Could someone explain how gender roles are portrayed in the novel "The Sisters Brothers."

Men are described as free to do what they like.... they come and go, act as they will, and for the most part.... don't seem to have any regret. The Sister brothers kill their father to protect their mother and younger brother, and yet, don't really feel the need to reunite and re-establish a relationship with their mother. Eli would like to.... Charlie discourages it.

For the most part, women we meet over the course of the novel are presented as wanton whores, one night stands, not good for anything outside of a quick romp. The Sisters brothers' treatment of women is unfeeling and reprehensible. It is important to note, however, that Eli's perspective chnges when he meets the bookkeeper at Mayfield's. She enables him to envision a future.... a wife and family of his own.