Stieg Larsson’s Millennium Trilogy introduced readers to Lisbeth Salander, one of the most complex female protagonists in the recent history of the crime thriller genre. The first book, ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’, hooked readers worldwide, leading to translations in many languages and adaptations into a mini-series and a feature film. The second book in the trilogy, ‘The Girl Who Played with Fire’, dives into Lisbeth Salander’s backstory and furthers the plot.
Steig Larsson has developed the character of Lisbeth Salander in great detail. ‘The Girl Who Played with Fire’ explores her haunting past and its connections with her personality and the present plotline. As the plot progresses, Salander’s character development from a troubled and exploited individual to a confident, complex, morally guided protagonist is remarkable. It makes her an incredibly compelling and unforgettable character in the recent thriller genre.
The other central character, Mikael Blomkvist, is portrayed as an investigative journalist working for the titular ‘Millenium’ Magzine. He is still adapting to his newfound fame and success following the events of ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’. Blomkvist’s relationship with Salander is shown as very complex throughout the plot. However, their unwavering faith and support for each other form the backbone of the plot. Blomkvist’s strong moral compass, which guides his relentless pursuit of the truth, makes him an admirable character.
The central plot of ‘The Girl Who Played with Fire’ is based on three murders that involve two investigative journalists. These journalists were about to publish an article in collaboration with ‘Millenium’ to expose a sex-trafficking operation ring. The third murder victim is Nils Bjurman, the legal guardian of Lisbeth Salander. By some coincidence, Lisbeth was present at one of the crime scenes, thus becoming implicated in the murders and becoming a fugitive. Throughout the plot that follows, she works to investigate and uncover the truth of the murders, which brings her face-to-face with her troubled and haunting past.
Meanwhile, convinced of her innocence, Mikael Blomkvist conducts his own investigation to uncover the truth and clear her name. What follows is a thrilling ride into Lisbeth’s past, replete with mystery, corruption, politics, spies and revelations about Lisbeth’s family and key events from her past life that scarred her life and affected her personality. The plot culminates in a confrontation with figures from her past and revelations about her family.
Steig Larsson’s masterful storytelling with a keen eye for detail is evident in his vivid descriptions of the world and detailed dialogues of characters. His ability to build and maintain tension throughout the story keeps readers engaged and invested in the plot. Larsson’s writing style is simple yet powerful and descriptive, allowing readers to appreciate the character depths and plot nuances fully.
Overall, Stieg Larsson creates timeless characters in his Millenium trilogy. ‘The Girl Who Played With Fire’ further showcases Larsson’s craft in creating emotionally impactful and engaging stories. With its elaborate plot, profound and vivid character development and Larsson’s distinctive narrative style, ‘The Girl Who Played with Fire’ solidifies the Millenium Trilogy as a contemporary masterpiece in the thriller genre.
My Rating:- ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Goodreads Rating: 4.25
The Girl Who Played with Fire Book Reviewed On:
- e-book
- Total Pages: 570
- Genre: Fiction/Thriller
- The Girl Who Played with Fire by Steig Larsson
