One of the main themes the book explores is the different kinds and abuse and violence that play out in relationships—and its roots. The book’s title derives from this idea: Mad Honey is a metaphor for a relationship that sucks you in with its sweetness, until it’s too late and the damage is already done. The relationship to which this metaphor immediately applies—and through which this theme primarily plays out—is Olivia and Braden’s. Olivia recounts several instances of physical abuse and gaslighting that she experienced with Braden. Subtle signs of Braden’s controlling nature were evident from the very beginning, though his charm largely obscured them. The first time Braden hurts Olivia, she apologizes to him and consoles him, and Braden willingly accepts this, which sets a precedent for other instances of abuse in their relationship. Olivia is enmeshed deeper and deeper, until Asher becomes her impetus to break out. Although willing to tolerate the impact of Braden’s abuse on herself, she refuses to let her son either witness or experience it.

However, Asher seems to have inherited or learned part of Braden’s nature. Flashes of violence are present throughout his relationship with Lily. Eventually, it becomes clear that Asher isn’t responsible for Lily’s death; he’s absolved of this even in Olivia’s eyes by her realization of how deeply he loved Lily.