The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – A Hauntingly Beautiful Book Review
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in moments and not think in days or weeks; to believe that pain can be beautiful - transformative and creative? That haunting premise is at the heart of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, a fantasy novel that surprised me in all the best ways.
“Stories come in so many forms: in charcoal and in songs, in paintings, poems, films. And books.”
As someone who typically leans toward historical fiction and avoids fantasy, I didn’t expect this book to resonate so deeply. But V.E. Schwab shattered those expectations with a story that is equal parts poetic, introspective, and unforgettable.
A Deal That Haunts
Addie LaRue is a curious, restless girl born in 18th-century France who dares to want more from life than what her small village can offer. In a desperate moment, she makes a deal with a dark god to gain her freedom. Freedom is granted—but as Estelle said, ‘The old gods are fickle…’—there is a price to pay.
From that moment, her life becomes a solitary journey across centuries and continents, marked by resilience, reinvention, and quiet rebellion. Through art, music, literature, and fleeting moments with strangers, she finds ways to leave a mark.
It’s a story that asks:
What does it mean to be truly seen?
What would you trade for freedom?
Is it better to be remembered—or forgotten completely?
Why It Felt Personal
This book spoke to so many of the things I hold dear: art, history, travel, music, museums, old films, and the timeless pull of wanderlust. Schwab’s lyrical writing transports you from the cobbled streets of Montmartre to hidden corners of New York City. It’s atmospheric and richly detailed, like slipping into a dream.
More than that, it’s a meditation on **the art of living**—how we create meaning, how we cope with invisibility, and how even forgotten lives can echo through time. “You are Art.” That, I think, is the heart of the book.
Characters That Stay With You
Addie is unforgettable. Watching her evolve—learning languages, exploring new cities, and navigating the crushing loneliness of her curse—is fascinating, inspiring, and quietly devastating.
Henry, oh Henry. His vulnerability and struggles with self-worth and identity are tender, relatable, and deeply moving. Am I enough? Will I be remembered for who I really am?
Luc, a gorgeous dark god—magnetic and terrifying. He’s layered, seductive, and complicated in all the best (and worst) ways.
Estelle, Isabelle, Mateo, Tabitha, Bea, Robbie… and so many others who add layers of magic and humanity to the story.
Why This Book Lingers
Reading The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue felt like falling into a slow, melodic song—beautiful, melancholic, and impossible to forget. It’s a story that lingers in your thoughts long after the last page and subtly shifts how you see the world.
I have created a playlist inspired by Addie’s journey and am so looking forward to seeing how this story is brought to life on screen. If you are someone who loves:
Poetic prose
Thoughtful, layered characters
Slow-burn emotional depth
Questions about memory, legacy, identity, culture, and travel… this book might just steal your heart.
Rating The Book
I don’t give books star ratings—because reading is deeply personal. What resonates with me might not land the same way for you.
With that said, I never expected to fall in love with a book that dances so delicately on the edge of fantasy—but The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue was a stunning surprise. It’s not a fast-paced thriller. It’s a quiet storm. A reflection. A reminder that sometimes, the most invisible lives leave the deepest imprint.
“Seven parts. Seven freckles. One unforgettable Addie LaRue.” Lovely!
Buy the book here
Illustrated edition here
Listen to the Playlist Inspired by Addie’s Journey
While we wait for the Addie LaRue adaptation, here are a few other titles I’ve read recently and loved:
The Nightingale — Historical fiction that broke me (in the best way)
The Candy House — A wildly inventive exploration of memory and tech
Family Lore — A beautiful read to honor Hispanic Heritage Month
True Biz — A powerful, layered story I can’t wait to write about next
Let’s Talk About It
Have you read The Invisible Life Of Addie LaRue?
What resonated with you the most?
Do you have a song that captures the spirit of the book?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—or share your playlist recs! I’d love to know what moved you. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below—let’s celebrate this hauntingly beautiful story together.