Legend by Marie Lu

Legend
by Marie Lu
Date Released: November 29, 2011
Pages: 305

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.

My Review:

My goodness was this book amazing. Probably my favorite book of the year.

At first I was a little wary because the chapter format is a little different, but I was quickly swept up by the story and didn't care any longer.

Both of the main characters, June and Day, were fantastic. They had background stories and depth, and went against many stereotypes we have for the two main romantic leads. June was a military prodigy, something you may not expect from the girl. She scored a perfect score on The Trial, a placement test every citizen takes when the turn 10, the only person ever to do so. Or so people thought. Turns out Day also scored a perfect score and this is discovered by June when she is investigating Day's background.

That is another thing I liked about June. Normally when one character betrays another character I get really mad at said character. Especially when they are starting to become a possible shipping couple. But after June turned Day in she refused to just walk away and accept what Day was being accused of. Her love for him compelled her to clear his name even though it would go against everything she was raised to believe. And she succeeded.

I also really loved this quote: "Each day means a new twenty-four hours. Each day means everything’s possible again. You live in the moment, you die in the moment, you take it all one day at a time.” He looks toward the railway car’s open door, where streaks of dark water blanket the world. “You try to walk in the light" It is Day's response when June asks how he got his name, Day since his real name is Daniel.

The ending of Legend definitely set itself up for the sequel, which comes out later this year. I believe it is called Patriot.

My Rating: