I adore the TV show based on this book, so I knew right away that I should read this book. I appreciated throughout the book how faithful the TV show I love is to the book, but at the same time, it did make so much of the book feel a bit repetitive. 

Apparently I need to start reading the book first if we're doing faithful adaptions now.

That said, I did read the whole book and I did enjoy it quite a bit. The big moments didn't hit quite as hard because I knew they were coming, and admittedly I think some moments were more impactful in the TV show.

Emma's death was much more impactful in the book, knowing her final moments and final thoughts, which we do not see in the show. The aftermath of Emma's death and Dexter's healing, I believe was more impactful in the show, but that didn't make it less heartbreaking in the book.

This is a beautiful story and it's crafted so perfectly. I love this long love story

and even the bittersweet ending.

I think if you haven't watched the show, definitely read the book first. If you have watched the show and love it, this will only enhance your love for it.