stopping, gasping moments that will make you question what you'd do if this was you. My heart broke for everybody involved. The blurb let you know what you're in for, but you really don't have a clue. Once I got started, I couldn't put this book down. This is a five-star read for me!
June 28, 2017
When a new Missy Johnson book is announced, I get excited because her words memorize me!
This book was not what I expected, there were parts that were very hard to read but it was well worth it. How can so many bad things happen to one person - how much can they take? Now add 2 characters that have the odds against them and you create a story that compels you to read on, find out how it ends - make your own judgement and speculations, all the while hoping for the best possible outcome.
My heart hurt for much of this book - for Hannah, for Anna, for Declan, for Amanda, for Cecily and the things these characters endured.
I would recommend this one :)
This book was not what I expected, there were parts that were very hard to read but it was well worth it. How can so many bad things happen to one person - how much can they take? Now add 2 characters that have the odds against them and you create a story that compels you to read on, find out how it ends - make your own judgement and speculations, all the while hoping for the best possible outcome.
My heart hurt for much of this book - for Hannah, for Anna, for Declan, for Amanda, for Cecily and the things these characters endured.
I would recommend this one :)
July 10, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Fourteen years ago Declan James tore apart Hannah's family. He ruined her sister's life and nothing was ever the same for her family ever again. Now grown Hannah is in the profession where Declan needs her help. Needless to say Hannah is shocked to see him a decade later. She can however see how far he has come in trying to redeem himself and that he has changed. She also knows as a priest he is off limits. If Hannah helps him her family might never forgive her. If she falls in love with him she might never forgive herself.
I devoured this book. I absolutely could not put it down. This story will suck you in. Break your heart but trust me it will not stay that way. It breaks it in more ways than one actually so just be ready for a shockingly amazing read. I loved this story. I loved how Hannah was a super strong dedicated to her job kind of girl but she sure did get the short end of the stick and I wasn't much of a fan of her sister Tully. She irritated me to no end. I'd tell you why but then I'd ruin something for you. I love Declan too. This guy is trying so hard to do the right thing and live his life the way he feels God is leading him too. He is just as shocked to run into Hannah as she is and from there their story takes off. I love how it all tied in together and how it wove a way into my heart and kept me reading from start to finish.
Missy Johnson has written a beautiful tale of love and redemption. This was also my first book that I have read by Missy Johnson. I'm sure I have some catching up on her past books to do. If they are anything like Absolution they are no doubt amazing.
Fourteen years ago Declan James tore apart Hannah's family. He ruined her sister's life and nothing was ever the same for her family ever again. Now grown Hannah is in the profession where Declan needs her help. Needless to say Hannah is shocked to see him a decade later. She can however see how far he has come in trying to redeem himself and that he has changed. She also knows as a priest he is off limits. If Hannah helps him her family might never forgive her. If she falls in love with him she might never forgive herself.
I devoured this book. I absolutely could not put it down. This story will suck you in. Break your heart but trust me it will not stay that way. It breaks it in more ways than one actually so just be ready for a shockingly amazing read. I loved this story. I loved how Hannah was a super strong dedicated to her job kind of girl but she sure did get the short end of the stick and I wasn't much of a fan of her sister Tully. She irritated me to no end. I'd tell you why but then I'd ruin something for you. I love Declan too. This guy is trying so hard to do the right thing and live his life the way he feels God is leading him too. He is just as shocked to run into Hannah as she is and from there their story takes off. I love how it all tied in together and how it wove a way into my heart and kept me reading from start to finish.
Missy Johnson has written a beautiful tale of love and redemption. This was also my first book that I have read by Missy Johnson. I'm sure I have some catching up on her past books to do. If they are anything like Absolution they are no doubt amazing.
June 27, 2017
Who does not love a good forbidden story? Full review to come.
June 13, 2017
Review to come
June 25, 2017
I had a really strong feeling about Absolution before I even opened it. I love Missy Johnson’s work and knew with my whole being, that Absolution was going to rock my world. I had no idea that it would blow my mind, shatter me, yet complete me. Full circle.
Hannah and Declan both knew pain. After events directly involving Declan almost destroys Hannah, she tries to live her life one day at a time and devotes herself to helping others. She meets Declan after years of no contact, and struggle to do the right thing and to not see him as someone who deserves her forgiveness. The attraction grows quickly between them and it tears them both up. Declan is not in a position to act on his feelings and never expects that Hannah could ever feel anything but hate towards him.
Their struggles were mammoth and plentiful. The future looked so bleak that I was unsure if anything could possibly come of this this intense attraction they had for each other. I admired Hannah’s strength and her ability to want to risk it all because she cared. My heart hurt for them both, as their story was one of heartache, tragedy and monumental misunderstandings. It was like the world shone for everyone else, while their world had lost all colour. Their whole lives were changed due to horrible circumstances, but they still had the capacity to show empathy, compassion, courage and love. While Absolution wrecked me for most of the story, it is a book I became instantly absorbed in and one I will always remember.
Missy Johnson gives readers a story with a shocking, yet beautiful difference. Absolution will have you nervous, leave you breathless, have you crying rivers, break your heart, and anticipating the next shocking plot twist. It will leave you feeling like you have taken on the world. And WON! A story that is so fulfilling, it is a MUST read. It is not an easy read, but the best ones never are. Missy Johnson will make you work for your HEA. Let me share that Absolution is one of the BEST stories I have ever read. Missy Johnson books are always deeply emotional reads and make you feel like you have been put through the wringer, but at the end, you will sigh, take a little time to pull yourself together and reflect, then smile deliciously, thinking to yourself, “Now that was one mighty fine read.” And take a couple of days to get over the insane book hangover reading Missy’s books will cause. I always have serious difficulty finding another book to read after a Missy marathon. No book quite measures up for a while.
5 gigantic mega stars for this exhaustingly talented author and her heart's work.
Hannah and Declan both knew pain. After events directly involving Declan almost destroys Hannah, she tries to live her life one day at a time and devotes herself to helping others. She meets Declan after years of no contact, and struggle to do the right thing and to not see him as someone who deserves her forgiveness. The attraction grows quickly between them and it tears them both up. Declan is not in a position to act on his feelings and never expects that Hannah could ever feel anything but hate towards him.
Their struggles were mammoth and plentiful. The future looked so bleak that I was unsure if anything could possibly come of this this intense attraction they had for each other. I admired Hannah’s strength and her ability to want to risk it all because she cared. My heart hurt for them both, as their story was one of heartache, tragedy and monumental misunderstandings. It was like the world shone for everyone else, while their world had lost all colour. Their whole lives were changed due to horrible circumstances, but they still had the capacity to show empathy, compassion, courage and love. While Absolution wrecked me for most of the story, it is a book I became instantly absorbed in and one I will always remember.
Missy Johnson gives readers a story with a shocking, yet beautiful difference. Absolution will have you nervous, leave you breathless, have you crying rivers, break your heart, and anticipating the next shocking plot twist. It will leave you feeling like you have taken on the world. And WON! A story that is so fulfilling, it is a MUST read. It is not an easy read, but the best ones never are. Missy Johnson will make you work for your HEA. Let me share that Absolution is one of the BEST stories I have ever read. Missy Johnson books are always deeply emotional reads and make you feel like you have been put through the wringer, but at the end, you will sigh, take a little time to pull yourself together and reflect, then smile deliciously, thinking to yourself, “Now that was one mighty fine read.” And take a couple of days to get over the insane book hangover reading Missy’s books will cause. I always have serious difficulty finding another book to read after a Missy marathon. No book quite measures up for a while.
5 gigantic mega stars for this exhaustingly talented author and her heart's work.
June 29, 2017
I’m born and raised Roman Catholic, even have been a servant until the age of eighteen. My parents would probably cringe and then disown me if they knew how much I am lately enjoying deadly sinful romances like this one lol. Adding in the fact that ABSOLUTION is written by Missy Johnson, an author I’ve come to love over the last couple of years, it simply was a chance I couldn’t pass up. And anyway… it’s fiction, right? :)
So much heartache. How much agony can a person bear before they break?
Hannah Masters has had it rough; losing her sister to suicide after she had been raped, but that’s not where the spiral of tragic events stops, no: Her father is killed in an accident shortly after…
Fast forward fourteen years. Hannah is now a social worker with a job at Child Protecting Services. However hard her position is, she loves what she is doing, even if she is only able to change one out of ten lives of her cases. But then unexpected circumstances force her to face the man responsible for her destroyed childhood: Declan James.
Declan swims in regret. After spending years in prison for his bad choices, he decided to become a priest in an attempt to pacify his guilt. It might have made his life a bit easier, but he is still unable to forgive himself. In his line of duty as a priest he meets up with a woman he hooked up with in the past, who has now a daughter and is stuck in an abusive relationship – and that is when his path collides with Hannah’s…
How can they do right by this five year-old girl without overcoming their shared traumatic past? And how is it even possible that Hannah sees a sweet, caring and handsome man in this person who not only ruined her family but is now a priest and with that entirely off limits?
Oh, this story is intense. And so, so complicated – even beyond the obvious reasons. Complex, shocking, forbidden and a wild rollercoaster full of raging emotions that will draw you in and not let go. Conflicting emotions threaten to spill over about how you can root for a couple like this in the first place … because it simply doesn’t get much more taboo than a priest falling in love with a woman. But all this sadness, torment and despair will pull your heartstrings to wish these broken people nothing short of utter happiness, all while wondering why you picked up a book with such a depressing storyline in the first place…
Deep and profound – and over much too soon. 4 excruciatingly painful and forbidden stars!
So much heartache. How much agony can a person bear before they break?
Hannah Masters has had it rough; losing her sister to suicide after she had been raped, but that’s not where the spiral of tragic events stops, no: Her father is killed in an accident shortly after…
Fast forward fourteen years. Hannah is now a social worker with a job at Child Protecting Services. However hard her position is, she loves what she is doing, even if she is only able to change one out of ten lives of her cases. But then unexpected circumstances force her to face the man responsible for her destroyed childhood: Declan James.
Declan swims in regret. After spending years in prison for his bad choices, he decided to become a priest in an attempt to pacify his guilt. It might have made his life a bit easier, but he is still unable to forgive himself. In his line of duty as a priest he meets up with a woman he hooked up with in the past, who has now a daughter and is stuck in an abusive relationship – and that is when his path collides with Hannah’s…
How can they do right by this five year-old girl without overcoming their shared traumatic past? And how is it even possible that Hannah sees a sweet, caring and handsome man in this person who not only ruined her family but is now a priest and with that entirely off limits?
Oh, this story is intense. And so, so complicated – even beyond the obvious reasons. Complex, shocking, forbidden and a wild rollercoaster full of raging emotions that will draw you in and not let go. Conflicting emotions threaten to spill over about how you can root for a couple like this in the first place … because it simply doesn’t get much more taboo than a priest falling in love with a woman. But all this sadness, torment and despair will pull your heartstrings to wish these broken people nothing short of utter happiness, all while wondering why you picked up a book with such a depressing storyline in the first place…
Deep and profound – and over much too soon. 4 excruciatingly painful and forbidden stars!
June 29, 2017
Wow! Wow!!! What an emotional read! I was riveted from the prologue! Hannah spends her days trying to save abused children as a social worker. Her family was devastated by the suicide of her older sister when she was just a child…it wasn’t only the loss of her sister but of her family as well. Declan is a priest who spends his days trying to find absolution for the sins of his past. Both are connected, and when they Hannah and Declan meet again as adults, it will be explosive. Secrets will be exposed, and Hannah will have to make a choice no one person should have to make, but she may also find the love and the family she has always wanted.
Yes, some would consider this a forbidden romance, but it’s not about lust, it’s about love, not a superficial love, but a deep, unconditional love. Hannah and Declan are extremely complex characters. They think they know the other, but they don’t. Hannah must learn what forgiveness is, and she will have to learn to put her hate aside to help an innocent child. Declan must learn forgiveness as well. Things aren’t always what they seem, and it’s up to Hannah and Declan to see what the truth really is. I know this sounds vague, but I don’t want to spoil anything about this phenomenal story.
If you are looking for a deeply emotional love story, read Absolution by Missy Johnson today. You won’t regret it, and the characters will stay with you a long time after you finish the last page.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Yes, some would consider this a forbidden romance, but it’s not about lust, it’s about love, not a superficial love, but a deep, unconditional love. Hannah and Declan are extremely complex characters. They think they know the other, but they don’t. Hannah must learn what forgiveness is, and she will have to learn to put her hate aside to help an innocent child. Declan must learn forgiveness as well. Things aren’t always what they seem, and it’s up to Hannah and Declan to see what the truth really is. I know this sounds vague, but I don’t want to spoil anything about this phenomenal story.
If you are looking for a deeply emotional love story, read Absolution by Missy Johnson today. You won’t regret it, and the characters will stay with you a long time after you finish the last page.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
June 28, 2017
***ARC provided by the author for an honest review***
Once you start reading Absolution by Missy Johnson you will be immersed whole heartedly and your day will pass you by while reading this intense, well written novel. Grabbing this book when I had the chance, I was ecstatic for the chance. This storyline is exactly my type of pain and pleasure novel and it exceeded all expectations!
Hannah Masters has had a whirlwind of a childhood, tragic loss due to the effects of traumatic events all because of one man… Declan James. 14 years later, she is reacquainted with the man who upheavaled her family, childhood and world. What she comes to understand is Declan has truly changed, but even though he’s sought out a life as a priest, the darkness and grief still swallow him. Can he let his past lye to rest or will it take a hold of him?
Even though she knows it’s wrong to feel for Declan, her heart knows what the heart wants!
This story was full of roller coaster twists, turns, upside down flips that will stop you in your tracks. Its also a story of learning to trust, love, forgiveness and… absolution! Ms. Johnson’s words are poetic in her writing and her words flowed smoothly off the pages making for a book that was easy to be engrossed in.
5 Stars
Once you start reading Absolution by Missy Johnson you will be immersed whole heartedly and your day will pass you by while reading this intense, well written novel. Grabbing this book when I had the chance, I was ecstatic for the chance. This storyline is exactly my type of pain and pleasure novel and it exceeded all expectations!
Hannah Masters has had a whirlwind of a childhood, tragic loss due to the effects of traumatic events all because of one man… Declan James. 14 years later, she is reacquainted with the man who upheavaled her family, childhood and world. What she comes to understand is Declan has truly changed, but even though he’s sought out a life as a priest, the darkness and grief still swallow him. Can he let his past lye to rest or will it take a hold of him?
Even though she knows it’s wrong to feel for Declan, her heart knows what the heart wants!
This story was full of roller coaster twists, turns, upside down flips that will stop you in your tracks. Its also a story of learning to trust, love, forgiveness and… absolution! Ms. Johnson’s words are poetic in her writing and her words flowed smoothly off the pages making for a book that was easy to be engrossed in.
5 Stars
June 23, 2017
Some books are all pleasure and happy feelings and some are a mix of pleasure and pain and I think that describes this book perfectly.
Missy is an author who always puts her readers through the wringer emotionally, she takes our minds on a journey where we are at war with our hearts and our heads.
Declan and Hannah are connected by a past that is full of tragedy when they come back into each other's lives all the pain and hate is palpable, it practically leaps from the page
Hannah works in Child Protection and when dealing with her latest case her paths cross with Declan. I think the author did a great job showing the realities of Hannah's job. Declan is a man who became a priest to atone for a mistake in his past, did he do it for the right reasons absolutely not but I could understand his reasoning.
Despite their obvious failings I really liked both characters they are both very complex people who want to make a difference even if it's at the cost of actually living their lives. It's a story that at times is hard to read but it's one full of hope for the future
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Missy is an author who always puts her readers through the wringer emotionally, she takes our minds on a journey where we are at war with our hearts and our heads.
Declan and Hannah are connected by a past that is full of tragedy when they come back into each other's lives all the pain and hate is palpable, it practically leaps from the page
Hannah works in Child Protection and when dealing with her latest case her paths cross with Declan. I think the author did a great job showing the realities of Hannah's job. Declan is a man who became a priest to atone for a mistake in his past, did he do it for the right reasons absolutely not but I could understand his reasoning.
Despite their obvious failings I really liked both characters they are both very complex people who want to make a difference even if it's at the cost of actually living their lives. It's a story that at times is hard to read but it's one full of hope for the future
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
June 29, 2017
Wow! This book is such an emotional roller coaster, but what a ride! I tremendously enjoyed this book, from start to finish. I had never read this author before, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I have to say that I was quite impressed. The plot was intriguing, the writing extraordinary, and the characters complex and well thought out. Authentic and engaging, these characters draw you right into the story, and you just can't help but become invested in their lives. This book deals with some dark and complicated themes, but woven throughout it is the essential theme of love, balancing the darkness with light. This book is impassioned and insightful, touching and romantic, and it will make your heart race, even as it's breaking. I was hooked on this book from the start and remained riveted to the very last page. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a deep and compelling read.
*I was given an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review. All opinions are my own.
*I was given an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review. All opinions are my own.
June 27, 2017
This was a great book to fall into. Missy Johnson did a great job bring these characters to life through a page turning book that will keep you on the edge of your seats. This book borderlines taboo well hits taboo but that just makes it even more worth reading. I liked the way this book flowed, and the way the author pulls all of the factors together was great. This is a great book that will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and secrets. Declan and Hannah and got through a lot for each other but it is so worth it in the end. This story was so worth reading and I enjoyed it very much. There was a lot to love about this book from the writing, the plot, and the characters. I would absolutely recommend this book if you need a great summer read. I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.
review by Lindsesy
review by Lindsesy
June 21, 2017
Absolution is the kind of story that leaves a dry dusty feeling in your mouth. The kind that makes you grip the book harder and hope for the best. It is fear, loathing, love, and confusion.
I spent the entire book fighting my inclinations. I was angry with myself and you will be too. Ms. Johnson doesn't write for the faint of heart. Conflicting Emotions must be her spirit name.
It was a roller coaster of emotions and it was a wild ride. She can twist and turn your emotions, your mind, and your feelings with the simplest clicking of her keyboard.
Enjoy your confession. Father Declan will be waiting.
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
I spent the entire book fighting my inclinations. I was angry with myself and you will be too. Ms. Johnson doesn't write for the faint of heart. Conflicting Emotions must be her spirit name.
It was a roller coaster of emotions and it was a wild ride. She can twist and turn your emotions, your mind, and your feelings with the simplest clicking of her keyboard.
Enjoy your confession. Father Declan will be waiting.
reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
June 22, 2017
This one sucked me in from the prologue. Declan and Hannah's past are entwined. Hannah is now Child Services Case Worker and Declan is a Priest. There paths haven't crossed in fourteen years but a case of Hannah's causes their paths to cross again. Declan is the cause of lot of pain in Hannah's family. When we find out want Declan did and some of the things he did late I really had trouble liking him. I wanted to like him because he was a misunderstood good guy and not because he really was a bad guy so I was waiting for him to says he didn't do what everyone thought he did. Hannah had times were she was really hard on Declan then there were times she was the complete opposite. It took Hannah time to warm up to Declan. Declan and Hannah are really complex characters and I had a little trouble being able to root for them but overall it was a good read.
Read
June 28, 2017Holy Moly. This book is amazing. This is my first book by Missy Johnson and I was absolutely blown away.
Fourteen years ago Hannah's family's life was changed by a traumatic event. Years later the past collides with the present Hannah doesn't know how to react.
Declan played his dues to society. Now that he's a priests its time to move on. That is until Hannah comes into his life. Now questions have to be answered and pasts have to be reconciled. But when the past comes up will they both be able to move on?
This book is solo good. I highly recommend it to everyone!!
Fourteen years ago Hannah's family's life was changed by a traumatic event. Years later the past collides with the present Hannah doesn't know how to react.
Declan played his dues to society. Now that he's a priests its time to move on. That is until Hannah comes into his life. Now questions have to be answered and pasts have to be reconciled. But when the past comes up will they both be able to move on?
This book is solo good. I highly recommend it to everyone!!
June 29, 2017
The story started out with a bang, not literally, but dang, it went straight to my heart and I really felt for Hannah..and rightly or wrongly, my idea of Declan was kind of set from there.
Then years later, suddenly Declan is there front and center, and he is a priest..gets you to think, doesn't it?!
It certainly did for me, eapecially given the circumstances. I have to say I came to respect him and his choices.
The story itself wasn't painless by any means..i know cryptic lol but you need to read it :) The past, Declan and Hannah's feelings and Hannah's family , all makes for interesting twists.
Once I started I couldn't put it down, and I needed to know what was going to happen! It aldo made me think, cause the past and the current relationship between the characters isn't by any means an every day occurrence..I didn't know if I could put myself in Hannah's shoes..do it def made me see things under a different perspective.
Then years later, suddenly Declan is there front and center, and he is a priest..gets you to think, doesn't it?!
It certainly did for me, eapecially given the circumstances. I have to say I came to respect him and his choices.
The story itself wasn't painless by any means..i know cryptic lol but you need to read it :) The past, Declan and Hannah's feelings and Hannah's family , all makes for interesting twists.
Once I started I couldn't put it down, and I needed to know what was going to happen! It aldo made me think, cause the past and the current relationship between the characters isn't by any means an every day occurrence..I didn't know if I could put myself in Hannah's shoes..do it def made me see things under a different perspective.
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