“If We Were Villains” is an unforgettable work of art painted with the strokes of Shakespearean drama and tragic mystery.

The author, M. L. Rio, weaves together a story that is as beautiful as it is haunting, demonstrating her deep understanding of the human condition and its intricate complexities.

Rio, a trained Shakespearean actor, holds an MA in Shakespeare Studies from King’s College London and brings her theatrical expertise to the forefront in this novel.

The beauty of her work lies in the artful blend of literature and life, a harmony echoed in her characters’ experiences at an elite art institution.

This riveting drama is both a tribute to the timeless works of Shakespeare and a compelling story of friendship, love, rivalry, and tragedy.

Summary of the Book

The tale unfolds in the enchanting but isolated Dellecher Classical Conservatory.

Here, we meet a group of seven young actors, each gifted, passionate, and utterly consumed by their craft. Their world is one of art and illusion, where the line between reality and performance often blurs.

The plot revolves around these seven characters, weaving a complex narrative of friendship, rivalry, and unspoken tensions.

As their final year unfolds, the students find themselves increasingly entangled in a web of their making, mirroring the Shakespearean tragedies they pour their souls into on stage.

Oliver Marks, James, Richard, Alexander, Meredith, Filippa, and Wren are more than friends; they are an ensemble tied together by shared secrets, envy, ambition, and the all-consuming nature of their art.

Without revealing too much, the story pivots on a mysterious event that changes the course of their lives forever.

This event, shrouded in ambiguity, sets the tone for the rest of the novel as the characters grapple with their own guilt, fear, and longing for justice.

This suspenseful narrative is interspersed with the actors’ impassioned performances, their lives seeming to reflect the Shakespearean tragedies they stage with a haunting and almost eerie precision.

The result is a multi-layered narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, forever guessing and analyzing.

Rio presents a love letter to Shakespeare, merging his works with her own to create a captivating and suspenseful narrative that keeps the readers hooked from start to finish.

Thematic Discussion

There’s a striking depth to the themes explored in “If We Were Villains,” each expertly interwoven within the narrative.

A central theme of the novel is the exploration of the dichotomy between art and life.

Rio suggests that life and art are inextricably intertwined, especially for her characters who live, breathe, and embody their roles.

It’s intriguing how their lives start to mirror the Shakespearean tragedies they perform, reflecting themes of love, betrayal, and tragedy.

It’s as if the boundary between reality and performance becomes permeable, leading to profound existential questions.

Friendship and rivalry are also paramount in the book.

The dynamics between the seven characters are complex and multidimensional.

They oscillate between camaraderie and competition, love and envy, admiration and resentment. This forms a fascinating psychological landscape that Rio navigates skillfully.

These relationships provide an in-depth exploration of human emotions and their volatility under pressure.

Finally, Rio delves into themes of guilt and justice, primarily through the mysterious event that forms the crux of the story.

The ensuing chaos, fear, and regret are palpable as the characters grapple with the repercussions of their actions.

This adds an intriguing layer of tension and suspense to the narrative.

The influence of Shakespeare is a pervasive theme throughout the book.

His works act as a powerful undercurrent, shaping the narrative and the characters.

It’s not just about quoting his plays; the novel itself takes on a Shakespearean structure, with each section titled as an act, and the narrative mirroring the tragedy and drama found in his works.

Analysis of Writing Style

Rio’s writing style in “If We Were Villains” can be best described as sophisticated and atmospheric.

Her mastery over language shines throughout the narrative, whether it’s in her lyrical descriptions of the Conservatory and its surroundings or her characterization of the seven protagonists.

Her words create vivid images, placing readers in the heart of the action.

Her choice to weave contemporary and Shakespearean dialogue is both audacious and ingenious.

This choice is reflective of the students’ reality, living in the modern world but immersed in the study of Shakespearean drama.

Despite the potential for confusion, Rio manages this balance effectively, making the dialogue accessible to readers without diluting the richness of the Shakespearean excerpts.

Rio’s ability to create an atmosphere of tension and suspense is commendable.

The reader is drawn into the palpable fear and confusion that ripple through the Conservatory after the shocking event.

The suspense is sustained throughout the narrative, driving the reader to unravel the truth buried beneath the layers of deception and artifice.

This sense of unease is a testament to Rio’s skill as a writer and her ability to create a compelling and atmospheric thriller.

Character Analysis

The characters in “If We Were Villains” are one of the greatest strengths of the novel. The seven friends; Oliver, James, Richard, Alexander, Meredith, Filippa, and Wren are exceptionally well-crafted.

Each character is distinct, yet their destinies are entwined in a captivating dance of friendship, rivalry, love, and deception.

Their personal growth and individual journeys add a compelling depth to the narrative.

A closer look at the protagonist, Oliver Marks, gives us a profound glimpse into Rio’s skillful character development.

Oliver is a character who is complex and compelling, a young man thrown into a whirlwind of passion, art, rivalry, and guilt.

Throughout the narrative, we see his transformation as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and their lasting impact on his life.

His motivations, inner turmoil, and evolution make him an intriguing character, around whom the plot of the novel unfurls.

One of the book’s most compelling aspects is the dynamic between the seven actors.

Their relationships are intense, complex, and filled with both camaraderie and rivalry.

As they navigate their way through their final year at the Conservatory, the power struggles, secret alliances, and simmering tensions come to light, adding to the book’s suspense and intrigue.

It’s fascinating to watch how their friendships morph into rivalries and vice versa, echoing the themes of their beloved Shakespearean plays.

Critique and Personal Reflection

As a reader, “If We Were Villains” has left an indelible impression on me. M. L. Rio has done a remarkable job at creating a unique story that draws heavily from Shakespeare, yet stands out with its own identity.

The sophisticated prose and intelligent plotting make it a riveting read, and the Shakespearean elements lend a timeless quality to the narrative.

The main strength of the book lies in its complex characters and the interplay of their relationships.

The depth of their friendships, the underlying tensions, and the intense rivalries are all beautifully drawn out.

Rio’s understanding of human emotions and their volatility shines through her writing, making the characters relatable and real.

However, the book may not be without its potential weaknesses.

Some readers might find the pace of the story slow, as the narrative takes its time to build the characters and their relationships.

The use of Shakespearean language, while beautifully executed, can be a bit complex for those unfamiliar with his works.

But I found that these aspects contributed to the overall richness of the novel and helped immerse me in the world Rio has created.

Personally, I found myself deeply affected by the book.

The emotional depth of the characters, their plight, and their transformation resonated with me.

I felt their passion, their fear, their guilt, and their longing for redemption. The overall reading experience was immersive and emotionally rewarding.

Comparisons and Contextualization

“If We Were Villains” bears some comparison with Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History”, given the premise of close-knit students caught in a web of their own making within the exclusive, somewhat isolating environment of a university.

However, Rio’s novel holds its own with its unique approach of incorporating elements of Shakespearean drama to reflect and impact its narrative.

In the broader landscape of literary thrillers, “If We Were Villains” stands out due to its ingenious blend of classic and contemporary elements.

It’s not often that a novel can successfully incorporate the works of Shakespeare into a modern narrative, creating a story that is as timeless as it is relevant.

It’s a unique approach that sets the novel apart from its contemporaries, contributing to its distinctive voice and appeal.

Moreover, in a literary world where thrillers often rely on fast-paced action and shocking twists, Rio’s novel offers something different; a slower, more character-driven exploration of suspense and psychological tension.

Its strength lies in its subtle narrative build-up, well-developed characters, and atmospheric setting, which combined, create an engrossing, thought-provoking novel.

Closing Thoughts

In summary, “If We Were Villains” by M. L. Rio is a masterful blend of literary sophistication, character-driven suspense, and insightful exploration of human nature.

Its strength lies in its complex characters, immersive setting, and the brilliant integration of Shakespearean drama into the narrative.

It’s a book that would be thoroughly enjoyed by those who appreciate nuanced storytelling, character-driven narratives, and, of course, the works of Shakespeare.

Even for those unfamiliar with Shakespeare, the novel’s exploration of friendship, rivalry, guilt, and redemption makes it a worthwhile read.

Reflecting on the significance of “If We Were Villains”, it serves as a potent reminder of the thin line between life and art, reality and illusion.

It’s a captivating, unique story that left a lasting impact on me, demonstrating the power of literature to move, disturb, and provoke thought.

“If We Were Villains” is more than just a story; it’s an exploration of humanity, the complexities of relationships, and the tragic beauty of life imitating art.

Our Rating for “If We Were Villains”

Rating a book can be a deeply personal exercise, as it is often influenced by personal taste, mood, and expectations.

However, objective analysis also plays a significant role.

For “If We Were Villains,” my personal experience and objective assessment are overwhelmingly positive.

The plot’s intricacy, the compelling characters, and the masterful use of language make it an excellent read.

The way M. L. Rio integrates Shakespearean drama into a contemporary narrative is nothing short of genius.

The suspense builds slowly but steadily, making it hard to put down the book.

Moreover, the emotional depth of the characters and their transformation is beautifully depicted, making the reader empathize with their plight.

However, as with any work of art, it is not without its minor flaws.

Some readers might find the pacing slow in the initial stages as the characters and their relationships are being developed.

Moreover, the use of Shakespearean language, while enriching the narrative, could be challenging for those not familiar with his works.

Considering all factors, I would give “If We Were Villains” a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.

This rating reflects not only its compelling narrative, intriguing characters, and atmospheric setting but also its originality in melding classic and contemporary elements.

This is a book that invites contemplation, probing deep into the complexities of human relationships, the nature of art, and the blurred lines between performance and reality.

It’s an immersive, thought-provoking read that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

If you’re looking for a literary thriller with depth, sophistication, and a dose of Shakespearean drama, “If We Were Villains” should be on your must-read list.

We genuinely hope our comprehensive review has covered everything you were looking for.

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