Summary
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is a genre-defying fantasy novel by V. E. Schwab, published in 2020. This New York Times bestseller captivated readers with its unique premise: a young woman cursed to live forever, yet forgotten by everyone she meets. Schwab's masterful storytelling spans centuries and continents, weaving a tale of resilience, art, and the human desire to leave a mark on the world.
The audiobook version, narrated by Julia Whelan, has received critical acclaim for its emotive and nuanced performance. Whelan's portrayal of Addie LaRue and the darkness that surrounds her has been described as “unforgettable” and “smooth with a low cadence,” drawing listeners into the protagonist's extraordinary journey through time.
Plot
In 1714 France, a young woman named Addie LaRue makes a desperate bargain with a dark entity to live forever. However, the deal comes with a cruel twist—she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Addie's extraordinary life begins, spanning centuries and continents as she attempts to leave her mark on the world despite her curse.
For nearly 300 years, Addie experiences history unfolding around her, subtly influencing people and inspiring art and music about her. She develops a complex relationship with the dark god she names Luc, who visits her annually to tempt her into surrendering her soul. Their connection deepens over decades until Addie realizes it may just be another ploy to claim her.
Everything changes in 2014 when Addie encounters Henry Strauss, a young man in a hidden bookstore who can inexplicably remember her. As they become romantically involved, Addie discovers Henry made his own supernatural deal—he has only 35 days left to live, during which time people see in him what they most desire. This allowed him to fulfill Addie's deepest wish of being remembered.
Faced with Henry's impending death, Addie strikes a new bargain with Luc. She agrees to go with him if he spares Henry's life. Two years later, Addie finds a book titled The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue in a London bookstore. Though the author is unknown, she realizes it's Henry's way of saying he remembers her. The story concludes with Addie vowing to make Luc hate her again so she can regain her freedom, no matter how long it takes.
Themes
The price of immortality
The struggle for identity and recognition
The power of memory and being remembered
The influence of art and creativity
The nature of love and relationships
The concept of freedom and its limitations
The impact of time on human experience
Setting
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue spans nearly three centuries, from 1714 to the present day. The story begins in 18th-century France, where young Addie makes her fateful bargain. As she embarks on her immortal journey, the narrative sweeps across continents and through major historical events, offering glimpses of different eras and societies.
While the novel traverses various locations, two settings stand out prominently. First is Addie's hometown of Villon, a small village in rural France where her story begins. This quaint setting provides a stark contrast to the second major locale: modern-day New York City. The bustling metropolis serves as the backdrop for Addie's encounters with Henry and her navigation of contemporary life.
Throughout the book, readers are transported to numerous other places as Addie wanders the world. From the streets of Paris to the beaches of Italy, and from war-torn landscapes to peaceful countryside retreats, the ever-changing settings reflect Addie's timeless existence. These diverse backdrops not only showcase the protagonist's extensive travels but also highlight the evolving world around her unchanging self.
Characters
Adeline “Addie” LaRue: The protagonist who makes a deal with a dark god for immortality but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Addie is resilient, creative, and determined to leave her mark on the world despite her curse. She travels through time and across continents, influencing art and history in subtle ways. Addie's journey spans three centuries as she learns to navigate her unique existence and searches for connection.
Henry Strauss: A young man Addie meets in New York City who can inexplicably remember her. Henry works in a bookstore and has his own complicated history with the dark god. He forms a deep connection with Addie, offering her the first real relationship she's had in centuries. Henry's ability to remember Addie changes both their lives dramatically.
Luc: The dark god with whom Addie makes her initial bargain. Luc is cunning, seductive, and plays a long game in his dealings with Addie. He visits her throughout the centuries, developing a complex relationship that blends antagonism and attraction. Luc's true motivations remain mysterious throughout much of the story.
Estele: Addie's friend and confidante in 18th century France. Estele is a kind and supportive presence in Addie's early life before the curse takes effect.
Bea: Henry's best friend and ex-girlfriend. Bea is caring and perceptive, playing an important role in Henry's life and indirectly in his relationship with Addie.
Robbie: Henry's roommate and friend. Robbie provides support and comic relief in Henry's storyline.
Quick facts
The book was on the New York Times Best Seller list for 37 consecutive weeks.
V.E. Schwab wrote early drafts of the screenplay for the planned film adaptation.
The story spans three centuries and two continents.
Addie LaRue's character has seven signature freckles on her face.
The audiobook is narrated by Julia Whelan, who received praise for her performance.
The novel explores themes of art, history, and personal identity.
The story alternates between present-day New York City and flashbacks to Addie's past.
The book's cover art was designed by Will Staehle.
The novel was nominated for the 2021 Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel.
About the Author
V. E. Schwab, born Victoria Elizabeth Schwab in 1987, is a prolific American author known for her captivating fantasy and science fiction works. With over twenty books to her name, Schwab has become a New York Times bestselling author, garnering critical acclaim and a devoted global readership. Her novels, including the acclaimed Shades of Magic series and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, have been translated into more than two dozen languages and optioned for television and film adaptations.
Schwab's journey as a writer began during her college years at Washington University in St. Louis, where she completed her first novel while pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Her debut published work, The Near Witch, was released in 2011 under the name Victoria Schwab. Since then, she has authored numerous series and standalone novels for various age groups, including young adult, middle grade, and adult fiction.
Known for her ability to craft intricate worlds and complex characters, Schwab has received several accolades for her work. Her novel Vicious was named one of Publishers Weekly's best books of 2013 for Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror, while The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue was nominated for the 2020 Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel. In addition to her literary pursuits, Schwab has ventured into television production, serving as creator and executive producer for the Netflix series First Kill, based on her short story of the same name.
When not writing, Schwab divides her time between Edinburgh, Scotland, and various locations around the world. She often finds inspiration in her travels, particularly in Paris and the English countryside. A self-described coffee shop dweller, Schwab can frequently be found tucked away in a corner, dreaming up new monsters and magical realms for her next literary adventure.
