When Trebbo's dad Minty hears Frank Wilson's classic `Do I Love You?' on a fried chicken advert he can't help but burst into the `very athletic' style of Northern Ireland Soul dancing. One visit to the hospital later, he begins to reassemble his old soul friends for a big all-nighter at Fanny's. Meanwhile Hazel, struggles to keep the family together. Tired of mopping up after her husband's absurd mishaps, it's no wonder she seeks comfort in her own obsessions - and that there's a new man in her life. Do I Love You? is a heart-warming and hugely likeable novel - which combines a story of family life with a fast-paced comedy about the lure of music, dancing and drugs.
Paul McDonald is a British academic, comic novelist, and poet. He teaches English and American Literature at the University of Wolverhampton, where he also runs the Creative and Professional Writing Programme.
Had me laughing out loud several times. The author's portrait of middle age is a bit harsh, but I guess it's meant to be exaggerated. Gets a bit implausible towards the end and the ending itself is a little tame. Loved the portraits of some the more unsavory West Midlands characters. As for the music...had me heading for YouTube!