When reading a story such as this, it's difficult for anyone to avoid the underlying themes and to truly relate to the anti-hero Dexter. Of course if we are to approach the topic seriously for a moment, dependent on your political views, you may find it easier or more difficult to understand and accept the motivations and actions of Dexter throughout the series. My own personal position is that I hold staunch opposition to the death penalty and absolutely reject the notion that some people simply 'deserve' to die. Before getting into the first book, I knew roughly about the character and what generally went on in the series, so I had some pre-conceived ideas about what I would encounter, but not only did I find myself liking this Dexter character, but I almost found myself accepting the general idea that Dexter's victims were people who 'deserved' to die.
The story starts off with a bang as in the first chapter we are introduced to our first kill at the hands of Dexter in the shape of Father Donovan, who we find out is himself a serial killer of children. We are introduced to what drives Dexter's 'urges' to kill in the form of a 'Dark Passenger' which encourages Dexter's kills whenever he finds his next victim. As the story continues, we are treated to flashbacks to Dex's teenage years and his relationship with his foster father, Harry who discovered Dexter's killer urges, yet rather than have Dex committed to any form of asylum, he encourages Dexter to use those urges productively, introducing us to the idea that some deserve to die.
There are a string of murders of prostitutes in Miami which have a peculiar look and feel to them, something which Dexter describes as 'artistic'. The bodies are cut up, completely drained of any blood, and neatly packaged. This string of murders catches Dexter's attention and as he and his sister, Deb investigate the murders in their own way in order to try and ensure Deb a promotion, Dexter becomes embroiled in a deadly game with Miami's other serial killer, someone who he is convinced is his soulmate.
The story is one that you need to experience for yourself to truly understand how some may find it initially difficult to come around to the idea of the story they are reading. Dexter is a character you are talked into the idea has no real human emotions and simply forms relationships based on what is expected of him or what will get him noticed less. As it progresses, however, I got the sense that this wasn't entirely true and, if anything, this was Dexter lying to himself in an attempt to reconcile the horrible things he did.
At times I found myself growing to like or even admire the Dexter character, yet I'd simply have to keep reminding myself that this character is a serial killer, but then again I found myself asking the question of whether he's any different to most other fictional characters to whom we come to relate who have been responsible for a death or two. My own guess would be the personal level on which this story is told from the perspective of someone who wants to kill people and enjoys doing so, makes it sometimes uncomfortable reading.
There is a lot of humour throughout, most of which is obviously very dark, and while at times made to feel uncomfortable, I couldn't draw myself away from the story. It was gripping and enjoyable from start to finish and, frankly, I can't wait to read about Dexter's next victim.
Review written by Steve
The Dexter series of books are out now and can be purchased online:
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