I've heard so much talk about Larsson's books and was so looking forward to reading one. My daughter gave me this book for Christmas. When I found out it was book 2 in a 3-book series I tried to mooch the first one. It never became available. After I did a small search through blogs, I discovered that the first book had a lot of deviant sex throughout and I decided I would skip it.
I read over 90 pages and found I didn't care to read on. Salander sounded like an interesting character but I felt like I had missed much of her character development that I assume happened in the first book. I felt like I was hanging in mid air trying to fit the pieces together. And does the first bit about the couple in Grenada have anything to do with the rest of the book or was that just a side story thrown in right at the start of the book to further confuse and bewilder the not-too-savvy reader?
I ran across a brief article where I learned that the author may have based his ideas for Salander on a grown-up version of Pippi Longstockings. If that's true, I thought he hit the mark right on the head. I mean, just imagine what type of adult that delightful misfit of a girl would be.
I may have to go back to this book some day because even as I write this I wonder what will happen as Bjurman seeks his revenge from Salander. Or maybe someone can just tell me...
Has anyone read this series and if so, what do you think? Did you like the books? Is it a MUST to read the first book? Should I try again or am I just too dense to ever catch on?
10 comments:
I definitely think this is one of those series where you need to read it in order, because you need to understand how Lisbeth came to be the woman she was, to understand her relationship with Mikael, her motivations, and the intricate relationships involved.
I agree with Marg--you need to start with the first book. I just posted a review on my blog a few days ago (for the first two books). The books are graphic in their treatment of violence/sex, but it is intermittent, not constant, and it fits in the context of the novels (which are, in the end, based on a highly moral view of the world). Hope this helps! I couldn't put either book down.
I just bought the first book a few days ago as I have heard so many wonderful things about the series. I hope you try the first book! :)
Have a super weekend!
I have to admit that while I really enjoyed the first book, the further away I am from reading it, the more I realize it was written as a thriller. I have the second book but am not in a hurry to read it. It's something about the writing, I've decided. Don't get me wrong, the story is good, it's interesting. It is a decent read. Just not worth all the excitement - it's not the best mystery series at all, I think.
I read the first book with my husband, and we didn't really like it all that much. Too much needless description and the plot was a little convoluted. That being said, I can't imagine reading the second book without reading the first, as it would probably be as confusing as all get out. The first book does expound a lot on Salander, and gives a really in-depth background of her life and story. I wish I still had this book in my stacks. That way I could send it to you!!
I appreciate your comments. Unfortunately, I'm still indecisive and who can blame me - you guys are, too. Two in favor and 2 not thrilled. Maybe I should just move on, after all, there's no dearth of good books.
I haven't read this series yet, but it is on the to-do list for me this summer. I tend to always read series books in order, I'm a bit crazy about that.
Oh my gosh I want to read this so bad. My problem is that I want to read EVERY book so bad. I can't get to them fast enough!
Thanks for the review. I'll be sure to read the first one first and see if that helps :)
Yes definitely you have to read the first novel to make any sense of the second. Both books though spend over a 100 pages setting the scene for the book and so it is frustrating to read because its like "what does this have to do with anything."
I read the first for my book club, and while I wound up thoroughly enjoying it, I thought it was tough to get interested in until I was a few chapters in. I started listening to #2 just yesterday morning and so far, I'm enjoying it. I'll be listening to it in my car, so it may be a month before I actually finish! But to answer your question, it's a trilogy that needs to be read in order. And, so far, I can't say if I love the characters or writing. I am, however, going to watch the video (of the first book) tomorrow night. Maybe you could do that in lieu of reading the book.
Post a Comment