If We Were Villains (Hardcover)

At the prestigious Dellecher Classical Conservatory, seven fourth-year acting students—Oliver Marks, Richard Stirling, James Farrow, Meredith Dardenne, Alexander Vass, Wren Stirling, and Filippa Kosta—share a deep passion for Shakespearean theater. Their close-knit camaraderie begins to unravel as they are cast in roles that challenge their established identities, leading to intense rivalries and blurred lines between performance and reality. Richard's increasing volatility and abusive behavior toward his peers escalate tensions, culminating in a tragic incident that leaves him severely injured and the group grappling with the consequences of their actions.

The narrative unfolds through Oliver's perspective, who, after serving a decade in prison for the murder of his classmate Richard, is approached by Detective Joseph Colborne seeking the truth behind the events that transpired. As Oliver recounts the harrowing events of their final year at Dellecher, the story delves into themes of ambition, jealousy, and the destructive power of art imitating life. The atmosphere is dark and suspenseful, with the characters' personal conflicts and the looming presence of Shakespeare's tragedies casting a shadow over their lives.

The novel intricately weaves Shakespearean themes into the lives of its characters, exploring the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the blurred boundaries between reality and performance. The tension builds steadily, drawing readers into a world where the stakes are as high as the passions that drive the characters, leading to a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.