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A review by michellefromsomewhere
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
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
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue was an instant favorite of mine. I see this being a book I reread over and over, just to revisit the magic. Magical realism is so artfully crafted in this story, with the world seeming both familiar and mystical, full of the mundane and the exciting. The writing is absolutely beautiful, and pack so much emotion into the simplest of sentences. The characters are both likeable and believable, including the protagonist, Addie, whose journey is at the same time heartbreaking and hopeful. Her wit and resilience keep you cheering for her. I've seen critiques of this book that "there isn't a strong enough plot" and I cannot believe we are reading the same book. I love the jumping timelines, and thought it was a unique and well-executed tool for story telling without being confusing, because it's easy to know where we are and when.
On a personal note, I am from New York City, and loved the city's portrayal in this work. I've always lamented that you could live here your whole life and never be able to try every restaurant, or visit every store. V.E. Schwab captured that feeling so beautifully. I felt so seen, and I'm sure that really resonated with anyone who has spent a chunk of time in NYC.
On a personal note, I am from New York City, and loved the city's portrayal in this work. I've always lamented that you could live here your whole life and never be able to try every restaurant, or visit every store. V.E. Schwab captured that feeling so beautifully. I felt so seen, and I'm sure that really resonated with anyone who has spent a chunk of time in NYC.