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

emotional funny mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

One thing that makes this novel so good is that it has a very short chapter but each chapter is well written, as if each chapter is like a one episode of a series. Despite of so many characters presented in the story, the author was able to introduce each with enough back story that makes this novel more interesting in every turn of the page. 
I loved how the book discusses about poverty, power and injustices. It is really frustrating because Batacan have first written this book in 1996. The problems of our country back then which inspired her to wrote this book is still evident until today (2022) 
The diversity of characters and balance between good and evil in this book makes it more interesting. I loved how the author used Father Saenz and Father Jerome as the main protagonist in the story. A representation of light amidst darkness. Hence, I can only hope that someday, more people like Father Gus, Father Jerome and Director Lastimosa are the ones who will be given authority and power over the people so that there will be less opression and that compassion may prevail instead. 
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