I can imagine how difficult that must have been to write, Richard, and I would love to read it.
The close POV is definitely a solution. However in my trickiest scene the POV is neither victim nor perpetrator but a sort of onlooker who cannot act. However this discussion has been really useful because I have, at least, realised this is why it is difficult. And I can’t change the POV, before you ask! There will be a solution, though.
Yes, Philippa, I have learned the hard way never to ignore what beta readers say, no matter what it is. You are so right about the mind going to strange places in times of trauma – but, of course, you are. And you have given me a host of an idea…