A review by balthazarlawson
Smaller and Smaller Circles by F.H. Batacan

challenging dark informative mysterious sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

There is a serial killer about, but according to many there are no serial killers in the Philippines. But two priests, trained in psychology and forensic anthropology think otherwise and try to convince the NBI that there is an active killer targeting young teenage boys. They face a lot of resistance to their ideas but the director of the NBI has faith in them. They help with, but mostly lead the investigation.

This is a confronting story of child sex attacks and lives lost. It's easy to read but there are times that the narrative glitches a bit and you have to read a few lines again. The main characters are interesting but I wonder how they can possibly cope with all that they seem to have to do. But then also be able to drop that to investigate murder. An unusual setting for me but a mind broadening one.

Despite the type of crimes committed I enjoyed this.