Berger's economical novel depends mainly on its two chief figures, Richie Maranville, the serial killer who hates bad manners, and the suburban innocent, John Felton. To be sure, Berger's deft narrative often suggests more about his minor characters than the author has time to allot them. Except for Sharon and Tim, a young woman and a boy who barely escape Richie's malice, the other characters are essentially reduced to cameo appearances.

For instance, John's wife is brought on stage in the final scenes of the story, and other minor characters have a memorable moment or two, The most memorable figure in the novel is Richie, who may well be one of the most credible serial killers portrayed in contemporary American fiction. The product of an orphanage and a series of psychiatric clinics, Richie has developed a survivalist's contempt for institutions and social authority. He views the police, the...