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speculationss 's review for:
Hot Wax
by M.L. Rio
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
M.L. Rio’s newest release packs a punch, much like her earlier works. This book dives deep into grief, childhood trauma, and the unraveling of a painful past as Suzanne’s present fate slowly unfolds. It’s messy, but intentionally so. Suzanne is a disaster, both as a child and an adult, and you’re never quite sure whether you love her or hate her. That emotional push and pull, paired with a hauntingly vague ending, is classic M.L. Rio.
While others have mentioned the beginning felt like a slow trek, I found it more compelling than the second half. The story seemed to lose a bit of its grip as it moved forward, and I felt the ending didn’t quite deliver the climax the buildup promised. Still, one standout for me was getting the perspective of a main character in her forties. Something refreshingly different from the usual 20 something protagonists in most fiction.
If you’re looking for a story about music, the long shadows of abuse, complex and messy characters, and a woman navigating a full blown midlife crisis with a thrilling element this book might be exactly what you need.
While others have mentioned the beginning felt like a slow trek, I found it more compelling than the second half. The story seemed to lose a bit of its grip as it moved forward, and I felt the ending didn’t quite deliver the climax the buildup promised. Still, one standout for me was getting the perspective of a main character in her forties. Something refreshingly different from the usual 20 something protagonists in most fiction.
If you’re looking for a story about music, the long shadows of abuse, complex and messy characters, and a woman navigating a full blown midlife crisis with a thrilling element this book might be exactly what you need.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship, Grief, Death of parent
Moderate: Drug use, Violence, Stalking, Murder
Minor: Gun violence