Vicious by V. E. Schwab — book slip

Victor Vale and Eli Ever were college roommates with a shared obsession: the possibility of gaining superpowers through near-death experiences.

Their experiments, however, lead to catastrophic results, turning them from friends into bitter enemies.

A decade later, Victor escapes from prison, determined to confront Eli, who has taken it upon himself to eliminate all super-powered individuals.

As Victor seeks revenge, he is joined by a young girl with a unique ability, while Eli is aided by a woman with an unbreakable will.

As their paths collide, the two men are locked in a deadly game of cat and mouse, driven by betrayal and the thirst for vengeance.

First in the Villains series by V. E. Schwab.