One sentence summary
In V.E. Schwab’s haunting modern fable, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, a young woman who makes a deal with a dark force to live forever suddenly finds herself wishing for death.
Book genre
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is a historical fiction/fantasy novel.
Main topic of the book
The main topic of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is the idea of age, mortality, and life’s persistent persistence.
Key ideas
The key ideas in The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue are the beliefs that:
- a life lived without risk is not really living;
- the most meaningful moments are often hidden from view;
- the choices we make define us;
- true freedom is found within;
- the heart’s desires can lead us to unimaginable realms;
- we have the power to be reborn;
- the power of love helps us create our own immortality.
Main parts of the book and a short summary
The book is subdivided into three parts.
- Part One: The Deal – This introduces us to Addie LaRue, a young woman in France in 1714 who makes a deal with a dark force in exchange for an immortal life. She soon learns to her great regret that she can be seen and remembered by no one.
- Part Two: The Search – Three hundred years later, Addie finds herself in modern-day New York City, desperate for a way out of her unending existence. With nowhere else to turn, she finds solace in the arts. She unexpectedly meets a stranger who might be able to help her in her search for freedom.
- Part Three: The Return – Addie eventually is able to find the courage to make the ultimate decision, one that will change her life forever. With the help of her newfound friends, she unlocks the secrets of her mysterious past and discovers the true meaning of life, love, and belonging.
Key takeaways
- We all have a limited time in our lives and taking risks is a necessary part of living a meaningful life.
- We have the power to create our own immortality through the impact we make on the lives of those around us.
- The power of love is one of the most powerful forces in the universe.
- In the dark times there is always something to look forward to.
Author’s background and qualifications
V. E. Schwab is an award-winning American author of fantasy and science fiction novels. She has written such works as A Darker Shade of Magic, Vicious, and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. She has won multiple awards, including the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Science Fiction and Fantasy, and her books have been translated into over twenty languages.
Target audience
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is an excellent read for anyone interested in the exploration of age and mortality, fantasy and moving human stories. It is suitable for a wide range of readers, from young adults to adults.
Publisher and first publication date
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue was published by Tor/Forge Books in October 2020.