I really enjoy Iles' novels and am propelled by the mystery and suspense of the main story. However, there are a few novels (this being one of them), where I am better without some of the intimate descriptions between characters. It is one thing to allude to interaction and let the imagination take hold versus getting detailed descriptions of lewd acts. Okay, beyond those moments, which are few and far between, this is a great read. Iles really knows how to bring his native South to life and create intriguing antagonists.