Plot Summary

Smaller and Smaller Circles

F.H. Batacan
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Smaller and Smaller Circles

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002

Book Brief

F.H. Batacan

Smaller and Smaller Circles

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

167

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Manila, Philippines • 1990s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Smaller and Smaller Circles by F.H. Batacan is a Filipino crime novel following two Catholic priests, experts in forensic investigation, who track a serial killer mutilating and murdering young boys in Manila's Payatas slum, amid pervasive social issues like poverty, corruption, and injustice, exposing the dire state of the country. This book contains depictions of violence, child sexual abuse, and murder.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Gritty

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.2

6,264 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Smaller and Smaller Circles by F.H. Batacan offers a gripping and atmospheric crime novel set in the Philippines. Praised for its detailed procedural elements and deep social commentary, it vividly portrays the complexity of Filipino society. Some critics, however, note that the pacing occasionally drags. Overall, it is celebrated for its unique setting and cultural context.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Smaller and Smaller Circles?

Readers who appreciate The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson or Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris will be captivated by F.H. Batacan's Smaller and Smaller Circles, which offers a gripping, psychologically complex crime narrative set in Manila, engaging fans of literary thrillers and forensic mysteries.

4.2

6,264 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

167

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Manila, Philippines • 1990s

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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