Highland Angel Book

[Taking an unusual tack for an historical, Howell explores pedophilia with a somewhat contemporary view. The BadHusband likes wee lads and lassies (although more the lads) and "trains" or grooms them for years until they reach the magic age (8) when he changes the nature of the abuse. (Howell discusses or demonstrates all of this, albeit gently).

When Kirstie begins to explain her husband's "perversions", she notes how she initially considered m/m, and that it would have been okay. With a contemporary attitude she says:
"In truth, if he had favoured men, I could have accepted that. The church and some laws condemn it, but, if 'tis two grown men, I feel 'tis none of my business. I was willing to try to come to some agreement with Roderick, keep his secret but also gain my freedom so that I might seek out a true marriage." loc.197, p.15

But Roderick likes to inflict pain and fear on the people around him, particularly Kirstie and any children. He has killed some children. The physical abuse is mentioned, as is the use of the children's fears to break them.

Howell explores the disposability of children, especially those who have no protectors - orphans, street-kids, the poor.

Shame keeps the children quiet. As does the lack of protectors, the unwillingness of those who should help to hear and heed their words, and fear of repercussions - to them, their families, their friends.

An allusion to mother-son incest is used to "explain" Roderick's abuse of others and inability to even consider m/f relationships (he becomes physically ill). Is that an easy way to explain evil? He is mad. He was broken by another. There is Evil in the world but there doesn't have to be? (hide spoiler)]