Jeff Lindsay's writing style grated on me in books 1 and 2, but for some reason I didn't mind his unrelenting one-liners and alliteration this time around. I think that because I'm still on a Dexter high from having just finished the latest season of the TV series (which is superior to the books), I am overlooking a lot of book's flaws. Simply put, I enjoyed reading this book despite its problems.

In Dexter in the Dark, the voice in Dexter's head -- the one that urges him to kill -- suddenly disappears. As a wave of bizarrely ceremonial murders sweeps Miami, Dexter must solve the mystery to save himself and his Dark Passenger.

I enjoyed Dexter's introspection as he explored the origins of his Dark Passenger, but Lindsay's supernatural answer borders on the ridiculous. I am compelled to read the next book in the series to see if Lindsay drops the issue (hopefully).

My least favorite part of the series (which I fear will not be dropped any time soon) is the subplot of Astor and Cody's inner demons. I won't reveal any more for those who haven't read books 2 or 3, but I find the storyline disappointing and unnecessary.

Bottom line: the show is far superior, but the books are fun to read when you need a Dexter fix in the off-season.