What do you think?
Rate this book
Absolution #1
My Absolution
Have you ever loved a woman with your heart and soul, just to watch her slip away?
I had her.
I broke her.
I left a piece of me behind.
My best friend put her back together.
Cherished her.
Loved her the way she deserved.
My time for absolution has come.
And I'll stop at nothing until I get it.
Now I'll have to fight my way back to what I left behind.
I had her.
I broke her.
I left a piece of me behind.
My best friend put her back together.
Cherished her.
Loved her the way she deserved.
My time for absolution has come.
And I'll stop at nothing until I get it.
Now I'll have to fight my way back to what I left behind.
146 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2017
19 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Joz Maxel
7 books189 followersJoz resides in Alberta, Canada, with her husband, three children and fur baby. When she’s not cheering on her kids in swimming, hockey and baseball, you’ll find her binge-watching Sons Of Anarchy, Yellowstone and Netflix documentaries. When the mood strikes to write her fabulous masterpieces, the music is loud, and the thoughts are plenty.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 18, 2018
3.5 stars
I realized it was a debut novel after I searched on GR if it was part of a series. Positive - it was extremely well written for a debut; less positive - I missed background of MCs relationship and there were too many interesting side characters I wanted to know more about.
Amazing protective hero. Likable heroine. Adorable kids. Interesting story.
I realized it was a debut novel after I searched on GR if it was part of a series. Positive - it was extremely well written for a debut; less positive - I missed background of MCs relationship and there were too many interesting side characters I wanted to know more about.
Amazing protective hero. Likable heroine. Adorable kids. Interesting story.
August 5, 2017
This is a fantastic debut novel. Once I started reading it I didn't want to put it down. Corey was the perfect hero. A hot tattooed very protective alpha who is so sweet. I loved the way he loved Nova and kids. Definitely a new favorite hero. Nova is awesome as well. I like how despite all the drama going on their relationship stayed strong. Can't wait to see what Joz Maxel writes next.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Safety triggers:
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Safety triggers:
Did not finish
September 3, 2017I just can't finish this book. The h is beaten so severely by her bf or husband (can't remember if they were married) that she is hospitalized and near death. When he gets out of jail, everyone (including her FATHER) thinks she should give him a chance to apologize to her and allow him a relationship with his kid because "he's changed and clean now". I don't know any father that would want their daughter within 5 miles of this pathetic excuse for a man. Did he serve his time for his crime? Yep!! Does that mean she should have to let him back in her life in any way, shape or form? Fuck no. I'm out!! Oh and I will say that I was enjoying the writing and I adored the H of the story. Too bad that aspect ruined what could have been an amazing story for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2017
5+ The feels! Stars
This wasn't what I was expecting when I first read the blurb, I thought it was going to be an angsty triangular love story and I have to be in just the right mood for those so I was so happy to learn that it was SO much more than that. I laughed, cried and swooned so many times that I lost count and I'm pretty certain that my daughter probably thinks I'm a little crazy now, one minute I'm laughing and the next I have tears streaming down my face. Ha! Corey and Nova are the perfect couple, they've loved each other since childhood with a few bumps along the way that only further strengthened their bond. The way Corey is with their kids *teary eyed* seriously, if good fathers are as sexy to you as they are to me? Read this! I think this book would mostly be considered safe
This wasn't what I was expecting when I first read the blurb, I thought it was going to be an angsty triangular love story and I have to be in just the right mood for those so I was so happy to learn that it was SO much more than that. I laughed, cried and swooned so many times that I lost count and I'm pretty certain that my daughter probably thinks I'm a little crazy now, one minute I'm laughing and the next I have tears streaming down my face. Ha! Corey and Nova are the perfect couple, they've loved each other since childhood with a few bumps along the way that only further strengthened their bond. The way Corey is with their kids *teary eyed* seriously, if good fathers are as sexy to you as they are to me? Read this! I think this book would mostly be considered safe
July 28, 2017
3.5
I assumed from the blurb that this was going to be a love triangle. You know what they say when you assume...
My Absolution, though not what I expected, was a sweet read. I expected angst, drama driven love triangle. It's not. There is some drama. But it a story about absolution and the road to achieve it.
It will leave with a sigh, a smile, and sad eyes but the love in these pages will make your eyes light up and your heart happy.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
I assumed from the blurb that this was going to be a love triangle. You know what they say when you assume...
My Absolution, though not what I expected, was a sweet read. I expected angst, drama driven love triangle. It's not. There is some drama. But it a story about absolution and the road to achieve it.
It will leave with a sigh, a smile, and sad eyes but the love in these pages will make your eyes light up and your heart happy.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
August 5, 2017
I felt like I needed more. Imo it needed more background about the story and a different closure tbh but it was good and safe and the H was good to the h so I liked it, but still needed more.
August 5, 2017
Thw only thing that could have made this story any better would have been if we had more from there childhood to build that real connection with as a reader otherwise this was the perfect kind of love story 😍 Cory is the kind of man that we all want to find he was sexy and he loved Nova with all his heart, I will be thinking of this for days.
July 17, 2017
raw. emotional. heart felt.
My Absolution by Joz Maxel is one of my favourite reads of this year.
I felt every emotion the characters were feeling. I could see the words playing before my eyes like a movie.
for a debut, Joz certainly knocked it out of the park. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
My Absolution by Joz Maxel is one of my favourite reads of this year.
I felt every emotion the characters were feeling. I could see the words playing before my eyes like a movie.
for a debut, Joz certainly knocked it out of the park. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
July 19, 2017
This book gripped me from the first page, and I didn’t want it to let me go. I was provided an ARC copy of My Absolution in exchange for an honest review, and when it arrived on my Kindle at 10:30 on a weeknight I wrestled with if I should open it or not, because I just had that feeling that I wouldn’t be able to stop. Surprise! I was right.
This story revolved around the intertwined relationships of Dane, Nova, and Corey. Friends since childhood, the trio has a difficult and heartbreaking past that makes you want to immediately hate one of them. The beautiful way Joz has written the characters makes that impossible however, and I was left rooting for all of them in their own ways. This book was full of raw, real emotion that readers can relate to- it’s full of “real life” situations, which may be why it was so successful to me- I could see myself in the place of Nova, understand the protective actions of Corey, and hope for the best for Dane.
There was more than one moment in this book I gasped out loud, was brought to tears, and smiled like a fool. I put my hand over my heart in pain while wiping tears from my eyes in one chapter, only to do exactly the same thing but in joy in another. There was a moment my husband looked at me and said “what’s wrong? You don’t like it?” To which I responded “I’m afraid things aren’t going how I want them to. I’m afraid of what’s coming.” The writing left me constantly left wondering what was coming next, which to me is a huge plus in a book- I didn’t expect what was coming and there were twists and turns that all tied together in the end. I was ecstatic when my suspicions were wrong, but I HAD to keep reading until the end to make sure.
This is one of those books that stays with you. There’s plenty of hot, sexy scenes that leave you needing a cold shower, but it’s balanced with so much real love and real life that you know this family is real in every way. There’s unbearable heartbreak and crushing angst, in addition to hot sex and intense love. I fell in love with these characters from the first words, and I’m so happy to have met them.
Check this out. You won’t regret it.
This story revolved around the intertwined relationships of Dane, Nova, and Corey. Friends since childhood, the trio has a difficult and heartbreaking past that makes you want to immediately hate one of them. The beautiful way Joz has written the characters makes that impossible however, and I was left rooting for all of them in their own ways. This book was full of raw, real emotion that readers can relate to- it’s full of “real life” situations, which may be why it was so successful to me- I could see myself in the place of Nova, understand the protective actions of Corey, and hope for the best for Dane.
There was more than one moment in this book I gasped out loud, was brought to tears, and smiled like a fool. I put my hand over my heart in pain while wiping tears from my eyes in one chapter, only to do exactly the same thing but in joy in another. There was a moment my husband looked at me and said “what’s wrong? You don’t like it?” To which I responded “I’m afraid things aren’t going how I want them to. I’m afraid of what’s coming.” The writing left me constantly left wondering what was coming next, which to me is a huge plus in a book- I didn’t expect what was coming and there were twists and turns that all tied together in the end. I was ecstatic when my suspicions were wrong, but I HAD to keep reading until the end to make sure.
This is one of those books that stays with you. There’s plenty of hot, sexy scenes that leave you needing a cold shower, but it’s balanced with so much real love and real life that you know this family is real in every way. There’s unbearable heartbreak and crushing angst, in addition to hot sex and intense love. I fell in love with these characters from the first words, and I’m so happy to have met them.
Check this out. You won’t regret it.
August 9, 2017
I felt this book was disjointed! Lots of characters were mentioned at the start! Not for me!
July 12, 2017
This book pulls at your emotions from page one. It's a story of love trials and tribulations and in the end forgiveness and absolution. The journey Corey nova and Dane go on is one giant roller coaster ride and I loved every moment of it. You fall in love with love when you read how much Corey loves nova and their children. This is a wonderful debut novel and can not wait for more from this author.
July 14, 2017
OMG this was such an amazing book. I really hope there is more from this author and this story. OMG I ugly cried but I also laughed and the sex scenes Scheeeeew call the fire department. This is a great debut novel Great job Joz.
July 12, 2017
What a ripper of a book, one that you felt a bond with the people in it. Corey, the man every women dreams about is my new book boyfriend, his best friend well "no" not so much. But wait until you get near the end as it is abit of a tear jerker and a twist I never saw coming. Very well written Joz and a well deserved 5 star. Waiting for your next master piece.
July 11, 2017
My absolution is a beautifully written book. The characters are strong, complex, and you can not help but to be pulled into their story. It is filled with heartbreak, love, and coming to terms with your past. The storyline is steady and grips you from the first chapter until the last. It is a fantastic debut novel!!!
August 3, 2017
Wow what a book!! This book was just amazing. I thought it would be about a love triangle, but I was proven wrong it was more so much more.. It will grab you from the start and grip you until the end this book is about 3 people Dane, Nova & Corey who had heartbreaking backgrounds growing up and the will to overcome it and to find absolution & love. No spoilers here, but just to say this book brings out the feels so have tissues on standby. I would definitely recommend this book it's sooo worth it.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
July 29, 2017
What an incredible debut novel by author Joz Maxel. My Absolution is a story of friendship, family, love, forgiveness, and second chances. It's an emotional rollercoaster with a twist. This very well written story will grab ahold of you and not let go until the end. Looking forward to seeing what this author comes out with next.
July 15, 2017
What a powerful journey of these three friends. It a purely raw emotional roller coaster. Loving someone, being loved, making mistakes, finding forgiveness and second chances
Absolutely an amazing story
Absolutely an amazing story
July 30, 2017
3.5 Stars
Before going in I thought I was going to read a messy cheating book but it's not that at all.
I enjoyed the story it has some drama but it's definitely not the angst fest I was expecting. All the characters in the book have strong personalities, I liked them all even Dane but Nova, Corey and the children shine through.
For me the story was confused it was like it didn't know which way to go. Her dads in a motorcycle club but it's only mentioned in a vague sense, I can't believe an MC wouldn't do anything in payback to Dane. I also needed more about Nova and Corey's life after the prologue, it would have helped round the story out instead I felt like I was playing catch up with their story. Ultimately the book was about accepting your failures and mistakes, accepting and giving forgiveness.
As a debut book it was good and I think this is an author to watch out for in the future.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Before going in I thought I was going to read a messy cheating book but it's not that at all.
I enjoyed the story it has some drama but it's definitely not the angst fest I was expecting. All the characters in the book have strong personalities, I liked them all even Dane but Nova, Corey and the children shine through.
For me the story was confused it was like it didn't know which way to go. Her dads in a motorcycle club but it's only mentioned in a vague sense, I can't believe an MC wouldn't do anything in payback to Dane. I also needed more about Nova and Corey's life after the prologue, it would have helped round the story out instead I felt like I was playing catch up with their story. Ultimately the book was about accepting your failures and mistakes, accepting and giving forgiveness.
As a debut book it was good and I think this is an author to watch out for in the future.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
July 31, 2017
If you are hankering for new sexy tatted up book boyfriend look no further. Corey from Joz Maxel's My Absolution is just the man for you. I'm not quite sure how to categorize Corey for you. He is a hot AF tattoo artist with alpha male tendencies with a touch of MC. It has a friends to lovers touch as well. Corey's love for Nova is fierce. I can only imagine a love like that.
I love the storyline. The blurb is what sold me. Although it was a fairly quick read, the end seemed a little rushed. Other than that I can't really complain. I love the triangle perspective. I like seeing the internal struggles that the characters have. Oh and who doesn't love hot sex! This Four Star review is for The Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog. Enjoy!
I love the storyline. The blurb is what sold me. Although it was a fairly quick read, the end seemed a little rushed. Other than that I can't really complain. I love the triangle perspective. I like seeing the internal struggles that the characters have. Oh and who doesn't love hot sex! This Four Star review is for The Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog. Enjoy!
July 11, 2017
My Absolution is a story of love, forgiveness and second chances. Beautifully written, the highly emotive prologue draws you in immediately and the raw honesty of the story will keep you enthralled through to the very last page.
Joz Maxel has created a heartfelt story with characters that are complex, engaging and sincere. They drive this story flawlessly, and are written with true compassion and an inate understanding of the complexity of loving relationships.
This is an incredibly strong debut and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Joz Maxel has created a heartfelt story with characters that are complex, engaging and sincere. They drive this story flawlessly, and are written with true compassion and an inate understanding of the complexity of loving relationships.
This is an incredibly strong debut and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
August 3, 2017
I was fortunate to have received an ARC of this story and Wow! No other word comes to mind while writing this review. Joz did a wonderful job creating such a beautiful story that captured my heart and gave me all the feels. Everything from the storyline to the characters to the dialogue was done so well and I didn't want the story to end.
I highly recommend this story to everyone and cannot wait for what else Joz has in store for us!
I highly recommend this story to everyone and cannot wait for what else Joz has in store for us!
August 3, 2017
My Absolution is a story of love, forgiveness and second chances. Beautifully written, the highly emotive prologue draws you in immediately and the raw honesty of the story will keep you enthralled through to the very last page.
Joz Maxel has created a heartfelt story with characters that are complex, engaging and sincere. They drive this story flawlessly, and are written with true compassion and an inate understanding of the complexity of loving relationships.
This is an incredibly strong debut and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Joz Maxel has created a heartfelt story with characters that are complex, engaging and sincere. They drive this story flawlessly, and are written with true compassion and an inate understanding of the complexity of loving relationships.
This is an incredibly strong debut and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
July 30, 2017
Arc received on behalf of The Wandering Bookaholic in exchange of an honest review
Wow! What a powerful book. I was gripped from the prologue and couldn't put it down until I was finished.
My Absolution is a story about friendship, hurt, love, forgiveness and second chances. The story was different to what I would normally read and it completely blew me away. The raw emotions the book portrayed amazed me.
I loved the way it was written and the fact that we got to hear the story from all3 main characters point of view.
I loved the characters Corey is the ideal hero and together he makes a super power couple with Nova. I loved them and their family.
For a debut novel this books has the wow factor.
Wow! What a powerful book. I was gripped from the prologue and couldn't put it down until I was finished.
My Absolution is a story about friendship, hurt, love, forgiveness and second chances. The story was different to what I would normally read and it completely blew me away. The raw emotions the book portrayed amazed me.
I loved the way it was written and the fact that we got to hear the story from all3 main characters point of view.
I loved the characters Corey is the ideal hero and together he makes a super power couple with Nova. I loved them and their family.
For a debut novel this books has the wow factor.
August 13, 2017
This was an easy 5 star read. The book drew me in from beginning to end. I loved the characters and the story. Corey coming and picking up the pieces of his real true love after his best friends hurts her became my hero and I fell in love with him. I fel like I was a part of Corey's and Nova's story. There were times I smiled, laughed and cried, but in the end I got my HEA. I was crying at the end, but they were happy happy tears. Joz Maxel you are a very talented writer and I will have no problem buying your next book. Would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a heartfelt story💕
August 7, 2017
It was a great read! While there are bikers in the story it doesn't center around the MC. The story line had a very interesting twist to it. There was drama, action, surprises, heartbreak and of course love in its many forms. It will keep you reading till the last page. Still trying to figure out how the author got me to like this jerk character in the story and feel sad for him in the end. That's talent....ter
The characters are well developed and you feel like you know them. They could live next door or maybe be some of your friends. It was well worth the read. Can't wait to see what this author does next. Rated very good
The characters are well developed and you feel like you know them. They could live next door or maybe be some of your friends. It was well worth the read. Can't wait to see what this author does next. Rated very good
September 26, 2017
This was a story of being a the bottom and then finding that one person to help you put yourself back together.
Everyone needs a Corey in their life. A man who loves with everything he has. Who puts you and your family first. A great dad who shows up and communicates with his kids. A man that can never have enough of you.
Nova and Corey were friends since they were little. Their path was not easy but finding their way to one another and building their life together was worth it. Its not a life without heartache, but it's a life worth living.
The unconditional love in this family is something we should all strive for. Corey and Nova were meant for eachother. Their love is unstoppable and their chemistry was so HOT. A great read by the author. I'm looking forward to her next release.
Everyone needs a Corey in their life. A man who loves with everything he has. Who puts you and your family first. A great dad who shows up and communicates with his kids. A man that can never have enough of you.
Nova and Corey were friends since they were little. Their path was not easy but finding their way to one another and building their life together was worth it. Its not a life without heartache, but it's a life worth living.
The unconditional love in this family is something we should all strive for. Corey and Nova were meant for eachother. Their love is unstoppable and their chemistry was so HOT. A great read by the author. I'm looking forward to her next release.
August 4, 2017
This story is so great. It has 4 main characters but isn't overbearing the way some are with too many characters as it is just 1 story line. I feel so bad for everything they all have to go through. To see the love this family has for one another displayed in this book is powerful! This story broke my heart so many times but I still loved every moment of it. I hope that there is another story following these characters soon.
August 6, 2017
An incredible debut book from this author. Great storyline that is very well written and developed and that pulled me in right from the beginning and kept me hooked all the way through to the end. Dane, Nova a,d Corey are wonderful characters that have been friends since childhood. Twists and turns, drama, and hot and steamy scenes will keep you glued to the pages. Looking forward to reading more from this author,
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 8, 2017
So i started reading and instantly fell in love with these characters! The writing is amazing and i cant wait to read more from this amazing author! Brilliantly written!
August 3, 2017
Review coming soon!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews