The setting is Saigon in 1963. Although the beginning of the war in Viet Nam is mentioned, Absolution focuses on two women and their relationship. Tricia, also known as Patsy, narrates most of the novel. She and her husband are devote Catholics. Tricia works hard at being the perfect wife, endures a number of miscarriages and gets swept up in Charlene’s schemes. Charlene is a dynamo. She can talk people into almost anything, Most of her schemes involve charitable works, such as distributing toys, cigarettes and candy at a children’s hospital.

Although I felt that Absolution described in too much detail the main character’s clothes and accessories, I still found it an interesting and thought provoking read. While Tricia is somewhat stereotypical of a 50’s/60’s wife, Charlene is a complex woman who is committed to performing good deeds even though she doesn’t always think about their consequences. Also, the book’s title can be interpreted in many ways.