Helpful Score: 15
As a huge fan of the show, I did the unthinkable -- I actually went to Borders and bought this book brand new off the shelves! Since joining PaperbackSwap, I haven't needed to shell out actual money for a book I wanted to read. But hey, this time time it was oh so worth the expense. At first, it was a little hard to get into, and I started regretting my decision to buy this book rather than wait for my turn in the swap. But then, the story/author hit it's stride and it got so I couldn't put the book down. At first, the book and the series are identical, so maybe that's why I was a little put off. But then I really started to enjoy the little extras in Dexter's mind that you get from the book that the show is missing. I love the "humor" in this book, and I have to say some of my all-time favorite quotes are straight from Dexter's thoughts. Twice, I actually laughed out loud. It's a great story with quite a different ending than the show, so Dexter fans will still enjoy the read. If you're looking for crime science and procedure type books, Dexter won't be your cup of tea. I guess you could call this a more lighthearted murder book with tons of sarcastic wit.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 8
Oh my goodness! For the last few months, I have been just marginally aware of a phenomenon called "Dexter." It was just a whisper in the back of my consciousness, a hint of something that I ought to know but don't know. So, as I browsed through the daily digest of the wish list and kept seeing this Darkly Dreaming Dexter book listed as someone's fondest wish to read... Well, I put it on my wish list.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
Helpful Score: 8
Without Dexter's narration, this would surely be categorized as a straight modern crime story, but Dexter brings such a dark sense of humor to the story that this is really a comedy/crime story. It's funny and not too gory, so perfect for most readers.
Helpful Score: 7
A fun, fast read. You feel like you shouldn't like Dexter (after all, he is a serial killer) but he has such a sense of cheeky fun and tries SO HARD to be good that you do end up liking and rooting for him. Credit to the author for making such a likable but horrible character! Definitely plan to read more Dexter books!
Helpful Score: 5
I'm a big fan of "Dexter" on Showtime, so I figured I'd check out the book that started it all. WOW - LOVED IT - there is some deviation between the book and the TV series storylines, but still, this book was great. Funny, and oddly intriguing. As with the TV series, Deb remains my least favorite character, but I really liked getting to know everyone's favorite sociopath, Dexter Morgan, even better than on the TV series. A very quick read - I put this one away in a day. I've got the other "Dexter" books on my PBS Wish List now - can't wait to read them! Recommended!!
Helpful Score: 5
I had heard a lot of buzz about the Showtime series based on the books, so I wanted to check it out. I was greatly disappointed.
The writing seemed to be borderline amateur, at best. Here is a mix of CSI and Hannibal Lecter, but neither is well executed. The blood spatter specialist never got to show off his CSI-like skills, and that was dull. And the serial killer side of Dexter was equally a borefest. Not that I am looking for gory details of his eviscerations, but boy, the whole thing was one underwhelming book.
A quick read because I kept waiting for something INTERESTING to happen. But I can't say that anything ever did. The ending was very weak. I don't know much about this author, or whether this was his first published novel, but it sure seemed like it.
Very disappointing, all around.
The writing seemed to be borderline amateur, at best. Here is a mix of CSI and Hannibal Lecter, but neither is well executed. The blood spatter specialist never got to show off his CSI-like skills, and that was dull. And the serial killer side of Dexter was equally a borefest. Not that I am looking for gory details of his eviscerations, but boy, the whole thing was one underwhelming book.
A quick read because I kept waiting for something INTERESTING to happen. But I can't say that anything ever did. The ending was very weak. I don't know much about this author, or whether this was his first published novel, but it sure seemed like it.
Very disappointing, all around.
Helpful Score: 5
I have never seen the show but the book itself sounded interesting. It was okay, not great if I hadn't known it was his first book, I probably could have guessed.
Not nearly as gory as others had made it sound.
Not nearly as gory as others had made it sound.
Helpful Score: 4
It's everything the reviews say it is. Horrifying, amusing, and impossible to put down!
Helpful Score: 4
I DELIGHTFULLY DEVOURED this book, and now im HOOKED!
Dexter is not only deranged, but delicious and dreamy as well! Being inside his mind is a place i could totally just hang out and have a good time! I especially loved how the author uses tons of "D" words to descibe Dexter. Lots of tounge in cheek humor.
I really enjoyed this book about Dexter, a serial killer who has the "need" to only kill bad guys. When his dreams start crossing the lines of reality, Dexter is faced with a terrible decision, Catch the killer and help his sister, or meet him and marvel at the genius's artisic work. After being amazed at the glorious new killers' work of perfectly sliced up bloodless bodies, his sister goes missing, and Dexter must find and her then face the truth of his own horrific past.
I will definitely continue this series without a doubt! Its definitly worth a book credit! Order it now!
Dexter is not only deranged, but delicious and dreamy as well! Being inside his mind is a place i could totally just hang out and have a good time! I especially loved how the author uses tons of "D" words to descibe Dexter. Lots of tounge in cheek humor.
I really enjoyed this book about Dexter, a serial killer who has the "need" to only kill bad guys. When his dreams start crossing the lines of reality, Dexter is faced with a terrible decision, Catch the killer and help his sister, or meet him and marvel at the genius's artisic work. After being amazed at the glorious new killers' work of perfectly sliced up bloodless bodies, his sister goes missing, and Dexter must find and her then face the truth of his own horrific past.
I will definitely continue this series without a doubt! Its definitly worth a book credit! Order it now!
Helpful Score: 4
Absolutely fantastic! This book actually makes me appreciate the television series even more. Michael C. Hall as Dexter on Showtime is phenomenal and the casting couldn't have been better with the other characters as well. If you're a fan of the series, this is a must read. If you've never seen the series, this is a must read!!! Can't wait to read Lindsay's other stuff!
Helpful Score: 4
Fascinating look into the mind of a serial killer. Book cover calls it a "dark comedy" I would not call it a comedy. The author is clever with words, and the main character is so far removed from what most people consider mentally normal, that his thoughts and comments are sometimes amusing. You won't be able to put it down. And then you might not be able to sleep.
Helpful Score: 3
I'm a huge fan of the TV show and have heard awesome things about the books. I loved Dexter's tone! He was even better than Michael C. Hall's portrayal. My sister also read it and remarked how easy it was for the reader to root for Dexter, even though as a society we are taught that murder is wrong. Jeff Lindsay did an excellent job and I can't wait to read the second novel!
If you like the series you will love this book. The book is strictly from Dexter's perspective and very well written. Once I started I couldn't put it down.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 3
Oh my goodness! For the last few months, I have been just marginally aware of a phenomenon called "Dexter." It was just a whisper in the back of my consciousness, a hint of something that I ought to know but don't know. So, as I browsed through the daily digest of the wish list and kept seeing this Darkly Dreaming Dexter book listed as someone's fondest wish to read... Well, I put it on my wish list.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
Helpful Score: 2
The first thing I noticed about the book is that the writing style is simplistic. It's as if one is reading straight out of somebody's diary or somebody telling a story aloud. -It lent itself very well for the audiobook- Normally narration like this would have stopped me from finishing, but since this same narration is in the show, it helped having his voice narrate in my head.
Some of the events are a little different from the show, which was great because I don't like rereading something I've already watched. The characters are alive, each with a personality. Somebody as objective as Dexter gives a different opinion than one normally gets in a book. He's very matter-of-fact about things. I loved it!
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Some of the events are a little different from the show, which was great because I don't like rereading something I've already watched. The characters are alive, each with a personality. Somebody as objective as Dexter gives a different opinion than one normally gets in a book. He's very matter-of-fact about things. I loved it!
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Helpful Score: 2
alot darker than the tv show with different twists and different ending but a great read for show fans and new commers
Vicki S. (curledupwithabook) -
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this book about lovable serial killer, Dexter Morgan. Lovable serial killer? Isn't that an oxymoron? Well, yes and no. Jeff Lindsay does a great job of creating a monster who not only recognizes that he is a monster, but acknowledges that what he is doing is heinous and inhuman and, further, that he is powerless to stop it. If that isn't endearing enough (because most serial killers give not a thought to their lack of humanity), Mr. Lindsay gives this killer a heartbreaking early life, that serves to explain if not excuse his lust for murder. Dexter would have been just another blood-thirsty serial killer, though, were it not for an extraordinarily perceptive and wise foster father, Harry, whose love for Dexter not only saved the boy, but provided the foundation for a serial-killer code of ethics that both defines and limits Dexter's passion or "hobby", as he puts it.
I found myself really liking Dexter (even though I knew he wouldn't like me back) because of his unfettered view of relationships and his quirky, wicked sense of humor. He's just so darn likeable! Otherwise, I didn't find the book as graphic as some others (having read American Psycho, everything else pales in comparison). I didn't necessarily like the ending - I found it too easy and not nearly as thrilling as I prefer in my serial killer books. It was a pleasant (?) read and I will read Lindsay's next one, but it's not a five-star, in my humble opinion. I gave it three stars and would recommend it for a fun, quick read.
I found myself really liking Dexter (even though I knew he wouldn't like me back) because of his unfettered view of relationships and his quirky, wicked sense of humor. He's just so darn likeable! Otherwise, I didn't find the book as graphic as some others (having read American Psycho, everything else pales in comparison). I didn't necessarily like the ending - I found it too easy and not nearly as thrilling as I prefer in my serial killer books. It was a pleasant (?) read and I will read Lindsay's next one, but it's not a five-star, in my humble opinion. I gave it three stars and would recommend it for a fun, quick read.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 2
Oh my goodness! For the last few months, I have been just marginally aware of a phenomenon called "Dexter." It was just a whisper in the back of my consciousness, a hint of something that I ought to know but don't know. So, as I browsed through the daily digest of the wish list and kept seeing this Darkly Dreaming Dexter book listed as someone's fondest wish to read... Well, I put it on my wish list.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid college instructor, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on the full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid college instructor, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on the full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
Helpful Score: 2
By day, he's a blood-spatter analyst for the Miami police department. By night, he is a serial killer. He doesn't just kill anyone though, only the "bad guys". However, his "turf" is invaded by a second serial killer appears.
This book was wonderful!!! Even though Dexter is a killer, he is surprisingly a likeable character. The book also has its fair share of dark humor. Terrific read!!!
This book was wonderful!!! Even though Dexter is a killer, he is surprisingly a likeable character. The book also has its fair share of dark humor. Terrific read!!!
Helpful Score: 1
Loved it, loved it loved it!!! A great read, and a lot of fun too!
Helpful Score: 1
Having never seen the show, I cannot and will not try to compare the two. I do think that this is one of the most originally written stories of serial killers that I have ever read. It is completely first person. And Dexter, true to serial killer type believes he has NO emotions. I disagree, but he does put on a good show. The fact that he uses his "gift" to rid the world of other serial killers------------I APPLAUD!!!!!!!!!!! Why can't this be true in real life? Dexter is an interesting person who constantly fights with his alter self to be the good guy he knows he should be.
I think his sister is dimwitted not to know that there is something dangerous within him. For being a cop, she has no instinct. For having been his sister? Ignorance is bliss maybe?
I am eagerly awaiting the rest of the story.
I think his sister is dimwitted not to know that there is something dangerous within him. For being a cop, she has no instinct. For having been his sister? Ignorance is bliss maybe?
I am eagerly awaiting the rest of the story.
Helpful Score: 1
I read this when it first came out and tried to discuss it with my husband whose reaction was disdain. I couldn't blame him really it was pretty edgy...a book told from the point of view of a likeable serial killer! Then low and behold not too long afterwards they made a series out of it and HE liked it.
Helpful Score: 1
I love love love Dexter. This book totally surprised me. I did not expect the ending to be like that. I have followed the show from beginning through the fourth season and this is the first Dexter book I have read. At first, it reads like season one but it ended completely different. What a wonderful, terrible, exciting twist of events. I can't wait to read the second one. Two thumbs up from me!!!!
SUSAN S. (susieqmillsacoustics) -
Helpful Score: 1
Having really enjoyed the series, I wanted to read the book. While this had some similarities to the first season, it was quite different. I was surprised at how differently the book ended. Dexter seems to be a darker character in the book, more of a non-feeling serial killer, truer and scarier. It's a well written book and I now want to read more to see the direction the books take with Dexter's character.
Helpful Score: 1
I read the book after completing the first season of the show. Following the adventures of a serial killer of bad guys is great, no matter what. So, I enjoyed this story, just not as much as the show. I know it sounds weird, but it is true. The changes in the plot were shockingly different. An absolute read for fans of the show.
Helpful Score: 1
One case where the TV show was actually better than the books. Boring.
Helpful Score: 1
Oh! I REALLY enjoyed this book! It had so much of the cadence of the show - or, rather, I suppose it should be the other way around, but since I saw the show first, Dexter's inner narrative sounds like Michael C. Hall's voice to me... Anyways, the narrative presence is so strong... all in all making a truly excellent book. And the differences between the TV show and the book were pretty substantial! Deborah's role in the end... LaGuerta's future... I just feel like I am reading the real story and the TV show is some sort of alternate Dexter... I am just so VERY curious as to where the series goes next!! Two more books of Darling Dexter - how fun!!
Helpful Score: 1
Unusual book...dark humor
Helpful Score: 1
Dexter is not your average blood splatter analyst. He's a serial killer. He works with the police but cannot resist, and frankly doesn't want to, the urge to feed the dark need inside him. Dexter tries to keep his head down among people. He says the right things and smiles at the right times. Few ever notice that he's slightly off. When Dexter's foster sister, Deborah, asks for his help catching a serial killer Dexter is torn between his personal desires and the urge to help her.
I really liked the voice of this book. I was easily pulled through the pages. The mix of dark humor, confusion with human emotions, and unapologetic need to kill worked for me. I fell easily into the mind of Dexter and enjoyed my time there. I think that it is the mark of a skilled writer that I was able to like a character so much when he was clearly a sociopath. I couldn't help but feel for him even when I was repelled by his actions.
I enjoyed watching Dexter fumble with the emotions of people around him. Seeing him try to figure out what most normal people know by instinct was very amusing. I particularly enjoyed his confusion in relation to Rita. What seemed so obscure to him was obvious and hilarious to me (as well as most readers I'm sure). I really loved how he was disturbed and confused over what ended up happening with Rita. The embarrassment and definite yuck feeling was funny, but also kind of sad.
I was faintly disbelieving of Harry's reaction to Dexter. I mean, the guy was a cop. I really thought the teaching and honing of his setup and clean up was an odd thing to do. I don't know, maybe I'm just being idealistic.
I can honestly say that I wasn't expecting the serial killer to be who it turned out to be. It occurred to me when Deborah and Dexter were watching the video, but I discounted it. I guess I should have listened to myself.
The ending really bothered me. What happened exactly? How did that get resolved with all the cops? What happened in that final moment before it skipped to the last chapter? It's bugging me that I don't know. Hopefully it's covered in the next book. I'll definitely be buying it. I can't wait to see how Dexter's story continues.
I really liked the voice of this book. I was easily pulled through the pages. The mix of dark humor, confusion with human emotions, and unapologetic need to kill worked for me. I fell easily into the mind of Dexter and enjoyed my time there. I think that it is the mark of a skilled writer that I was able to like a character so much when he was clearly a sociopath. I couldn't help but feel for him even when I was repelled by his actions.
I enjoyed watching Dexter fumble with the emotions of people around him. Seeing him try to figure out what most normal people know by instinct was very amusing. I particularly enjoyed his confusion in relation to Rita. What seemed so obscure to him was obvious and hilarious to me (as well as most readers I'm sure). I really loved how he was disturbed and confused over what ended up happening with Rita. The embarrassment and definite yuck feeling was funny, but also kind of sad.
I was faintly disbelieving of Harry's reaction to Dexter. I mean, the guy was a cop. I really thought the teaching and honing of his setup and clean up was an odd thing to do. I don't know, maybe I'm just being idealistic.
I can honestly say that I wasn't expecting the serial killer to be who it turned out to be. It occurred to me when Deborah and Dexter were watching the video, but I discounted it. I guess I should have listened to myself.
The ending really bothered me. What happened exactly? How did that get resolved with all the cops? What happened in that final moment before it skipped to the last chapter? It's bugging me that I don't know. Hopefully it's covered in the next book. I'll definitely be buying it. I can't wait to see how Dexter's story continues.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting horror/crime novel with a killer who only kills other killers. Easy to read style keeps the pages turning. Humorous diversion from the average especially when Dexter tries to act human (he is incapable of normal emotions).
Helpful Score: 1
This is the RARE exception to the 'book is always better than the film' notion. The Dexter television show is SO amazing, that I was shocked that it came from this book. Darkly Dreaming Dexter is far too simply written, I would describe it as elementary. It is not interesting or frightening, or even emotional. Watch the show, you will not be disappointed.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved the character of Dexter! This first book in the series introduces us to Dexter, who is a very cerebral, and even likable killer. He has a job as a blood splatter anaylst with the Miami police department, and lots of secrets. Big twist at the end...I can't wait to read the second book!
Helpful Score: 1
Jeff Lindsay does a great job creating a character who actually becomes very likeable as the story unfolds. This is quite a feat since Dexter is a serial killer. The story unfolds much like the hit series based on the book. However, the book is really worth reading for Dexter TV fans because the book takes a few different twists on the storyline as the story gets toward the ending.
Helpful Score: 1
I waited to read this until after I'd watched the first season of the TV show because I'd heard that the main plots are the same. I'm glad I did. There's enough of a difference between the two that it didn't ruin the book, but might have ruined the show.
The book was shorter and lighter than I expected based on the show, but I think there are somethings that work better in print and some that worked better on screen.
The book was shorter and lighter than I expected based on the show, but I think there are somethings that work better in print and some that worked better on screen.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the few books I've read after I watched the the series & thought I liked the series more. a great twist to the crime thriller genre.
Helpful Score: 1
A fun rainy afternoon or before-bed read. The beginning is a bit slow and boring, but about 1/4 of the way in, the story and author's sense of humor really kick in. I loved the juxtaposition of Dexter's extremely gentlemanly, almost formal approach to life - his wry to really funny observations of what the stupid actual humans around him are up to - and the murderous, merciless proclivities of the Dark Passenger with whom he shares a body and brain.
After finishing this novel, readers will have only one thing to say:Wow!
Definitely different!!
this writer has a macabe way of writing
Weak. Dexter is not as witty as others think.
Entertaining story of a killer of serial killers. A quick and satisfying read - very tongue in cheek.
Dexter is a hard working, likable, serial killer who just happens to work for the Miami police department. He has been trained by his adopted father (who was a cop), to only kill those that deserve it, and was taught how to get a away with it. A terrific very twisted, but unexpectedly funny book.
Excellent! Funny and macabre.
This is one of the most interesting characters I've run across in a long time -- very interesting premise.
This is a fun book - smartly written an good if you like a little dark humor.
Dexter is a blood spatter expert for the Miami police dept. and often works w/ his foster sister, Deborah, who is on the force. Dexter appears an upstanding solid citizen and for the most part he is... except he's a serial killer, only killing the bad guys, of course. A unique and yes, likeable character. Good start to a series.
If you're into irony - this one's GREAT!
A dark comedy. Cleverly written with a new twist on crime fiction. Would someone please post Lindsay's next novel, "Dearly Devoted Dexter", I can't wait to read it!
Soon to be a Showtime show. I couldn't get into the book, hope the show is better.
Fascinating look into the mind of a serial killer. Book cover calls it a "dark comedy" I would not call it a comedy. The author is clever with words, and the main character is so far removed from what most people consider mentally normal, that his thoughts and comments are sometimes amusing.
Truly dark!
Great read.
An amazing book narrated by the bad guy; a very original character.
I have been a fan of the Dexter TV show on Showtime since it started several years ago and have read one other book in the series - Dexter By Design by Lindsay. This novel is the first in the series and it pretty much is the basis for the first season of the TV show. However, there are some major differences - especially at the ending of the novel and I don't want to give anything away if you have seen the TV version. Anyway, overall, I enjoyed the novel; however, I think the TV show is better. Usually, a novel will flesh out the characters and storyline better, but in this case, I think the TV show is superior. Maybe it's because the show used the entire first season to portray this first novel. I need to read some more of the series to see how they compare.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Oh my goodness! For the last few months, I have been just marginally aware of a phenomenon called "Dexter." It was just a whisper in the back of my consciousness, a hint of something that I ought to know but don't know. So, as I browsed through the daily digest of the wish list and kept seeing this Darkly Dreaming Dexter book listed as someone's fondest wish to read... Well, I put it on my wish list.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
A month or three later, there it was, in my mailbox. Wow.
I read the covers and thought, "Why would I want to read something about a guy who enjoys carving up serial killers?" Why indeed.
So I picked it up and began to read, just to satisfy myself that I wasn't going to like this so I could put it down and move on to something more appropriate. Ah, the best-laid plans....
I found myself in the mind of a handsome young creature who looks like a man, but isn't quite as human as he ought to be. He's quite charming, for a police-employed serial killer. How could I be comfortable in such an enviroment? Well, I couldn't be comfortable, but I could be interested, even fascinated.
I won't describe the story, but I have to tell you that even with my naturally sharp dislike for that which is immoral, evil, ...whatever... I was quite taken with Dexter. He's compelling, interesting, disturbing, logical, funny, and, well, scary.
I decided today, after finishing the book, to check and see what the phenomenon is. I found that there's a Showtime TV series about Dark Dexter, and I watched a couple of brief clips online. It looks interesting, but as a poor underpaid school teacher, I can't afford cable TV, so I won't get to watch it. (I just learned about Monk this year--he's only on cable, too--and I have to watch him on full-season DVDs we buy.)
So, my advice to you is to either get this book and read it and be discomfitted in a fun way or run screaming away as fast as you can. Both are good plans.
Excellent book!
Hope Lindsay never stops writing these.
I love the Showtime series and wanted to give these a try. I was pleasantly surprised. It doesn't follow the show so its no a recount of things I watched on tv which I found to be enjoyable. Its a deeper look into how Dexter's mind works. A easy and interesting read.
I thought this book was decent. I didn't think it was very funny, the plot was slow, and I was amazed at the obvious things that the characters seemed to be missing. I did, however, enjoy the premise of this book and I will read the next in the series. Hopefully it will be better.
Love watching Dexter come to life on Showtime. Now, reading the book, I can see how the two tie so nicely together. Where the book (told in the first person) gives you wonderfully vivid descriptions of what Dexter is thinking and feeling, the actor on the tv show conveys these with facial expressions and body movement. A real page-turner.
If you love Dexter on Showtime, you will absolutely love this book! It's the first in a series of Dexter books, and I plan on reading them all. It's darkly delicious and fun reading. Told from Dexter's point of view...excellent!
Excellent, wacky, off the top serial killer book with a sly twist. I loved this book and would love to keep it but I'm starting to learn I can't keep everything and someone else must read this!
Fast read...entertaining and humorous but I like a like more detail and gore in my serial killer books.
The writing was mediocre. I actually enjoyed the cable series much more than the book.
If you have seen the series on Showtime, this book is the same basic story line. There are several key differences though. It is about the Ice Truck killer. Dexter and his sister set off to find a killer who somehow drains the blood out of his victims, this completly infactuates dexter.. IMO i love these books, i'm on number 3 and i absoloutly love them.
I read this book after watching the first 2 seasons of the show. The book gives a lot more insight into Dexter's dark psyche, but I enjoyed the TV show much better. The whole plotline of the "Ice Truck Killer" was much more suspenseful. I will probably read all of the books just because I can't get enough of Dexter and the new season doesn't start until September!
A story line unlike any other I've read. Gruesome but not nausea-inducing. The protagonist (so to speak) carries off a wry humor in spite of his unsociable habits and odd amusements. Unfortunately, I sort of guessed the ending 50 pages before it was fully revealed. Still, an entertaining read for a murder-mystery fan.
Very good! Loved the fact that it was from Dexter's point of view.
This book is just as good as the t.v. show. I actually have watched both season of the t.v show before reading this book. Similar in some ways, but the ending of the book will shock you!! Very unexpected. Great writing!
Bloody brilliant!
Original!!! Morbidly funny!!!
EXAMPLE:
"Dark-haired girls should have equal opportunity as light-haired girls to be kidnapped, raped, and cut up, don't you think so?"
Travel the mind of this likable killer. It's a sin to root for him, but you just can't help it.
EXAMPLE:
"Dark-haired girls should have equal opportunity as light-haired girls to be kidnapped, raped, and cut up, don't you think so?"
Travel the mind of this likable killer. It's a sin to root for him, but you just can't help it.
Clever, amusing, and suspenseful. Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Serial killer, Dexter Morgan, is also on the Miami police force as a blood genius. He only kills bad guys who have gotten away with murder and mayhem. For whatever reason the police couldn't put someone away, Dexter takes it upon himself to "help out". He is a bit of a nutjob but IMHO he is making Miami a safer place to live by culling the murders and sexual criminals off the streets.
By far, the TV show does a much better job of fleshing out the characters than the book. Except for Dexter, the book gives much more insight into his mind than the TV show. That being said, I did enjoy Dexter's first book and will certainly read the others. It almost makes one wish more people had Dexter-like ideas. Almost...
By far, the TV show does a much better job of fleshing out the characters than the book. Except for Dexter, the book gives much more insight into his mind than the TV show. That being said, I did enjoy Dexter's first book and will certainly read the others. It almost makes one wish more people had Dexter-like ideas. Almost...
Showtime's Dexter series is based on ths book. The book is almost as good as the series!
Dexter only murders people who deserve it. A crazy premise, but you can't help but root for the guy.
Lots of murder, police activity, even a little romance thrown in. And tons of suspense!
I can't wait to read the next in the series.
Lots of murder, police activity, even a little romance thrown in. And tons of suspense!
I can't wait to read the next in the series.
I was looking forward to this book after having heard many good things about it. Unfortunately I was disappointed.
The storyline revolves around Dexter Morgan, a blood splatter specialist for the Miami police department. Oh by the way he is also a serial killer, but a good one because he only kills bad people.
While I liked some parts of the Dexter character, in particular his very funny internal dialogues, the rest of the characters in the book were either annoying or stereotypical. Dexter's sister is also a police officer but she was quite whiny. The lead Homicide Detective was a woman who was pretty and got her job through who she knew not what she knew. She was unfailingly stupid and an unbelievable character. The book was also marred by a very confusing and rushed ending. I won't be moving on in the series.
The storyline revolves around Dexter Morgan, a blood splatter specialist for the Miami police department. Oh by the way he is also a serial killer, but a good one because he only kills bad people.
While I liked some parts of the Dexter character, in particular his very funny internal dialogues, the rest of the characters in the book were either annoying or stereotypical. Dexter's sister is also a police officer but she was quite whiny. The lead Homicide Detective was a woman who was pretty and got her job through who she knew not what she knew. She was unfailingly stupid and an unbelievable character. The book was also marred by a very confusing and rushed ending. I won't be moving on in the series.
If you've seen season 1 this is nothing new, it reads like a screenplay of the show.
Usually the books are better than the movies/tv show, but Michael Hall is SO good at becoming Dexter that he endears his audience. The tv shows are loyal to the book; however, the book is not as seductive at wrapping the reader into Dexter's personality, his killing "rooms," or the whole feel. I read this book and will read the others in order to get "more" of Dexter, but after the series, ink isn't as compelling.
As a huge fan of the show, I decided to check out the first book in the series, and it's a testament to the show, really, that I much prefer that version. The problem is, for someone who's seen Season 1, that the book is pretty much exactly the same, MINUS a lot. I have more faith in enjoying the second and third books in the series as I know they veer off from the storylines on the show. However, this is not to say this is a bad book - it's interesting and well written - it's just not as good as the show.
great!!! even bette than the show if that's possible
If you've taken to Dexter on television, you will be absolutely smitten with him on the printed page!
Didn't get very far - too violently graphic for my liking.
Not your basic serial killer story.
meet dexter a polite wolf in sheeps clothing, a monster who crines at the sight of blood
This book is a waste of paper and ink.
Angela C. (rolltide1al) -
This was a 2nd copy that I had accumulated. Like brand new. Good book.
****
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