Author Angie Engles

The book cover, a black and white photograph, shows a woman reaching with both hands behind her bare back to fasten, or possibly unfasten, her brassiere.

In One Person by John Irving

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The book cover, a black and white photograph, shows a woman reaching with both hands behind her bare back to fasten, or possibly unfasten, her brassiere.

by Angie E.

John Irving’s In One Person is a moving and powerful exploration of identity, sexuality, and the quest for acceptance. At its heart is Billy Abbott, a bisexual man reflecting on his life. The novel chronicles Billy’s life from age 13 in the 1950s to his late 60s in 2010. Rather than following a strict chronological order, Irving skillfully weaves the narrative, shifting between pivotal moments in Billy’s journey to create a more authentic, lifelike portrayal. 

From Miss Frost, the enigmatic librarian who plays a pivotal role in Billy’s awakening, to Richard Abbott, his stepfather and a source of guidance and support, each character is richly drawn and adds depth to the narrative. Irving’s portrayal of these relationships is nuanced, highlighting the importance of connection and the impact of those who accept and understand us. 

Irving does not shy away from addressing the prejudices and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Through Billy’s eyes, readers witness the AIDS crisis, shifting attitudes towards sexuality, and the enduring struggles for acceptance. In One Person’s exploration of these themes is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, offering a candid look at the progress made and the work that remains. 

Fans of John Irving will recognize his signature style: the blend of humor and tragedy, the richly detailed settings, and the intricate plotting. Irving’s ability to create a world that feels both specific and universal is on full display, making Billy’s journey relatable to readers from all walks of life. 

When I first read In One Person I was incredibly drawn to how Billy goes to the library (thus meeting Miss Frost) seeking novels about “crushes on the wrong people.”  She starts him out with Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre, but expresses less confidence in giving him Henry Fielding’s Tom Jones, something I both love and laugh at at every time. Anyone who has ever had a crush on the “wrong person” will probably crush, even if just for a bit, on this too.

In One Person by John Irving is available from HCLS in regular print and large print.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

A half and half cover of two apartment windows shows a man all in black upside down and a young woman in a shirt and green pants in sunshine on the other.

My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine

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A half and half cover of two apartment windows shows a man all in black upside down and a young woman in a shirt and green pants in sunshine

by Angie E.

My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine is a fang-tastic blend of humor, romance, and supernatural charm that leaves you thirsting for more. From the very first page, this novel sinks its teeth into you with witty banter and irresistible characters. Our protagonist, Cassie Greenberg, is an artist struggling to make ends meet in Chicago. Just when her situation seems dire, she stumbles upon an unbelievable Craigslist ad for a rent-free apartment. The catch? Her new roommate is Frederick J. Fitzwilliam, a suave and sophisticated vampire who’s been asleep for a century. 

Levine does a magnificent job weaving modern-day struggles with age-old vampire lore. The chemistry between Cassie and Frederick is electric, with their playful interactions and evolving relationship keeping readers hooked. Cassie’s vibrant personality and Frederick’s old-world charm make for a delightful contrast, and their journey from strangers to something much more is heartwarming and full of surprises. The novel’s humor shines through in every chapter. Whether it’s Cassie teaching Frederick the wonders of modern technology or Frederick’s awkward attempts to fit into the 21st century, the laughs come naturally and frequently. The supporting characters add depth and color to the story, each bringing their own quirks and perspectives. 

My Roommate is a Vampire isn’t just a lighthearted romp; it also explores deeper themes of acceptance, adaptation, and finding one’s place in an ever-changing world. Levine’s writing is sharp, clever, and full of heart, making it easy to get lost in Cassie and Frederick’s world. Perfect for fans of paranormal romance and anyone looking for a feel-good story with plenty of humor, this tale makes you believe in love that transcends time. 

My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine in print and as an e-audiobook. And you can continue the fun with My Vampire Plus-One.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

The magazine cover photo depicts members of the 1980's pop music group Wham!. George Michael is wearing a Santa hat and clutching an armload of wrapped Christmas packages, and Andrew Ridgeley, standing slightly behind him, has reins in his mouth and a reindeer hat on his head

Wham! It’s Big Issue

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The magazine cover photo depicts members of the 1980's pop music group Wham!. George Michael is wearing a Santa hat and clutching an armload of wrapped Christmas packages, and Andrew Ridgeley, standing slightly behind him, has reins in his mouth and a reindeer hat on his head

by Angie E.

Big Issue is one of many magazines you can get through the Libby app, with your library card. Founded in 1991 in the United Kingdom, Big Issue originated with one central goal: to help people who are experiencing homelessness. It provides individuals who are struggling or have struggled with homelessness the opportunity to sell the magazine to the public.

These vendors buy the magazine at a discounted rate and sell it for a profit, which helps them earn an income. What makes Big Issue different from other charity-driven organizations is that it empowers people by providing them with the tools and opportunity to help themselves. This model allows people to build their confidence, learn business skills, and become part of a supportive community. 

Big Issue isn’t just a way to make a difference, it’s also a source of quality content. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, from current events and social issues to arts, culture, and interviews with people from all walks of life. You might find features on everything from mental health to pop culture, book reviews, or inspiring stories about people who have overcome tough times. It’s a great publication for anyone who is curious about what’s happening in the world and wants to stay informed. Some of the best books I’ve read in recent years came by suggestion of Big Issue. 

In “Last Christmas Will Last Forever,” the November 27/December 1 Big Issue takes a look back at the enduring legacy of Wham!’s iconic Christmas hit, “Last Christmas.” The article features an interview with Andrew Ridgeley, who reminisces about the song. He shares heartfelt stories about working with George Michael and the magic of that time. “George set himself a task as a songwriter to write a Christmas song that would endure and be perennial,” says Ridgeley, and, indeed, “Last Christmas” continues to warm hearts and remind us of the power of music and memories. 

With its beautiful melody and catchy hook, you can’t help but sing along. But what sets it apart from many other holiday songs is its vulnerability. While other Christmas classics may celebrate the joy and magic of the season, “Last Christmas” is about heartbreak and regret, the flip side of love that many of us experience during the holidays. 

The book cover photograph depicts the members of the 1980's pop group Wham!, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Both are looking at the photographer. George is wearing a black tank top and Andrew is wearing a white open-collared shirt and black jacket.

For further Wham!/George Michael readings check out these: 

Wham!: George Michael and Me by Andrew Ridgeley

George Michael: Freedom, The Ultimate Tribute 1963-2016 by David Nolan

To hear his music, check out the following: 

Ladies and Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael 

Last Christmas: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack 

Symphonica

You can access the current and many back issues of Big Issue through Libby, including a recent one that includes an article on the new movie release “Wicked.” You can also access it here.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

A blue cocktail with a cherry in it splashes against a bright pink background.

Scandalous Women by Gill Paul

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A blue cocktail with a cherry in it splashes against a bright pink background.

by Angie E.

In the late 80s, when I first discovered the novels of Jacqueline Susann and Jackie Collins, I used to place paper bag covers over them to hide the title information and, I suppose, my shame in reading them. Nowadays, in the age of e-books, where no one has to know or can see what you’re reading, I am not at all shy about sharing my love of these two authors. 

Scandalous Women brings to life the dynamic and groundbreaking careers of both iconic ladies. Set in the 1960s, the story follows these trailblazing and vibrant women as they navigate the male-dominated world of publishing, facing rampant sexism and societal backlash for their bold, provocative works. 

Nancy White, a young editorial assistant becomes the unlikely link between these two literary powerhouses. As Jackie and Jacqueline strive to top the bestseller charts, they form an unexpected friendship, sharing their struggles and triumphs in a world that often seeks to silence them. Though there is no real world evidence to suggest they were friends in real life, Gill Paul has said that she loves to imagine that they could have been. 

Paul weaves together the personal and professional lives of these women, highlighting their resilience, ambition, and the price they pay for their success. Scandalous Women is written in the style and spirit of both authors and is a fun, yet ultimately serious look at writing as a woman in the 1960s. The way she captures their spirit, especially Susann’s, is pitch-perfect and is one of the reasons the book stays with you long after you finish. The good news is, if you like Gill Paul, she has written several other novels, just as compelling and enjoyable to read. 

To see Jaqueline Susann discuss literature (and that meshes well with what Scandalous is trying to say) click here:   

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

An elaborate brick house with railed porches on the second floor and turrets, with a blooming pink cherry tree in the bottom right. The sky appears to have storm clouds piling above, with the title in fine white type.

Our House by Louise Candish

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An elaborate brick house with railed porches on the second floor and turrets, with a blooming pink cherry tree in the bottom right. The sky appears to have storm clouds piling above, with the title in fine white type.

by Angie E.

Louise Candlish is known for her domestic suspense and intricately woven stories. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for exploring the complexities of human relationships, she immerses readers in suspenseful tales that often blur the lines between right and wrong. Her ability to create relatable characters facing moral dilemmas resonates deeply with audiences, drawing them into a world where secrets and betrayals lurk just beneath the surface. Candlish’s skillful storytelling and gift for plot twists have earned her a devoted following, making her a standout voice in contemporary fiction.

Our House, which won the 2019 Crime & Thriller of the Year award at the British Book Awards, blends psychological tension with a fresh narrative construction. Fiona Lawson returns home one day to find strangers moving into her South London house. The shock of discovering that her estranged husband, Bram, has sold their family home without her knowledge sets off a chain of events that spirals into a nightmare.

Candlish stands out in creating a claustrophobic atmosphere, making readers feel the protagonist’s growing sense of helplessness and desperation. The novel delves deep into themes of trust, betrayal, and the fragility of relationships. Fiona’s journey is not just about reclaiming her home but also about uncovering the layers of deceit within her marriage. Our House’s exploration of the concept of “bird’s nest custody,” where parents rotate living in the family home to provide stability for their children, is both innovative and thought-provoking. This arrangement, meant to protect the family, ironically becomes the catalyst for the unraveling of their lives.

While the novel is undeniably suspenseful, it also offers moments of introspection and empathy. Fiona’s character is complex and flawed, making her empathetic and human. Her journey from a seemingly perfect wife and mother to a woman fighting to reclaim her life is both heart-wrenching and empowering. The pacing is perfect, balancing moments of quiet reflection with heart-pounding revelations that leave you gasping. Just when you think you’ve pieced together the truth, the narrative flips, leaving you questioning your own assumptions. Candlish’s ability to weave in social commentary—particularly regarding the implications of social media and the concept of ‘home’—adds an extra layer of depth, prompting readers to consider how well they truly know the people closest to them.

Our House by Louise Candlish is available in print and e-audiobook.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

Two people dance at the bottom of a sweeping staircase, she's in a fancy dress with her hair up and he's in shirtsleeves, vest, and trousers.

Marry Me by Midnight by Felicia Grossman

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Two people dance at the bottom of a sweeping staircase, she's in a fancy dress with her hair up and he's in shirtsleeves, vest, and trousers.

by Angie E

Felicia Grossman’s Marry Me By Midnight intertwines romance with Jewish heritage in 1830s London. Isabelle Lira, the belle of the London Jewish community, faces a challenging situation after her father’s unexpected death. She must find a suitable husband to assure her family’s business and standing. 

The powerful Berab brothers, her father’s business partners, see her marriage as a danger to their livelihood. Isabelle’s desire to take over her father’s business clashes with social norms that limit women’s roles, especially Jewish women. To help her search for a husband, Isabelle hosts a series of festivals and events centered around Jewish holidays. Her goal is to meet eligible Jewish men and find someone with secrets and a background she can exploit for her independence. 

Enter Aaron Ellenberg, a synagogue caretaker with no family or wealth, perfect for Isabelle’s schemes. She employs Aaron as a spy, instructing him to learn about her potential suitors. However, unexpected attraction and risks await them both as they navigate love, secrets, and societal expectations. 

Marry Me By Midnight embraces its Judaic roots. The novel provides a fascinating glimpse into the 19th-century Jewish community in London. It portrays a passionate and daring romance while weaving in mystery and intrigue. The author captures Jewish London as a world-within-a-world, adjacent to but distinct from the English upper classes of that time. The dynamics of the Judaic community come alive, making this book a must-read for historical fiction and romance enthusiasts who long for more Jewish characters at the heart of the story. 

This title is available in print.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

The lettering appears large and wavy against a deep teal background. There's a set of manacles in grey at the bottom.

Affinity by Sarah Waters

Angie Engles 1 Comment
The lettering appears large and wavy against a deep teal background. There's a set of manacles in grey at the bottom.

by Angie E.

I doubt I can do Affinity justice with a traditional review, although I’ll certainly try. Sarah Waters broke my heart by writing this book, and I went through several tissues, basically just ugly crying all over the place. My heart also skipped several beats as I journeyed through the twists and turns the novel took. 

Affinity transports readers to 1870s Victorian England, weaving together elements of gothic mystery, psychological exploration, and heart-wrenching drama. Margaret Prior, an unmarried woman from an upper-class family, grapples with inner demons. She’s recovering from her father’s death and a subsequent suicide attempt. Despite being almost 30, she feels powerless living at home with her over-involved mother. 

Seeking consolation and purpose, Margaret becomes a “Lady Visitor” at  Millbank Prison, one of Victorian London’s grimmest jails. Her goal is to guide and support the female prisoners. During her visits, Margaret encounters Selina Dawes, a mysterious and infamous medium of spirits. Selina has been imprisoned for two years, accused of causing the death of the wealthy woman she lived with. 

The relationship between the two women evolves, blurring the boundaries between friendship, desire, and the inexplicable. Is Selina a fraud or a genius? And can Margaret find redemption through their connection? The novel’s spooky atmosphere and psychological tension keep readers mesmerized until the very end. 

If you crave a blend of historical richness, mystery, and heartache, Affinity is a must-read. Whether you’re drawn to magic, tragedy, or forbidden connections, this novel will leave an indelible mark on your heart. 

Affinity by Sarah Waters is available in print and e-book.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

The DVD cover depicts a man and a woman seated side by side on an orange couch with cushions, wearing professional dress; a skeletal hand is reaching up between them from behind the sofa. The background is dark and there are papers scattered on the floor in front of them.

Evil

Angie Engles Leave a comment
The DVD cover depicts a man and a woman seated side by side on an orange couch with cushions, wearing professional dress; a skeletal hand is reaching up between them from behind the sofa. The background is dark and there are papers scattered on the floor in front of them.

by Angie E.

Evil is like someone threw The X-Files, The Exorcist, and a dash of CSI into a blender and hit the ‘puree’ button. The result? A show that’s part supernatural, part procedural, and completely binge-worthy. Our trio of audacious investigators includes the skeptical psychologist Kristen Bouchard, the believer David Acosta, and the tech whiz Ben Shakir. Together, they’re like the Ghostbusters of the ecclesiastical world, but with fewer proton packs and more holy water. 

Evil doesn’t just flirt with the supernatural; it takes it out for a fancy dinner and then brings it home to meet the parents. Whether it features demonic possessions or prophetic visions, each episode leaves you wondering if you should sleep with the lights on. Even though it truly can be unnerving,  Evil is also unexpectedly hilarious. It’s got more tongue-in-cheek moments than a dental exam, and the dark humor is so spot-on, you’ll find yourself chuckling in between gasps of terror. 

So, if you’re looking for a series that combines courtroom drama with exorcism (because who isn’t?), then Evil could be your next must-watch. Just maybe don’t watch it alone… or in the dark… or anywhere near bedtime. You should still watch it, though, because Evil blends psychological thrills with supernatural elements to create a compelling story. 

Especially noteworthy is the stellar cast, which includes Mike Colter, Aasif Mandvi, Michael Emerson, Christine Lathi and Andrea Martin. Michael Emerson, known for his chilling performances in shows such as Lost, plays the kind of villain you just love to hate, making the show all that more deliciously fun to watch. 

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

The book cover depicts a variety of geometrical images - a funnel, some parallel lines, and an X - and an arachnid, in various jewel tones against a black background.

The World Wasn’t Ready for You by Justin Key

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The book cover depicts a variety of geometrical images - a funnel, some parallel lines, and an X - and an arachnid, in various jewel tones against a black background.

by Angie E.

Imagine a collection of stories where Black Mirror (Netflix series) meets Get Out, reminiscent of Octavia E. Butler’s work, blending science fiction, horror, and fantasy to tackle issues of race, class, and prejudice. This thrilling and often heartbreaking debut introduces an extraordinary new voice.

Justin C. Key has been fascinated by monsters since childhood. Growing up reading R. L. Stine’s Goosebumps, he pictured himself heroically battling monsters. However, watching Scream 2, where the only Black couple is swiftly killed off, made him realize that Black and Brown characters in his favorite genre were often the victims or villains—if they appeared at all. In The World Wasn’t Ready for You, Key broadens and redefines the horror genre to delve into themes of race, class, prejudice, love, exclusion, loneliness, and the essence of humanity, exposing the inherent horror within us all.

The opening story, “The Perfection of Theresa Watkins,” begins as a sci-fi love story, but quickly turns nightmarish when a husband employs new technology to transfer his deceased Black wife’s consciousness into the body of a White woman. To secure an early release, a Black inmate joins an experimental medical study in “Spider King” and soon faces disturbing side effects. In the collection’s title story, a father strives to protect his son by teaching him how to maneuver a prejudiced world that perceives him as a threat. “The Quantum Mechanics of the Heart” is an examination of both quantum physics and emotional connections, poignant and intellectually stimulating. Another keeper, “The Last Library,” transports readers to a world where libraries are sentient beings, safeguarding knowledge and memories. The sad beauty of this tale lingers long after the last page.

Key’s writing is lyrical, infused with wonder and empathy. His ability to evoke emotions through speculative scenarios is commendable. Whether it’s a grieving astronaut seeking solace among the stars or a time-traveling violinist chasing echoes of lost melodies, Key’s characters grapple with universal truths. The World Wasn’t Ready for You is a testament to the power of speculative fiction. It challenges conventions, celebrates diversity, and invites readers to question their own existence. Key’s storytelling transcends genres, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.

An illustrion of a big house with wrap around white porches appears burnt through to show a figure peering through the hole.

The Works of Carmen Maria Machado

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An illustrion of a big house with wrap around white porches appears burnt through to show a figure peering through the hole.

By Angie E.

Machado’s narratives delve into the emotional and physical vulnerabilities of characters, challenging traditional notions of strength and weakness. Her stories often blur the lines between reality and fantasy, creating a space where vulnerability is not a flaw, but a powerful force in its own right.

“Especially Heinous: 272 Views of Law & Order SVU” is a novella written by Carmen Maria Machado in 2013. It unfolds through 272 synopses, each encapsulating a distinct perspective from the initial 12 seasons of the police procedural series of the same name. Originally published in The American Reader in May 2013, “Especially Heinous” features parallel universe versions of Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson and is included in Machado’s 2017 short story compilation, Her Body and Other Parties.

Carmen Maria Machado’s Her Body and Other Parties dissects power imbalances in various forms. Through a series of surreal and haunting tales, Machado explores the ways in which power is wielded, misused, and resisted, often using the female body as a focal point for her narratives. The stories challenge societal norms, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of power and its implications. Despite the unusual nature of “Especially Heinous” (and how it deviates from the actual SVU), the story fits perfectly within the anthology. Law and Order: SVU itself and Her Body and Other Parties may exist in different realms of storytelling, but their thematic resonance is undeniable.

Moving from short story collection to memoir, Machado has also written In The Dream House, which takes readers on an intimate journey through the author’s experiences. She opens up about her past relationship with an abusive partner, exploring the complexities of domestic abuse within the LGBTQ+ community. Structured as a series of interconnected essays, In The Dream House defies traditional memoir conventions. Machado employs various literary forms, from folklore to lesbian pulp fiction, to recount her harrowing experiences. The result is a poignant and powerful narrative that sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of abuse within queer relationships.

Machado’s exposed and raw honesty are palpable in every page, inviting readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of abuse. In The Dream House not only serves as a personal catharsis for Machado, but also as a vital contribution to the ongoing conversation about abuse within the marginalized.

In The Dream House is available in print, e-book, and e-audiobook.

Angie is an Instructor & Research Specialist at Central Branch and is a co-facilitator for Reads of Acceptance, HCLS’ first LGBTQ-focused book club. Her ideal day is reading in her cozy armchair, with her cat Henry next to her.