Vivian Q. (bellasgranny) -
Helpful Score: 7
I don't even know where to begin. I so loved "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" that I couldn't wait for the second installment to be published in the US. I ordered a copy from Amazon UK and cracked it open the night that it arrived in the mail. This one definitely moved at a faster pace than the first book and is even better. Here we get the back story of Lisbeth Salander - who she really is and why she behaves as she does. The story is an exciting rollercoaster ride with so many twists and turns. I couldn't tear myself away from the book and finished it in three nights. It's a hefty book, 550 pages plus, but I would happily have read another 500. The final installment can't be published soon enough for me. Very, very highly recommend!
Leslie R. (robisles) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
If you don't want to stay up waaaaay past bedtime, then don't pick up this book. I read this one first, bought it at the airport in Seattle, and was entranced the entire plane ride across the country. Stieg Larsson created a character that was original and captivating in Lisbeth. The storyline had many twists and turns, but not too many to make you give up. My only issue, being American, was all the Swedish namea. I had to go back and do some rereading to keep them all straight. It is well worth it though.
Christine O. (crissyreader) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 275 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
Steig Larsson does not disappoint with the second in the series about Lisbeth Salander. The saga that began in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo continues in this book. Much is revealed about Lisbeth's past and her character. Blomkvist is also a major presence in this book. This is another "can't put it down" cliff hanger of a book.
Helpful Score: 3
Stieg Larsson's second installment of the Millennium series, The Girl who Played with Fire, serves up more good Swedish thriller but in distinctly different vein. Whereas The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is set up with a very tangible mystery to tackle--what happened to Harriet Vanger?--Fire's structure leads you through Stockholm more unpredictably. While Tattoo isn't strictly necessary prior reading, it allows you to fully appreciate the title character Lisbeth Salander who more centrally drives this novel. It's a year or so after Tattoo, with Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander's lives moving on. Separately.
Just when you think nothing is happening -- why has Larsson resorted to listing IKEA furniture names like NYC craigslisters?! -- you realize that detailing Salander's current life was the slow drawing of a quiverful of action arrows which rain down at an impressive pace. What's mentioned in the blurb really starts about a third of the way in, but if you've grown to love the eccentric brilliant loner Salander, you would enjoy seeing her emerge out of Larsson's focus on the part-detached Casanova, part-relentless investigator Blomkvist. Lisbeth Salander's past is the missing link between the murders of Blomkvist's new friends working on a sex-trafficking-expose for Millennium, the murder of an attorney, and the manhunt for our anti-heroine. There are new characters, new intriguing side plots featuring lesbian Satanic gangsters, and a most dramatic ending that has me repeating more strenuously my earlier advice: Don't start the series until you get your hands on all three parts!
Stephanie S. (skywriter319) -
Helpful Score: 2
Unlike the first book, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE sucked me in right from the start, and relentlessly demanded my attention until the bitter and exhausting end. Whereas I felt ambivalent about recommending the series after having just read the first book, this one nudges the series firmly into my like column.
Lisbeth Salander is, without a doubt, a remarkable character. Misunderstood and abused at a young age, this precocious but reticent woman goes about her life in a quietly defiant way, usurping expectations and social norms, that I am honestly in awe of. You dont exactly what to be her, per semore like, if you were like her, had her issues, then you would want to BE her. Does that make sense? Probably not. But thats the best I can explain it.
The majority of the book centers around the happenings of a tight very few days. Its almost incredible to think how 600 pages of a book could be devoted to, like, one week in these characters lives. However, Larsson is painfully meticulous about his details. Sifting through all the descriptions feels like you are a detective of a huge case, trying to determine which facts are relevant and which are just red herrings. His writing style, then, is rather appropriate considering the genre, and so I didnt mind the overwrittenness.
THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE ends on such a nervewracking cliffhanger that you should be sure to have the third and final book by your side. This is very good, very engrossing escapist fiction. If, like me, you were skeptical about continuing on with the series after the end of the first book, dont worry. This will totally blow your mind and have you cancelling appointments left and right, just so you can stay in Lisbeths world.
Lisbeth Salander is, without a doubt, a remarkable character. Misunderstood and abused at a young age, this precocious but reticent woman goes about her life in a quietly defiant way, usurping expectations and social norms, that I am honestly in awe of. You dont exactly what to be her, per semore like, if you were like her, had her issues, then you would want to BE her. Does that make sense? Probably not. But thats the best I can explain it.
The majority of the book centers around the happenings of a tight very few days. Its almost incredible to think how 600 pages of a book could be devoted to, like, one week in these characters lives. However, Larsson is painfully meticulous about his details. Sifting through all the descriptions feels like you are a detective of a huge case, trying to determine which facts are relevant and which are just red herrings. His writing style, then, is rather appropriate considering the genre, and so I didnt mind the overwrittenness.
THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE ends on such a nervewracking cliffhanger that you should be sure to have the third and final book by your side. This is very good, very engrossing escapist fiction. If, like me, you were skeptical about continuing on with the series after the end of the first book, dont worry. This will totally blow your mind and have you cancelling appointments left and right, just so you can stay in Lisbeths world.
Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
Helpful Score: 2
First Line: Lisbeth Salander pulled her sunglasses down to the tip of her nose and squinted from beneath the brim of her sun hat.
A year has passed, and the Wennerstrom affair has finally calmed down. Mikael Blomkvist is no longer being hounded by the media, but he can't forget the young woman who saved his life: Lisbeth Salander. But Salander has seemingly vanished off the face of the earth, ignoring each and every attempt Blomkvist has made to contact her.
Things haven't remained quiet at Millennium magazine however. Journalist Dag Svensson and his girlfriend, Mia Johansson, have been researching the multi-billion kronor sex-trafficking industry in Sweden, and Millennium is going to run the expose and publish Svensson's book. Before all the facts have been double-checked, Svensson and Johansson are found brutally murdered in their apartment. The prime suspect? Lisbeth Salander. It's up to Blomkvist and the handful of other people who believe in this strange young woman to prove her innocence. As far as Salander is concerned, there's only one person she can rely on to do this: herself.
The first book in this series, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, was one of my Top Ten books last year. I had high hopes for this second book, and I wasn't disappointed. The police investigation into the double murder was stymied at every turn. The "expert witnesses" whose opinions are to be trusted, told the investigators what a menace to society Salander was. However, when they asked the same questions of the people who knew and worked with her, they got an entirely different picture of the woman. It took them valuable time to decide which people they should trust.
Once again, the person at the center of it all-- Lisbeth Salander-- is the most fascinating. As a young girl locked away in a psychiatric hospital, she was asked "Why won't you talk to the doctors?" To which Salander replied "Because they don't listen to what I say." If you don't listen to what this young woman says, she's not going to bother with you. At all. You won't even be a blip on her radar. When I turned the page to see "Part IV: Terminator Mode", I didn't bother to hide my grin. This could only mean that Salander was kicking into high gear. I loved seeing how Larsson tied the expose of the sex-trafficking industry and the double murder into Salander's own background, for this book does give insight into what makes Salander tick.
If you want to get to know one of the most fascinating characters in modern fiction, read Larsson's books. Lisbeth Salander will enter your bloodstream like the strongest of narcotics.
A year has passed, and the Wennerstrom affair has finally calmed down. Mikael Blomkvist is no longer being hounded by the media, but he can't forget the young woman who saved his life: Lisbeth Salander. But Salander has seemingly vanished off the face of the earth, ignoring each and every attempt Blomkvist has made to contact her.
Things haven't remained quiet at Millennium magazine however. Journalist Dag Svensson and his girlfriend, Mia Johansson, have been researching the multi-billion kronor sex-trafficking industry in Sweden, and Millennium is going to run the expose and publish Svensson's book. Before all the facts have been double-checked, Svensson and Johansson are found brutally murdered in their apartment. The prime suspect? Lisbeth Salander. It's up to Blomkvist and the handful of other people who believe in this strange young woman to prove her innocence. As far as Salander is concerned, there's only one person she can rely on to do this: herself.
The first book in this series, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, was one of my Top Ten books last year. I had high hopes for this second book, and I wasn't disappointed. The police investigation into the double murder was stymied at every turn. The "expert witnesses" whose opinions are to be trusted, told the investigators what a menace to society Salander was. However, when they asked the same questions of the people who knew and worked with her, they got an entirely different picture of the woman. It took them valuable time to decide which people they should trust.
Once again, the person at the center of it all-- Lisbeth Salander-- is the most fascinating. As a young girl locked away in a psychiatric hospital, she was asked "Why won't you talk to the doctors?" To which Salander replied "Because they don't listen to what I say." If you don't listen to what this young woman says, she's not going to bother with you. At all. You won't even be a blip on her radar. When I turned the page to see "Part IV: Terminator Mode", I didn't bother to hide my grin. This could only mean that Salander was kicking into high gear. I loved seeing how Larsson tied the expose of the sex-trafficking industry and the double murder into Salander's own background, for this book does give insight into what makes Salander tick.
If you want to get to know one of the most fascinating characters in modern fiction, read Larsson's books. Lisbeth Salander will enter your bloodstream like the strongest of narcotics.
Anna S. (annapi) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 334 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Oh my God, I would not have believed Larsson could top his first book, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I had said that book was absolutely brilliant - what other superlatives can I use for this sequel? This is mind-blowingly stunning - and I'm afraid of what the third book is like if he can actually top this, I won't have any words left to use! Millenium magazine publisher Mikael Blomkvist has a new story - a young journalist has written an expose of the sex trade, and approached Millenium to have it published. When he and his girlfriend are killed, Blomkvist is appalled - and then shocked when the police investigation ties Lisbeth Salander to the murder weapon and the hunt is on for her. Blomkvist does not believe she is guilty, and sets out to investigate. What he finds is a much larger story than he ever imagined.
Salander is one of the most intriguing and fascinatingly ingenious characters I've ever come across. This thriller moves along at a breathless pace, twisting and turning until the reader is hopelessly lost and has no choice but to just come along for the ride - and what a ride it is! I had with difficulty put the book away at 1 am because I badly needed to sleep, but could not stop reading it the next day until I finished it.
Salander is one of the most intriguing and fascinatingly ingenious characters I've ever come across. This thriller moves along at a breathless pace, twisting and turning until the reader is hopelessly lost and has no choice but to just come along for the ride - and what a ride it is! I had with difficulty put the book away at 1 am because I badly needed to sleep, but could not stop reading it the next day until I finished it.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 1176 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
As much as I enjoyed "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo", I liked this followup volume in Larsson's trilogy even better. This book is filled with action and really fleshes out the Lisbeth Salander character. It delves into her background and family (and what a family she came from!) Highly enjoyable and highly recommendable! I have the 3rd volume in the triology - "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest" with me now as part of a bookring and I'm anxious to start that one. How unfortunate that Mr. Larsson passed away and that we won't be seeing anymore of Salander. :(
Helpful Score: 1
I thought the book was average. It may have been over-hyped and that may have affected my opinion of it. I still like Lisbeth's character, and the author is good at characterization, but the story is so long and drawn out...it just exhausted me and influenced my decision not to go further with the series.
John O. (buzzby) -
Helpful Score: 1
Sorry, it ran out of steam for me, as sequels often do. This book REALLY needed editing, more so than the first one. Nothing really happens, as far as I can tell. No new interesting characters (the first book had plenty), Kalle Blomkvist comes off as a wimp, Lisbeth is still interesting, and Blomkvist's fellow publisher barely appears. Story isn't as gripping, I gave up half way through. You really have to be a fan of the Salander types.
Helpful Score: 1
This Millennium series was the best I have ever read. Well written and the continuity of the characters throughout all three books was genius !!! Only downside is the death of the author so the series ended at just these three. This is the middle book of the series and it was a wonderful connecting link. Did I mention already how much I LOVED these books ?!?!
Helpful Score: 1
Good book. I wasn't too sure with the first one, but I stuck with it and really enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd books.
Margaret C. (cidnik) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very good! Couldn't put it down. I am ready to start the third.
Helpful Score: 1
Better than the first bok!
Martha O. (bonas88) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Better than the first one!
Kate D. (usuallee) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Unlike most people I do not think this one is better than The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - but having said that, it is still awesome. The book started off strong, and I did think the middle third of the book did meander just a bit. However - that last third of the book, when all of the plot points start clicking into place one after the other - the book became completely un-putdownable and the climax was incredible, albieit a bit farfetched - but I willingly suspended all disbelief. I can't wait for the third one to finally come out next month!
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed the second installment in this series. It is again a fast moving mystery. This book clears up some things that I wondered about in the first, but it does leave questions unanswered. I can't wait for the third book to come out!
Helpful Score: 1
Well written, well researched and impossible to put down. The only thing I missed a little was the feel of a lack of a conclusion at the end, but rumor has it that will come in the last book in the trilogy, which makes sense as this one tied up some loose threads from the first book. I can't wait to get my hands on the last one. The characters are wonderfully developed, the storyline is exciting and makes you want to finish the entire thing in one sitting. The beginning of the book was a little slow because of all of the details, but it was definitely worth reading. As I neared the end I started feeling that dilemma where you want to keep reading because you have to know what happens but you don't want to finish because you don't want to say goodbye.
Great book!!
Darlene J. (djj51) -
A great read. Just as compelling a the first book. These are books that you can't put down once you get into them. So set aside some time before you begin to read.
Sarah R. (misssarahjo) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 11 more book reviews
Loved it! Just as good if not better than the first one! I could not put it down
Bekka E. (bekka) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 20 more book reviews
couldn't put it down, i have not read book 1 of this series but i still understood the storyline and the characters. I have to get the next book to find out out happens next!!
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 1436 more book reviews
This book picks up where The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo ends. We discover who is Lisabeth's father and find that she is suspected of three murders. As a result much of her abnormal childhood and youth is exposed to the national press and she is the object of a nationwide manhunt. Even some of those she deems as friends become convinced that she is this cold-blooded killer. Mikael believes, however, that she is innocent and works to discover who is the real killer. Fortunately, Lisabeth's pension for privacy keeps her safe until she encounters her father and the actual killer. I truly enjoyed the read and was so glad that she survived to be featured in another novel.
I actually liked this book more than the first book (and I loved the first book). Lots of action, interesting and intriguing characters. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Diana Batema (TigerLily2004) -
Wow!!! Could not put it down until the end!!
Wondeful book. Read it before I saw the movie and glad I did.
A great read. Different from book 1 in that it captures your attention right away. In book 1 there is too much backstory right at the beginning that really slows the reader's interest. This book grabs you and holds you till the very end. I am trying to read it slowly but it keeps beckoning me back. Captivating characters, intricate plot, several twists and turns. All in all, a page turner. I highly recommend. Can't wait for Book 3 to be available in paperbackswap.
Another good book from Steig Larsson. Engaging and fun. Like the first book, there are a lot of characters and it's hard to keep straight, but the story is fun and it's a good read.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
As you know if you've read [book:The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo|2429135], Lisbeth Salander has had a very tough life. The details weren't important in the first book but are the main focus of the second. From an early age, she has been a victim of her father, the doctors and even the police, but she has adapted her life to accommodate the injustices done to her with terrible consequences. Even at the age of 26, she is a ward of the state and has to report to a guardian who controls her money and basically her freedom. When it was Holger Palmgren, everything was fine because he realized that Lisbeth was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and doesn't deserve to have her life controlled. However when Palmgren gets ill and Nils Bjurman takes over, Lisbeth is once again in real danger. Amazingly enough, after Bjurman brutally rapes her and Lisbeth retaliates (gotta love her revenge), Bjurman gets pissed off at her nerve and puts a hit out on her. This snowballs into a triple murder which Salander is the prime suspect. A massive manhunt is started which forces Salander to investigate on her own.
Mikael Blomkvist gets involved since one of the murder victims worked for Millennium and of course, Salander is a friend, or something. Mikael is convinced of Salander's innocence and starts an investigation of his own. So now we have three separate investigations on going and the surprises keep coming.
FABULOUS! I totally loved this book which is much more exciting than the first one. I love the inter-connectivity between Mikael's life and Lisbeth's. As improbable as it seems, the connections keep popping up. They live two totally different lives in two totally different sectors, yet A connects to B, and then to C and D with no explanation. I really liked the incompetence of the Swedish police department. The fact that they went strictly on the fingerprints on the weapon even though there was absolutely nothing else to tie Salander to the murders, just mind-boggling. The fact that it took outsiders to solve the case for them is amazing. And the fact that it was Salander is doubly amazing. The cliff hanger ending really has me jonesing for the next installment. I can hardly wait until the library has it available on audio.
Mikael Blomkvist gets involved since one of the murder victims worked for Millennium and of course, Salander is a friend, or something. Mikael is convinced of Salander's innocence and starts an investigation of his own. So now we have three separate investigations on going and the surprises keep coming.
FABULOUS! I totally loved this book which is much more exciting than the first one. I love the inter-connectivity between Mikael's life and Lisbeth's. As improbable as it seems, the connections keep popping up. They live two totally different lives in two totally different sectors, yet A connects to B, and then to C and D with no explanation. I really liked the incompetence of the Swedish police department. The fact that they went strictly on the fingerprints on the weapon even though there was absolutely nothing else to tie Salander to the murders, just mind-boggling. The fact that it took outsiders to solve the case for them is amazing. And the fact that it was Salander is doubly amazing. The cliff hanger ending really has me jonesing for the next installment. I can hardly wait until the library has it available on audio.
Melanie (MELNELYNN) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 669 more book reviews
In THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE, the second volume in the late Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy, publisher Mikael Blomkvist and the police are conducting parallel investigations into three horrifying murders -- and their initial evidence points straight at young computer genius and social misfit Lisbeth Salander. Kalle Bastard Blomkvist (as Salander has begun referring to him) hasn't seen Salander in nearly two years, except for one night when he happened to witness a huge man attempting to kidnap her and both she and the attacker eluded him. He's bewildered about why she cut him off cold, but had accepted her decision -- until now. He doesn't believe Salander killed these victims. Well, at least not two of them. He has to contact her, find out how she's become embroiled in this, and help her. Salander, as usual, has her own ideas about who she'll see and when....
In THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO, Larsson partnered Blomkvist and Salander as they unraveled a twisted tale of corporate greed, Fascist connections, and perverse sex and violence. FIRE highlights another subject on which Larsson wanted to shine light, namely the underbelly of the sex trade, a swill of human misery being forcibly imposed for money and simple loathing of women. Blomkvist's magazine, Millennium, plans an issue devoted to the subject based on the interviews and reporting of a criminologist and a journalist, and there follows much in-house discussion of the lurid material and how it should be presented to the public. But the three murders turn the magazine and its people on their heads.
Meanwhile, Salander travels, changes her appearance, and matures in the early chapters of the 569-page book that covers four months in total and is told in four parts. Among her pursuits: attempting to proof Fermat's Last Theorem in a way Fermat himself might have done, furnishing her new abode, and keeping tabs on Bjurman (whom, recall, she memorably tattooed in DRAGON). Then, she disappears for quite a spell as the murder investigation gets cranking, and finally, she regains the spotlight as the book rushes headlong into a heart-stopping denouement.
The last book in this series is called THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNETS' NEST in its English translation. The entire trilogy has already been published in Swedish (naturally), French, and German. Larsson reportedly had planned a ten-volume series. He had written part of the fourth book and had outlined volumes five, six, and seven. Sadly, due to his early death, only the trilogy is complete and will, according to his father, be published. After reading FIRE, the thought creeps in that perhaps the trilogy will not provide closure, and that the reader could be left dangling, unsatisfied. That would be a crying shame because Salander and Blomkvist -- along with other continuing characters -- do burrow themselves deeply into the reader's (at least this reader's) affections. Fortunately, reviewers who have read, in the other aforementioned languages, the entire story arc, including the final novel, seem generally very satisfied. Some claim that the last book, also the longest, is a grand finale that answers all outstanding questions. A few are less effusive, stating that the last book can't meet the anticipatory heights set by the stunning, unusual first one.
This last criticism can be applied to the second book as well. FIRE does not pack quite the punch of uniqueness that DRAGON did. One can perhaps think of the movie trilogy THE MATRIX, MATRIX RELOADED, and THE MATRIX REVOLUTION as an analogy. The smash introductory film awed with its mind-bending perspective. The second and third passes were very solid, even amazing, partners, but they only reiterated the cutting-edge magic so novel in The MATRIX, building on it, not inventing something mind-blowingly fresh. Familiarity takes a bit of the bloom off the rose, but it certainly doesn't breed contempt in these instances. Larsson's FIRE lags a little during the mid-section in which criminal investigation procedure grinds along and the author belabors certain points, seeming to believe his readers novices at crime mysteries. But overall, FIRE accelerates the enthralling story of Lisbeth and Mikael with panache. One can't help thinking the world they inhabit is too slimy, too vicious, but Larsson was a man with many crusades and causes, and his trilogy vividly paints the harsh pictures of society that he hoped to reform. The Millennium Trilogy encompasses uncompromising social critique; prickling thrills; and curious, bittersweet romance. FIRE drew me like a moth, and I can't wait to get my hands on HORNET. 4.4 stars.
In THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO, Larsson partnered Blomkvist and Salander as they unraveled a twisted tale of corporate greed, Fascist connections, and perverse sex and violence. FIRE highlights another subject on which Larsson wanted to shine light, namely the underbelly of the sex trade, a swill of human misery being forcibly imposed for money and simple loathing of women. Blomkvist's magazine, Millennium, plans an issue devoted to the subject based on the interviews and reporting of a criminologist and a journalist, and there follows much in-house discussion of the lurid material and how it should be presented to the public. But the three murders turn the magazine and its people on their heads.
Meanwhile, Salander travels, changes her appearance, and matures in the early chapters of the 569-page book that covers four months in total and is told in four parts. Among her pursuits: attempting to proof Fermat's Last Theorem in a way Fermat himself might have done, furnishing her new abode, and keeping tabs on Bjurman (whom, recall, she memorably tattooed in DRAGON). Then, she disappears for quite a spell as the murder investigation gets cranking, and finally, she regains the spotlight as the book rushes headlong into a heart-stopping denouement.
The last book in this series is called THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNETS' NEST in its English translation. The entire trilogy has already been published in Swedish (naturally), French, and German. Larsson reportedly had planned a ten-volume series. He had written part of the fourth book and had outlined volumes five, six, and seven. Sadly, due to his early death, only the trilogy is complete and will, according to his father, be published. After reading FIRE, the thought creeps in that perhaps the trilogy will not provide closure, and that the reader could be left dangling, unsatisfied. That would be a crying shame because Salander and Blomkvist -- along with other continuing characters -- do burrow themselves deeply into the reader's (at least this reader's) affections. Fortunately, reviewers who have read, in the other aforementioned languages, the entire story arc, including the final novel, seem generally very satisfied. Some claim that the last book, also the longest, is a grand finale that answers all outstanding questions. A few are less effusive, stating that the last book can't meet the anticipatory heights set by the stunning, unusual first one.
This last criticism can be applied to the second book as well. FIRE does not pack quite the punch of uniqueness that DRAGON did. One can perhaps think of the movie trilogy THE MATRIX, MATRIX RELOADED, and THE MATRIX REVOLUTION as an analogy. The smash introductory film awed with its mind-bending perspective. The second and third passes were very solid, even amazing, partners, but they only reiterated the cutting-edge magic so novel in The MATRIX, building on it, not inventing something mind-blowingly fresh. Familiarity takes a bit of the bloom off the rose, but it certainly doesn't breed contempt in these instances. Larsson's FIRE lags a little during the mid-section in which criminal investigation procedure grinds along and the author belabors certain points, seeming to believe his readers novices at crime mysteries. But overall, FIRE accelerates the enthralling story of Lisbeth and Mikael with panache. One can't help thinking the world they inhabit is too slimy, too vicious, but Larsson was a man with many crusades and causes, and his trilogy vividly paints the harsh pictures of society that he hoped to reform. The Millennium Trilogy encompasses uncompromising social critique; prickling thrills; and curious, bittersweet romance. FIRE drew me like a moth, and I can't wait to get my hands on HORNET. 4.4 stars.
Awesome! Loved it! Everyone should read them all!
Beginning of book is a little dry but stick with it--worth the read.
AWESOME second book in the series of three!!!!
3 stars
While I enjoyed this book, I felt the first one in the series (The Girl with the tatoo) was much better.
While I enjoyed this book, I felt the first one in the series (The Girl with the tatoo) was much better.
Very enjoyable. Keeps you guessing, but it really leaves you hanging at the end.
Dark series but well written
Mari D. (luv2cnewthings) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 55 more book reviews
My first reaction after reading the second installment was that the first was more of a mystery and the second book is more of a thriller. So, I liked the first book much better!
Aside from that, I couldn't help noticing that this book would probably be a good read for a Philosophy Class. Questions in that direction to ponder: Societal values? What is the "norm?" What are ethics and morals? Is the line between good and bad a thin gray line or is it solid? (After all, as much as we might like Salander, even Palmgren comments to Blomkvist how Salander's first reaction to most problems is violence.)
Otherwise, other specific thoughts on this book is that the first 400 or 500 hundred pages went very quickly. After that there were several times when I said, "Geez I knew that was going to happen." This includes one of the big reveals in the book: Zala with a "Z" and not an "_." (Kind of wondered whether Stieg Larsson had Voldemort on the mind when he made that one up.
Aside from that, I couldn't help noticing that this book would probably be a good read for a Philosophy Class. Questions in that direction to ponder: Societal values? What is the "norm?" What are ethics and morals? Is the line between good and bad a thin gray line or is it solid? (After all, as much as we might like Salander, even Palmgren comments to Blomkvist how Salander's first reaction to most problems is violence.)
Otherwise, other specific thoughts on this book is that the first 400 or 500 hundred pages went very quickly. After that there were several times when I said, "Geez I knew that was going to happen." This includes one of the big reveals in the book: Zala with a "Z" and not an "_." (Kind of wondered whether Stieg Larsson had Voldemort on the mind when he made that one up.
Books 1 and 3 are 5 star but I think this was a little lacking in comparison. Still an excellent read.
Betty M. (freejewelry) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 5 more book reviews
I loved this book. Can't wait to read the 3rd one.
love this book.... can't wait to read the final The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
I can see why this series made such a splash with the public. The second in the series was again a great read. It seemed a little boring for the middle third, probably because I was familiar with the characters. However the storyline and action are well written that it is easy to overlook the improbable coincidences throughout the book. Except for the fact that most of the characters are the same this is just as much fun to read as the first book in the series.
Again, can't say enough about how absorbing I found these 3 books in the trilogy. Wish there were more. You will love Lisbeth Salander, a remarkable female character, totally independent, not trusting anyone, quirky, not the most friendly but talk about a survivor, wow. Having lived thru the most horrible adolescence, this little slip of a girl shows how strong a woman can be. I am listing all 3 in the trilogy this week. You won't be sorry unless you are looking for a short, predictable fast read.
Felicia L. (shorty7) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 17 more book reviews
I read the first book in this series and could not get into it. I did finish it though. I started this one and could not get into it after a few pages and decided it wasn't worth forcing myself to finish it.
Kathy M. (km2012) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 2 more book reviews
A wonderful wrap-up in the Lisbeth Salander Trilogy. Each page of the book moves you through a web of intense drama and keeps you glued to the story. Fans of Stieg Larsson will not be disappointed as many questions that were sparked by the first two books are finally answered.
Great story, it kept me engaged throughout the book.
Barbara L. (Cosmic844) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 23 more book reviews
Well written and a little less tense than G w/the Dragon tatoo. Enjoy his work and a peek into another country.
Kellie L. (dvschic) - , reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 10 more book reviews
along with the first book, this quickly became my favorite reading in a long time. it seems like all the books out there are so easily confused with each other, there is no character quite like lisbeth. Yes, the names are hard to keep track of, but overall, this is a great book. i cannot wait to read the hornets nest next and am very sad that there will be no further books from this author.
Excellent book. Great follow up to "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo".
Contains violence, language and adult concepts.
A thriller I could not put down.
Contains violence, language and adult concepts.
A thriller I could not put down.
Sharon C. (sharonc9630) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 63 more book reviews
Wow to say this is an amazing book is an understatement.
The author never fails, we pick up where the dragon tattoo book ended and off we go on this wild ride again!!
I loved it and so will you.
The author never fails, we pick up where the dragon tattoo book ended and off we go on this wild ride again!!
I loved it and so will you.
Angel S. (AngelWings) -
I thought this book was better than Millennium Bk 1. I am looking forward to reading the 3rd one in this series.
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 1436 more book reviews
This book picks up where The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo ends. We discover who is Lisabeth's father and find that she is suspected of three murders. As a result much of her abnormal childhood and youth is exposed to the national press and she is the object of a nationwide manhunt. Even some of those she deems as friends become convinced that she is this cold-blooded killer. Mikael believes, however, that she is innocent and works to discover who is the real killer. Fortunately, Lisabeth's pension for privacy keeps her safe until she encounters her father and the actual killer. I truly enjoyed the read and was so glad that she survived to be featured in another novel.
Maureen N. (mvictory) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 2 more book reviews
Good read
Melanie (MELNELYNN) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 669 more book reviews
In THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE, the second volume in the late Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy, publisher Mikael Blomkvist and the police are conducting parallel investigations into three horrifying murders -- and their initial evidence points straight at young computer genius and social misfit Lisbeth Salander. Kalle Bastard Blomkvist (as Salander has begun referring to him) hasn't seen Salander in nearly two years, except for one night when he happened to witness a huge man attempting to kidnap her and both she and the attacker eluded him. He's bewildered about why she cut him off cold, but had accepted her decision -- until now. He doesn't believe Salander killed these victims. Well, at least not two of them. He has to contact her, find out how she's become embroiled in this, and help her. Salander, as usual, has her own ideas about who she'll see and when....
Really well written mystery. Bit more lewd than I would like in some cases. I feel like some of the details the author includes could be "brushed over" without detracting from the story one iota. In his first book I understood the need for graphic detail to explain the depth of depravity. In this book some of it almost feels like the sex scenes Hollywood throws into movies to get that all powerful "R" rating. Doesn't really detract from the story line, but offers no real value outside of titillation.
Wonderful book. The characters take on aa life of their own. Great characterization . The action keeps you turning the pages until early the next morning. Nothing like any other book I have ever read. My only regret is that the author has died so there will be no other books.
The 2nd in a series of book by Steig Larsson (the girl with the dragon tatoo) and this book follows Lisbeth Salander's journey in life as she's accused of murder of her guardian and 2 journalists who were working with her friend Blomquist. Action, detailed book that will keep you reading until the surprise ending.
Taryn C. (TarynC) -
This is the second in a trilogy that is translated from Swedish. I loved both the first book and this one, the third has not yet been released in English. I found the translation excellent which is not always the case. The plot is convoluted and keeps you guessing. The characters are multidimensional and well written. If you like a great mystery with off beat characters this is for you.
Excellent book! It had me on the edge of my seat. I hear The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest is even better!!
Liked it better than the first one--
Joan W. (justreadingabook) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 1711 more book reviews
This books rocks! The storyline will grab you from the first page till the very last page. You will find your self not putting this book down.
Kim W. (kimery) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 224 more book reviews
This book is the second in a series. I have enjoyed the series, it's sort of a gritty story but intriguing and unique. If you plan to see the movies, I would read the books first.
Catherine C. (c-squared) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 181 more book reviews
"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" gives you a glimpse of Lisbeth Salander, but this second book full immerses you in her life. Instead of merely helping solve a murder mystery, she is now at the center of a murder mystery, with all of Sweden hunting her, including a few supporters who want to help her clear her name. Her twisted history (including the details "All the Evil") are revealed, presenting more evidence of what an amazing survivor she really is.
Theresa K. (Tesstarosa) -
The second book in the Millennium trilogy starts out follow Lisbeth Salander as she moves on with her life after abruptly breaking off her affair with Mikael Blomkvist.
She is still a recluse and wants to stay off the grid, but she has decided she wants to buy a nice home without giving up the apartment she inherited from her mother. She is trying to establish real relationships with other people her female lover and Palmgren, the man whod been her guardian until hed had a massive stroke. She also still watching Bjurman, the man who was appointed her guardian after Palmgrens stroke, and who viscously raped her.
Mikael Blomkvist is back at Millennium and working with a doctorate students fiance to publish an article on sex trafficking in Sweden that will be followed by a book that Millennium will publish on the same topic. The book names names of very prominent people.
One night, the couple working on the sex trafficking book and Bjurman are killed and Lisbeth Salanders fingerprints are on the murder weapon.
While the police try to find Lisbeth, Mikael Blomkvist works to find evidence that shes not guilty. The main clue is a man named Zala who appears to be the missing link in solving the sex trafficking mystery.
This is a really long book, but it is so entrancing. Larsson has done a wonderful job of telling us more about Lisbeth and drawing out her character and story. I got into this story even faster that The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
She is still a recluse and wants to stay off the grid, but she has decided she wants to buy a nice home without giving up the apartment she inherited from her mother. She is trying to establish real relationships with other people her female lover and Palmgren, the man whod been her guardian until hed had a massive stroke. She also still watching Bjurman, the man who was appointed her guardian after Palmgrens stroke, and who viscously raped her.
Mikael Blomkvist is back at Millennium and working with a doctorate students fiance to publish an article on sex trafficking in Sweden that will be followed by a book that Millennium will publish on the same topic. The book names names of very prominent people.
One night, the couple working on the sex trafficking book and Bjurman are killed and Lisbeth Salanders fingerprints are on the murder weapon.
While the police try to find Lisbeth, Mikael Blomkvist works to find evidence that shes not guilty. The main clue is a man named Zala who appears to be the missing link in solving the sex trafficking mystery.
This is a really long book, but it is so entrancing. Larsson has done a wonderful job of telling us more about Lisbeth and drawing out her character and story. I got into this story even faster that The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
Even better than the first one!
Jordan H. (JAHertig) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 13 more book reviews
Like The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, this book was hard to put down. While there were many of the same characters from the first book, the story was very different. We learn quite a bit more about Salander and her past.
There were numerous characters, all with foreign names. Keeping the characters straight was challenging at times, but that did not ruin the book for me.
There were numerous characters, all with foreign names. Keeping the characters straight was challenging at times, but that did not ruin the book for me.
A lot better than the first on (Girl w/ the Dragon Tatoos) and Couldn't put it down and can't wait to get the 3rd in the series.
Diane D. (dianedo) -
Part two of the Millennium series does not disappoint. Lisbeth continues to be one of the most captivating characters ever written.
Love this book. Can't wait to read the next one.
Stef S. (bookgoddessme) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 106 more book reviews
After really enjoying the first book, I just sailed through this one with my nose in the book every free moment I had. I have never read a series in sequence, I always needed a bit of a break, but THIS series had you on the edge of your seat wondering what could possibly happen next! The plot twists, and impossible situations were riveting. I'm obviously going right into book 3. If you like adventure, and a strong female lead with lots of enigma, this is for you!
the Girl with the Dradon Tatoo book 2, Lisbeth's tale unfolds, giving ensite into her childhood and family life. Is she nuts or not? Murders are comitted and she becomes the prime suspect. Her friends and emenies are are out to find her.
Tom N. (rumpole) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 12 more book reviews
This is the second book in Stieg Larson's "Millennium" trilogy. You must start with the first, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" then read this one and then the third, "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest." If you like gripping fiction this trilogy is for you.
You will also like the movies which are now being remade in English; the original movie trilogy was in Swedish with subtitles and it was still excellent.
You will also like the movies which are now being remade in English; the original movie trilogy was in Swedish with subtitles and it was still excellent.
This book seemed pointless for me to continue reading. Part of it was that I don't like the way it is written. Packed with mundane details that didn't add to the story and after reading through Chapter 6 I decided not to waste my time on a book that was going no where. Filled with a lot of details about a lot of characters that, frankly, didn't interest me.
Being an International Best Seller I thought I was in for a treat.
Definitely a disappointment.
Being an International Best Seller I thought I was in for a treat.
Definitely a disappointment.
Loved it!
Fantastic book, grabs you and draws you right into the lives of Lisbeth Salander... in this book - we find out what makes her tick. We were introduced to her idiosyncrasies in book 1 and now I am truly looking forward to book 3!! If you are taking a long flight, bring it with you! I read it going back & forth across the country.
"I TOTALLY LOVE THIS BOOK"! Though it's not the usual genre I read, I'm really glad I ventured afield and read a book series that had been recommended. This series is truly a "page turner".
Couldn't put it down!
Daryl N. (roadking) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 48 more book reviews
Great story, Mr. Larsson keeps it interesting throughout. And has some very interesting twists in the story. Enjoyed it enough to read another of his work.
Jazmine F. (bouncinbabi33) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 9 more book reviews
amazing book and series. if you are into great novels this is one of them!
Sharon D. (booklit) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 473 more book reviews
could not put this book down so good! But very graphic
Patricia B. (tntb) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 24 more book reviews
Fantastic
Trish J. (tjacobs224) - , reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 14 more book reviews
I enjoyed the book alot! It was a little confusing sometimes to sort through the Swedish last names, I got the characters confused at times. Overall a great follow up to The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo.
Couldn't put it down at the end! I want more...
Rachel D. (rfdudley) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 75 more book reviews
I loved this book and am sad but happy that there is only more book with Lisbeth Salander. This is the book that you couldn't read fast enough yet you didn't want it to be over. One of my all-time favorites!!
I liked this one better than the first one.
Ties up a lot of unanswered questions from the first book. Couldn't put it down! :)
Susan H. (Higfin) reviewed The Girl Who Played with Fire (Millennium, Bk 2) on + 227 more book reviews
I did not read this book.
Murder mystery, family saga, love story, financial intrigue all take place in Sweden to badass hacker girl Lisbeth Salander.
