Colin Jordan

Colin Jordan is 45 and grew up in Hertfordshire UK. This first novel touches on some of the experiences of African Caribbean people in the UK during the 1970’s, telling the story from the perspective of the burgeoning black British/West Indian ‘middle class’ of that time; yes, they did and still exist.
Soft Knock LifeThis is the story of Cyril James, the perfect son, brother and boyfriend, maybe. It's August 1977 and in the leafy Hertfordshire suburbs, Cyril experiences none of the racial, economic and social tensions that are all too often associated with his black/British contemporaries. Quite the contrary, he’s happily integrated, tolerant and congenial, an entrepreneur and a gentleman, plus a liberal Pentecostal. And then along comes Natasha who inadvertently unleashes Cyril’s sexual, racial and religious demons.
In just five days Cyril’s tranquility turns to turbulence as his veneer begins to crack under the pressure of inner conflict, denial and rejection. Why? Well no one’s that perfect, and as Cyril’s secrets begin to surface, the challenge is on. As Cyril’s ability to drink from the bittersweet cup of conformity begins to wane, he wonders who all his goodness and success is for. Why is the lie so true and the truth so false? Turnover and find out. |