Blomkvist moves to Hedeby Island and stays in the same guesthouse he lived in with his family in 1963. Vanger encourages Blomkvist to question his relatives and the locals and begins identifying his neighbors. Gunnar Nilsson lives across the street and works as the property manager. Next door is 92-year-old Harald, Vanger’s estranged and reclusive brother. Other notable residents include Harald’s daughter, Cecilia Vanger, and Harriet’s mother, Isabella. At the end of the row, Martin Vanger, Harriet’s brother, lives in a distinctly modern home that contrasts with the older stone structures. Vanger adds that Cecilia is a sharp-witted teacher whom he highly respects. However, he encourages Blomkvist to regard each person as a suspect and not let Vanger’s biases influence him.

Blomkvist settles into his quiet and bare surroundings. The region was hit by a snowstorm and the temperature remains below zero. He calls Berger several times on his cellphone but only reaches her voicemail. He purchases winter clothes and arranges to get internet access installed in his home. Gunnar delivers several boxes that contain extensive files on Harriet’s case. The solitude and biting cold leave Blomkvist feeling depressed. His only companion is a stray cat who seeks refuge from the cold.