Legend
Marie Lu
What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.
From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.
Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.
From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.
Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.
My Thoughts:
I had bought this book when it first came out and read it within a week. Unfortunately, back then I never thought of writing my own reviews. So now, here I am many years later finally giving the due credit to this amazing book, which took off and became a world wide sought after Young Adult series.
One would never know that this was a debut novel for Marie Lu unless told otherwise. Lu's writing is magnificent. She sets a very nice mood and backdrop for the reader right away. In a dystopian world, June and Day are living entirely opposite lifestyles. While June is a soldier, fighting for what her government believes in, Day is a commoner, fighting for his freedoms, partially due to Day being the Republic's most wanted criminal.
June on the other hand, is perfect pick from the crop. A prodigy, she is the best of the best and does what her commander tells her to do with no questions asked. I was less than thrilled with June's day job and personality in the beginning of this story, mostly because I'm more of Day than a June. However, I decided to give June more of a chance with an open mind and I'm glad I did, because everyone has their own story, and you simply need to take the time to hear it, to try and understand why they are the way they are.
The story here Lu creates has such a unique feel. I felt like I was watching a movie while reading, with such vivid fighting scenes. Legend is full of action and I most definitely love that aspect. I feel that when an author is writing a dystopian, action is a must and Lu expertly executes what is desired by her readers. With surprising twists and an unexpected romance, Legend is a perfect for debut for Marie Lu and a perfect beginning to an amazing trilogy. Now, I must re-read Prodigy and Champion. Reviews to come!
