Helpful Score: 22
I was prompted to read this book because I became intrigued by the unusual way in which this book got published. The author had waited until all three books in the series had been written before submitting them. I'd never heard of anything like that before and, adding to the intrigue was the fact that he died shortly thereafter. So I picked up a paperback at the grocery after reading the inside back cover about him.
It took me awhile to get into this first book, but once I did, I was mesmerized. The characters are fascinating, and the story is compelling. When finished, I was thrilled to find book #2 in hard cover, and I didn't want it to end. It is even better, and the characters gain even more depth. When I finished book 2, I sat there saying, "Wow. Wow. Wow." My husband looked at me oddly, and I said, "What an ending!" I'm grateful Book #3 is due out fairly soon, but I know I'm going to be deeply saddened by the thought that it will be the last we will hear from this amazing writer.
To honor him and his achievement, I ordered a hard cover copy of book #1, so that eventually I will have all three in hard cover.
I hope before he died that he knew his books were going to be published - and that he has family who are able to see how his writing has impacted readers around the world. A thousand gold stars!
It took me awhile to get into this first book, but once I did, I was mesmerized. The characters are fascinating, and the story is compelling. When finished, I was thrilled to find book #2 in hard cover, and I didn't want it to end. It is even better, and the characters gain even more depth. When I finished book 2, I sat there saying, "Wow. Wow. Wow." My husband looked at me oddly, and I said, "What an ending!" I'm grateful Book #3 is due out fairly soon, but I know I'm going to be deeply saddened by the thought that it will be the last we will hear from this amazing writer.
To honor him and his achievement, I ordered a hard cover copy of book #1, so that eventually I will have all three in hard cover.
I hope before he died that he knew his books were going to be published - and that he has family who are able to see how his writing has impacted readers around the world. A thousand gold stars!
Laura P. (hemmputnam) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1154 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 18
My experience of this book was colored by the exuberant reviews on the cover. It may be considered "wildly suspenseful" because I had to read to the end to find out what happened. However, I wouldn't use the word "sexy" unless you like reading about the graphic, violent rape and murder of women. Portions of the book are about convoluted financial dealings of Swedish corporations, and the family in the story has so many characters that there's a family tree graphic for you to refer to at the beginning of the book - not my idea of "mesmerizing." That said, I love the character of Lisbeth who refuses to be a victim. She earned the 3 stars I gave this book.
Helpful Score: 11
I was prompted to read this book because I became intrigued by the unusual way in which this book got published. The author had waited until all three books in the series had been written before submitting them. I'd never heard of anything like that before and, adding to the intrigue was the fact that he died shortly thereafter. So I picked up a paperback at the grocery after reading the inside back cover about him.
It took me awhile to get into this first book, but once I did, I was mesmerized. The characters are fascinating, and the story is compelling. When finished, I was thrilled to find book #2 in hard cover, and I didn't want it to end. It is even better, and the characters gain even more depth. When I finished book 2, I sat there saying, "Wow. Wow. Wow." My husband looked at me oddly, and I said, "What an ending!" I'm grateful Book #3 is due out fairly soon, but I know I'm going to be deeply saddened by the thought that it will be the last we will hear from this amazing writer.
To honor him and his achievement, I ordered a hard cover copy of book #1, so that eventually I will have all three in hard cover.
I hope before he died that he knew his books were going to be published - and that he has family who are able to see how his writing has impacted readers around the world. A thousand gold stars!
It took me awhile to get into this first book, but once I did, I was mesmerized. The characters are fascinating, and the story is compelling. When finished, I was thrilled to find book #2 in hard cover, and I didn't want it to end. It is even better, and the characters gain even more depth. When I finished book 2, I sat there saying, "Wow. Wow. Wow." My husband looked at me oddly, and I said, "What an ending!" I'm grateful Book #3 is due out fairly soon, but I know I'm going to be deeply saddened by the thought that it will be the last we will hear from this amazing writer.
To honor him and his achievement, I ordered a hard cover copy of book #1, so that eventually I will have all three in hard cover.
I hope before he died that he knew his books were going to be published - and that he has family who are able to see how his writing has impacted readers around the world. A thousand gold stars!
Helpful Score: 11
Compelling murder mystery. Gripping, this book kept me up long into the night reading. Mikael Blomkvist is a journalist with a conviction for libel. He is approached by Vanger, a wealthy industrialist to write a detailed family saga. The Swedish setting of Hedestad and the names took a little getting used to. One of the most suspenseful books I've read in a long time.
Anna S. (annapi) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 334 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 9
The first word that comes to mind when describing this book is BRILLIANT - absolutely brilliant. It starts out slow, and I struggled with the first hundred pages or so that introduce the main characters, journalist Mikael Blomkvist, and title character Lisbeth Salander, the anti-social computer hacker. Blomkvist is hired by Henrik Vanger of the dynastic Vanger Corporation to look into the mysterious unsolved disappearance of his niece 40 years ago. He does not really expect to do any better than the police that have diligently and thoroughly investigated, but when an attempt is made at his life he realizes he has uncovered something - but how is it connected? The story really picks up the pace and becomes totally engrossing as we follow Mikael's and Lisbeth's separate paths that slowly intertwine, and the last two hundred pages are un-putdownable - and here I am at 1:30 in the morning writing a review. This is so different from your typical thriller, and the characters are wonderfully drawn and completely fascinating. This will definitely make my top 5 of the year!
Helpful Score: 7
This book is a total page turner and I couldn't put it down! I didn't think I would enjoy a locked room mystery anymore because so many authors just don't do it justice. Stieg Larsson has fooled me a couple of times throughout this book when I've tried to pinpoint who the real murderer was and the conclusion of this book was startling but satisfying.
I don't know much about Sweden but the novel is so very atmospheric and the author does a very good job explaining certain societal structures that I would otherwise not know.
I highly recommend this book but I must say that it really isn't for those who are easily squeamish.
I don't know much about Sweden but the novel is so very atmospheric and the author does a very good job explaining certain societal structures that I would otherwise not know.
I highly recommend this book but I must say that it really isn't for those who are easily squeamish.
Arletta (areldthomp) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
Wow, really really good. If you like mystery this one doesn't disappoint. The translation from Swedish to English was very good. You feel like you are in Sweden. Couldn't put it down. A must read.
Brenda R. (bothrootes) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 207 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
This is a very long and complicated book but once you get pass the first 100 pages and get all the foreign names in your mind it is well worth the effort. After being convicted of liable against one of his competative publishers, Mikael Blomkvist reputation as a publisher is ruined. He is hired to write a book about the Vanger family by it's elderly patriarch who is also trying to solve the disapearance of his neice, Harriet. While doing research on the family and trying to solve the mystery of Harriet's dispearance, he meets and hires Lisbeth, the girl with the dragon tattoo, as a research assistant. The story is full of suspense, sex, deviant behavior, etc.
Sheryl (Momof2boys) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
I finished The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo late last night. I was intrigued from the beginning, and can't get the book out of my head. It was a fabulous read and I highly recommend it to any mystery fan. I read Elizabeth George's first novel not too long ago, and this reminded me of that book in some ways, but was even better. Gripping! Five stars!
Debra R. (MediumDebbi) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 92 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
The book started slowly for me but quickly gained momentum after the financial scandal section, I was not able to put it down for at least the next 300 pages. Larsson has built the suspense extremely well in the creepy episodes and then sewed it all up very well in the end while leaving the story open to a whole new mystery which will continue in his next book. The characters are believable and the plot interweaves criminal and financial intrigue to an intense and satisfying climax. One of the blurbs on the back of the book quotes that it is "a cross between Silence of the Lambs and Ingmar Bergman". I would add John Grisham into the mix as well.
Helpful Score: 5
I shouldn't really give any stars since I didn't finish the book, but I read to p. 56 before asking my Facebook friends how long it takes to get interested in the novel and its characters. As far as I'm concerned, it should have grabbed me before p. 56, and from what I hear, it takes much more than that - for some people not til 1/2 way through the book. NEXT! So many books, so little time!
Susan R. (suzyshadow) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 125 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
This is a great book...lots of twists and turns and unusual characters...too bad the author has died...he is very good at spinning a tale. There are 2 more in this series and I plan to begin the 2nd one this week.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1223 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
Finished reading this superb thriller today. After the first couple of chapters, this novel grabbed me and didn't let go until the last page! I thought the titular Lisbeth Salander was an unforgettable character - a computer hacker par excellent who makes a living by doing deep background investigations of sometimes very unsavory characters. She is a young almost anorexic looking outcast with body piercings and tattoos, a photographic memory, and possibly afflicted with Asperger Syndrome, who has been abused and is under legal guardianship of the State. She teams up with journalist Mikael Blomkvist to solve a years old mystery about the disappearance of a young girl in the 1960s from the industrial Vanger family in Sweden. Along the way, a very perverse mystery is solved involving a serial killer. I don't want to give away too much, but this story really keeps up the intensity. I'm really looking forward to the other books in the Millennium series. I also found out that this novel has been made into a movie in Sweden. It was showing recently at an American Film Institute series of foreign films here in the Washingon, DC area. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the limited screenings. Hope to see it when it goes into general release here in the U.S. or when it is released on DVD. I understand the entire Millennium series will also be filmed.
Kristen R. (krissyj8) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I am not usually a fan of mystery/ suspense novels, but this completely captivated me. There are many characters in this book, and at the beginning it was difficult to keep the story lines and the characters straight. Larsson's character development was excellent and really made you want to put the pieces together. The story is not predictable. It involves murder, corporate greed, sex, lies, and cover-ups. Overall I highly suggest this book. You will not want to put it down!
Helpful Score: 5
I read this book based on a recommendation from a friend. I found it a little slow at the start and hard to keep track of all the characters. But then it really came together. I stayed up all night to finish it. I wasn't really expecting a mystery when I picked up the book, but an enjoyable mystery it was. I am off to request the second one.
Patty R. (PattyR) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I really did not enjoy this book. The original title was Men Who Hate Women. There are 3 rape scenes in the book and two are sadistic. This is just not my idea of entertainment.
Also the book is translated from swedish and its so, I don't know, it's off, stiff and full of cliches.
And it was so slow. Hundreds of pages of back story that end up not having anything to do with the crime.
The character were shallow. I didn't really care what happened to them. Apparently, no one can resist this middle aged writer. Women he barely knows want to have sex with him.
Also, the killer lives with a women for years, and she is, what, oblivios or in on it? The writer doesn't even address the fact that he's married. How can his wife not know about this room in the basement. He must have disappeared there for hours. Isn't she the least bit curious about where he is and what he's doing? How can he disappear for hours into a room that she hasn't seen? Does she know what he is up to? Is she frightened into submission? The writer never addresses the wife. Also how can his neighbors not notice him dragging bodies around for 25 years.
The book is boring, poorly written and unrealistic.
Also the book is translated from swedish and its so, I don't know, it's off, stiff and full of cliches.
And it was so slow. Hundreds of pages of back story that end up not having anything to do with the crime.
The character were shallow. I didn't really care what happened to them. Apparently, no one can resist this middle aged writer. Women he barely knows want to have sex with him.
Also, the killer lives with a women for years, and she is, what, oblivios or in on it? The writer doesn't even address the fact that he's married. How can his wife not know about this room in the basement. He must have disappeared there for hours. Isn't she the least bit curious about where he is and what he's doing? How can he disappear for hours into a room that she hasn't seen? Does she know what he is up to? Is she frightened into submission? The writer never addresses the wife. Also how can his neighbors not notice him dragging bodies around for 25 years.
The book is boring, poorly written and unrealistic.
Helpful Score: 5
This book was a very interesting read. I really enjoy Larsson's descriptive paragraphs and the overall atmosphere his story creates.
Helpful Score: 4
This is one of the best mysteries I've ever read. Intelligent and engrossing, also reminds me of an Ingmar Bergman movie.
Julia F. (Farmerswife) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 52 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
I had a very difficult time getting into this book. It was my book clubs selection of the month, or I wouldn't have bothered to finish it. This book is two separate stories that are supposed to converge. One is a financial intrigue story and the other is a murder mystery. I found the financial intrigue part of the novel ANYTHING but intriguing. The murder mystery was fair, but not really worth wading through the endless financial details. When the two stories finally do come together it seemed forced.
This book just wasn't for me and I have no intention of reading the rest of the series.
This book just wasn't for me and I have no intention of reading the rest of the series.
Anne R. (swampmolly) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 150 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
overrated! took way too long to get into story & fizzled at end. Sorry I got the second in series but will bravely try to plow thru it.
Kelly S. (kellbel) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
I loved this book and its characters and I don't feel that way about a lot of books. This is definitely a keeper. Apparently, since this book is not posted (telling me everyone wants to hang on to it), neither could any other swap members. I can't wait to start reading The Girl Who Played With Fire. If you know someone who has recommended this book, take their advice.
Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
Helpful Score: 4
After rave reviews in Europe, this book is finally coming to the US with much fanfare. American readers of literary fiction who also enjoy a whodunnit mystery will appreciate the multiple plot lines that interweave as the characters lives intersect. The primary plot concerns Mikhail Blomkvist, who as a disgraced reporter begins the investigation of a cold case murder. As he digs deeper into the history of the victim's family, he uncovers dark personal and financial secrets within the family. Of course because this is a thriller someone is not happy that these secrets may see the light of day and sets out to stop him.
The cause of the Mikhail's disgrace is another mystery, and is the focus of the beginning and end of the novel. Unfortunately the first hundred pages or so are the slowest. The family history is complicated, and I found it necessary to frequently refer to the family tree printed in the beginning of the ARC I was reading. Only once Mikhail partners with the girl with the dragon tattoo who helps solve these mysteries does the pacing of the book pick up speed, and it does so exponentially. At times this book was difficult to put down.
This book has received much praise by critics in Europe because of the commentaries it makes about race relations, financial corruption, and misogyny in Sweden. As an American reader with virtually no knowledge about Sweden I did feel that my ignorance made me not appreciate some aspects of this book fully. However, the fascinating characters and complex plot lines should be enough to win over a wide American audience for this book. Highly recommended for mystery readers looking for a smart and original read - it should appeal to fans of Sharp Objects.
The cause of the Mikhail's disgrace is another mystery, and is the focus of the beginning and end of the novel. Unfortunately the first hundred pages or so are the slowest. The family history is complicated, and I found it necessary to frequently refer to the family tree printed in the beginning of the ARC I was reading. Only once Mikhail partners with the girl with the dragon tattoo who helps solve these mysteries does the pacing of the book pick up speed, and it does so exponentially. At times this book was difficult to put down.
This book has received much praise by critics in Europe because of the commentaries it makes about race relations, financial corruption, and misogyny in Sweden. As an American reader with virtually no knowledge about Sweden I did feel that my ignorance made me not appreciate some aspects of this book fully. However, the fascinating characters and complex plot lines should be enough to win over a wide American audience for this book. Highly recommended for mystery readers looking for a smart and original read - it should appeal to fans of Sharp Objects.
Helpful Score: 4
Okay, first I'll say it's a good STORY and that's pretty much the only reason I stuck with almost 600 pages.
It's just terrible WRITING. If you don't know already, Larsson died of a sudden heart attack at 50 and these novels were found on his computer. I really believe that, had he been alive to work with an editor, this would have ended up a MUCH better 300-page book. There's at least 200 pages of unnecessary exposition that ended up taking the story absolutely no where. Oddly, one of the few times Larsson slows down enough to actually describe something, it's for a very violent and graphic rape scene that does NOTHING to further the story.
This is a rare time that I think the movie will actually be better than the book.
It's just terrible WRITING. If you don't know already, Larsson died of a sudden heart attack at 50 and these novels were found on his computer. I really believe that, had he been alive to work with an editor, this would have ended up a MUCH better 300-page book. There's at least 200 pages of unnecessary exposition that ended up taking the story absolutely no where. Oddly, one of the few times Larsson slows down enough to actually describe something, it's for a very violent and graphic rape scene that does NOTHING to further the story.
This is a rare time that I think the movie will actually be better than the book.
Julie T. (howie) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 36 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Blah, blah, blah...Yak, yak, yak...I've heard about this book til' I'm blue in the face...I FINALLY read it to put a cork in a couple of friends...Apparently I'm not easily impressed or just not hip enough to get it...It was predictable, boring, and WAY too long winded...Stieg Larsson spent way too much of his too short life telling backstory that I could give a rat's patoot about...There was a couple of memorable things in the book but all in all it was predictable...I was told, "you won't believe the twists in it"...Seriously??? I've seen episodes of Criminal Minds that had WAY more twists and turns in it...And it's been made into a movie??? TWICE??? Call me square but I just don't get it...Perhaps I'm not edgy enough...But I really wish I had never read it...Tried like the devil to get through the second one...Weighed as much as a cinder block and the cinder block was way more interesting...Sorry...
Jocelyn K. (jocelynr) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Engrossing and compelling - a highly enjoyable read.
Taryn C. (TarynC) -
Helpful Score: 3
I found this book to be intriguing and hard to put down. I usually find translated books hard to follow but this was very easy. There were a few things I am sure I didnt understand being American but it didnt detract from the story. I liked the character development and the twists and turns. I cant wait for the next two in the series, as my Norwegian DIL said the second book was her favorite in the series and the characters personality quirks get more interesting. I highly recommend this book!
Vivian Q. (bellasgranny) -
Helpful Score: 3
I finished this one a few days ago and still can't get it out of my mind. It's not the type of book I usually read, and the for most part, I usually read women's fiction. I almost put it down after after the first 50 pages but felt compelled to keep reading. The book, the first of a trilogy written before the author's sudden death in 2004, was incredible. Completely fascinating, skillfully written, entirely original. I cared deeply for the characters and can't wait for the second book which is to be published in the UK in 1/09.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. It was totally engrossing.
I can't recommend this book highly enough. It was totally engrossing.
Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
Helpful Score: 3
Title: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Author: Stieg Larsson
ISBN: 9780307269751/Alfred A. Knopf
Protagonist(s): Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist, and Lisbeth Salander, a research assistant
Setting: present-day Sweden, north of Stockholm
Series: #1 of the Millennium trilogy
Rating: A+
First Line: The trial was irretrievably over; everything that could be said had been said, but he had never doubted that he would lose.
Mikael Blomkvist, editor in chief and journalist for Millennium magazine has just been found guilty of libel. The best thing for the survival of his magazine is for him to resign and disappear. Out of nowhere, wealthy industrialist Henrik Vanger hands him an assignment on a silver platter: live in a nearby house in Hedeby for a year, investigate the forty-year-old disappearance of his niece, and not only will Blomkvist be paid handsomely, but Vanger will give him the information he needs to destroy Hans-Erick Wennerstrom--the billionaire who sued Blomkvist for libel and won. Blomkvist accepts, little knowing that the assignment will throw him right into the middle of a rattlesnake's den.
The first few pages of this book were a bit slow going, but I was irrevocably hooked when Lisbeth Salander, the girl with the dragon tattoo, made her appearance. She vaguely reminded me of a favorite character, Carol O'Connell's Kathleen Mallory--another brilliant misfit who has few social skills. Once the investigation into the disappearance of Vanger's niece was concluded, the Wennerstrom finale felt a bit anticlimactic, but the slow start and anticlimactic ending did not lessen my fascination with and enjoyment of this book. Larsson's skill with interweaving the narrative threads of Blomkvist and Salander, with the Swedish setting, and with a complex plot that made me irritable whenever I had to set the book down to do something else fills me with dismay at his untimely death.
Author: Stieg Larsson
ISBN: 9780307269751/Alfred A. Knopf
Protagonist(s): Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist, and Lisbeth Salander, a research assistant
Setting: present-day Sweden, north of Stockholm
Series: #1 of the Millennium trilogy
Rating: A+
First Line: The trial was irretrievably over; everything that could be said had been said, but he had never doubted that he would lose.
Mikael Blomkvist, editor in chief and journalist for Millennium magazine has just been found guilty of libel. The best thing for the survival of his magazine is for him to resign and disappear. Out of nowhere, wealthy industrialist Henrik Vanger hands him an assignment on a silver platter: live in a nearby house in Hedeby for a year, investigate the forty-year-old disappearance of his niece, and not only will Blomkvist be paid handsomely, but Vanger will give him the information he needs to destroy Hans-Erick Wennerstrom--the billionaire who sued Blomkvist for libel and won. Blomkvist accepts, little knowing that the assignment will throw him right into the middle of a rattlesnake's den.
The first few pages of this book were a bit slow going, but I was irrevocably hooked when Lisbeth Salander, the girl with the dragon tattoo, made her appearance. She vaguely reminded me of a favorite character, Carol O'Connell's Kathleen Mallory--another brilliant misfit who has few social skills. Once the investigation into the disappearance of Vanger's niece was concluded, the Wennerstrom finale felt a bit anticlimactic, but the slow start and anticlimactic ending did not lessen my fascination with and enjoyment of this book. Larsson's skill with interweaving the narrative threads of Blomkvist and Salander, with the Swedish setting, and with a complex plot that made me irritable whenever I had to set the book down to do something else fills me with dismay at his untimely death.
Sarah M. (PastorPeanut) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I picked this up in the airport, having heard Larsson mentioned in the same breath with Henning Mankell. They may both be Swedish mystery writers, but here the similarity ends. Unlike Mankell, Larsson pushes the graphic sex/violence envelope like any of a dozen U.S. bestselling authors. And also unlike Mankell, Larsson did not leave me thoughtful about social/ethical/political matters. But my main complaint is not that Larsson is not Mankell - who really wants 2 authors to be alike? - it is that Larsson did not make me care about his characters. I don't know that I would have finished reading it if I had not been trapped in a coach seat!
Helpful Score: 3
For me this was a very slow start. If I didn't know in advance that a compelling story DID lie within, I probably would have lost interest and given up. The first several chapters were a long, drawn out detail filled background. I felt this was unnecessarily long and could discourage the reader to continue, which would be a shame since it DOES eventually become very interesting. I love the characters of Lisbeth, Blomkivst, and Heinrik Vanger. Suspenseful, great story that kept my interest. Lisbeth is a great unusual character. If you can stick it out in the beginning, you will be rewarded.
Jacqueline L. (jkslove2read) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
This was a good book, but it went on for a long time with a lot of background detail. For as much hype as it has had I was kind of let down. I do recomend this book to anyone, but with a warning that there are some graphic parts and can be hard to read.
Helpful Score: 2
Great story but WAY too much violence. The violent scenes were really graphic and turned me off from the story. I won't read the other books for this reason.
Rachel T. (chicken-nugget916) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Kudos to those of you who muddled through slow the beginning. Generally I am one to finish a book out of spite even if I don't like it, but I just couldn't get the motivation to finish it.
Mary H. (Honey68) -
Helpful Score: 2
Started rather slow for me, but I stuck with it and very shortly, I was totally engrossed. Will hold your attention. Well written and I can't wait to see the movie. Bet it is not as good as the book.
Cheryl R. (Spuddie) -
Helpful Score: 2
#1 in the Milennium trilogy. Translated from Swedish and featuring journalist Mikael Blomkvist, middle-aged co-founder of Millennium magazine, and freelance investigator Lisbeth Salander, a pierced, tattooed twenty-something computer hacker with a definite antisocial bent. Blomkvist is convicted of libeling a billionaire financier and, intending to take a break is instead hired by Henrik Vanger, an octogenarian businessman to investigate the disappearance and probable murder of his niece Harriet decades previously. It's a locked-room mystery, as the Vangers lived on an island with but one access, and that was blocked by a tanker crash. Blomkvist is intrigued but not sure what he can come up with that the much-obsessed Vanger himself hasn't already considered.
To entice him, Vanger promises some juicy information about the billionaire that will vindicate Blomkvist's near-ruinous fine and prison sentence when he has completed his investigation. Reluctantly, Mikael agrees, but though he reviews hundreds and thousands of pages of documents and photographs, it isn't until midway through the book when Salander comes into the investigation that things begin to really move, and they realize they're onto something much more than the disappearance of one teenage girl thirty-odd years ago--something horrifying, grisly and on-going!
To be honest, I nearly gave up on this book by the time I got to my mandatory 50 page trial, and probably would have, had I not read from a number of people that it's a very slow starter. I'm glad I read it--it was a good, solid thriller with some interesting characters, but I can't say it came anywhere close to living up to all the raves and hype. Not only was the beginning slow, the writing throughout was rather meandering and tangential at times--could definitely have been tightened up a bit, though perhaps that was partly due to the translation. I also figured out two of the major plot twists/solutions well in advance. And the ending? That was sort of like an afterthought more than anything.
For me, as an American, even one of Swedish descent, it was also a little difficult to try to come to terms with all the various place names and cultural vagaries, but the author can't be faulted for that, since he's writing about his homeland for his countrymen. In short, it was certainly a good first book which I liked, and I will most definitely read on in the series, but this book suffered from "hypeitis" in that it in no way lived up to the high expectations I had for it.
To entice him, Vanger promises some juicy information about the billionaire that will vindicate Blomkvist's near-ruinous fine and prison sentence when he has completed his investigation. Reluctantly, Mikael agrees, but though he reviews hundreds and thousands of pages of documents and photographs, it isn't until midway through the book when Salander comes into the investigation that things begin to really move, and they realize they're onto something much more than the disappearance of one teenage girl thirty-odd years ago--something horrifying, grisly and on-going!
To be honest, I nearly gave up on this book by the time I got to my mandatory 50 page trial, and probably would have, had I not read from a number of people that it's a very slow starter. I'm glad I read it--it was a good, solid thriller with some interesting characters, but I can't say it came anywhere close to living up to all the raves and hype. Not only was the beginning slow, the writing throughout was rather meandering and tangential at times--could definitely have been tightened up a bit, though perhaps that was partly due to the translation. I also figured out two of the major plot twists/solutions well in advance. And the ending? That was sort of like an afterthought more than anything.
For me, as an American, even one of Swedish descent, it was also a little difficult to try to come to terms with all the various place names and cultural vagaries, but the author can't be faulted for that, since he's writing about his homeland for his countrymen. In short, it was certainly a good first book which I liked, and I will most definitely read on in the series, but this book suffered from "hypeitis" in that it in no way lived up to the high expectations I had for it.
Laurie S. (LaurieS) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 504 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Meh. I finished but let me tell you, it was a bit of a chore. Parts of this book were so dry and dull that I zoned out and it took far too long for the book to get going. I'm not going to write a review because I'm feeling lazy and incompetent today. I did enjoy the twisted mystery, the family secrets and the two off-beat main characters and will read the next book to find out what happens to them next. But in all honestly, I still can't figure out what all of the fuss is about. I've read many a serial killer mystery and most were far more interesting than this one.
Kay R. (kayprime) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 38 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I will not be finishing this series.
I'm willing to give the bad writing a pass on the assumption that something has been lost in translation from its original Swedish. However, Blomkvist and Salander are terribly generic characters. Blomkvist is written like some male paradigm from a cheesy romance novel. He's charming, smart, handsome, confident, virtuous, and not lacking in female attention. While Salander is like a tatted and pierced, goth, emo, loner teen from the YA section of the library. Also, either I'm a jaded miscreant or Salander's "secret skills" are not as scandalous as Larsson meant for them to be. But what really chaps my tits is that he spends more than half of the book establishing these tinny characters only to have them behave completely out-of-character when they finally meet! WTF? Blomkvist and Salander must be aliens because they make no sense as humans.
The only enjoyable aspect of the book for me was that Larsson included an ethical, non-monogamous relationship - even if it is only mentioned briefly and rather dismissively. It's nice to see popular fiction that includes healthy and functioning "unconventional" relationship styles. (However, Larsson is guilty of perpetuating kink and BDSM as part of some asshole's psychosis. And he couldn't even think outside the box enough to make any of the assholes women! Disappointing.)
Overall, I feel like I have been duped by the masses again. Just because a book is popular, it doesn't mean it's any good.
I'm willing to give the bad writing a pass on the assumption that something has been lost in translation from its original Swedish. However, Blomkvist and Salander are terribly generic characters. Blomkvist is written like some male paradigm from a cheesy romance novel. He's charming, smart, handsome, confident, virtuous, and not lacking in female attention. While Salander is like a tatted and pierced, goth, emo, loner teen from the YA section of the library. Also, either I'm a jaded miscreant or Salander's "secret skills" are not as scandalous as Larsson meant for them to be. But what really chaps my tits is that he spends more than half of the book establishing these tinny characters only to have them behave completely out-of-character when they finally meet! WTF? Blomkvist and Salander must be aliens because they make no sense as humans.
The only enjoyable aspect of the book for me was that Larsson included an ethical, non-monogamous relationship - even if it is only mentioned briefly and rather dismissively. It's nice to see popular fiction that includes healthy and functioning "unconventional" relationship styles. (However, Larsson is guilty of perpetuating kink and BDSM as part of some asshole's psychosis. And he couldn't even think outside the box enough to make any of the assholes women! Disappointing.)
Overall, I feel like I have been duped by the masses again. Just because a book is popular, it doesn't mean it's any good.
Hilda M. (broomie) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Excellent book! Could not put it down. Finished the book and went right on to the second book of the trilogy.
Bowden P. (Trey) -
Helpful Score: 2
I've decided not my cuppa tea about half way in. Back to the library with it.
What didn't I like? Pacing for one. It feels really slow. The other is that while I do give a damn about Blomvkist (did I spell that right?) I don't feel like I have time to read this to get to the pay off. Salander (the girl with the tattoo) is interesting, and I swear she's a Mary Sue, or designed to be the geek sex interest. And while she's apparently got some trauma (I looked things up on the web), she feels a bit like a bullet - slick and not a lot of protrusions to hold onto.
What didn't I like? Pacing for one. It feels really slow. The other is that while I do give a damn about Blomvkist (did I spell that right?) I don't feel like I have time to read this to get to the pay off. Salander (the girl with the tattoo) is interesting, and I swear she's a Mary Sue, or designed to be the geek sex interest. And while she's apparently got some trauma (I looked things up on the web), she feels a bit like a bullet - slick and not a lot of protrusions to hold onto.
Elizabeth G. (AFSer) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I'm not sure what all the fuss is about with this book. While the lead female character is well-drawn, many of the other characters are not. And the utter evil and depravity of some characters is repugnant. The only nuanced, and therefore credible, character is the "heroine" Although some of my friends love these books, I do not share their enthusiasm. I would not recommend it, nor am I interested in reading the other books in the trilogy. Larson suffers from a common malady among authors in this genre, taking his characters where he wants them to go rather than letting them develop and set the path.
Dalton A. (wanderlust) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Okay, so everyone is in LOVE with these books and I'm not sure why. I mean, yes, they do draw you in (eventually) but really, I think if Larsson was actually alive his books would just be another crap beach novel to leave at the beach house after you read it on vacation. First and foremost -- the dude is WAY too into describing violent sex scenes. I mean, my first thought is -- "wow, these sound like LARSSON's fantasies, not his character's."
Second, the guy is pedantic as hell. When you get into the second book (as I am now) he does tedious things like list what styles of IKEA furniture Salander buys for her new apartment, write out her grocery lists, etc. Now, I like food and IKEA furniture as much as the next girl, but really? In a suspense book? How do you say BORING in Swedish?
All in all, I think that they're mildly entertaining, but not worth going out of your way for (trade for them, don't buy them). And I think Larsson had some issues -- mental issues.
PS- If you think the book was graphic, don't watch the movies. (Swedish or American versions, though I do like Daniel Craig) Take my word for it.
Second, the guy is pedantic as hell. When you get into the second book (as I am now) he does tedious things like list what styles of IKEA furniture Salander buys for her new apartment, write out her grocery lists, etc. Now, I like food and IKEA furniture as much as the next girl, but really? In a suspense book? How do you say BORING in Swedish?
All in all, I think that they're mildly entertaining, but not worth going out of your way for (trade for them, don't buy them). And I think Larsson had some issues -- mental issues.
PS- If you think the book was graphic, don't watch the movies. (Swedish or American versions, though I do like Daniel Craig) Take my word for it.
Angela C. (athensang) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I just couldn't get through this book. I was really willing to read through 200 pages of exposition and complicated, often tedious, build up, but once I hit the first gratuitously graphic act of sexual violence against women, I was done. I appreciate that Stieg Lasson writes the beginning of each section statistics on violence against women, but I will not feel like a voyeuristic participant in these acts for entertainment. I am not advocating censorship, and believe there is a place for talented writers to intelligently chronicle the effects of sexual violence. Just don't look for that type of complexity in this novel.
Helpful Score: 1
Don't start the trilogy starting with The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo until you have the entire series! This series opener is a marvelous and satisfying mystery thriller from deceased Swedish writer Steig Larsson. Financial reporter and Millennium publisher Mikael Blomkvist just lost a libel suit against dirty financier Hans-Erik Wennerstrom, but is sought out by the aging industrialist Henrik Vanger to give another go at solving the decades-old disappearance of his niece Harriet during a family retreat on secluded Hedeby island. Baited with incriminating evidence against Wennerstrom, Blomkvist devotes himself to the task under the guise of writing Vanger's family story. Larsson's crisp, methodical style lays some slow-going background until Blomkvist teams up with Lisbeth Salander on the case--the petite, emotionally disturbed prodigy title character. However, the plot intricately weaves present and past Sweden and the characters pull you in. You'll need the handy Vanger family tree in the first pages to help you navigate Reg Keeland's translation into British English. Keeping in mind that there are some risque scenes even for sexually liberal Sweden, this is a thriller not to be missed--I'm glad I followed my own opening advice!
Helpful Score: 1
Entertaining read. Characters are well developed and hold the reader's interest. Eccentric enough so as not to be the usual.
Looking forward to another title from the late Mr. Larsson.
Looking forward to another title from the late Mr. Larsson.
Helpful Score: 1
Good book - hard to read and very complicated story. Had to keep a journal of who was who.
Karen H. (hickman) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I saw the movie first and then read the book. The book answered alot of the questions I had about the movie. I recommend this book.
Helpful Score: 1
Almost two stories in one. A journalist is trying to solve a over 50 years old murder only to discover that the crime is not what it seemed to be. And the same journalist is also trying to regain his public standing after a libel suit against him by his publishing enemy.
The book starts slow, but once you make it past the first chapter you will be hooked.
The book starts slow, but once you make it past the first chapter you will be hooked.
Allison B. (allisonbaker) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 48 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
A challanging read full of interesting and different characters that kept me turning pages until the very end.
I was intrigued by this series and had been reading reviews of it for a while before I actually started reading. It is nothing like what I normally read but, I wanted to read "out-side-my-box". I was very glad I did, roughly the first half of the book was a bit slow and even boring at times but, once the action got rolling it was full of twists and turns I never saw coming and kept me turning pages as fast as I could!
The first half deals a lot with Sweden's financial structure and investment banking that was for me confusing and uninteresting and really not necessary to understand the plot of the book. It was really background to understand the character Mikeal Blomkvist and how he ended up in his situation. So basically I always tell people to not give up on this book based on reading the first part it is well worth the time invested to plod through the slow parts to get to the action.
The second half involves Blomkvist unraveling the mystery of Harriet Vanger. This is when the plot thickens (as they say). The character Lisbeth Salander is introduced and becomes more involved and she is so complex and interesting and her interaction with Blomkvist kept me glued. That girl has some serious skill and I wouldn't want her on my bad side! As they continue the investigation the mystery becomes more tangled and the outcome....Wow!
The characters are so well developed and unlike any I've ever read. A great read. While not one I would recommend for light reading, it is a book I'm glad I took on.
I was intrigued by this series and had been reading reviews of it for a while before I actually started reading. It is nothing like what I normally read but, I wanted to read "out-side-my-box". I was very glad I did, roughly the first half of the book was a bit slow and even boring at times but, once the action got rolling it was full of twists and turns I never saw coming and kept me turning pages as fast as I could!
The first half deals a lot with Sweden's financial structure and investment banking that was for me confusing and uninteresting and really not necessary to understand the plot of the book. It was really background to understand the character Mikeal Blomkvist and how he ended up in his situation. So basically I always tell people to not give up on this book based on reading the first part it is well worth the time invested to plod through the slow parts to get to the action.
The second half involves Blomkvist unraveling the mystery of Harriet Vanger. This is when the plot thickens (as they say). The character Lisbeth Salander is introduced and becomes more involved and she is so complex and interesting and her interaction with Blomkvist kept me glued. That girl has some serious skill and I wouldn't want her on my bad side! As they continue the investigation the mystery becomes more tangled and the outcome....Wow!
The characters are so well developed and unlike any I've ever read. A great read. While not one I would recommend for light reading, it is a book I'm glad I took on.
Helpful Score: 1
This book has some very gruesome sexually violent scenes in it, and I would not recommend it to any sensitive souls.
Tracey A. (bikracer) - , reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This was one of the best books I've ever read. It has everything, corruption, murder, intrigue, dysfunctional family dynamics, love, sex.
I couldn't put it down and I can't wait to read the next one.
I couldn't put it down and I can't wait to read the next one.
Helpful Score: 1
Not what you'd think. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is like no character I've read in years. If she'd stayed in school, she'd have been a "geek" ... one of those people who intuitively understand computers, the web, and how to manipulate them. She's at the same time asocial an endearing. The journalist Blomkvist is supposedly the main protagonist, but Lisbeth steals the show.
Some may have trouble initially with the Swedish names & places ... but that passes, and Blomkvist is the only "foreign" name you'll keep seeing. It's worth the effort to get through the first 50 pages ... and then it's a great read.
Some may have trouble initially with the Swedish names & places ... but that passes, and Blomkvist is the only "foreign" name you'll keep seeing. It's worth the effort to get through the first 50 pages ... and then it's a great read.
Lesa C. (4fabfelines) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 112 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
At first I started reading this and was thinking: "what's all the fuss?" I got about a 1/3 of the way into the book and started really getting into the characters. Lisbeth of course shines in this book and you feel a kinship with her.(( at least I do.. being one of many Tattoos/piercings also))
I really enjoyed this... it had so many twists and turns that is was really surprising and forehead slapping when you get to the final villan.
I recommend this one big-time.
I really enjoyed this... it had so many twists and turns that is was really surprising and forehead slapping when you get to the final villan.
I recommend this one big-time.
Helpful Score: 1
Starting this book makes you want to read all 3 in the series. Full of suspense and surprising turns and almost believable to the point you wonder can this really be happening?
Debora B. (latenightbookclub) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
What a great mystery. I don't read mysteries often, but I did enjoy this one. At first Ididn't like the ending, but I'm eager to read the next Millenium books.
Melissa B. (dragoneyes) -
Helpful Score: 1
I had a friend recommend this series. This friend had recommended other books and it seemed we had the same tastes so I figured I'd give this one a try as well. About 1/3 of the way into the book I started to wonder what I got myself into. The book seemed to drag, I was confused on who was who and it didn't seem to be going anywhere (at least not anywhere interesting). I started to wonder if I should just give up. It had taken me forever to get to this point and I really didn't want to waste time on a book I wouldn't enjoy. I decided to check out reviews on what other people thought of it. It seemed that half of them really disliked it and the other half loved it. I decided I'd go half way and if I didn't like it, I would put it down. All of the sudden things started picking up. I really got interested in it and I couldn't wait to see where it was going. I ended up enjoying this book and glad I stuck with it.
There are actually a lot of things going on in the book. They tend to tie in together nicely. On one hand you have Blomkvist who is in trouble for fraudulent journalism. On the other hand you have Salander, a misunderstood outcast who is just trying to get by on her own (and would do very well if she was just left alone). Blomkvist's trouble with the law has caused problems with the magazine he partially owns. When he is offered another job, he takes it in hopes that his absence from the magazine will help. He is hired by a elderly wealthy man by the name of Vanger. Vanger wants him to do research on the death of his niece, Harriet, 30 years ago. Even though Blomkvist doesn't think he'll find anything, he takes the job. Salander gets a job digging up all the info she can find on Blomkvist. Neither one really know each other but sooner or later they will.
I got so caught up in the unearthing of the death of Harriet that I totally forgot about all the other loose ends that were still hanging out there until that part ended and the book kept going. Glad I stuck with this book and look forward to reading the 2nd in the series.
There are actually a lot of things going on in the book. They tend to tie in together nicely. On one hand you have Blomkvist who is in trouble for fraudulent journalism. On the other hand you have Salander, a misunderstood outcast who is just trying to get by on her own (and would do very well if she was just left alone). Blomkvist's trouble with the law has caused problems with the magazine he partially owns. When he is offered another job, he takes it in hopes that his absence from the magazine will help. He is hired by a elderly wealthy man by the name of Vanger. Vanger wants him to do research on the death of his niece, Harriet, 30 years ago. Even though Blomkvist doesn't think he'll find anything, he takes the job. Salander gets a job digging up all the info she can find on Blomkvist. Neither one really know each other but sooner or later they will.
I got so caught up in the unearthing of the death of Harriet that I totally forgot about all the other loose ends that were still hanging out there until that part ended and the book kept going. Glad I stuck with this book and look forward to reading the 2nd in the series.
Bob R. (fastreader) -
Helpful Score: 1
This is an original work with singular characters and clearly drawn settings. The interplay between the protagonists is fresh and the 'cold case' they set out to solve is compelling. Stark and realistic, violent and passionate, a page-tuner whose 500+ pages end too soon. This is a wonderful read.
Mike C. (compass) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Wow. It has been awhile since I picked up a book and did not want to put it down. The first 4 chapters are building up the charactors so I was thinking, "Huh, whats the big deal with this book everbody raves about?" By Chapter 7 I was hooked. It is enjoyable to read a book from a gifted writer, and he truly was that. Alas, he has passed and we will not have any more from this gifted writer. I enjoyed the book so much I went and watched the first two movies from Sweden. They were....um, (cough), interesting takes on the story. A abridged version if you will. I liked the book so much I still enjoyed it.
Tara C. (Aut2Breading) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 43 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Although I thought it was hard to get into at first (especially the first 100 pages), I kept reading and I am glad that I did. The first 100 pages also laid down the various story lines, which did not seem to meld together. The speed picked up in the middle of the book and all of a sudden and all the story lines began to converge and connect. It also became extremely suspenseful and at the point I did not want to put it down.
There is a lot going on in the book. Liable, missing girl, extra marital affairs, and rape. and that is just the beginning. It speaks to the all the horrible things that could happen if you are a women.
There is a lot going on in the book. Liable, missing girl, extra marital affairs, and rape. and that is just the beginning. It speaks to the all the horrible things that could happen if you are a women.
Kim W. (kimery) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 224 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I thought this was a very interesting book. The character development was great, and I found it to be so gripping that (unfortunately) I stayed up late several nights to find out what would happen next.
Helpful Score: 1
I am not a fan of mystery/suspense novels, infact this may be the first I have ever read, however I loved this book. The characters were interesting and engaging. I quickly snagged a copy of the sequel and am quickly reading that as well.
Alice J. (ASJ) -
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent book. The first chapter is not very good, almost stopped reading it. Once I hit page fifty the book sored. The mystery was good and complex and several other substories that pulled you in. Lisbeth is a very interesting character. Looking forward to book 2.
Alice
Alice
Bowden P. (Trey) -
Helpful Score: 1
I've decided not my cuppa tea about half way in. Back to the library with it.
What didn't I like? Pacing for one. It feels really slow. The other is that while I do give a damn about Blomvkist (did I spell that right?) I don't feel like I have time to read this to get to the pay off. Salander (the girl with the tattoo) is interesting, and I swear she's a Mary Sue, or designed to be the geek sex interest. And while she's apparently got some trauma (I looked things up on the web), she feels a bit like a bullet - slick and not a lot of protrusions to hold onto.
What didn't I like? Pacing for one. It feels really slow. The other is that while I do give a damn about Blomvkist (did I spell that right?) I don't feel like I have time to read this to get to the pay off. Salander (the girl with the tattoo) is interesting, and I swear she's a Mary Sue, or designed to be the geek sex interest. And while she's apparently got some trauma (I looked things up on the web), she feels a bit like a bullet - slick and not a lot of protrusions to hold onto.
Natalie M. (natalietahoe) -
Helpful Score: 1
Gentlemen, hear this: Do not be a dork and get swayed by the title, this is most definitely not a typical mystery book about a chick that fights crime. Who knew that a sophisticated suspense thriller set in freezing cold Sweden would be a creepy and twisted "delight" to page through on a ride from Florida to California? Here I was, flying from one gorgeous place to another, and I was stuck in the -6 degree weather of Stockholm and Hedestad, getting caught up in Mikael and Lisbeth's frightening and freaky moments? I'll admit that I was a little worried that the elderly woman sitting next to me could read some of the pages, and be slightly disturbed by the kind of person I was. For the rest of the flight, my head was bent over and my hair covered the pages. So there!
What follows is a nerve-wracking, disgusting, uncomfortable trip through a magazine publisher/journalist's experience as he is initially found guilty of libel in Stockholm, is subsequently hired by an aging industry millionaire to track down his niece who disappeared 40 years before, and in the middle of this, just a short jaunt to a minimum security prison to serve out his sentence of 2 months. Oh yeah, Lisbeth is the young and emotionally non-responsive chick who has a photographic memory and is a daggone good hacker. The things she goes through...I cannot even hint as to what they are. It's definitely not G-rated.
Originally written in Swedish, the English translation was done by Reg Keeland, and it is a masterpiece. That's right. A freakin' masterpiece. Here's why: Not often does a translated novel work effectively to engage a reader's interest, and this one is absolutely fabulous. Some Swedish words remain, which flow and are interpreted by the reader easily (such as gaol for jail). It ultimately creates an authentic experience that you begin to wonder what Sweden is all about. I love to travel, but I will be honest in that I never once considered visiting Sweden. Quite the contrary now. And I want to fight crime.
Here's what's sad: Stieg Larsson originally planned this to be a 10-book series. He managed to complete 3 of the first 10, delivered it to his publisher, and then died from a heart attack. Based on his background in always shedding light and exposing those who are corrupt in any way in Sweden, there have been several rumors that he was killed. No one really knows, of course. But, I'll tell you what I do know...it's a flippin' shame that we won't be able to read any more novels from him. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo starts off a trilogy of a creepy and fantastic example of suspense writing at its absolute finest. Lock the door. Leave the lights on.
http://coffeeandabookchick.blogspot.com/
What follows is a nerve-wracking, disgusting, uncomfortable trip through a magazine publisher/journalist's experience as he is initially found guilty of libel in Stockholm, is subsequently hired by an aging industry millionaire to track down his niece who disappeared 40 years before, and in the middle of this, just a short jaunt to a minimum security prison to serve out his sentence of 2 months. Oh yeah, Lisbeth is the young and emotionally non-responsive chick who has a photographic memory and is a daggone good hacker. The things she goes through...I cannot even hint as to what they are. It's definitely not G-rated.
Originally written in Swedish, the English translation was done by Reg Keeland, and it is a masterpiece. That's right. A freakin' masterpiece. Here's why: Not often does a translated novel work effectively to engage a reader's interest, and this one is absolutely fabulous. Some Swedish words remain, which flow and are interpreted by the reader easily (such as gaol for jail). It ultimately creates an authentic experience that you begin to wonder what Sweden is all about. I love to travel, but I will be honest in that I never once considered visiting Sweden. Quite the contrary now. And I want to fight crime.
Here's what's sad: Stieg Larsson originally planned this to be a 10-book series. He managed to complete 3 of the first 10, delivered it to his publisher, and then died from a heart attack. Based on his background in always shedding light and exposing those who are corrupt in any way in Sweden, there have been several rumors that he was killed. No one really knows, of course. But, I'll tell you what I do know...it's a flippin' shame that we won't be able to read any more novels from him. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo starts off a trilogy of a creepy and fantastic example of suspense writing at its absolute finest. Lock the door. Leave the lights on.
http://coffeeandabookchick.blogspot.com/
Helpful Score: 1
OVERRATED!! Somebody please explain why this series is so popular if you have to read 500 pages just to get to something halfway exciting? Waste of my time.
Helpful Score: 1
Now I understand what the buzz is about! This book begins kind of slow, feel more like reading someone's journal and the date format is a little different, but then I found myself totally drawn into the story and unable to put it down. A word of warning: there are several shocking parts in the story where the writer describes in very vivid detail some very adult and difficult topics that made it difficult to continue and made me put the book down for a while, but Mr. Larsson's wonderful writing style made it too irresistible not to continue to the end. A mystery buff will love this book!
Karen F. (earlsgirl) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 188 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I picked this book up because it looked more interesting than the more popular books with 2-page chapters and those same old lurid serial killer novels. Even though it took 100 pages to really get into this intricate plot, I was not disappointed. Beautifully written, with great characters you are still thinking about long after you finish the book. Excellent mystery, well-done. What a joy to find a marvelous novel like this. Unfortunately Larsson died with only two other manuscripts. One of the better books I have read this year. If you like serious writing, you will enjoy savoring all 644 pages of this wonderful book.
Pam B. (PamelaK) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1217 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
After all these accolades, I was really anxious to read this book. But after 20 pages, I started to speed-read. I just could not get into it; found it incredibly boring, confusing, convoluted, & violent. Will NOT be reading the next two.
LeeAnn T. (polar) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 60 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was a great mystery. I really liked the main characters..I found the language and some of the sexual references a bit offensive.
Carmela G. (AvidReader1) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book in a trilogy. The book concentrates on Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist and Lisbeth Salander. The first hundred pages or so dragged for me to be quite frank but as the plot progressed the book redeemed itself.
The book leaves you wanting to read the second and third one to complete the trilogy and find out what happens to the main characters.
The book leaves you wanting to read the second and third one to complete the trilogy and find out what happens to the main characters.
Rosalie P. (rosalie02138) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This series is fabulous - I can't believe we lost Larsson just after completing it. I've seen the Swedish movies, the American version of this first one, and read the series now for the third time. Guess you could call me a fan. They are dark and very rough on women for sure, but Lisbeth Salander is one of the greatest fight-back women characters ever.
Beverly S. (groendog) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Sorry. Tried 4 times. Never got past page 37. Not my cup of tea. I am sure it is very good but not for me.
Helpful Score: 1
not my cup of tea. tried 3 times to even get started. had to read over 200 pages before it caught my interest. only stuck with it because everyone says it was so good.
I did finish it with a better impression than from the start, not really interested in the other two.
I did finish it with a better impression than from the start, not really interested in the other two.
Amy M. (evergoose79) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Slow start and rather jumpy. Everything eventually comes together and the main character is pretty intriguing enough to get you through the first half of the book, just so you know how she will fit in.
Jackie S. (gmajackie) -
Helpful Score: 1
I would not suggest this book to anyone. But then, I only got into about the first 50 pages and put it down. Only gave it 1 1/2 stars. Probably should have given it less.
Laura N. (seemereading) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
very entertaining.
Sue C. (sconger) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book had a fabulous beginning, great middle, weak ending...
Helpful Score: 1
Well written. Lots of interesting details. Fantastic story with interweaving smaller stories.
Helpful Score: 1
good thriller. A little hard to get into, but worth it!
Joey S. (Joey) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 404 more book reviews
Two reviews from Amazon said it better than I could:
I'm left feeling very disturbed that a book with such graphically described sadistic violence against women would be so popular. Why would you want to read stuff like that as entertainment? ...Entertainment by fictional descriptions of horrific crimes against women- that is what this book is about. Yuck. I wont be reading anymore by this author.
Graphic violent sexually abuse, descriptions of pointless meals, and heap loads of history on a boring family, helpless women that don't seem to do anything about their problems, and multiple side stories and characters that don't contribute in any way.
I'm left feeling very disturbed that a book with such graphically described sadistic violence against women would be so popular. Why would you want to read stuff like that as entertainment? ...Entertainment by fictional descriptions of horrific crimes against women- that is what this book is about. Yuck. I wont be reading anymore by this author.
Graphic violent sexually abuse, descriptions of pointless meals, and heap loads of history on a boring family, helpless women that don't seem to do anything about their problems, and multiple side stories and characters that don't contribute in any way.
very enjoyable
John O. (buzzby) -
It was like many other reviewers said, slow moving but with intriguing characters. He did a pretty good job of having several sub-plots going, although some of it hit me as unrealistic (2 independently wealthy brothers hating each other and not talking to each other for decades). I don't know if something was lost in translation, but the author seems to wander aimlessly (perhaps part of the Swedish psyche?), thelling us on a frustrating day when absolutely nothing happen to bring the story along, he read a Sue Grafton novel. A more insightful person than me may seem how that adds to the story.
The author made up Hedestad and Hedeby Island, where much of the story takes place, (it's said that other places are authentic). The Swedish version has maps of the fictional Hedeby Island, but not the English version. They can be found at www.sallysfriends.net/nest/the-missing-map-from-tattoo
The author made up Hedestad and Hedeby Island, where much of the story takes place, (it's said that other places are authentic). The Swedish version has maps of the fictional Hedeby Island, but not the English version. They can be found at www.sallysfriends.net/nest/the-missing-map-from-tattoo
Stephanie M. (grinky22) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Highly refreshing, a totally new plot and truly pleasing characters.
Felicia L. (shorty7) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
This book was extremely difficult to get into. The only reason I finished it is because I hate starting a book and not knowing how it ends. The first 200 pages or so is backround info that seems pointless. There are parts in the book that are hard to read and disgusting. Overall I was pretty dissapointed.
Stephanie P. (2252steph) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
I usually would rate this series too explicit and graphic for me but I loved it. Weaves a great mystery.
A little violent, but great book. Can't wait for the next one.
Nicole A. (nicolelovesagoodbook) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
This book had me feeling so many emotions. Eat an intense thriller. Loved this book and the characters in it! Can't wait to start the next! This book will be added to my bookshelf to keep!
Mari D. (luv2cnewthings) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 55 more book reviews
The book is a good Mystery and I am very glad that I read it. However, I knew who the suspect was beforehand - but for a different reason that what it turned out to be.
Similar to what another reviewer said: The sexual scenarios towards women were a little disheartening. Even the consensual encounters, since at the end it was all just meaningless sex. However, one must take the original title into consideration, as well as the fact that the Author witnessed something presumably life changing.
Additionally, one has to wonder what Stieg Larsson would say about the World's economy today or the real estate market collapse (in the U.S.) back in 2008. Perhaps he used Enron or Bernie Madoff as his focal point for his back-story for the novel.
Similar to what another reviewer said: The sexual scenarios towards women were a little disheartening. Even the consensual encounters, since at the end it was all just meaningless sex. However, one must take the original title into consideration, as well as the fact that the Author witnessed something presumably life changing.
Additionally, one has to wonder what Stieg Larsson would say about the World's economy today or the real estate market collapse (in the U.S.) back in 2008. Perhaps he used Enron or Bernie Madoff as his focal point for his back-story for the novel.
Betty M. (freejewelry) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
This book was very enjoyable with a really good story line. You are left hanging at the end and really need to get right into book #2.
Really enjoyed the book, though the first half is a bit slow.
Did not enjoy this book. I can't see what all the hype is about. I had to force myself to finish it.
Very graphic, so definitely need to be aware of that, but the story really drew you in. Very good.
Linda R. (wolfie123) - , reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 421 more book reviews
OOOOO boy, am I in the minority.....I could not get into this book !!! Imay give it another whirl at a later date.........
This book started out slow for me, but when I finished it I realized I loved it. I love the trilogy and only wish that the author was still around to write many more!
mrsteacher23 -
I would have gone with 4 if it had started out as good as it finished. This is one that I stopped and started several times; however, though the story was a bit slow getting started, I'm glad that I persevered and read through to the end because about 1/3 of the way in, it started to get more intriging.
Tracy S. (Bernelli) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 266 more book reviews
Enthralling page-turner! I couldn't put it down. Intrigue, corporate greed, family secrets, mystery and very interesting characters. Loved it and highly recommend it.
Sharon D. (booklit) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 473 more book reviews
excellent! A little graphic but good.
Kim P. (kimdep) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 39 more book reviews
Awesome! read it like in 2 days very fast-paced & full of intrigue.. takes place in Sweden which is really interesting too. the main girl, the one with the dragon tattoo :), is a terrific heroine!
very dark
Vanessa C. (portlandmama) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Once you get past the financial mumbo jumbo in the beginning, it's really quite interesting. Stick with it.
Kim C. (supermama) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Surprisingly good. I am not much for popular book club picks...but this is a true thriller. Lots of quotable passages. Very Girl Power...even though the real main character is a guy. Can't wait to read the next.
Mary C. (maryamy) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
WOW! I love it so much, I've ordered the other two by this author. I did cheat and see the movie first, but it was of course better than the movie.
Kathleen M. (readhr) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
The first in a VERY popular trilogy by an gifted author who died much too early, the protagonist (Lisbeth, "the Girl") quickly became a much loved heroine. This is a fast-moving thriller with some very unexpected turns. The only drawback, which I think is easily overcome, is the multitude of names and places. If you aren't familiar with things Swedish, it may be tough going, but it is very possible.
Susan V. (nrlymrtl) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 297 more book reviews
A modern-day crime novel set in Sweden. Lisbeth Salander is a 30-something computer hacker with a huge distrust of society in general. Mikael Blomkvist is a journalist who is hired to solve a decades-old murder myster. As he starts to pull facts together and untangle the mystery, he is teamed up with Lisbeth, who presents him many new mysteries. Excellent dark story, well laid out.
KAREN A. (knvallejos) -
i succumbed because everyone kept telling me to read this book...and my verdict is....an editor needs to slash this book in half! it had too much detail that had nothing to do with the plot, minor characters that had pages written about them. when it gets to the part where it reveals who Did It, there are still about 100 or so pages! what else is there to say?! oh yea, the subplot that really should have been revealed in the beginning. it was a page turner for me only because i wanted it to end...
Jake (neverender) -
I'll be honest, I was skeptical about this book. I forgot to bring a book with me on my trip and this was the only semi interesting book on the shelf at the store. It takes a bit to get into. The beginning jumps around and it's easy to lose track of who is who. By mid-book the pace picks up and the details of the plot gain interest. The writing is a bit different than most novels and the characters are well voiced. The last third of the book flys by and has you greedily flipping the pages and simultaniously thinking 'Why didn't I catch that?". It's far from a 'new classic' but I'm glad I gave this book a chance.
Nancy M. (mensamomof3) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Unbelievable! Absolutely loved this book! The story was mesmerizing and the pace was perfect.... I didn't want to put it down. In fact, I got to the last page and picked up the second in the series and just kept going!
Jennifer C. (mrsstjames) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
This is not my typical read...but once I started I couldn't put it down! The cover caught my eye in the store, quickly read the jacket and figured why not. This experience has actually taught me that I should open my mind to new authors! The story line was so different and intriguing from what I normally read. I had to wait a few months for The Girl Who Played With Fire and am now waiting for The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest to arrive in my mail box!
Charlotte K. (diamondsae82) -
I thought this book started pretty slow. It was hard to get into, but then it gradually started to pick up and take off. Overall I thought it was great and highly recommend it.
Kim P. (perky42474) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
Geat read! A little hard to start off due to the fact that it was written and based in Sweden. Once you get going it is hard to stop. Lots of action, alot of mystery, a little drama.
This book had a slow start, but became much more interesting as you got into it. Quite graphic in some places but not overly done.
It took me a while to get into this book with all of the foreign names and cities, but once I did I couldn't put it down and couldn't wait to read the next two books.
It was very hard to get into - the character development at the beginning seemed to drag on, but once the book got going, it was incredibly hard to put down. The story has several small stories within the main plot, and has a little bit of everything - crime, suspense and romance. The author did focus a lot of geography, and made many geographic references throughout the book. Having never been to Sweden, I wondered if I would have enjoyed the book more if I knew the landscape of the places he was talking about. This isn't my typical genre, but I enjoyed it thoroughly none the less.
Kerri-Ann P. (kapetty) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
The makings of a complete thriller! This book of the hottest new trilogy leaves you wanting more. Stieg Larsson weaves you into his suspenseful web of murder, riddles, and the extremes of psychopathy. Once you get started, it is hard to put this one down!
HATED IT! But other members of my bookclub LOVED it and are now reading the 2 sequels out there! Too dark for me---murder,torture,etc!!
Forest E. (treewomyn) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Avoided Larsson's books due to the violent content. Then purchased all 3 because many folks like them. I was horrified, which means his characters are portrayed vividly. Engrossing is an understatement.
A very intriguing, interesting read. Can not wait to read the other 2 books in this series. Great suspense throughout the whole book. Very detailed and entertaining.
LOVED IT. Won't be letting this one go. The first 150 pages or so I wasn't sure if I liked it but I kept going. And then for the next little bit I wasn't sure if I liked BUT I wanted to know what was going to happen. I was very intrigued and then out of nowhere it hit me that I really liked and could not put it down. I liked to so much that I couldn't wait for my turn on Paperback Swap to get The Girl Who Played with Fire so I went out and bought it. I highly recommend this book. Just remember that you got to keep with it for a bit for it to get "good" but once it does it gets REALLY good. You will not be disappointed.
Bobbi M. (bobbilyn) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
This is one of the best books I have read this year. Thriller is the first of a trilogy but stands alone as great suspenseful reading. Two main characters are a true odd couple, a respected journalist in trouble after being convicted of libeling a businessman and a young hacker--much tattooed and pierced. Plot is complicated and characters are complex but complete. No stopping after you've started this one. I couldn't wait for the next two books. Swedish author died in 2004 after completing these three books and the translations into English are just being completed on the 3rd book this year. B Myers
Won't rehash the storyline on this book, as it's shown above. Loved this book, loved the characters. Highly recommend.
Good mystery - I did figure out the "little" mystery on my own but the book did keep me turning each page as fast as I could.
A little slow at first but an excellent story. I've read the trilogy and it's one of the best overall stories I believe I've ever read. Once I got into the story I found it impossible to put down and I could not wait until I got my hands on the next one.
Susan R. (GentlyUsed) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
This is a good mystery and an excellent book to discuss in a book club. I feel that it is one that could be read more than once.
Karissa E. (ophelia99) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2527 more book reviews
I had heard a ton of good things about this novel and I found the idea intriguing, so I decided to give it a read. I am not a huge thriller reader, but I do like great books that have a thriller element to them. I listened to this on audio book and the audio book was very well done.
Mikael Blomkvist watches his career as a journalist go down the tube when he takes on a major financial entity, who he believes is unlawful, and looses. He is sentenced to a short jail sentence and his journalistic career is potentially in ruins. Then he gets a strange call from old-school industrialist Henrik Vanger; Henrik wants Blomkvist to investigate the decades old disappearance of his niece Harriet. He wants Blomkvist to do it under the pretense of writing a history of the Vanger family. Entwining with this story is the story of Lisbeth Salander who is a crazy punk girl who has been declared mentally unfit. In reality she is an incredibly smart person, with top notch computer hacking skills, and an excellent research ability. She is hired to research Blomkvist before Vanger hires him. We learn both about Lisbeth's struggles within the Swedish legal system and, we watch as she is drawn deep into the Harriet Vanger case with Blomkvist.
As I stated overall I don't read a ton of thrillers; so keep this in mind as you read my perspective on this book. There were some things I liked about this book. I liked how Larsson goes into the detail describing the characters actions. I liked how the author fit many small pieces of evidence into a whole. Larsson also did a good job keeping the multitude of characters organized and easy to recognize for the readers. Overall Larsson did an excellent job on characterization too; both Salander and Blomkvist are believable and complex characters that are interesting to read about.
There were many things I didn't like about this book. It takes forever to get to the actual thriller part of the book. Almost half the book deals with setting up the Vanger family tree and I found this to be a tedious and boring to read. I think this could have been done much more efficiently. There were some things with Salader that I didn't understand; for example there is a particularly viscous sexual scene between Salander and her appointed guardian. It is gone into in grisly detail. I understand that this scene shows some things about Salander's character, but I think that this could have been depicted in a more efficient way without so much detail.
I also found it interesting that a good portion of the book is dedicated to who is sleeping with who, or who has slept with who. The amount of time dedicated to casual sex in this book was odd. I don't mind reading about sex; I've read a number of books with oodles of sex. I just thought it was odd in context to the rest of the story. I realize the story was about sexual violence; but that doesn't mean we needed to read about every single time Blomkvist decides to sleep with another woman..I just don't understand how it was relevant.
That brings me to another point...if you don't like to read about violence, torture, and sex skip this book. The majority of this book focuses around torture, rape, sexual abuse, and serial killers. Again, I don't mind some of that but reading about rape and torture of women is not something I am really all that into. So just a heads up.
The biggest thing that bugged me about this book was how predictable it was. After the first third or so of the book I had guessed what happened to Harriet, I also made some guesses about the torture/killings, and I was right. So, I was very disappointed that I was able to correctly predict the outcome of this lengthy novel. I was hoping for some surprises and all I got was a wandering and lengthy read. The novel does tie up nicely, so you don't need to read the next book to get a fairly complete story.
Overall it was okay. The mystery was fairly well put together, the characters were well done, and it was an interesting read; but I can't honestly say I really liked it. The drawn out set-up, excessive sex/violence and predictability turned me off this series. I won't be reading anymore of Larsson's books. If you are big into thrillers and serial killer-type novels then this book may be a good match for you. It just wasn't something I personally enjoyed.
Mikael Blomkvist watches his career as a journalist go down the tube when he takes on a major financial entity, who he believes is unlawful, and looses. He is sentenced to a short jail sentence and his journalistic career is potentially in ruins. Then he gets a strange call from old-school industrialist Henrik Vanger; Henrik wants Blomkvist to investigate the decades old disappearance of his niece Harriet. He wants Blomkvist to do it under the pretense of writing a history of the Vanger family. Entwining with this story is the story of Lisbeth Salander who is a crazy punk girl who has been declared mentally unfit. In reality she is an incredibly smart person, with top notch computer hacking skills, and an excellent research ability. She is hired to research Blomkvist before Vanger hires him. We learn both about Lisbeth's struggles within the Swedish legal system and, we watch as she is drawn deep into the Harriet Vanger case with Blomkvist.
As I stated overall I don't read a ton of thrillers; so keep this in mind as you read my perspective on this book. There were some things I liked about this book. I liked how Larsson goes into the detail describing the characters actions. I liked how the author fit many small pieces of evidence into a whole. Larsson also did a good job keeping the multitude of characters organized and easy to recognize for the readers. Overall Larsson did an excellent job on characterization too; both Salander and Blomkvist are believable and complex characters that are interesting to read about.
There were many things I didn't like about this book. It takes forever to get to the actual thriller part of the book. Almost half the book deals with setting up the Vanger family tree and I found this to be a tedious and boring to read. I think this could have been done much more efficiently. There were some things with Salader that I didn't understand; for example there is a particularly viscous sexual scene between Salander and her appointed guardian. It is gone into in grisly detail. I understand that this scene shows some things about Salander's character, but I think that this could have been depicted in a more efficient way without so much detail.
I also found it interesting that a good portion of the book is dedicated to who is sleeping with who, or who has slept with who. The amount of time dedicated to casual sex in this book was odd. I don't mind reading about sex; I've read a number of books with oodles of sex. I just thought it was odd in context to the rest of the story. I realize the story was about sexual violence; but that doesn't mean we needed to read about every single time Blomkvist decides to sleep with another woman..I just don't understand how it was relevant.
That brings me to another point...if you don't like to read about violence, torture, and sex skip this book. The majority of this book focuses around torture, rape, sexual abuse, and serial killers. Again, I don't mind some of that but reading about rape and torture of women is not something I am really all that into. So just a heads up.
The biggest thing that bugged me about this book was how predictable it was. After the first third or so of the book I had guessed what happened to Harriet, I also made some guesses about the torture/killings, and I was right. So, I was very disappointed that I was able to correctly predict the outcome of this lengthy novel. I was hoping for some surprises and all I got was a wandering and lengthy read. The novel does tie up nicely, so you don't need to read the next book to get a fairly complete story.
Overall it was okay. The mystery was fairly well put together, the characters were well done, and it was an interesting read; but I can't honestly say I really liked it. The drawn out set-up, excessive sex/violence and predictability turned me off this series. I won't be reading anymore of Larsson's books. If you are big into thrillers and serial killer-type novels then this book may be a good match for you. It just wasn't something I personally enjoyed.
Barbara R. (geckflac) -
I really liked this book. Took a few chapters to really get into it, but i can see why the first few chapters were like they were. Kinda setting the back drop for the trilogy. Yes there were the couple rape scenes, but author did not delve into these scenes, and they werent all drawn out like some authors make these type of scenes. They are there, they happen, and story goes on. I liked the thriller, suspense and intrigue that author provides. We know these books were translated from the swedish, so there is a different way that sometimes the text is translated into our language with wording, but it i feel it does not impede the story at all. I am almost done with the 2nd book, and eagerly awaiting the 3rd and final in trilogy. Gave it 5 stars
Rose S. (ATraveler2) -
This is a hard book for me to form an opinion on... or recomend to others. It really is a very good book with a great plot & interesting characters. The problem is there is some sexual sadism scenes/details that I wouldn't want Granny or my straitlaced neighbor read... a bit cringworthy! I was also uninterested by the business dealings part but that is easy to forgive. There is a little confusion with the translations or references in Swedish, but I can also get past that. The "ick" factor was the only detractor.
Also want to note, another reviewer was unhappy with how one of the characters sleeps with more than one of the other characters. I feel that those situations were relevant to the plot and not gratitous. Also to note that it is European. They are not as hung up on morality of consensual sex outside marriage as we are - the characters do discuss moral issues and that is not part of their discussion.
Also want to note, another reviewer was unhappy with how one of the characters sleeps with more than one of the other characters. I feel that those situations were relevant to the plot and not gratitous. Also to note that it is European. They are not as hung up on morality of consensual sex outside marriage as we are - the characters do discuss moral issues and that is not part of their discussion.
Elisabeth P. (BetsyP) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 566 more book reviews
I became curious about this book, when I saw it in the bookstores, then noticed many people reading it. I picked it up, on impulse at a UBS. This book is so rich in detail and plot, that it is hard to summarize briefly. It's several stories, within a story. An Heiress missing for forty years, the disgraced journalist hired to review the cold case, his strange research assistant, the journalist's nemesis.. The book is almost 600 pages, and we still don't know the whole story. What is Lisbeth's history? I love this book, and will be picking up the second one today. I have to know what happens to Lisbeth and Mikael. Love it.
Theresa K. (Tesstarosa) -
Mikael Blomkvist, a Swedish journalist, has just been convicted of libel and needs to distance himself from his magazine. At least for the duration of his sentence and probation.
Henrik Vanger persuades Blomkvist to spend a year doing his own investigation into the disappearance of his niece, Harriet, over 40 years ago. For his efforts, Vanger will pay him handsomely.
Lisabeth Salander does freelance work for a private investigation firm and is a highly experienced and effective computer hacker. She joins up with Blomkvist to help him solve the mystery of Harriet Vangers disappearance.
It took me some time to get into this book about 100 pages. Im not sure if its because I didnt read the notes on the back cover I knew it was a murder mystery or if it just took that long to get into it. I couldnt figure out why the story kept jumping between the story of Blomkvist and Salander and I was wondering when the murder was going to happen. Of course, itd already happened.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next two books in the seriers.
Henrik Vanger persuades Blomkvist to spend a year doing his own investigation into the disappearance of his niece, Harriet, over 40 years ago. For his efforts, Vanger will pay him handsomely.
Lisabeth Salander does freelance work for a private investigation firm and is a highly experienced and effective computer hacker. She joins up with Blomkvist to help him solve the mystery of Harriet Vangers disappearance.
It took me some time to get into this book about 100 pages. Im not sure if its because I didnt read the notes on the back cover I knew it was a murder mystery or if it just took that long to get into it. I couldnt figure out why the story kept jumping between the story of Blomkvist and Salander and I was wondering when the murder was going to happen. Of course, itd already happened.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next two books in the seriers.
Stefi W. (stefisbook) -
Was excited to read following all the hype...but got through the first 100 pages and still had no idea where it was going. VERY hard to get into...I'm sure if I didn't have a backlog of other entertaining books to read, I would have kept with it, and apparently, halfway through, it gets really good, but I don't have the patience. I'll order it when I'm out of other books to read.
Bianca A. (biancaa) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Completely not what I expected! I thought this was going to be another teen-age series like Twilight and was not interested. But I was convinced to read it by my sister and I'm very glad I did. The beginning was tough to get into but after the first couple of chapters I couldn't put the book down. I carried it with me everywhere and finished it within a few days. Great mystery book and I can't wait to get started on the next one!
It was different. I liked the location and the fact that there was more than one story in the novel. It dragged in spots though and I had to force myself through parts of the beginning.
I really enjoyed the book. It was a little slow at first, but then it got really good and hard to put down. It was interesting to read a book based in Sweden.
Enjoyable read.
This book kept me interested all the way through. Nice writing, story line and detailed descriptions were not too heavy. I would recommend this to others for an interesting read.
Best I've read in years!!
Gerald G. (PhotoJer) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 92 more book reviews
This is a great book, one of the best I have read in years. Three distinct plots , great believable characters. Engrossing, the kind of a book you stay up until the wee hours reading. Before this I read the latest Ludlum/Lustbader Bourne book which simply cannot hold a candle to this. If I could rate this a six stars I would.
It is awful that this author only wrote 3 books before he died. I can't wait to read the next two of his.
It is awful that this author only wrote 3 books before he died. I can't wait to read the next two of his.
Was one of the better books I have read lately. Page turner and I couldn't put it down, wanting to know how it concluded.
Jennifer D. (Jennmarie68) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 217 more book reviews
I know I'm a little late on reading this one, as the movie is already gone from the theater. But I like to read the books for movies before I see the movie. So I guess I'll be waiting for the DVD to come out.
I liked this book. I think the characters were well developed, the story was great. However I felt like it took too long to get going, and the ending was a bit drawn out for me. I think there was quite a bit from the beginning and the ending that could have been cut and this still would have been a good story. I do have to warn you that it can be a bit hard to read. There are a few scenes that were a bit graphic, and not in a romantic graphic sort of way. So if you have trouble reading gruesome material you may not care for this book.
The story, once it gets going is pretty good. There's so much going on in the story but having the mystery of Harriet Vanger's disappearance as the backbone to everything else was a great tool. I wanted to find out what happened and who was responsible for it. There were so many twists that I didn't think it would ever be all sorted out! I wanted to see what was going to happen with everything else too. My favorite scene is when Lisbeth gets revenge - It was very disturbing, but at the same time I was so glad that she did what she did! I don't think I would have handled things the same way she did, but I'm not like her. She did what she had to do to and I'm pretty sure she got her point across!
I really liked Lisbeth she was a great character. I've never known anyone like her, she was so different, but I really connected with her. I wish she would have been in the story more, it seemed to not focus so much on her as opposed to the other characters. She didn't play as central of a role as I would have wanted her to - given the title refers to her, it seems she would have been a bit more involved. Mikael was an ok character. He was well developed. Although I was just kind of indifferent about him. I didn't hate him, but I didn't really like him either. He just seemed to be kind of selfish and ditzy. The ending with him kind of upset me, although it wasn't really a surprise, just showed his true colors - yet again.
Overall it was a pretty good book. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I will be picking up the other two in this series.
I liked this book. I think the characters were well developed, the story was great. However I felt like it took too long to get going, and the ending was a bit drawn out for me. I think there was quite a bit from the beginning and the ending that could have been cut and this still would have been a good story. I do have to warn you that it can be a bit hard to read. There are a few scenes that were a bit graphic, and not in a romantic graphic sort of way. So if you have trouble reading gruesome material you may not care for this book.
The story, once it gets going is pretty good. There's so much going on in the story but having the mystery of Harriet Vanger's disappearance as the backbone to everything else was a great tool. I wanted to find out what happened and who was responsible for it. There were so many twists that I didn't think it would ever be all sorted out! I wanted to see what was going to happen with everything else too. My favorite scene is when Lisbeth gets revenge - It was very disturbing, but at the same time I was so glad that she did what she did! I don't think I would have handled things the same way she did, but I'm not like her. She did what she had to do to and I'm pretty sure she got her point across!
I really liked Lisbeth she was a great character. I've never known anyone like her, she was so different, but I really connected with her. I wish she would have been in the story more, it seemed to not focus so much on her as opposed to the other characters. She didn't play as central of a role as I would have wanted her to - given the title refers to her, it seems she would have been a bit more involved. Mikael was an ok character. He was well developed. Although I was just kind of indifferent about him. I didn't hate him, but I didn't really like him either. He just seemed to be kind of selfish and ditzy. The ending with him kind of upset me, although it wasn't really a surprise, just showed his true colors - yet again.
Overall it was a pretty good book. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I will be picking up the other two in this series.
Erika H. (erikausaf) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
A friend gave me this book after she bought and read it and had heard the rave reviews. Maybe it was one of those, "so much hype that your expectations are too high" kind of books. It took FOR-EV-ER to get through the first hundred or so pages. Then it finally picks up and gets moving. The story in general is very good. Very interesting. As far as it being a "Sexy, addictive thriller" as the back proclaims...I found the book to be pretty UNsexy. I did read the second one and am now waiting to get the third from the library. It was a good book, interesting to read...the second was better and significantly faster to get through...but as far as this being the most addictive or sexy book out there...I find the most typical John Grisham books are as addictive and like I said about the sexy part...I really do not see it.
Kristie O. (kristieao) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
I usually do not read books of this sort, but what a great book! A bit drawn out in the first 100 pages but gets more exciting after that! I can't wait to read his next book!
Barbara A. (bella2003) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
This book started out slow for me, however, my daughter sugeested I keep reading and I am so glad that I did.. This is one of the best books I have read in quite a while. I suggest this to anyone who likes a grreat mystery...
Excellent book! Now I'm ready to go see the movie.
At first I was disappointed in this book...I sure didn't get all they hype. If you give this book a chance it is a good read. Unfortunately, it takes about half the book for it to get going. When I was done I read the second book and couldn't put it down! You have to read the first it is the foundation for the second (The Girl Who Played With Fire). I am now on the third and last (The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest), and am enjoying it as much as the second. Hang in there and get through the first half, you won't be sorry!
Barbara F. (Babsjog) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
The twists in this book are so unexpected. It is an excellent read that has a variety of characters that are all brought together to compete the puzzle.
After all the hype about this book, I was very curious to see what it was all about. I suppose I was a little disappointed. The story was pretty good. There was a lot of jumping around through various story lines. I found myself slugging through some, then getting to a point where the story picked up speed, then it would slow down again. It was much darker than I expected. I probably will not read the next books though the ending did leave me a little interested in finding out what happens to Lisbeth.
Debra L. (dallovbug) -
The book is a very slow start. The beginning deals more with wall street, publishing houses, etc., after about the first 150 pages it picks up to be a very interesting read. The discredited publisher picks up work writing a so called bio of a man while at the same time, trying to unravel the disappearance of the mans niece 30 years ago. Very interesting read if you can get through all the set up of the character.
Nina R. (britishladybooklover) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 57 more book reviews
Grabbed me from the first page. I couldn't put it down!
Eileen M. (Ei-M) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 68 more book reviews
When Mikael Blomkvist, a managing editor of a financial news magazine, gets convicted of libel, he needs to disappear from the publishing world for a while until things die down. At that moment, he takes a freelance job for the head of one of Sweden's most wealthy families. Mr. Vanger's neice, Harriet Vanger, disappeared over forty years ago and he wants Mikael to take on the job of finding out what happened to her. Mikael is aided by a young pierced and tattooed punk girl, Lisbeth Salander. She is an electronic wizzard and together they discover one horrifying layer of secrets after the other in the Vanger family. Very exciting...full of horror and corruption beyond imagining.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
This is an amazing book! It starts out slow as hell and is real tedious discussing journalism and Swedish financial empires but quickly morphs into the greatest mystery imaginable. After financial journalist Mikael Blomkvist is jailed for libel, he is determined to prove Wennerstrom is a criminal. To that end he takes a seemingly impossible job from Henrik Vanger: find out who killed his 16 year old niece Harriet and as a cover story, write a Vanger family chronicle. Mikael thinks this is a ridiculous and impossible endeavor but agrees once Henrik drops the bait...irrefutable proof against Wennerstrom.
When Mikael gets to a point in his investigation that requires in depth time consuming research, he hires Lisbeth Salander to do the leg work (well computer work in this case). Coincidentally, Lisbeth was hired by Henrik to investigate Mikael before he was offered the job. Lisbeth is a tattooed, pierced, introvert with supposed psychological problems and a ward of the state but surprisingly enough she immediately takes to Mikael. They work incredibly well together and the story really picked up and gained momentum once Mikael and Lisbeth started working together.
I was shocked at some parts of this book and amazed by Lisbeth's reaction and vengeance against the perpetrator. I immediately liked Lisbeth and felt sorry as hell for her and routed for her throughout. I can't wait to see where Lisbeth and Mikael go on their next adventure.
When Mikael gets to a point in his investigation that requires in depth time consuming research, he hires Lisbeth Salander to do the leg work (well computer work in this case). Coincidentally, Lisbeth was hired by Henrik to investigate Mikael before he was offered the job. Lisbeth is a tattooed, pierced, introvert with supposed psychological problems and a ward of the state but surprisingly enough she immediately takes to Mikael. They work incredibly well together and the story really picked up and gained momentum once Mikael and Lisbeth started working together.
I was shocked at some parts of this book and amazed by Lisbeth's reaction and vengeance against the perpetrator. I immediately liked Lisbeth and felt sorry as hell for her and routed for her throughout. I can't wait to see where Lisbeth and Mikael go on their next adventure.
Rachel D. (rfdudley) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 75 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book and want to read another one by Stieg Larsson. It was a little different from the other crime novels which seem to be the same old story. Great read!
Marianne S. (sfc95) -
this was an interesting book, it took a long time to read, but I could have lived the rest of my life with or without reading it. The hype to me is just that, I think people who haven't read alot picked this book up and found out it was a good mystery. It is, it just takes so long to get into that I could have read three great mysteries in the time it took to get to know everyone in this one. I will continue the series, but will likely read some other thing in between. To me it is good but not great.
Couldn't put it down. Great characters - Lisbeth Salander is an unforgettable, quirky, brave, fierce leading lady - talk about rising above adversity and taking control of your own fate! Read the trilogy - loved them all and am grief stricken that Stieg Larsson died without writing more or knowing about his huge success.
This book is a good mystery and has interesting, although sometimes irritating characters. Did not give it a higher rating because the author is a little too into violence against women.
Denise T. (tetz) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
I agree with those reviewers who said that this was a slow starter. I had heard about it on Books on the Nightstand podcast, and since I usually agree with their picks....I stuck it out. Once Lisbeth joined the story, I was hooked.
Not my usual genere, I got into the intrigue and mystery. I kept thinking what a great movie it will be. Very visual. I, also, found myself referring to the family tree quite a bit. I would also have liked a map to further enable my visualization but that is a minor point. I am looking forward to the next two books in the series.
Not my usual genere, I got into the intrigue and mystery. I kept thinking what a great movie it will be. Very visual. I, also, found myself referring to the family tree quite a bit. I would also have liked a map to further enable my visualization but that is a minor point. I am looking forward to the next two books in the series.
Sharon C. (sharonc9630) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
Great book! Hard to get started, but very happy that I stuck with it. Full of intrigue, excitement and kept me guessing. I would highly recommend to anyone. This would be great if it became a movie too.
This book is a dense, but absorbing, mystery about a financial journalist and the nefarious behavior of some people of wealth. It certainly fits well with today's headlines.
Rebekah (dancing-angel) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 53 more book reviews
I picked this up as a spur of the moment book while breezing through the library. I wasn't sure how it would turn out but I had my hopes up. I was definitely surprised. This was a great book! This book makes me feel like I'm at one of those mystery dinner theaters only it's better. I would have never suspected the ending. Wow is all I can say. A definite must read for mystery fans around the globe!
Kate D. (usuallee) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
As many others have pointed out, this mystery/thriller is utterly mesmerizing and I truly could not stop reading it. It builds tension slowly but by the climax the tension becomes almost unbearable. The characters Salander and Blomquist are so well done and Larsson makes it all seem so effortless. This is one book that actually deserves every bit of the hype. If you are one ofthe few that has not gotten on board the Larsson bandwagon - read immediately!
Eric H. (ehines) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
Not up to the hype--but good. I imagine a lot of the positive reception is due to the title character who, sadly, is rather heavily romanticized.
Otherwise the book is competent, but not nearly as good as, say, Kerstin Ekman's Blackwater.
Otherwise the book is competent, but not nearly as good as, say, Kerstin Ekman's Blackwater.
It's been a long time since I've stayed up this late finishing a book, but once this one got going, it was impossible to put down. Highly recommended.
Autumn H. (autumnhansen) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
This is an amazing book that isn't often credited for it's reflection on women's position in society. It was charged with raw emotion.
Catherine C. (c-squared) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 181 more book reviews
I'm not usually into thrillers, but this one sucked me in. Believe the hype!
Stef S. (bookgoddessme) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 106 more book reviews
I waited a bit to read this series, after all the hub bub had settled. The tragic story of the author's life drew me in, and I didn't read the summary until I was ready to begin the book. When I realized it was some sort of mystery/crime novel I thought, "oh, I would have never picked this up if I knew this". Boy, was I surprised. I found the book nearly impossible to put down. Yes, it's loaded with details, and names of places, and people, but WOW, what a story! The characters are so easy to care about, and the story just keeps you wondering how each character is going to manage to get through their latest crazy mess.
Jill B. (PuppyMama) - , reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 115 more book reviews
Very good.
Melanie (MELNELYNN) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 669 more book reviews
A 24-year-old computer hacker sporting an assortment of tattoos and body piercings and afflicted with Asperger Syndrome or something of the like has been under state guardianship in her native Sweden since she was thirteen. She supports herself by doing deep background investigations for Dragan Armansky, who, in turn, worries the anorexic-looking Lisbeth Salander is "the perfect victim for anyone who wished her ill." Salander may look fourteen and stubbornly shun social norms, but she possesses the inner strength of a determined survivor. She sees more than her word processor page in black and white and despises the users and abusers of this world. She won't hesitate to exact her own unique brand of retribution against small-potatoes bullies, sick predators, and corrupt magnates alike.
Financial journalist Carl Mikael Blomkvist has just been convicted of libeling a financier and is facing a fine and three months in jail. Blomkvist, after a Salander-completed background check, is summoned to a meeting with semi-retired industrialist Henrik Vanger whose far-flung but shrinking corporate empire is wholly family owned. Vanger has brooded for 36 years about the fate of his great niece, Harriet. Blomkvist is expected to live for a year on the island where many Vanger family members still reside and where Harriet was last seen. Under the cover story that he is writing a family history, Blomkvist is to investigate which family member might have done away with the teenager.
So, the stage is set. The reader easily guesses early that somehow Blomkvist and Salander will pool their talents to probe the Vanger mystery. However,Swede Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is no humdrum, formulaic whodunit. It is fascinating and very difficult to put down. Nor is it without some really suspenseful and chillingly ugly scenes....
The issue most saturating The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is that of shocking sexual violence primarily against women but not excluding men. Salander and Blomkvist both confront prima facie evidence of such crimes. Larsson's other major constituent elements are corporate malfeasance that threatens complete collapse of stock markets and anarchistic distrust of officialdom to the point of endorsing (at least, almost) vigilantism. He also deals with racism as he spins a complex web from strands of real and imagined history concerning mid-twentieth century Vanger affiliations with Sweden's fascist groups.
But Larsson's carefully calibrated tale is more than a grisly, cynical world view of his country and the modern world at large. At its core, it is an fascinating character study of a young woman who easily masters computer code but for whom human interaction is almost always more trouble than it is worth, of an investigative reporter who chooses a path of less resistance than Salander but whose humanity reaches out to many including her, and of peripheral characters -- such as Armansky -- who need more of their story told.
Fortunately, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in English translation will be followed by two more in the Millennium series: The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Air Castle that Blew Up. I can't wait. Larsson also made a 200-page start on a fourth book, but sadly he succumbed to a heart attack in 2004 and his father decided the unfinished work will remain unpublished.
I recommend this international bestseller to all who eagerly sift new books for challenging intellectual crime thrillers, who luxuriate in immersing themselves in the ambience of a compellingly created world and memorable characters, who soak up financial and investigative minutiae as well as computer hacking tidbits, and who want to share Larsson's crusade against violence and racism.
Financial journalist Carl Mikael Blomkvist has just been convicted of libeling a financier and is facing a fine and three months in jail. Blomkvist, after a Salander-completed background check, is summoned to a meeting with semi-retired industrialist Henrik Vanger whose far-flung but shrinking corporate empire is wholly family owned. Vanger has brooded for 36 years about the fate of his great niece, Harriet. Blomkvist is expected to live for a year on the island where many Vanger family members still reside and where Harriet was last seen. Under the cover story that he is writing a family history, Blomkvist is to investigate which family member might have done away with the teenager.
So, the stage is set. The reader easily guesses early that somehow Blomkvist and Salander will pool their talents to probe the Vanger mystery. However,Swede Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is no humdrum, formulaic whodunit. It is fascinating and very difficult to put down. Nor is it without some really suspenseful and chillingly ugly scenes....
The issue most saturating The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is that of shocking sexual violence primarily against women but not excluding men. Salander and Blomkvist both confront prima facie evidence of such crimes. Larsson's other major constituent elements are corporate malfeasance that threatens complete collapse of stock markets and anarchistic distrust of officialdom to the point of endorsing (at least, almost) vigilantism. He also deals with racism as he spins a complex web from strands of real and imagined history concerning mid-twentieth century Vanger affiliations with Sweden's fascist groups.
But Larsson's carefully calibrated tale is more than a grisly, cynical world view of his country and the modern world at large. At its core, it is an fascinating character study of a young woman who easily masters computer code but for whom human interaction is almost always more trouble than it is worth, of an investigative reporter who chooses a path of less resistance than Salander but whose humanity reaches out to many including her, and of peripheral characters -- such as Armansky -- who need more of their story told.
Fortunately, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in English translation will be followed by two more in the Millennium series: The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Air Castle that Blew Up. I can't wait. Larsson also made a 200-page start on a fourth book, but sadly he succumbed to a heart attack in 2004 and his father decided the unfinished work will remain unpublished.
I recommend this international bestseller to all who eagerly sift new books for challenging intellectual crime thrillers, who luxuriate in immersing themselves in the ambience of a compellingly created world and memorable characters, who soak up financial and investigative minutiae as well as computer hacking tidbits, and who want to share Larsson's crusade against violence and racism.
I loved it! I can't wait to get my hands on the next ones.
W. R. (NYbooks) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 100 more book reviews
* * * ½*. Mystery. A disgraced journalist is hired by a millionare to investigate the 40-year old case regarding his niece's murder/disappearance.
The eponymous character, although NOT the main character in the novel, is captivating nonetheless. Flawed, intelligent, lonely, tough. My only gripe (small one) is the multiple 'endings' the book has. All in all, a definite page turner.
The eponymous character, although NOT the main character in the novel, is captivating nonetheless. Flawed, intelligent, lonely, tough. My only gripe (small one) is the multiple 'endings' the book has. All in all, a definite page turner.
Jane (mahbaar) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 111 more book reviews
A fantastic first mystery. Lisbeth Salander has got to be the most fascinating literary character I've come across in years. Complex and compelling mystery with a wide array of interesting and eccentric characters. Many twists and turns that were not predictable and not insulting to the reader.
It takes a little while to get accustomed to the Swedish names and words, but once you get into the swing of things it's very hard to put this book down. Read through the first meeting between Blomkvist and Vanger and you will be hooked. Looking forward to the second in the series.
It takes a little while to get accustomed to the Swedish names and words, but once you get into the swing of things it's very hard to put this book down. Read through the first meeting between Blomkvist and Vanger and you will be hooked. Looking forward to the second in the series.
Joan W. (justreadingabook) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1726 more book reviews
Wow, what a ride this book was. It takes off and doesn't seem to quit until the last page. Well worth the hype, excellent characters, storylines going in all directions to keep you turning the pages. You can't miss with this book.
Leslie R. (robisles) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Loved this book and this is not my genre of choice. Larsson's ability to spin a story with interconnecting characters and events is mind blowing. I found the violence a bit unsettling at times. Read this in the course of two days, it was that good.
Bobbie G. (bobbiegilb) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Good fast paced read.
Kathleen W. (Kathleen22) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Excellent book overall. I found it tough to start, first third dragged. But once you get beyond that, it is a page turner!! Could barely put it down. Some of the subject matter was a bit rough but I think the author did that to draw attention to the problems of violence against women and dependent people. I highly recommend the book.
Margie H. (mountainmama44) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
The first 75 pages are tough to get through but then you get pulled into the story. It's a good read with interesting and edgy characters. I started the second book immediately upon finishing this first one.
Karen D. (asaucygal) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
FIrst third of the book takes some persistence, but once you get there it picks up. For me, not the favorite that many people say it is for them.
Well written and tight for the most part, but with so many people named Vanger, sometimes confusing when authors simply says Vanger was... Vanger said.... unless it's in regards to that immediate conversation.
Sometimes feels like shocking for shocking's sake, or to provide an anchoring "event" to carry you through the next two chapters.
Well written and tight for the most part, but with so many people named Vanger, sometimes confusing when authors simply says Vanger was... Vanger said.... unless it's in regards to that immediate conversation.
Sometimes feels like shocking for shocking's sake, or to provide an anchoring "event" to carry you through the next two chapters.
Very good. I liked the book so much I'm not sure I want to see the movie, since I'm pretty certain they won't be able to catch all the details.
awesome!
Great book -can't wait to read book 2
Jackie S. (jamase83) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
This book was amazing. It had twist and turns around every corner. It was a great mystery and had 2 very likable main characters. I can't wait to see the movie and then continue on with the series.
I truly amazing book, after you read the first few chapters. I have to admit, it took me a very long time to get into this; I just didn't know when the action (so to speak) was going to begin. I actually stopped reading it for awhile and moved onto something else. And then finally, when I felt I was ready, I picked it up again. But this time was far different. I couldn't put this book down! The day I finished this one, I went to get the second one, and as we speak the third one is on my watch list. I cannot wait to get into it.
Callie D. (bccallie) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Loved the story although it did take effort to keep up with all the names. Fortunately, there's a family tree that helps to keep the names and relationships straight. I'm looking forward to reading the next two books.
Gerald H. (mohran) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
much better than i expected. great characters..loking forward to the next two.
Deb R. (rambette) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
I couldn't put it down. I loved it. Am already into the 2nd one & will probably buy the 3rd one if I don't find it here. Great quirky characters & edge of your seat plot. DON'T start it before Xmas or you'll never get anything else done.
I wanted to read this so much, but I just can't seem to get into it... maybe I'll try again soon
I enjoyed the book immensely, the first chapter was a little slow but as the it progressed I couldn't put it down.
Merry (fastreadr) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
I finally got around to reading this book, and was pleasantly surprised that it lived up to its hype. Well-developed characters abound, and the complex plot takes you in right away. I hated for it to end, but am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Very good read! You really get the main characters!
The relationships between the characters were what made this book stand out for me, along with the cool, nordic writing. It gave the feel of being in Sweden, with a taste of what life there is like.
I wish I had not read this series, even though the drama and mystery is captivating the characters have no redeeming qualities, they are shallow, selfish people and I never once liked any of them enough to really hope that they got their happy ending(and i always like the main characters). They are good at their jobs, terrible at relationships and the moral of the story? Moral? what moral?
Mary M. (dtchs) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 59 more book reviews
Very different type of mystery for me. Even though the book is over 600 pages, it kept me engaged and I got through it very quickly even though I'm not a particularly fast reader. I quickly went out and got the next book in the series!
Shanan B. (yogimommy) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 35 more book reviews
This book for me was almost indescribable. It is so well written and complex that it seems hard to digust which made it hard to review.
The character of Lisbeth Salander was difficult for me. There are aspect of her that I really liked, but I wouldn't say she is a likable character. She is a victim of the system that she lives in, but in some ways she then makes others victims too. And the lack of emotion she has and shares is almost unbelievable. I have never read a character like her--and I am nto sure that I ever want to again. She is not easy to read but she is incredibly well written.
The character of Mikael Blomkvist was easier for me to determine that I liked until the very end. On the very last page I found that I really wanted to hit him. Part of that feeling may have been that I felt like Lisbeth was finally starting going to open up and now wasn't. Or it may be that I just don't care for the open relationship with a married woman.
But I am excited to read the next book so I can see these characters again. And I think that is Stieg Larsson's real gift. Even if you can't say you like the characters, you are mesmorized by them. And you want to know what is going to happen next.
The character of Lisbeth Salander was difficult for me. There are aspect of her that I really liked, but I wouldn't say she is a likable character. She is a victim of the system that she lives in, but in some ways she then makes others victims too. And the lack of emotion she has and shares is almost unbelievable. I have never read a character like her--and I am nto sure that I ever want to again. She is not easy to read but she is incredibly well written.
The character of Mikael Blomkvist was easier for me to determine that I liked until the very end. On the very last page I found that I really wanted to hit him. Part of that feeling may have been that I felt like Lisbeth was finally starting going to open up and now wasn't. Or it may be that I just don't care for the open relationship with a married woman.
But I am excited to read the next book so I can see these characters again. And I think that is Stieg Larsson's real gift. Even if you can't say you like the characters, you are mesmorized by them. And you want to know what is going to happen next.
I know that many people loved this book but it just wasn't for me. The whole time I was reading the book I thought that you could take out either Mikael or Salander and still have the exact same book.
I am going to give the next book in the series a try but I am hoping it is better than this one.
I am going to give the next book in the series a try but I am hoping it is better than this one.
This is a great series. I like the second one best of the three but they are all good. Lisbeth is a great character.
got this book from walmart, hoping to have a good story...Oh boys, it's turn out more than I expecting it..Stieg Larsson did a wonderful job, creating a characters Lisbeth Salander team up with Mikael Blomkvist to find a missing person from a Sweden wealthiest families many years ago...many twist and turns make you want to guess, what will happen next...I really enjoyed this book page by page, and stayed up all night to read this book.....I just can wait for the second book of stieg Larsson triology .....
Mike C. (compass) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Even better than the first, which is saying something! Jumps into the action faster than the first book since it picks up after the ending of the first.
Great story line, great charactors. They just picked the female lead for the american version of the movie. Looking foward to it!
Great story line, great charactors. They just picked the female lead for the american version of the movie. Looking foward to it!
danielledaydreamer1 -
This book was one of those that were hard to put down.
Most of the book i loved. However, the end of the book i found was emotionally ..... "conflicting" (could be the right word).
I think that's because i feel i can relate to Lisbeth Salander and Martin Vanger's "hobby" was too much reality for me.
if you've read the book, you should know what i mean, and if you haven't, Read it and you'll understand what i mean.
Most of the book i loved. However, the end of the book i found was emotionally ..... "conflicting" (could be the right word).
I think that's because i feel i can relate to Lisbeth Salander and Martin Vanger's "hobby" was too much reality for me.
if you've read the book, you should know what i mean, and if you haven't, Read it and you'll understand what i mean.
Diana S. (dianaschirmer) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
I've tried this one three times. Perhaps the story surrounding the series is more intriguing. I think for this book, the movies will have to suffice.
Emily G. (wiltinglilly) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
Loved this entire series, however not for the faint of heart. There is a pretty graphic scene that takes place in the book involving one of the main characters, but it does not detract from the plot. I was incredibly engrossed in this whole series, I could not put it down despite the book's girth. Would definitely recommend to read
The first two chapters were difficult to get through at best. While it proved to be needed background information for the storyline it was totally uninteresting (Sweedish manufacturing business fraud/cover-up....yawn). I could have also totally edited out 3 of the last 4 chapters. There were good parts but a lot of it dragged for me and the suspense didn't build correctly for my taste. The ending was contrived. Will not be reading any others in the series.This seems to be more of a movie than a book.
Nadya W. (2sunflowers) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next ones in this series.
my husband can't put it down
Jennifer S. (ared2die4) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
I got on the bandwagon for this book early. I loved them. It was a fascinating story woven with skill and grit. Its intense and gripping spans the country of Sweden. This story gives the very basics of Lisbeth Salander as she solves a 40yr old murder with a controversial journalist. We learn there is so much more to about her life and how she was forced into the life she lives. This book covers topics than could be trigger,topics and are very graphic and intense. Incest, rape, murder. This is not a story series for young adults.
Debra K. (deber) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 32 more book reviews
Loved this book and have wished for the next two in the series. I want my husband to read it next. Everyone at work has read it, along with good friends.A must read for everyone.
Frank S. (colonelstech) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 38 more book reviews
Outstanding work! Best mystery in many a year.
Kristin D. (kdurham2813) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 753 more book reviews
AHHHmazing! I had delayed reading this for more reasons than one - mainly because when a book gets a TON of hype for some reason I tend to avoid it. I had friends reminding me often that this was a book to find and enjoy. So the book club that I recently joined was reading this book for November, I picked it up late, but was determined to read it. WELL then I got sick, so I ended up not attending book club.
After telling you all this - I must say - this book was definitely worth all the hype it received and more. I am a fan of this genre, the mystery/suspense who dun its. I love reading a whole book and at the very end being thrown for an absolute loop. I am even more excited when at the end I want to read it all through again to pick up even more details because you already know where the story will end up.
Now of course, I will not be providing any spoilers because for 590 pages you need to enjoy the hunt for who dun it and why.
So I will be passing this book along to all my ladies and may even sneak it onto JP's bedside table for a read! I think the menfolk would enjoy this book as well.
After telling you all this - I must say - this book was definitely worth all the hype it received and more. I am a fan of this genre, the mystery/suspense who dun its. I love reading a whole book and at the very end being thrown for an absolute loop. I am even more excited when at the end I want to read it all through again to pick up even more details because you already know where the story will end up.
Now of course, I will not be providing any spoilers because for 590 pages you need to enjoy the hunt for who dun it and why.
So I will be passing this book along to all my ladies and may even sneak it onto JP's bedside table for a read! I think the menfolk would enjoy this book as well.
Debbie B. (debs) -
I almost put this book down because the first 50 or so pages were really hard to get through. Knowing I had almost 700 pages to read suddenly looked impossible. Combine heavy detail of financial and legalese with lots of characters / places with foreign-sounding names and I felt really lost for awhile. I ended up skimming over some of the stuff and finally waded through it to get to the "real" story.
I'm glad I didn't put it down!! This mammoth book was like a puzzle being put together one piece at a time. You don't necessarily know how the pieces are going to fit together, but when they do (one piece at a time) you get a nice, satisfied feeling. The author doesn't overlook any detail, and once I got going, I had a hard time putting it down. It has some really good twists that I didn't see coming.
I'm glad I didn't put it down!! This mammoth book was like a puzzle being put together one piece at a time. You don't necessarily know how the pieces are going to fit together, but when they do (one piece at a time) you get a nice, satisfied feeling. The author doesn't overlook any detail, and once I got going, I had a hard time putting it down. It has some really good twists that I didn't see coming.
Juanita F. (legal22) -
This book was worth the hype! At first it was confusing with a lot of different names of people and places, but after I got them straight, I couldn't put it down! I'm looking forward to reading the other two in the series. This is being made into a movie and I will definitely go see it!
A very quick read. Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was enticing but a little slow to start. But once the story got going, I blew through the rest of the book! I recommend it to anyone who loves mystery and action stories.
Ronnie G. (frenchgiant) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
Ok, so after witnessing seemingly 95% of the Earth's literate population reading this book over the past few years I finally caved in and read it during a recent vacation to Mexico. After finishing the final page a few minutes ago I'm honestly surprised at how much worldwide hype this book has received. Perhaps the fact that a recently deceased Swedish writer penned it was enough to get people talking about it? Or maybe it was a matter of perfect timing? A book partially about corporate greed released in the U.S. during the worst financial meltdown since the Great Depression?
With all that said I'll start by saying that I did enjoy the book, and was able to finish it in a relatively short amount of time, however I can see why many folks were bored with it. The first 200 or so pages are incredibly dry at times, as Larsson bombards us with tons of information as he builds the foundation for the rest of the novel. I completely understand the need for this, considering the many moving parts of the story, however at times it felt as though I was being spoon fed much more information than was absolutely necessary.
If you're able to get through the aforementioned pages you'll find that the pace of the story does pick up considerably. At this point I found my interest in the mystery of Harriet's disappearance increase as new clues were presented and new suspects were introduced. I thoroughly enjoyed Blomkvist and Salander's characters and as they continued to dig deeper into the mystery I found myself not wanting to put the book down. Perhaps that's the greatest mystery of all. How in the world was Larsson able to captivate the masses with a novel filled with such a large amount of incredibly dry subject matter?
As mentioned earlier I just finished the book today and while I did enjoy it I'm stunned at the worldwide acclaim it has received. I mean, we're talking about a planet populated with people whom over the years have grown infatuated with the likes of the Spice Girls, Beanie Babies, Creed, and Nickleback. Thankfully "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" does not fit into their category and is definitely enjoyable, but extremely overrated in my opinion.
Will I read the sequel,"The Girl Who Played With Fire"? You bet your bottom dollar I will! I'm intrigued by the characters and really am curious to see where Larsson decides to go from here. I can only hope that that it starts out a more blistering pace than this one.
On a sidenote, did anyone notice how much coffee the main characters gulped down? Don't get me wrong, I love coffee and drink a few cups every day but the amounts consumed by Blomkvist and Salander made me feel like an amateur. I mean, is it even possible to consume that much coffee?
Mmm. Coffee.
With all that said I'll start by saying that I did enjoy the book, and was able to finish it in a relatively short amount of time, however I can see why many folks were bored with it. The first 200 or so pages are incredibly dry at times, as Larsson bombards us with tons of information as he builds the foundation for the rest of the novel. I completely understand the need for this, considering the many moving parts of the story, however at times it felt as though I was being spoon fed much more information than was absolutely necessary.
If you're able to get through the aforementioned pages you'll find that the pace of the story does pick up considerably. At this point I found my interest in the mystery of Harriet's disappearance increase as new clues were presented and new suspects were introduced. I thoroughly enjoyed Blomkvist and Salander's characters and as they continued to dig deeper into the mystery I found myself not wanting to put the book down. Perhaps that's the greatest mystery of all. How in the world was Larsson able to captivate the masses with a novel filled with such a large amount of incredibly dry subject matter?
As mentioned earlier I just finished the book today and while I did enjoy it I'm stunned at the worldwide acclaim it has received. I mean, we're talking about a planet populated with people whom over the years have grown infatuated with the likes of the Spice Girls, Beanie Babies, Creed, and Nickleback. Thankfully "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" does not fit into their category and is definitely enjoyable, but extremely overrated in my opinion.
Will I read the sequel,"The Girl Who Played With Fire"? You bet your bottom dollar I will! I'm intrigued by the characters and really am curious to see where Larsson decides to go from here. I can only hope that that it starts out a more blistering pace than this one.
On a sidenote, did anyone notice how much coffee the main characters gulped down? Don't get me wrong, I love coffee and drink a few cups every day but the amounts consumed by Blomkvist and Salander made me feel like an amateur. I mean, is it even possible to consume that much coffee?
Mmm. Coffee.
Ida R. (ibrich) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 18 more book reviews
Stieg Larsson has a winner in the this trilogy. I can't wait to get the third book in the series.
Harriet Varger, member of a wealthy family disappeared over 40 years ago. Her aged uncle continued to seek the truth and hires Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist recently trapped by a libel conviction, to investigate. Mikael is aided by the pierced and tattooed punk prodigy Lisabeth Salander. Together they tap into a vein of corruption and a very disfunctional family with lots of secrets. Great book and Lisabeth is an amazing resourceful women with lots of skills as a researcher and a survivor in life.
Dalton A. (wanderlust) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Okay, so everyone is in LOVE with these books and I'm not sure why. I mean, yes, they do draw you in (eventually) but really, I think if Larsson was actually alive his books would just be another crap beach novel to leave at the beach house after you read it on vacation. First and foremost -- the dude is WAY too into describing violent sex scenes. I mean, my first thought is -- "wow, these sound like LARSSON's fantasies, not his character's."
Second, the guy is pedantic as hell. When you get into the second book (as I am now) he does tedious things like list what styles of IKEA furniture Salander buys for her new apartment, write out her grocery lists, etc. Now, I like food and IKEA furniture as much as the next girl, but really? In a suspense book? How do you say BORING in Swedish?
All in all, I think that they're mildly entertaining, but not worth going out of your way for (trade for them, don't buy them). And I think Larsson had some issues -- mental issues.
PS- If you think the book was graphic, don't watch the movies. (Swedish or American versions, though I do like Daniel Craig) Take my word for it.
Second, the guy is pedantic as hell. When you get into the second book (as I am now) he does tedious things like list what styles of IKEA furniture Salander buys for her new apartment, write out her grocery lists, etc. Now, I like food and IKEA furniture as much as the next girl, but really? In a suspense book? How do you say BORING in Swedish?
All in all, I think that they're mildly entertaining, but not worth going out of your way for (trade for them, don't buy them). And I think Larsson had some issues -- mental issues.
PS- If you think the book was graphic, don't watch the movies. (Swedish or American versions, though I do like Daniel Craig) Take my word for it.
I just finished this book. I was very good!
Julie G. (renegadespiritcat) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 198 more book reviews
Very detailed a must read but not for those who want a speedy read. However the body of the script holds such mystery and intrigue it is well worth the details you cannot afford to miss.
I was pleasently surprised. I enjoyed both the story and the charactors.
Laurel G. (laurelp52) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
I saw the movie before reading the book. Surprisingly, BOTH were great! Loved it.
Erika T. (erikathomas) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
The book is a little slow at first because the author gives you the entire background and history of each character, but I would definitely keep reading if you like murder mysteries. It's a great book with a great story line. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
I picked up this book because of all the praise it received and I believe that most of the praise is undeserved. As the book progresses, it seems that it becomes into an episode of CSI. The book has the main character having immoral sex with three different women multiple times. profanity abounds too, and time can be better used to read something else.
Love Love Love this book. It's hard for me to find another book to read that is of this level! Very deep book with lots of characters .... I could hardly put it down!
Don't waste your time. This was the driest, slowest moving book I've ever read. It was a total bore! I don't know what all the hype is about!! 5 thumbs down!!
Not sure if I thought it was as good as others made it out to be. Don't get me wrong, its a good book with an intriquing story, but nothing really way out there.
Excellent read. Highly recommended.
Mallory A. (mallorya) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
It starts slow because of background information, but then it takes off! This is an amazing trilogy that was initially meant to be 10 books. I'm sorry that the series ends after 3. Truly great reads!
Maureen N. (mvictory) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Got me hooked
If you can allow yourself to not be offended by the brutality in this book, then you are in for an excellent read. Additionally, this book will challenge one to research the social culture of Sweden and it's politics.
good story, very current subject
Good book. Hard to put down, was instantly hooked. A must read for all adults, but keep in mind this is definitely not for children.
heirloom-maters reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 50 more book reviews
Exciting, intricate, and with memorable characters. Although the first part is slow in building, this is a satisfying story. Hopefully Mr. Larsson's partner can get the rights from his family so we can have all the books originally supposed to be in this series!
Very slow to start!
Casey L. (casey-sue) -
I don't understand the hype of this book at all. I struggled for 5 days just to read 200 pages and give up. There is so much background information in this story that you have to get through before the "story" even starts. Is all that information even useful? I would have to say that a major part of it doesn't even matter. This is one of the worst books that I have ever read. It is cluttered with too much information and even if you manage to get past all of it, it leaves you wondering what is so exciting about this story anyway.
Overall I enjoyed this book. It was very clever and the plot resolution was not what I had expected at all, which was quite refreshing.
It did, however, take me a couple hundred pages before I really got into the story and got to the point that I couldn't put it down in anticipation of what was going to happen next.
On the upside of this one, probably only, complaint Larsson did spend a lot of time on character development. I began to really like Blomkvist, and got to know some of Salander's darkest secrets.
I recommend this book if you are someone who can be patient enough to wait out the less exciting parts to get to the really good stuff.
It did, however, take me a couple hundred pages before I really got into the story and got to the point that I couldn't put it down in anticipation of what was going to happen next.
On the upside of this one, probably only, complaint Larsson did spend a lot of time on character development. I began to really like Blomkvist, and got to know some of Salander's darkest secrets.
I recommend this book if you are someone who can be patient enough to wait out the less exciting parts to get to the really good stuff.
Amazing book! Larsson really grabs your attention, I wasn't able to put it down.
Tara R. (portabellopig) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 40 more book reviews
I've read a lot of complaints that GWTDT is over the top violent and unrealistic. Sadly, what happens to Salander is all too real and her reaction while over the top, is believeable for someone with her history and social abilities.
That said, I enjoyed the book. It's fluff in hard-crime clothing, throwing in random bits of sex more for fun than story or character development and giving us characters who would flabbergast most of us if we met even one of them in real life. BUT - I highly doubt Larsson ever intended for this to be read as "reality based in fiction"... most likely "fiction based in reality".
That said, I enjoyed the book. It's fluff in hard-crime clothing, throwing in random bits of sex more for fun than story or character development and giving us characters who would flabbergast most of us if we met even one of them in real life. BUT - I highly doubt Larsson ever intended for this to be read as "reality based in fiction"... most likely "fiction based in reality".
Hmm someone should write a summary of the first 150 pages, then it gets "can't put down" good.
Starts of kinda slow...but it gets AMAZING!
Excellent read. Sometimes hard to follow with the extended character list and family tree, but overall, definitely recommended. Original characters, twists, and plotline.
Dana R. (signinghands) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
I really tried. I could not read past page 50. Reading this just felt too much like work. Sorry.
This book took until page 90 to really get started. I almost gave up! I'm glad I didn't because the characters were very interesting and unusual, and the mystery was compelling. Some of the writing is a little strange--I wonder how much was lost in translation?
This book was very hard to put down once I started reading it. Every page offered suspense and action.
Andrea R. (whatarush) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 15 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book. It kept me interested the entire time and I really liked the way that it ended. I'm glad I had the chance to read this.
Excellent
Ashli S. (ashlinicole) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Unusual characters, great book! Scandals and twists around every turn!
Nancy D. (colafemina) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 83 more book reviews
As my kids say, "Meh." I'm not getting what's so great. It's predictable & formulaic, it's a guy-fantasy in which the middle aged magazine editor's magnetism for all women is hard to believe, and his idealized "no strings, friends with benefits" relationship with his best (girl)friend is presented as a given. It has the requisite evil Nazi and some atmospherics, but the motivation is not really fathomible and my eyes glazed over as the arcaine machinations of financial dealings were laid out to justify the existence of any interest at all. Overall, I'm not getting the hype. I certainly won't read any others by Larsson.
Jan K. (banana101) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Very good mystery. It has slow beginning but once we meat the title character, Lisbeth Salander, it gets interesting. It is very graphic in detail with lots of hars. The writer did a good job in that I thought I had it narrowed down but was surprised by the ending.
Jeannie D. (JeannieH) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
Ugh, this book. I had heard so many great things about it, but it took me forever to get into it. I think I just finished it because I don't like to bail on things I've started. It took 300 pages of endless over-description to get to the second half, which really took off. The twists and turns and action from page 300 on were great, only to lead to a very unsatisfying and hanging ending. I doubt that I will continue with this series. It just wasn't worth the effort.
.
.
Holly G. (holz-graves) -
Definitely worth the read, though a bit triggering for abuse victims.
It was a good read. I look forward to reading the whole series.
Kathy A. (feedtheneed2read) -
It took about 200 pages for me to really get into this book - picked it up and put it down several times - but it got really good and I'm now almost finished with the 2nd book and looking for the third.
Gwyn G. (gwynthewriter) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Well-paced and enjoyable to read.
No comment at this time
One of the best thrillers of this century! The characters are engaging, not stereotypical by any means. The plot pulled me in from the first page. Definitely one to stay up all night in order to finish:)
loved it....read all three books.....excellant reading.......
SUSAN S. (susieqmillsacoustics) -
This is an excellent mystery that keeps you guessing all the way through. It was a little difficult in the beginning to keep up with such a large cast of characters and suspects, but there is a chart of the family tree for easy reference that helps. There are some very interesting and unique characters. The mystery is solved, but there are some unanswered questions involving the lives of the characters that I hope will be answered in the next book in this series. This is a great read, compelling, but you are left needing to read the next one.
Excellant. This is a book for real readers. Not for wimps.
Amelia K. (mrsfitzwilliamdarcy) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Great story, I had seen these books everywhere and was interested in reading them because they got so much attention. The story starts off a bit slow in the beginning, and really starts to pick up about halfway through the book. Characters are engaging and it's got the promise of continuing to the next in the series.
Wow does this live up to the hype. Loved it.
Krista (berries674) -
Great book...loaded with suspense and intrigue. Can't wait to read the next two and see the film!
Diane D. (dianedo) -
Fabulous! Stieg Larsson has created a new female heroine in the form of tough as nails Lisbeth Salander.
Kay K. (quaker) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 123 more book reviews
Let me just say that my review is not one you should let sway you about reading this book... after 5 pages I could not go on, I just couldn't get into the language and names and such... I know the story would be good and I would like it, but I just couldn't go on, I have read many reviews and so wanted to read it and was excited when I found it at a yard sale, but its just not for me!!!
My husband and I both enjoyed this book and thought it was very well written.
Virginia H. (vannNY) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
The first few pages of this book are dry as dust but necessary for setting the stage for the ensuing fireworks.
Stieg Larsson's writing picks up momentum like an avalanche, barreling down a cliff. It leaves you breathless but wanting much more. His understanding of and portrayals of the characters are insightful, too real, and ultimately horrifying.
I am now hooked on the series.
Stieg Larsson's writing picks up momentum like an avalanche, barreling down a cliff. It leaves you breathless but wanting much more. His understanding of and portrayals of the characters are insightful, too real, and ultimately horrifying.
I am now hooked on the series.
A big meh.
The book could have been half as long and the there were surprisingly thin plot points, along with some serious cheesiness. I assumed this book would be more literary. I think it gets that label because it's set in a relatively exotic locale. Otherwise, I guess it gets high reviews by men because of a relationship that ironically shares shades of the crimes committed.
The book could have been half as long and the there were surprisingly thin plot points, along with some serious cheesiness. I assumed this book would be more literary. I think it gets that label because it's set in a relatively exotic locale. Otherwise, I guess it gets high reviews by men because of a relationship that ironically shares shades of the crimes committed.
This book seemed seriously long to me. I knew going in that the beginning was slow but was told the payoff was worth it. Not really. It was a good story, with good twists but some of it was just so slow I was dying. After the main stories were resolved I felt tortured by the last bit left to read. Overall I liked it but don't plan on reading the other 2 anytime soon.
Ray G. (ramsfanray) -
I liked the story, but found Lisbet (the girl that the title referenced) to be completely useless. I don't mean that she isn't smart or talented, but she didn't really serve a purpose to the story. It was kind of bait and switch. You would think that since the title of the book is about her, that the plot of the book would be about her. She's in a supporting role.
As I said, I liked the story. The mystery of a girl that has been missing for 40 years was interesting and the revelations were both shocking and unexpected.
But the girl with the dragon tatoo was not relevant to the story at all.
As I said, I liked the story. The mystery of a girl that has been missing for 40 years was interesting and the revelations were both shocking and unexpected.
But the girl with the dragon tatoo was not relevant to the story at all.
Kayla T. (kaylamariet) -
Good read, but not good enough for me to pick up the remainder of the books in the series. Maybe someday when I don't have so many other books to read!
Michelle N. (ratgirl) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
It starts out real slow, but once it takes off, I couldn't put it down. I had it finished in 2 days! The main character is fascinating. From a psychological point of view the author did a great job of getting inside her head and her past life to build her character and flesh it out. I would highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the trilogy. I am only disappointed to learn that the author passed away shortly after giving the book to the publisher, and therefore, there will be no more books forthcoming after the third book. It would be nice if a ghost writer could continue the series.
I enjoyed reading this book. The story is intriguing and the plot inter woven. The ending was not what I thought it would be. Very good 4 stars out of 5.
Jessica K. (modest-mama) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
Vivid and intimate story, but deeply disturbing.
Shirley W. (shymntwolf) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
hard for me to get into this book
Jim D. (theloper) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
great read
Regina C. (flyinggems) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 451 more book reviews
I found this book very dry, I only made it to page 130. I saw the movie and it too was dry but interesting.
Millennium Trilogy
1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
2. The Girl who played with Fire
3. The Girl who Kicked the Hornets Nest
Millennium Trilogy
1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
2. The Girl who played with Fire
3. The Girl who Kicked the Hornets Nest
Dorothi A. (Madkins) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
loved it...but graphic
Shay K. (CityGirl56) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 27 more book reviews
It was a great book, now I know why everyone's been reading it. I'm on to the 2nd one now.
Carol R. (hansmrs) - reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 132 more book reviews
What can I say or not say about this book. Had I known it's vulgarity contents I would not have read it. Why does an author have to be so graphic in his subject matter? This was a well written suspense/thriller without the necessary details of S&M, vulgar words, animal cruelty, murder etc. Sure once I was into the second part I had to find out the who did it part. This book was very disturbing to say the least. I suppose sex & violence sell! I am also flabbergasted where this author thinks of these vile events. Knowing I am in the minority here on the reveiw of this book as a five star, still will not pass this on to anyone. Goes in the trash bin. Give me better authors as Nicholas Sparks, Michner, Macomber, Richard Paul Evans. They have class. Regretfully, is this what people want to read about, murders, eveilness. sex etc? God help us! Come on readers' be more selective & be entertained than shocked into a book.
Joan W. (justreadingabook) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1726 more book reviews
This books grabs you from the first page and does not stop! A wild ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Excellent storyline, well developed characters and a plot that is unreal!
Maureen S. (Goldyloxn4bears) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Awesome book, starts slowly but then picks up and is a great read. Read it through a book club and we all enjoyed talking about it.
Melissa G. (mysterym) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 56 more book reviews
this is one of the greatest series ever written. If you like mysteries, foreign countries, suspense, differnt types of characters, or anything else, read it and the two that follow. This is an international sensation. Whenever traveling, I always meet people, from the U.S. and other countries, who have read it. It is a great topic for discussion.
Kathleen Marie (kathleenmarie) -
Like many said, it took me awhile to get into the story but once I did (about 90 pages in - I was glad I stuck with it. I did not enjoy the graphic sexual torture scenes - I think they could have been toned down and still made an impact but the story is an amazing one. The key players Blonkvist and Salander are characters you are just starting to get to know in this first story in the series. I am happy there are two more books in which I will get to know them better.
These stories also have a message that let us know that things need change for woman, the abused and so forth.
I am looking forward to the movie -- I just hope Hollywood doesn't screw it up :)
These stories also have a message that let us know that things need change for woman, the abused and so forth.
I am looking forward to the movie -- I just hope Hollywood doesn't screw it up :)
Sandra R. - , reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 189 more book reviews
Two unlikly people become partner detectives in solving a family mystery. Through many twist and turns Lisbeth and Mikeal became friends and more. The mystery is solved a murder is prevented and the family name is saved in the end.
I stay up all night reading as mush as I could. Than ordered the two other books to finish the story.
I stay up all night reading as mush as I could. Than ordered the two other books to finish the story.
Wayne H. (vonheig) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
an unusual thriller...excellent..hard to put down
Excellent book. Full of suspense.
This book was excellent! The more I read, the more I wanted to keep reading it!
Marcia B. (brownsvillebirdlady) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Can't wait for the final book to be published in the U.S. This one and his other were SO good.
Robin H. (grateful61) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 17 more book reviews
Couldn't put this book down - read it in 1 weekend. I will be reading the other 2 in the trilogy for sure!
Janice F. (jsf-60) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
I rated this a 5 in spite of the (at times) sexual content (not being a voyeur)that I skipped over. I love the skillful characterization, especially main character.
enjoyed reading this book. intrigue and a little mystery.
So many friends recommended this book yet warned that it has a slow start, but by page 300 I was still waiting for it to be good. The content was way too disturbing for me and I don't feel the main character was well-developed.
Greatly enjoyed it! Disturbing subplots add depth to the suspense; great storytelling and interesting characters.
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 1452 more book reviews
While I am often disappointed by popular books this one is outstanding in so many ways. The plot twists and turns, the characters are complex and interesting, and the story is one that keeps you reading and reading and reading. There are many levels of characters that the author develops just enough you feel you know them. Meet Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist,and Lisabeth Salander, who has been shafted by society in so many ways. She is a survivor with a photographic memory whose tattooed, punk image puts most people off. They are the key individuals in this novel, who are thrown together to solve the mystery of the disappearance of Harriet Vanger and work together to uncover the story behind the Wennerstrom empire which is not just unethical but illegal. I rarely give a book 5 stars. For me 3 or 4 stars means a book is worth reading. I can't wait to read the next one in the series and neither will you if you take time to check this one out.
Stieg Larsson's The girl With the Dragon Tattoo was the best book that I have read since Angels's Ashes! I am a avid reader and I devour books with a passion. However, many of the currest best'sellers lack the creativity and the storeyline of book 1 of this trilogy.The characters are flwaed, but likeable..and the storyline..wow! Upon receiving the book I began on Chapter 1 and became so immersed in the book, I had to finish it in two days. I am now awaiting book 2 from Paperback Swap with anticipation. I hope it is as exhilirating as the first book!
Only reason for just 4.5 stars is Played With Fire is was the best in my opinion. Listened to audiobooks and love the narrator's voices, especially Lisbeth.
Excellent book - intriguing plotline and interesting characters. Worth the read.
Shawna D. (SAD) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 55 more book reviews
Blah, Blah, Blah... If you can get through the first 100 pages the book is very good. I ended up skimming through the first part which didn't seem to add much, if anything to the story. I never had to go back to figure out what was going on. Sum up the first part in a chapter or two, and the book is outstanding. Wonder if they have a condensed version for the others, I don't think I can slog through another 'wordy' book like this.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It took a while to get into it and to get used to the Swedish names of people and places, but once I did I found story riveting, and the characters interesting.
Janine H. (4beanie) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
This book ROCKS. If you have plans, don't start reading this book, as you will need to DROP EVERYTHING to read and read and read. You will not get enough, so you will need to also read book two and three! That is my story and I am sticking to it!!!!
Diane K. (dkovach) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
Best book ever !!
Robin M. (piglover) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 30 more book reviews
At the suggestion of a friend, I read this book. It took me over 200 pages before I got into it. There was a lot of unnecessary (or so I thought) background at first and a lot of characters. After getting halfway through the book, I WAS HOOKED. It was interesting, suspenseful and really kept you guessing on what was going to happen. I was not able to put it down. As I neared the end, I phoned my friend and asked to immediately borrow the 2nd book in this series. I highly recommend this read, but hang with it and it will be worth your time.
The title does not say much, but I found this book to be very interesting, well written in a simple manner without too much description. I liked it so much that I am reading the second book: "The Girl who Played with Fire" and I already downloaded "The Girl who Kicked the Hornet's Nest" in my Nook.
Christine (luvmygem) -
This book was pretty good, but I found myself getting bored with one of the plots, and the darker plot was somewhat predictable. A redeeming unforeseen-by-me twist won me over, so all in all I did like this book, and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
Samantha T. (sammyg) -
This book started out slow but once I got into it, I could not put it down. In my opinion it is the best book in the series.
Evelyn M. (Foxy1957) - reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 24 more book reviews
This is a great book to read. Keep you in your toes all the time wondering what is going to happens next. Multiple mysteries with different endings.
I saw the movie first and was so intrigued that I knew there had to be more to it. I have since read this one ,plus the second , even better than the first and am now starting the 3rd.
A great read! Well written with characters we come to know , love or hate.
Not an easy story to follow but well worth it if you can follow the Swedish terminology and geography, which is actually not necessary. A great story follows. Looking forward to more movies. esp. Lizbeth, can live on forever!
A great read! Well written with characters we come to know , love or hate.
Not an easy story to follow but well worth it if you can follow the Swedish terminology and geography, which is actually not necessary. A great story follows. Looking forward to more movies. esp. Lizbeth, can live on forever!
I may be the only person in the universe, but I thought this book was a total loser. The start was boring, the violence was gratuitous and the socio-politics of the US are not of great interest presented thusly, much less Sweden's. Evidently, in Sweden 22 year olds really do know everything. I don't have a lot of time to read and I really resent spending my limited time on this type of drek because it's currently the "in" book. I won't read the others nor see the movies.
It takes about 100 pages to get hooked and get sucked into the plot but once you are there it becomes addictive. I like his writing style but it is hard to follow the setting because I haven't even heard of many of the towns. I will read the next book. It's on my wish list.Linda
Tina A. (paintnmynails) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 25 more book reviews
I absolutely hated the first 50 pages. Just was not interested in the subject matter at all. I stayed with it. So glad. Once the main character is introduced the book really gets interesting. So glad I stuck it out. Great read. Lead to me reading the entire series and watching the films.
Wendy P. (dontdropyourarms) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
This book started slow, there were a lot of details to muddle through, but I became intrigued and would look forward to reading it, when, BAM, about a third of the way through there was a detailed description of a rape. After that the book became very unbelievable, the immediate reaction of the heroine to this rape was very, very unrealistic, the male author makes the mistake of trying to write how she felt about it. It is one of those disappointing books where the male author writes about the feelings and motives of the female lead character, and utterly and completely misses the mark. The rest of the book goes downhill from there. What starts out as a promising and interesting book, slides into the muck and filth of sadism, all the while describing the acts in gory detail. No thanks, I will not be reading the rest of the series.
Marie L. (redmarie) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
I started this series but did not get past the first book. This is a series that fetishizes a real woman whom the author watched get brutally gang raped by his friends. In my opinion, it also fetishizes rape and violence against women in general.
Unless your idea of a good read is graphic scenes of rape and violence against women followed by equally heinous acts on the perpetrators by the "heroine", stay away from this one.
Unless your idea of a good read is graphic scenes of rape and violence against women followed by equally heinous acts on the perpetrators by the "heroine", stay away from this one.
Tabatha B. (lylathewicked) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 48 more book reviews
The first half of this novel was absolute sh*t. Why? Because it was long drawn out crap that could have easily been summarized, and should have been. I felt that the majority of it was entirely unnecessary to the story itself.
The second half of this book (well most of it) was rather good. I feel that this second half should have actually been the complete novel.
Near the end, say about the last 80 or so pages should have also been summarized. There was a lot of totally unnecessary wording incorporated into this story that really, it would have been stronger without.
All in all, this book was hard to get through. It took me about 3 or 4 months to get through.
I was expecting a fantastic novel with a great storyline and some really great characters. Instead, I was...how do I put this...It was unrewarding. It seemed stale. I guess after having read mystery/crime novels like Dashiell Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, I just can't respect ones like The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo. Needless to say, I will not be reading the next in this series.
The second half of this book (well most of it) was rather good. I feel that this second half should have actually been the complete novel.
Near the end, say about the last 80 or so pages should have also been summarized. There was a lot of totally unnecessary wording incorporated into this story that really, it would have been stronger without.
All in all, this book was hard to get through. It took me about 3 or 4 months to get through.
I was expecting a fantastic novel with a great storyline and some really great characters. Instead, I was...how do I put this...It was unrewarding. It seemed stale. I guess after having read mystery/crime novels like Dashiell Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, I just can't respect ones like The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo. Needless to say, I will not be reading the next in this series.
Stacy B. (stacems) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Took me awhile to get into this book... It wasn't the greatest.
Nadya W. (2sunflowers) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
This was a good page turning read.
Jennifer P. (favoritern) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 55 more book reviews
Slow in the beginning but picks up half way through. Difficult to follow in the beginning. Interesting story regarding a family with deep seeded issues. I found the main characters to be intriguing and unique.
I could not put it down
Cheryl W. (marfeeya) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
fantastic
Amy H. (IntrepidOne) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 157 more book reviews
Not my cup of tea. Didn't finish it because the beginning was insanely boring.
good movie. slow book
Jacqueline C. (jcluvscats) -
I thought this book was phenomenal. Had a hard time putting it down and that hasn't been the case with a book for awhile.
Great mystery. Draws you in and keeps you coming back for more.
It's a roller coaster ride!!! I loved it!
Cameron D. (camnicole) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
its a little hard to get into but, its entertaining overall.
I loved it!
Good read.
Lauren G. (noni3927) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Loved it
Susan H. (Higfin) reviewed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, Bk 1) on + 227 more book reviews
I did not read this book.
