If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio is a book of mystery, romance, friendship, action, and suspense. This fantasy novel is full of twists and turns that leave the reader on the edge of their seat. In 368 pages, M. L. Rio manages to not only explain the depth of her characters and tell a captivating story, but also explain the thought processes of the human mind. It is not a story of good or bad, but of explaining human nature, and that is exactly what I love about it. 

If We Were Villains is a story about seven friends and their many trials, literally and figuratively. These seven characters are unique in the fact that they are fourth-year students attending Dellecher Classical Conservatory, a prestigious school for acting. The stress affects these students greatly, especially when they are given roles unlike their usual type cast, causing them to question one another. After the main antagonist and his girlfriend break up, his anger is taken out on everybody. Mixed feelings from other group members only make the situation worse. The pressure from their personal lives and professional performances drives tensions to a breaking point. The main characters become anxious from their decisions and strained relationships in one way or another. This happens in the form of panic attacks, impulsiveness, violence, and drugs. Eventually these friends can no longer take the guilt and anxiety from their actions, and they fall apart. 

If We Were Villains not only has an interesting plot, but intense character development that keeps the reader wanting to know more about the complexities of their backgrounds. I love this book because of the many diverse characters that have more depth to them than one first realizes. These characters grow and encounter extreme and unusual conflict that challenges their morals and beliefs, as well as facing everyday, coming-of-age conflicts that happen as one grows into adulthood. This book shows the true side of humanity and pressure of being a young adult, and how not every decision is black and white. If We Were Villains has many realistic aspects that occur in everyday life, and gives understanding to how young adults of today may feel. I am rating this book a 10 out of 10 for its originality, plot, character depth, and parallel realism to young adult life. I strongly recommend this book for more experienced readers that love books such as A Separate Peace, Ordinary People, The Catcher in the Rye, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower. What these books have in common is ability to tell a story while explaining the thought processes of teenagers facing everyday life. 

M. L. Rio’s If We Were Villains is a book not easily forgotten. Its suspense, in-depth writing, and interesting characters make it a good read for someone looking for a book that will make one stop and think. This book accurately represents the thinking of young adults and the everyday twists and turns of life. While entertaining, it also demonstrates a deeper level of understanding of the human mind when met with conflict, and the inner debates of morality. If We Were Villains is truly a must-read for experienced readers looking for fantasy with a touch of reality.