Scan barcode
A review by dragoninwinterfell
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
As my first experience with V.E. Schwab’s work, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue completely captivated me. The prose is nothing short of lovely, weaving a story that feels both ethereal and deeply human. The premise alone is fascinating—Addie’s wish for freedom to explore the world comes at the heartbreaking cost of being forgotten by everyone she meets. This tension between boundless freedom for as long as she wants it and profound isolation for centurie creates a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is poignant.
Addie’s struggles with morality and survival as she navigates a life without permanent connections or support systems are beautifully explored. Every moment of her existence is a fight, and the choices she’s forced to make add layers of complexity to her character. The dual timelines—Addie’s life in 2014 and the 300 years leading up to it—are masterfully balanced, offering both a historical journey through different eras and a deeply personal, present-day struggle.
The incorporation of art into the story was particularly powerful, adding a sense of permanence and legacy to a life that is otherwise fleeting. Schwab’s ability to tie Addie’s invisible existence to enduring creative expressions gave the story an emotional depth that lingered long after I finished reading.
This is a stunning, bittersweet tale of love, loss, and the human desire to leave a mark on the world. For readers who crave beautiful writing and rich, thematic storytelling, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is an unforgettable experience. Pun intended.
Addie’s struggles with morality and survival as she navigates a life without permanent connections or support systems are beautifully explored. Every moment of her existence is a fight, and the choices she’s forced to make add layers of complexity to her character. The dual timelines—Addie’s life in 2014 and the 300 years leading up to it—are masterfully balanced, offering both a historical journey through different eras and a deeply personal, present-day struggle.
The incorporation of art into the story was particularly powerful, adding a sense of permanence and legacy to a life that is otherwise fleeting. Schwab’s ability to tie Addie’s invisible existence to enduring creative expressions gave the story an emotional depth that lingered long after I finished reading.
This is a stunning, bittersweet tale of love, loss, and the human desire to leave a mark on the world. For readers who crave beautiful writing and rich, thematic storytelling, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is an unforgettable experience. Pun intended.