Dry September Steaminess Rating

Exactly how steamy is this story?

R

There isn't any actual sex in this story, but the main action is driven by a rumor that Will Mayes has raped or otherwise sexually abused Minnie Cooper. The text strongly suggests that Minnie is sexually repressed, and that she may have started the rumor to get attention. While not explicitly shown, sex drives the tragic plot of "Dry September." Readers and teachers should prepare for serious thinking and discussion of sex, sexuality, rape, sexual abuse, and spousal abuse when approaching this story.