I also really liked Iron Flame but I agree with you on the sex scenes as they are way, way, overdone.
Adding to my comment: The sex scenes were so explicit and overblown that it actually perturbed me during the reading of what is a very good book with wonderful stories in it
I think that you will enjoy the book.
I downloaded Suttree by Cormac McCarthy from the library tonight. this will be a re-read of this book and I am looking forward to reading it.