Legend by Marie Lu

Legend (Legend Trilogy, #1)

by Marie Lu

A New York Times bestseller!

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.

Reviewed by Jyc on

4 of 5 stars

Share

★★★★ // it’s been a while since i enjoyed a young-adult dystopian genre. part of that is because this one feels a little close to what was happening in the world now, with the pandemic and all. but mostly i find that i resonate with its political commentaries: about how governments control the news and media to manipulate people into believing that everything is okay and under control. how it paints subversiveness and dissent as some sort of anarchist propaganda, instead of acknowledging that there must be something wrong with the system which causes people to start revolutions. understanding what is right and wrong, especially in the political landscape, can be tricky. just like June in this story, you can get lost in the system and not see reason. but it’s not too late to see the light.

”Finally, when the sunset bathes my apartment in orange and gold, I break out of my trance. I clean up the shards of broken glass. I dress in my full uniform. I make sure my hair is pulled back flawlessly, that my face is clean and calm and devoid of emotion. In the mirror, I look the same. But I am a different person inside. I’m a prodigy who knows the truth, and I know exactly what I’m going to do.”

perhaps the only thing that i did not quite like is the romance. i did not think it was necessary, and when it pops up every now and then, i really find myself cringing, heh. but i suppose since it’s a young-adult genre, it needs that to still keep its target readers interested. but i hope the kids who read this picks up its more important messages about freedom and identity.

excited to read the read of the trilogy when i get my hands on them.

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 10 April, 2020: Finished reading
  • 10 April, 2020: Reviewed