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Dec 21, 2015cmlibrary_cwood rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
The first of a trilogy, although the fourth book involving main character Penn Cage, Natchez Burning takes you to present day Natchez, Mississippi where lawyer turned writer turned mayor Penn Cage suddenly finds himself trying to help his father who has been charged with murder. However, as the story moves along, you find out that there is more to this murder charge and Iles takes us back to the tumultuous times of Natchez in the 60’s where it all began. The story then weaves together the events from decades prior and their consequences in the present. An engaging read, although it does drag at times, you still find yourself turning the page to find out what really happened and whether Penn’s father will be cleared of the charges. Iles uses many characters from his previous books, so it is helpful to read those first, but it is not necessary. Overall it is as much a commentary on race and social relations in the South as it is a mystery. It does have darker, violent aspects that some people may be uncomfortable with, but it attempts to show the perspective of southerners during the 60's and how that mindset is reflected today.