Absolution by E E. Lawson
In the wake of Books and Brew, I find myself promoting other authors almost as much as my own work. E. E. Lawson understands the reality of being an indie author firsthand—so much so that she jumped right in to help me pack up my books when the rain hit. Emily writes women’s fiction, which prompted me to reflect on my own female characters: Melissa, Anne, Lucy, and Lizzy. Each displays a distinct resilience, much like the rugged Maine coast where they were raised.
For readers who appreciate atmospheric mystery and psychological depth, Absolution is a standout. The novel operates on two masterfully balanced tracks: a fast-paced, suspenseful historical timeline and a quiet, emotionally charged present-day narrative.
The catalyst is Helen, a devout Catholic on her deathbed who can no longer bear the weight of a forty-year-old secret. Over a series of hospital confessions to her friend and priest, she unravels her connection to the infamous 1982 Tylenol poisonings in Chicago.
What makes this story stick with you long after the final page is its unvarnished look at moral compromise and the lingering cost of silence. It doesn't just entertain—it forces you to ask what you would do in Helen's shoes. If you are looking for a gripping suspense novel that will spark incredible book club conversations, this is it.
About the Author
E. E. Lawson writes literary contemporary fiction, diving into themes of ambition, identity, and the subtle emotional shifts that define women’s lives.
Across genres ranging from literary suspense and satire to vintage romance and magical realism, her novels consistently return to a core struggle: what occurs when the roles society demands of us clash with our genuine selves?
She earned her degree in Mass Communication from the University of Toledo before pursuing graduate studies in Interpersonal Communication at North Dakota State University. This academic foundation fueled her lifelong fascination with human connection, perception, and the personal narratives people construct.
Prior to publishing her novels, Lawson built a career in nonprofit communications, spent years blogging about motherhood and family, and raised five sons—all while filling notebooks with story fragments, observations, and characters waiting for their turn on the page.
Her moves across Ohio, North Dakota, Washington, and Rhode Island have heavily shaped her writing style, instilling a deep appreciation for place, personal transformation, and the hidden depth within everyday moments.
Beyond her books, she connects with readers through The Story Room and Notes from Emily, where she publishes essays, story ideas, and reflections on writing, motherhood, and the creative journey.
Lawson currently resides in Rhode Island with her husband and five sons, where she is usually hard at work on her next project.
Check out Absolution and her other work on Amazon
