If We Were Villains

Oliver Marks has just served ten years for a murder he may or may not have committed. On the day of his release, he is greeted by the detective who put him in prison. Detective Colborne is retiring, and he wants to know what really happened a decade before.

As a young actor at an elite conservatory, Oliver noticed that his talented classmates seem to play the same characters onstage and off – villain, hero, temptress – though he was always a supporting role. But when the teachers change the casting, a good-natured rivalry turns ugly, and the plays spill dangeroua

f We Were Villains is a gripping mystery set in the competitive world of an elite performing arts college. The story follows seven theater students whose lives revolve around Shakespearean drama. Their intense relationships and rivalries mirror the dramatic themes they study. When a tragedy occurs, leading to a suspicious death, the boundary between their roles on stage and their real lives begins to blur. As police investigate, one of the students, Oliver Marks, is released from prison a decade later and recounts the events that led to the fateful night. This intricately plotted novel weaves suspense, betrayal, and the enduring power of art.

Why Read This Book

• Explores themes of friendship, jealousy, and the destructive nature of ambition.
• Immerses readers in the theatrical world of Shakespeare, with clever allusions and dialogue.
• Features a tightly woven narrative with twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
• Combines psychological depth with a thrilling mystery.
• Appeals to fans of dark academia and stories like The Secret History.

About the Author

M.L. Rio holds a Master’s in Shakespeare Studies from King’s College London and draws on her academic background to create a vivid, authentic exploration of theater and literature in If We Were Villains. This debut novel has earned critical acclaim for its intricate storytelling and compelling characters. Rio’s passion for drama and storytelling continues to influence her writing.

When tragedy strikes, one of the seven friends is found dead. The rest face their greatest acting challenge yet: convincing the police, and themselves, that they are blameless..