Shakespearean drama, obsessive relationships, and a murder mystery—If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio expertly weaves these elements into a captivating and unsettling tale. This isn't your typical whodunit; it's a psychological thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of ambition, jealousy, and the blurring lines between reality and performance. This review will explore the novel's strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately, why it's worth reading (or rereading).
What is If We Were Villains about?
The novel centers around a group of intensely passionate and talented students at a prestigious conservatory studying classical theatre. Their lives revolve around Shakespeare, specifically the tragedies, and their performances become a microcosm of their own fraught relationships. Oliver, the charismatic and enigmatic leader of the group, dies under mysterious circumstances, leaving the remaining students—each with their own secrets and motivations—under suspicion. The narrative unfolds through dual timelines, shifting between the present-day investigation and flashbacks revealing the intense dynamics and escalating tensions within the group leading up to the tragedy.
The Allure of Shakespeare and Performance
Rio masterfully uses Shakespeare as both a thematic and structural device. The students' obsession with the Bard's works, particularly the tragedies, mirrors and foreshadows their own unfolding drama. Their performances aren't just theatrical exercises; they become warped reflections of their desires, conflicts, and ultimately, their capacity for violence. The language is rich with Shakespearean allusions and echoes, adding another layer of complexity and intrigue to the narrative. This deep dive into the world of theatre and the intense passion it can evoke is one of the novel's greatest strengths.
What makes the characters so compelling?
The characters are richly developed and deeply flawed, making them both fascinating and repulsive. Their relationships are complex and interwoven, fueled by both intense love and bitter rivalry. Each student embodies a different Shakespearean archetype, and their actions and motivations are often driven by their own interpretations of these roles. This nuanced portrayal of human nature, with all its complexities and contradictions, keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
How does the dual timeline work?
The dual timeline structure, shifting between the present-day investigation and the past events leading up to Oliver's death, effectively builds suspense and gradually reveals crucial details. This technique allows Rio to meticulously craft the atmosphere of suspicion and uncertainty, drawing the reader further into the mystery. While this technique can sometimes feel disorienting, it ultimately enhances the overall experience by providing a gradual understanding of the events that transpired.
Who is the killer?
(This section will avoid spoilers regarding the killer's identity. The enjoyment of this book is largely built upon the mystery.) The mystery at the heart of If We Were Villains is cleverly constructed. Rio expertly misdirects the reader, planting clues and red herrings that keep the suspense alive until the very end. The revelation of the killer, while not necessarily shocking, is deeply satisfying in its logical consistency with the established character dynamics and the unfolding narrative.
Is If We Were Villains a standalone?
Yes, If We Were Villains is a standalone novel. While the author's writing style is unique and highly atmospheric, the story is self-contained and does not require any prior knowledge of other works.
What are the themes of If We Were Villains?
The novel explores several compelling themes, including:
- Obsession and Jealousy: The intense relationships between the characters are fueled by obsession and jealousy, leading to destructive consequences.
- The Blurring of Reality and Performance: The lines between the characters' theatrical lives and their personal lives become increasingly blurred, making it difficult to distinguish between performance and reality.
- The Nature of Ambition: The students' ambition and drive to succeed, particularly in a highly competitive environment, contribute significantly to the conflict.
- The Power of Language: Shakespeare's language is used to both illuminate and obscure the truth, highlighting the power of words to manipulate and deceive.
Conclusion: A Must-Read for Fans of Psychological Thrillers
If We Were Villains is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Its compelling characters, intricate plot, and exploration of complex themes make it a truly unforgettable reading experience. If you enjoy books that blend literary depth with suspenseful storytelling, this is definitely a book to add to your reading list.
