If We Were Villains

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How familiar were you with Shakespeare’s work before reading this novel? Did you feel that it was accessible, regardless of whether you had read Macbeth or Othello?

2. Who is your favorite character among Oliver’s friend group? What do you like about them? Would you befriend that character if they existed in real life?

3. This novel is a popular example of the dark academia genre. How might it compare to other staples of dark academia, like The Secret History or Ninth House? In what aspects of the genre does If We Were Villains excel?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. When the novel begins, each character embodies a stereotype or stock character in Shakespeare’s body of work. Do you believe that people are naturally inclined to be heroes, sidekicks, lovers, or villains? Can people transcend their behavioral tendencies, or will they always fall back on their inclinations?

2. The characters are so immersed in the world of Shakespeare that they find it difficult to break out of the roles they play, even when they are off the stage.