One of those cases where the movie (or show, in this case) is better than the book. The ideas and plot were intriguing, but I was put off by the writing style.

Having watched the whole series and waiting to borrow a book from a friend I picked up Darkly Dreaming Dexter. As many other people say it does have fairly large differences from the show. I enjoyed it immensely but had to re read the epilogue and last bit of the last chapter a couple times in order to tell exactly how it ended. I went though this book fairly quickly by my standards, something that only happens when I truly enjoy a book. I look forward to the second book.

Darkly Dreaming Dexter is Dull Dreary Dumbery. Lindsay has grabbed a terrific idea (a "moral" serial killer whose victims are all murderers themselves) and completely flubbed it. The Dexter of the novel comes across as prissy and anal-retentive, compared to the HBO series character who has complexities and subtleties. The flat and uninteresting supporting characters are barely there. Whether this is intentional on Lindsay's part or simply a manifestation of his inability to do anything with them except stuff them in the book and hope they'll animate themselves remains to be seen. For better (much better) Florida crime fiction, pick up any of the Travis McGee series by John D. MacDonald. Start with "The Deep Blue Good-by" and you'll see what an author can really do with a good idea, good characters, and good dialogue.

After letting it languish on my “To Read” list for a couple of years, I finally took this book home and very nearly brought it right back after reading the first few pages. I had a hard time understanding the, to me, sheer lyrical descriptions of killing and why the “rightness” of certain elements was so unbearably important. While the idea of a moral serial killer fascinates me, I will not be continuing on with this series.

A fan of the series, I just had to go back to where it all began: Darkly Dreaming Dexter. It also helped that the book's name is in the opening credits, further planting the seed as the book is a MUST read, despite the many notable differences betwixt the two.

Very interesting premise to have a story about a serial killer who only kills other serial killers. Vicarious vigilante justice for us all. Well written.

Can't wait for the next installment.

Filled the gap and gave me a hit of the series that I needed in between the TV show seasons, but I like the show better - the Dexter in the book is darker and less accessible, even for a sociopath.

A perfect weekend - or feverish flu quarrentine - read. A light style, despite the supposedly dark material. The only definable style for the writing and playing with the language is the alliteration or pointed phrases when Dexter refers to himself (the book is in first person). It does not go into gruesome details of the bodies or murders; the entire story is told plainly and the only details you know are those you need to know. All in all, the television show makes great improvements on the darkness and style - and excites more empathy from the reader- but the books have their place and are enjoyable. PS: Dexter does not appear to be a true sociopath, though definately anti-social personality disorder and many sociopathic-like tendencies. Delightfully Damaged Dexter.

The first Dexter book, and maybe his best. Quirky, funny, well written, you'd almost wish that Dexter was your best friend. Unusual character, Dexter is a joy to read, if not to relish. Kudos. Could not be more recommended. Is there a fitted sequel?