Blue Angel
Blue Angel
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Brief
314
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2000
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Based on the 1930 film of the same name but set in contemporary society, American writer and critic Francine Prose’s novel Blue Angel (2000) follows creative writing professor Ted Swenson, who becomes infatuated with his student Angela Argo, a femme fatale who manipulates him to further her ambitions, leading to his professional and personal downfall.
Mysterious
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
4,151 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Francine Prose's Blue Angel garners praise for its sharp satire and perceptive exploration of power dynamics in academia and creative writing. Critics commend Prose’s witty prose and complex characters. However, some note that the plot occasionally feels contrived, and the tone can be uneven. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with incisive social commentary.
Who Should Read Blue Angel?
Readers who relish witty, satirical takes on academia, like in Richard Russo’s Straight Man, or those intrigued by power dynamics and personal conflicts reminiscent of Philip Roth’s The Human Stain, will find Blue Angel by Francine Prose captivating. It’s perfect for fans of character-driven narratives set in university environments.
4,151 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
314
Novel • Fiction
Vermont • Contemporary
2000
Adult
18+ years
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