In this powerful novel the horrific story of sexual abuse of young children by clergy is told through the lives of three main characters: the abuser, Archdeacon and then Bishop Colin; the abused, Jack; and finally the Reverend Katherine who offers hope and redemption to Jack. The circumstances and lives of Colin, Jack and Katherine are individually recounted and how they intertwine with one another develops through the novel. Despite its distressing storyline, the power of hope and love also shows that there is balance in life’s journey. Numerous themes are explored during the story including the role of institutions and the total disregard of the children’s voices and needs by Church, Police and Social Services who all take the importance of the ‘establishment’ to be a more vital aspect than that of the child. In particular it highlights the Church’s disgraceful policy of primarily wishing to preserve its reputation above the care of these vulnerable children. In this powerful novel the horrific story of sexual abuse of young children by clergy is told through the lives of three main characters: the abuser, Archdeacon and then Bishop Colin; the abused, Jack; and finally the Reverend Katherine who offers hope and redemption to Jack. The circumstances and lives of Colin, Jack and Katherine are individually recounted and how they intertwine with one another develops through the novel. Despite its distressing storyline, the power of hope and love also shows that there is balance in life’s journey. Numerous themes are explored during the story including the role of institutions and the total disregard of the children’s voices and needs by Church, Police and Social Services who all take the importance of the ‘establishment’ to be a more vital aspect than that of the child. In particular it highlights the Church’s disgraceful policy of primarily wishing to preserve its reputation above the care of these vulnerable children.
