A review by novelyon
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

challenging dark informative mysterious sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

A book with a fascinating main mystery, with clear and direct prose that makes the clues and their implications easy to understand. However, the subplots in the novel, such as the character Lisbeth's struggle against her ward and the drama surrounding the protagonist's financial magazine, aren't nearly as captivating. The direct prose and dialogue becomes dry in these segments, and there are some disturbing aspects to Lisbeth's story that would change nothing if they were removed. Lisbeth did not need much to establish that she's hardcore, yet the book goes to some unnecessary lengths to make that impression.
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