I agree, the writing just doesn’t have the “ring of truth” to it to be from that era. Consider the parts where she is talking about the “strong, laughing” black woman who is a “fighter” that she think Barack is meant to be with. First of all, this “strong black woman” nonsense is a fairly recent phenomenon, and secondly, it sounds like she is having a psychic vision of the way that Michelle is portrayed by the left media.
The guy's not gay, OK? The book proves it. This author Maraniss is well known for his fiercely independent views. He even had a Republican neighbor when he was a kid. He has no ax to grind.
If he says "Not Gay," you can take it to the bank! (You might even meet Mr. Maraniss there cashing his own personal stimulus check.)