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If We Were Villains

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If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.

Characters:

Characters are intricately developed, showcasing deep flaws and complex relationships that drive the emotional weight of the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and infuses Shakespearean references throughout the narrative, structured akin to a play.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on a murder mystery involving former friends at a theater school, with themes like jealousy and betrayal shaped by their immersion in Shakespeare.

Setting:

The setting is an exclusive drama conservatory immersed in Shakespeare, fostering a creative yet isolated environment that amplifies the story's tension.

Pacing:

Pacing is slow and deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually as the narrative explores deeper themes and character dynamics.
I sit with my wrists cuffed to the table and I think, But that I am forbid / To tell the secrets of my prison-house, / I could a tale unfold whose lightest word / Would harrow up thy soul. The guard s...

Notes:

The book combines elements of dark academia and a murder mystery.
It features a group of seven students at a prestigious acting conservatory focused on Shakespeare.
The narrative structure mimics Shakespearean plays, with a five-act layout.
The story alternates between present-day Oliver's release from prison and his reflections on the past.
Shakespeare's works heavily influence both the dialogue and the plot, with characters quoting his plays throughout the story.
Main characters embody complex emotions such as jealousy, ambition, and betrayal, reflecting themes common in Shakespearean tragedies.
The book explores the fine line between heroes and villains, making readers question morality and human nature.
It includes references to major Shakespearean plays like 'Macbeth,' 'Romeo and Juliet,' 'Julius Caesar,' and 'King Lear.'
The book has been compared to 'The Secret History' due to its themes of elitism and tragic circumstances among a group of friends.
Oliver Marks, the protagonist, is portrayed as likable despite the pretentiousness of his circle of friends.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for the book include themes of murder, mental health issues, substance abuse, bullying, and intense emotional conflicts.

Has Romance?

The novel features a high level of romantic tension, particularly between the main characters, which is an integral part of the story.

From The Publisher:

On the day Oliver Marks is released from jail, the man who put him there is waiting at the door. Detective Colborne wants to know the truth, and after ten years, Oliver is finally ready to tell it.

A decade ago: Oliver is one of seven young Shakespearean actors at Dellecher Classical Conservatory, a place of keen ambition and fierce competition. In this secluded world of firelight and leather-bound books, Oliver and his friends play the same roles onstage and off: hero, villain, tyrant, temptress, ingénue, extras.

But in their fourth and final year, good-natured rivalries turn ugly, and on opening night real violence invades the students' world of make-believe. In the morning, the fourth-years find themselves facing their very own tragedy, and their greatest acting challenge yet: convincing the police, each other, and themselves that they are innocent.

If We Were Villains was named one of Bustle's Best Thriller Novels of the Year, and Mystery Scene says, "A well-written and gripping ode to the stage...A fascinating, unorthodox take on rivalry, friendship, and truth."

"Much like Donna Tartt's The Secret History, M. L. Rio's sparkling debut is a richly layered story of love, friendship, and obsession...will keep you riveted through its final, electrifying moments."

-Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney, New York Times bestselling author of The Nest

"Nerdily (and winningly) in love with Shakespeare…Readable, smart."

-New York Times Book Review

Ratings (98)

Incredible (32)
Loved It (31)
Liked It (16)
It Was OK (8)
Did Not Like (9)
Hated It (2)

Reader Stats (284):

Read It (103)
Currently Reading (4)
Want To Read (158)
Did Not Finish (4)
Not Interested (15)

3 comment(s)

Incredible
3 days

shaking crying throwing up.

 
5 months

Started out strong but was ultimately pretty melodramatic. So much irrational behavior that felt totally unrealistic. If you like Song of Achilles and dark academia, you’ll probably enjoy this.

 
Loved It
6 months

the questioning ending, the futile hope that it brings. soul crushing. i loved it

 

About the Author:

M. L. Rio has worked in bookstores and theatres for years, and holds a master's in Shakespeare studies from King's College London. If We Were Villains is her debut novel.

 
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