A review by _eleanorgreen8_
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

from the very beginning, i could tell that this book was based on the secret history. i almost wish i hadn't read the secret history first, because then the plot would have seemed so much more original and unexpected. however, this was still an amazing read. ML Rio is an excellent writer and so skilful at exploring emotions and dialogue - several times i forgot i was even reading. i found it a bit difficult to understand at the beginning, but by the middle of the book i was completely gripped. i was fascinated by the complexity of each character, especially intrigued by how
Oliver seemed to constantly flick between infatuation with meredith and his gradually realised feelings for james
- which was confusing at times but kept me on the edge of my seat and i think reflected how human emotions ARE often conflicting and inexplicable. i also liked the themes of the book - i really got a sense of the intoxicating world of Dellecher and how acting all the time can mess with your perception of reality. overall it was a really powerful, gripping read but with a few slightly confusing points. 
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