Greg Iles, the Mississippi author of the "Natchez Burning" trilogy, has died at age 65.
According to an obituary in The Natchez Democrat, Iles died around 5 a.m. local time Friday, Aug. 15. The New York Times best-selling writer's literary agent, Dan Conaway, confirmed his death Saturday, Aug. 16, on Facebook. The Natchez resident had multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer.
Iles was born in Germany in 1960 while his father ran a medical clinic at the U.S. Embassy. According to a profile on his website, Iles spent time in Mississippi in his youth. He was a 1983 graduate from the University of Mississippi.
Iles went on to write novels sold around the world. Many of his books were thrillers and Southern Gothics that explored politics, legacy and racism in Mississippi. Some have been made into movies.
He was also a member of the Rock Bottom Remainders, a charitable rock group made up of authors. Bandmates included Stephen King, Amy Tan and Dave Barry.
