Darkly Dreaming Dexter

I have watched the show based on this book so long ago and then rewatched it because it's one of my all-time favorites that I almost forgot that it's based on a book. I accidentally spotted the first in the series at the Half-Priced Books store and decided to finally pick it up. Even though I knew it would be hard to compete with the show because it was just amazingly done and I loved every second of it, I still had high hopes going into it. And I can say, I definitely felt good about it. Even though it didn't “wow” me or blow me away, I still thoroughly enjoyed my time reading it and will be continuing with the rest of the series for sure.

To begin with, Darkly Dreaming Dexter, which is the first book in a series about a serial killer with a weird twist to him, introduces us to Dexter Morgan, a model citizen by day and serial killer by night. However, there's one major difference that makes his stand out from all the other killers out there, he only kills people who deserve to die. I think that this unique take on something that's been done so many times before is absolutely genius. This book probably has one of my all-time favorite premises, which is why I just can't get enough. The novel moved at just the right pace and I lived for those short chapters, all of them ending with a cliffhanger. I almost wish I would have read the books first because I know I would have given this one five stars instead of four. The show just really hit a note for me and the plot differences that made it into the show, in my opinion, made the story even more intriguing and memorable.

Secondly, the characterization I would say is even better than the plot, although it definitely stems from it and the author masterfully brought this complex, albeit ordinary character to life. I love how we really get to see the inner depths of Dexter's very soul and we get to experience life through him. Even though he is far from perfect and has many faults considering who he is, there is just something so human about a being trying to blend in and not stand out as the black sheep of society. He is so relatable and lovable and one of those main characters that you can't help but root for, regardless of what's right. And let's just say that I am beyond happy that they are bringing the show back too, I can't wait to watch it!

Finally, I don't really have anything bad to say about the writing style either. It was precise and to the point and not one bit choppy. Even though it was a little on the simplistic side, it really talks to the way Dexter is, logical and extremely rational in the way that he approaches life and things that come his way. Also, the writer did a good job of diving into his psyche and the writing definitely gets his complex mind across and paints him as a living, breathing human being, which obviously he is not.

In conclusion, I really liked this first book in the Dexter series and will be reading the rest of them as well. Even though it wasn't as good as the show, I think that fans of serial killer thrillers will really enjoy this one. It's definitely great and did not disappoint!