The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab begins in 1714 and ends in 2016, but it’s not a family saga. The protagonist, Addie Larue, makes a deal with the devil under which she can live as long as she likes provided she gives him her soul when she’s had enough. However, she discovers there’s a catch. No one can remember her. So, over the centuries Addie lives a lot of life in Europe and the U.S. but no one can remember her (The creates lots of practical problems. For example, a landlord makes her pay rent in advance, but when sees her the next morning, not recognizing her, he tosses her out). Until, in 2014 in New York City, she meets Henry, who, of all people in the world, doesn’t forget her. They fall in love. However, a twist occurs that casts a tragic light on the future of their relationship.
There is one other character who remembers Addie – Lucifer, or “Luc” as Addie names him, the devil with whom she made the deal. Luc repeatedly visits her over the centuries and Addie develops a relationship with him, too. Addie’s relationships with Henry and Luc come to a head at the end of the novel and Addie makes a choice. It’s more complicated than I’m letting on, but I don’t want to give away too much of the plot.
There’s lots of flash-backs and flash-forwards. Addie’s liability, and the separation it creates from the world, makes her a good observer of others and the environment. The writing is good and the romance and suspense keep you turning the pages. As some reviewers have said, although no one can remember Addie, Addie is an unforgettable character. Here’s what NPR says:
