Vicki S. (curledupwithabook) - , reviewed on 1/17/2010 + 169 more book reviews

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.

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