A review by ina_pages
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

As a theater student myself I thought I’d relate heavily to the characters in this book. I didn’t really. Despite understanding how great Shakespeare was, I hated studying him. But whether you hate Shakespeare or love him it’s hard to disagree that he was a great artist of his time, especially when he inspires brilliant works like this.

I learned from school that Shakespeare was at the forefront of the English Renaissance. His command and understanding of human emotions and behavior is, in my opinion, one of his greatest assets and what made his works so enticing to watch/read. M.L. Rio clearly carried this over into her work as Oliver’s thoughts and emotions are so clear and easy to follow (at least, it was for me). 

I think everyone should read this book at least once in their life. It’s a beautiful exploration of love and tragedy that would have even Shakespeare fighting back tears.
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