M.L. Rio Unveils Exclusive First Look at ‘Hot Wax’ Cover
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M.L. Rio, the acclaimed author of ‘If We Were Villains,’ has excited fans with a sneak peek at the cover of her upcoming novel, ‘Hot Wax,’ available this autumn through Simon & Schuster. The story follows the journey of 10-year-old Suzanne, who joins her father Gil’s rock band, The Kills, on tour in 1989. Suzanne’s deep desire to escape her mother’s new life leads her into the world of rock and roll, but as fame rises, tensions within the band erupt, resulting in a tragic event that brings an end to their success.

Nearly three decades later, Suzanne has settled into a quiet life in the suburbs with her husband, Rod. However, Gil’s unexpected passing forces Suzanne to confront the past, prompting her to set out on a road trip for closure. Yet, her journey is not without obstacles as Rod opposes her departure, setting the stage for a wild cross-country pursuit, as described in the book’s synopsis.
Rio’s debut novel, ‘If We Were Villains,’ released in 2017, swiftly garnered a loyal following within the dark academia genre. Her novella, ‘Graveyard Shift,’ followed in 2024. The author reveals that ‘Hot Wax’ has been a labour of love, inspired by her passion for concert tours and intimate live performances before artists hit the big time.
While the book industry often glamorises fame and fortune, Rio’s aim with ‘Hot Wax’ is to illuminate the struggles of the vast majority of artists striving to preserve their craft daily. The novel is a homage to the unsung heroes of the music scene, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs of artistic expression.
Scheduled for release on September 9, ‘Hot Wax’ is now open for preorders at major book outlets. Readers can anticipate a gripping tale that delves into the complexities of family, fame, and the enduring power of music. Don’t miss out on this captivating new work from M.L. Rio that promises to resonate with audiences seeking a unique literary experience.
Exciting times lie ahead for fans of M.L. Rio as they eagerly anticipate the release of ‘Hot Wax.’ Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the author’s creative process as she continues to captivate readers with her distinct storytelling style. Let the countdown begin for the arrival of this highly-anticipated novel that is set to make waves in the literary world.
