Dexter Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Dexter books in order and is always updated, so you won’t miss anything. Whether you’re a first-time reader or a returning fan, this guide will help you follow the series in the correct order.

About the Dexter Series

The Dexter book series, created by Jeff Lindsay, invites readers into a world that is dark, chilling, and strangely addictive. At the center of it all is Dexter Morgan, a blood spatter expert working with the Miami Police by day, and a very different kind of man by night. Dexter doesn’t kill for pleasure—at least not exactly. He follows what he calls the Code of Harry, a strict set of rules taught by his adoptive father to channel his violent urges. Instead of harming innocent people, Dexter hunts down those who have escaped justice—murderers, rapists, and predators hiding in plain sight. What makes this series stand out isn’t just the thrilling murders or suspenseful twists, but the strange empathy readers feel for Dexter. He is a killer, yes—but one with his own rules, his own struggles, and even a sense of humor. The first book, Darkly Dreaming Dexter, was published in 2004, and since then, readers have followed Dexter’s chilling adventures through danger, secrets, and unexpected emotions. The series became even more popular after Showtime turned it into a hit TV show, with Michael C. Hall bringing Dexter’s complex character to life. Whether you’re reading the books or watching the show, Dexter’s story is unforgettable. It’s a unique mix of crime, justice, and the dark corners of the human mind—and it’s impossible to read just one book and stop.

How many books are there in the Dexter series?

There are a total of 10 Dexter books; 8 main books, 1 graphic novel and 1 spin-off novel. The series, written by Jeff Lindsay, includes the following titles in order: