The difference in writing style continues to be very apparent in this 5th book, the 2nd by Lagercrantz. As I mentioned in my review of the previous book, perhaps it’s because the original three books by Larsson truly set a precedent for the feel of the series. Larsson’s novels were incredibly detailed, sharing the minutae of the characters’ backstories and everyday goings-on. Lagercrantz has eliminated all of that, which feels as if it takes an essential element away from the series as Larsson created it. Because of it, the reader never really gets to see/understand how the characters think or their motivations. As a result, at least for me, it makes the story feel a little less Millenium-y. And adding to that less than Millenium-y feeling was the lesser role that Blomqvist seemed to play in this story. Lisbeth truly had the starring role of this book, and while I love her as a FMC, I do miss the interaction and dynamic between them.
However, I appreciate that the storylines continue to be unapologetically hard-hitting. This one had twin storylines. One focused on a Muslim woman who was regularly brutalized in the same prison in which Lisbeth served her time. Faria’s story was often uncomfortable to read, as it toed the line between cultural issues and a woman’s rights. The other storyline married Lisbeth’s past with the present, as dark and deeply convoluted as much of her history. It was an intriguing story with a lot of twists and turns that I couldn’t get enough of!