M. L. Rio is an author best known for her debut novel, "If We Were Villains," published in April 2017 by Flatiron Books. The book became an international bestseller, blending elements of dark academia, literary fiction, and suspense. Rio's background in theater and Shakespearean studies heavily influences her writing, creating layered narratives that explore themes of performance, identity, and obsession.
Before pursuing writing full-time, Rio worked as an actor and developed a deep academic interest in Shakespeare. She holds a master's degree in Shakespeare Studies from King's College London and Shakespeare's Globe, as well as a PhD in early modern English literature from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her scholarly expertise informs her fiction, lending authenticity to her portrayal of theatrical worlds and complex character dynamics. Rio's transition from acting to academia and finally to authorship reflects her lifelong passion for storytelling in all its forms.