Greg Iles, Acclaimed Author of ‘Natchez Burning’ Trilogy, Dies at 65

Greg Iles, the renowned author behind the best-selling “Natchez Burning” trilogy, passed away at the age of 65. His death occurred at approximately 5 a.m. local time on August 15, 2023, as reported by an obituary in The Natchez Democrat. Iles’ literary agent, Dan Conaway, confirmed the news via social media on August 16, 2023. The Mississippi native had been battling multiple myeloma, a type of incurable blood cancer.

Born in 1960 in Germany, Iles’ early years were shaped by his father’s role in running a medical clinic at the U.S. Embassy. He later moved to Mississippi, where he developed a passion for literature, culminating in a degree from the University of Mississippi in 1983. Over the years, Iles became a formidable figure in the literary world, known for thrillers and Southern Gothic novels that examined themes of politics, legacy, and racism. His work has resonated with readers worldwide, with several novels adapted into films.

Legacy of the ‘Natchez Burning’ Trilogy

Iles’ “Natchez Burning” trilogy, part of the Penn Cage series, is regarded as his “magnum opus.” The trilogy includes “Natchez Burning,” “The Bone Tree,” and “Mississippi Blood.” In total, Iles authored seven novels and a novella within the Penn Cage universe, along with numerous other thrillers. His storytelling often interwove personal and historical narratives, engaging readers with complex characters and intricate plots.

In a statement on his website, Iles shared insights into his writing journey, explaining how the trilogy allowed him to explore deep-seated issues in Mississippi. The author was also a member of the Rock Bottom Remainders, a charitable rock band comprising authors like Stephen King and Amy Tan.

Battle with Cancer and Final Reflections

Iles was diagnosed with multiple myeloma at the age of 36 in 1996. In an update on his health shared on his website, he detailed a challenging journey with the disease. After experiencing severe complications from an experimental treatment, Iles chose to withdraw from medical interventions and focused on his writing, keeping his illness a secret for years. Despite the anxiety it brought him, he managed to live more than two decades without terminal progression of the disease.

In recent years, Iles noted that his cancer became more aggressive, prompting him to undergo a stem cell transplant after completing his latest novel, “Southern Man.” He expressed a profound connection with his character Penn Cage, stating that the struggles he faced with his health enriched the narrative of the book.

Iles concluded his health update with a reflective message: “Only two things matter: family and friends.” His passing marks a significant loss to the literary community, where he will be remembered not only for his contributions to literature but also for his resilience in the face of adversity.