The ‘best detective book ever written’ that inspired ‘masterpiece’ TV series on Netflix | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV
There are thousands of detective books out there, and many have gone on to become massive hits with readers. A number of them have even been turned into television shows. But there’s one series in particular that fans simply cannot stop talking about. It’s been called a “masterpiece” and “one of the best shows ever created”, and it’s all thanks to the gripping book it was based on.
One reader wrote: “I watched the TV series first and was apprehensive about reading the book. I’m very happy I did because it turns out it’s the best detective book ever written.” Another review said: “I have wanted to read this book forever. And I’m so glad that I finally did. I first loved the TV show, so it was great to read what started it all.”
A third added: “I binge watched the show on Netflix a couple years ago and was hoping I would love the books just as much as I loved the television series. As usual, I think I like the book even better!”
The novel behind all the hype is Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay. First published in 2004, it introduced readers to Dexter Morgan who is a Miami-based blood spatter expert with a dark secret.
The book went on to win the Dilys Award in 2005 and formed the basis for the hit TV series Dexter, which first aired on Showtime in 2006.
Those who have read the book and watched the show say the first season followed the plot of the book closely, before the show branched out into new storylines.
The series starred Michael C. Hall as Dexter, a forensic technician who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer.
It became a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of viewers and earning critical acclaim.
During its run, Dexter picked up ten Golden Globe nominations, 24 Primetime Emmy nominations, and won a Peabody Award in 2007.
Hall won a Golden Globe for his role, as did John Lithgow, who played the villain in season four.
That same season finale was watched by 2.6 million people, which was a record for Showtime at the time, and the final ever episode drew 2.8 million viewers.
The franchise now includes new sequel shows like Dexter: New Blood, Dexter: Resurrection and a prequel series Dexter: Original Sin.
But fans still rave about the original series the most. One person wrote: “Dexter is absolutely, without a doubt, one of the best shows ever created.
“It’s a thrilling, one of a kind TV show that will keep you at the edge of your seat throughout the entire series.”
Another added: “Dexter is the show I have been waiting for my whole television watching life. It’s a masterpiece and kudos to those who made it.”
A third said: “Dexter is easily one of my favorite TV shows of all-time and one of the few shows I can watch all the way through several times over without getting bored.”
