If We Were Villains
“If We Were Villains” is a novel by M.L. Rio, first published in 2017. Set in the world of an elite arts conservatory, the story follows a group of seven Shakespearean actors whose lives become entangled in tragedy and deception.
The narrative is framed around Oliver Marks, a young actor who has just been released from prison after serving ten years for a crime he may not have committed. As Oliver reflects on the events that led to his incarceration, the reader is taken back to his time at Dellecher Classical Conservatory.
At Dellecher, Oliver and his friends are all members of an exclusive Shakespearean acting troupe. As they immerse themselves in their roles both on and off stage, their relationships become increasingly complex and fraught with tension. When one of their own is found dead under suspicious circumstances, the group’s bonds are put to the test as secrets are revealed and allegiances shift.
Through a series of flashbacks and present-day reflections, the novel explores themes of loyalty, ambition, love, and the blurred lines between art and reality. As Oliver grapples with his own guilt and the truth behind the events that changed their lives forever, he must confront the consequences of their actions and ultimately decide where his loyalties lie.
“If We Were Villains” has been praised for its atmospheric setting, intricate plot, and richly drawn characters. It offers a compelling exploration of the complexities of friendship and the power of Shakespeare’s words to both illuminate and obscure the truth.
