Book Review: Legend (Legend #1) by Marie Lu

Summary:
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' 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.

Release Date: November 29, 2011
Age Group: Young Adult
Publisher: Putnam
Source: Purchased

Review:
Oh, this book was SO good!  I absolutely loved it.  The last few dystopian novels I've read didn't quite live up to my expectations, but Legend far surpassed everything else I've read for a while now.


The story is told in alternating points-of-view, which I love.  It lets the reader really get to know more than just the main character.  June and Day are our narrators and main characters.  I have to say, I didn't really like either of them at first, but they really grew on me.  Especially June.  I basically couldn't stand her elitist attitude at the beginning of the book.  I thought she was a self-important snob!  But then, she starts to change and grow, and her evolution as a character was one of my favorite things about the book.

The back-story was well-done, cluing the reader in without feeling didactic.  I thought the world was very believable and that made the story even better for me.  The pacing was great, alternating between action and history.  I loved finding out little bits about each character as the story progressed.

I really can't wait for book two in the series, Patriot, due out September 2012.  Marie Lu is an author to watch---she's written an outstanding debut!



2 comments:

  1. I wouldn't say I LOVED this book, but I did like it and I'm really anxious to read Patriot. Great review!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love alternating POVs as well, when they're done right. Okay, I need to get this book ASAP.

    ReplyDelete

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