Travel through time on an adventure around the world.
For my first review, I have to admit; I was stumped. I wanted to pick a book that was dynamic, unique, sucks you into the story, but also wasn’t so dense you felt like you just finished a half-marathon when you conquer a chapter or two. After sitting with my pile of reads from 2021, it hit me - Addie LaRue would take the cake.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue stars our protagonist, Adeline, who makes a deal with a man of darkness to escape her decided future in exchange for more time and the ability to live freely. The devil gives her exactly what she asks for. Only catch? The second Adeline (Addie) is out of sight, she’s out of mind. That’s right - when she’s out of someone’s eyesight, they completely forget ever meeting her in the first place. She truly lives freely - free from anyone’s minds, thoughts, and memories.
After traveling throughout Europe and eventually relocating to the USA, a couple of hundred of years later, Addie runs into Henry. Henry seems to be like everyone else - until she sees him a second day and he remembers her face. And more importantly, her name. What happens next is a beautiful story of connection, sacrifice, and finding what purpose they want to fulfill in their lifetimes. It helps that Henry is a HUNK with a genuine heart. I mean, do I even have to convince you to read this past a swoon-worthy love interest? How about adding in the temptation from Luc, the personification of darkness, with his electric eyes and an “is it hot in here or just me” kinda of vibe? Are you sold yet? Let me go on...
The story takes the reader through a rollercoaster of emotions, and perfectly blends fantasy, historical fiction, and a dash of romance to become a memorable novel. Schwab expertly delivers information about each of the characters bit by bit, so the story unfolds as the pages turn. It’s the perfect book to pack for a long plane ride or a vacation by the beach. I can visualize reading this book on a stunning balcony with sunshine and a great cup of coffee - it the “must have” travel companion, along with SPF 50 and your handy dandy phone charger.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue allowed me to travel when traveling wasn’t as accessible as it had been in recent years (cough cough, thanks COVID). I traveled through time, beautiful sceneries and landscapes, but what I found the most invigorating was the author’s ability to let me travel through the spectrum of emotions felt by the leading characters. I fell in love with them all, whether they played on the side of light or the side of the darkness. When I finished the book, I immediately screeched and checked to see if there was a sequel. I’ll be waiting on the edge of my seat for the anticipated movie adaption - I still feel like I didn’t have enough of Addie!
If this book isn’t in your carry-on or beach bag this summer, I am BEGGING you to take a trip to your local bookstore before your flight takes off. You won’t regret it. Till next chapter.
Chelsea