I really like the TV show Dexter, and have just realised that it is based on the books by Jeff Lindsay.

Has anybody read the books, are they worth seeking out? How does the TV show compare?

Thanks

Kris

I love the Dexter series, but that pneumatically lipped english actress (can't remember the name) really bugged me in the current series. She was great in Hustle but botoxed to the nines in this series.
Shame.


- NaomiM

I know what you mean, her character is quite annoying too. She almost made me feel sorry for Rita, who I also find annoying!! ; )

I love the developing relationship between the sister and the FBI taskforce commander, that's just so sweet.
I don't want to put up any spoilers for anyone who hasn't seen the last episode, but I suspect the final scene was tacked on because of unfavourable audience feedback.

hmm interesting, I have the last two episodes of season two sky plus'd - I'd better watch them I think!

I like Deb as a character, the relationship is sweet, as you say, made sweeter still I think by her tom boy rough exterior.

Yes, you keep expecting him to have a heart attack.

I know exactly what you mean about the final scene, although I must admit I was happy it was included!

Dexter is certainly the King of all anti heroes, it says something about the writing and acting that we are all happily rooting for a psychopath to get away with it! Or perhaps it says something about us, I don't know!!

It was interesting that he couldn't bring himself to kill someone purely to save his own skin, but he was capable of killing anyone who fell with in 'Harry's code' ie, they had to deserve it; only if it meant he was saving future, innocent, lives. Of course, he doesn't consider himself innocent, so he won't kill someone in 'self defence' if he can help it.
And I love the mantra 'don't kill your sister'. Lol!

Now maybe y'all can help me out here. I've heard so much about Dexter, and almost always like this kind of high quality US drama, but....

I'm a real wimp about very violent screen stuff. I winced my way through those kind of scenes in the Sopranos, because it was so darned good, but the subject matter has been putting me off watching Dexter. But I sort of want to see it anyway. Help!

Go on, convince me I can handle it..

Er, well, if you don't mind seeing bits of body you'll be fine.

Oh.
As I feared, then.

Most of the actual violance takes place off screen, I would say if you can handle the Soprano's you can certainly handle Dexter..

Well, when I say I can 'handle' The Sopranos...

That's encouraging, thanks Kristian. Naomi has got me worried about those body parts, but I might give it a go.
You realise I'll be blaming you personally if I get nightmares, don't you?

I'm sure you'll enjoy it Naomi - Dexter is one of those rare good guy serial killers! It is actually quite funny in places...

The books are great! (I haven't seen much of the TV series)

Frances

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However, a friend of mine finds the books too violent by comparison and didn't read far. For instance, I gather from her that in the TV series, Rita's neighbour's dog is removed by Dexter to a different place, but not harmed. In the book, Rita's children kill the dog.

I love Dexter's dry wit, off-the-cuff remarks and engaging personality!