Half of paradise Book

It is quite interesting to read the first book by an author you enjoy, to see how their writing has developed and progressed, especially if they have acquired a following, such as Burke definitely has. The story itself is less than satisfying, but interesting enough (though I much prefer Pierce's Cool Hand Luke), and goes along fairly quickly. I found it amusing when I came across turns of phrase that I know he has used in later books, such as his description of nutria as they make their "scream of a hysterical woman." You can easily see the groundwork for his Robicheaux series, in tone and descriptive language, as well as character development. One thought however: why is it no other snakes except moccasins slither through literary swamps?