"If We Were Villains" by M.L. Rio is a gripping literary thriller set in the world of elite arts education. The novel follows Oliver Marks, one of seven talented actors studying Shakespeare at an exclusive conservatory. The story unfolds in two timelines: the present, where Oliver is just released from prison after serving ten years for a crime he may or may not have committed, and the past, which details the events leading up to the tragedy. As Oliver reconnects with his former classmates and confronts the demons of his past, the novel explores themes of friendship, betrayal, love, and obsession. The dynamics among the group of friends are intricate and fraught with tension, especially as they become entangled in a web of jealousy and competition. M.L. Rio skillfully weaves together elements of Shakespearean drama with a contemporary mystery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation. "If We Were Villains" is a compelling exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of unchecked ambition.