Skin Deep

Rating:
Summary: Exquisitely written. . . . Powerful character dynamics.
Review: "Skin Deep" explores the realm of human sexuality and racial interactions within London's gay culture during the '90s. On the surface, the novel is an erotic and romanticized portrayal of the relationships between the various characters (that's enough to grab the attention of many :-)). At the heart of the novel is a highly intelligent discussion of issues that lie at the underbelly of gay culture (this is the prize). From interracial relationships to sexual fetishism, the novel expounds on the various notions at work, consciously and subconsciously, during the characters' quest for love and freedom. Ray and Chris are the novel's central characters; black men whose friendship allows for a frank and honest dialogue on Ray's attraction to and desire for white men, and Chris's sexual proclivities towards S&M and dominance. Through these characters, Gordon is able to dissect and expose some of the most complicated emotional, social and psychological matter that lies beneath the surface of their desires.

In "Skin Deep", Gordon has produced an edifying, funny, and passionate account of characters engaged in life and in pursuit of the satisfaction that romantic and friendship relations can bring. Nearly every sentence imparts wisdom and causes an internal examination of the reader's perspective. "Skin Deep" achieves profoundly where "Traitor To The Race" (click on name link above to see this review) failed miserably. It's the type of novel that should be read with someone else and reread later. Kudos to Gordon for delivering a brave and solid novel with lasting effects.

Rating:
Summary: Exquisitely written. . . . Powerful character dynamics.
Review: "Skin Deep" explores the realm of human sexuality and racial interactions within London's gay culture during the '90s. On the surface, the novel is an erotic and romanticized portrayal of the relationships between the various characters (that's enough to grab the attention of many :-)). At the heart of the novel is a highly intelligent discussion of issues that lie at the underbelly of gay culture (this is the prize). From interracial relationships to sexual fetishism, the novel expounds on the various notions at work, consciously and subconsciously, during the characters' quest for love and freedom. Ray and Chris are the novel's central characters; black men whose friendship allows for a frank and honest dialogue on Ray's attraction to and desire for white men, and Chris's sexual proclivities towards S&M and dominance. Through these characters, Gordon is able to dissect and expose some of the most complicated emotional, social and psychological matter that lies beneath the surface of their desires.

In "Skin Deep", Gordon has produced an edifying, funny, and passionate account of characters engaged in life and in pursuit of the satisfaction that romantic and friendship relations can bring. Nearly every sentence imparts wisdom and causes an internal examination of the reader's perspective. "Skin Deep" achieves profoundly where "Traitor To The Race" (click on name link above to see this review) failed miserably. It's the type of novel that should be read with someone else and reread later. Kudos to Gordon for delivering a brave and solid novel with lasting effects.