A review by orionmerlin
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Characters: 9/10

Addie LaRue and Luc were deeply memorable characters, and their layered personalities made them captivating throughout the story. I found myself fully invested in their struggles, desires, and emotional journeys. Henry added another dimension, his vulnerability and emotional depth making him a standout secondary protagonist. While some secondary characters, like Bea and Robbie, served their narrative purposes well, they felt slightly underdeveloped compared to the main cast. That said, the richness of the protagonists more than compensated for this, leaving a strong impression.

Atmosphere/Setting: 10/10

Schwab’s world-building was masterful, pulling me fully into the diverse settings of 18th-century France and contemporary New York. The vivid descriptions and haunting atmosphere made every scene feel alive and immersive. I could vividly picture the environments and felt the emotional energy of every moment. The recurring tone of longing and defiance tied the story together beautifully. Even when certain descriptions were repeated, they reinforced the narrative's emotional weight rather than detracting from it.

Writing Style: 10/10

The writing was stunning. Schwab’s lyrical prose created a dreamlike quality that was both effortless and deeply engaging. The balance between dialogue and narration flowed seamlessly, and the transitions across timelines were handled with finesse. The evocative language elevated both the grand moments and the subtle ones, making every scene feel significant. I loved the style so much that I’d gladly pick up any other book by this author, regardless of its genre.

Plot: 9/10

The plot was unique and kept me hooked from the start. The blend of historical fiction and magical realism felt fresh and innovative, and the pacing was generally excellent. The emotional beats and twists were well-placed, and the ending was satisfying while leaving me with much to reflect on. There were moments where the narrative lingered too long on certain periods of Addie’s life, which felt slightly repetitive. However, these were outweighed by the overall richness and depth of the story.

Intrigue: 10/10

The concept of living an invisible life and making a deal with Luc was utterly engrossing. I constantly wanted to know what would happen next, how Addie would navigate her challenges, and how her relationships would evolve. The tension and stakes were palpable throughout. Even during the slower reflective moments, I felt the pull of the story’s intrigue and its emotional weight. I couldn’t wait to return to it whenever I had to set it down.

Logic/Relationships: 9/10

The relationships, particularly between Addie and Luc, were compelling and emotionally resonant. The magic system and the rules of the curse were clear and well-defined, creating a believable framework for the story’s events. There were minor inconsistencies, such as Addie’s influence through art and memories, which felt a little unclear at times. However, these moments didn’t detract significantly from the overall coherence. Henry’s deal was intriguing, and I appreciated how it paralleled Addie’s own struggles, even if it could have been explored in more depth.

Enjoyment: 10/10

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was an emotional, thought-provoking, and beautifully written story that left a lasting impression on me. The balance of melancholy and hope created a moving experience, and Schwab’s ability to evoke powerful emotions made it a joy to read. The slower sections didn’t diminish my overall enjoyment, as the emotional payoff and stunning writing carried me through effortlessly.