Book review: Facing the music of the past

'Hot Wax' is an electrifying triumph of a novel with a raw, emotional core, finely crafted by the talented M. L. Rio. 
Book review: Facing the music of the past

M L Rio utilises two time frames to tell a story of the excitement and perils of the rock and roll lifestyle. Picture: Helena Santos

Sat, 04 Oct, 2025 - 01:00
Chloe Barrett

  • Hot Wax 
  • M.L. Rio 
  • Simon and Schuster, €19.99

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

Benefit image

Introductory offer. Annual billed once for first year. Monthly (discount first 3 months) billed monthly, then €10/month. Ts&Cs apply.

BOOKS & MORE

Check out our Books Hub where you will find the latest news, reviews, features, opinions and analysis on all things books from the Irish Examiner's team of specialist writers, columnists and contributors.

More in this section

Patricia Routledge death It’s Bouquet! Comedy star Patricia Routledge captured hearts as TV’s Hyacinth Bucket
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour - Dublin Taylor Swift sings about Travis Kelce romance on The Life Of A Showgirl
Graham Norton Show - London Taylor Swift tells Graham Norton about ‘fun’ task of planning wedding to Travis Kelce
#Books - Fiction
<p>The Late Late Show Country Music Special 2025</p>

Four Late Late Show Country Special talking points, from John C Reilly to Priscilla Presley

READ NOW

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

Music, film art, culture, books and more from Munster and beyond.......curated weekly by the Irish Examiner Arts Editor.

Latest

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

Music, film art, culture, books and more from Munster and beyond.......curated weekly by the Irish Examiner Arts Editor.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited