Kayla reviews THE INVISIBLE LIFE OF ADDIE LARUE

So, if you haven’t heard of this book then you have obviously been avoiding all the book blogs, bookstagrams, booktwitter, and booktubes because this book has been HYPED. It was so hyped that I almost refused to read it because my inner revel is just like that sometimes.

With all of that in mind, I’ve broken this review down into two sections: 

1. Is it a good book? 

2. Is it worth the hype?

IS IT A GOOD BOOK?

The short answer is yes. It’s incredibly well written with beautiful prose that will absolutely captivate anyone who loves literature and language. It’s also super quote-able. 

The characters are flawed without being unlikeable, and the writer is able to tell a beautiful love story while avoiding annoying cliches.

Also, it has an ending that whether you love it or hate it, you will remember it.

IS IT WORTH THE HYPE?

Truthfully, I think that is a matter of opinion. Many readers I know absolutely loved this book, and for good reason. It is certainly memorable.

In my opinion, it is not quite worth the hype. Why? Because I personally took issue with the ending. I can’t really explain that without giving spoilers, so if you have not read the book, please scroll away now.

Ultimately, this is a love story between Addie and Henry. However, Addie also has a toxic relationship with the demon/god that cursed her, who she calls Luc.

When Addie learns that Henry has also been cursed and that his literal deadline is coming up, she makes another deal with Luc–that she will stay with Luc for as long as he wants her. Basically, she agrees to go back to her abusive ex in order to save her new boyfriend’s life.

Most people would see this as noble and heroic. I won’t argue, but the fact that the author tacked on a little POV epilogue for Addie in which it is revealed that going with Luc is somehow all part of her master plan to break her own curse did not sit well with me. Honestly, I felt like it was just someones way of justifying Addie’s decision to remain in a toxic and abusive relationship and that’s not a healthy message to send, is it?

Maybe I’m looking too deep into what was literally the last page of the book, but I found the whole scene disturbing. That’s why, despite the beautiful prose and complex characters, I simply can’t give this book a five-star rating.