Legend: a book recommendation

5 out of 5 stars.

Hold. Onto. YOUR HATS. Marie Lu’s Legebd is going to sweep you away. From page 1, this book is a page-turning thrill ride.

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.

After meeting the charming, Robin-Hood-esque Day, we’re plunked into his one heckuva dystopian world. Lu had me at the word “jumbotron”–any futuristic world that has that full, 1984 feel is bound to draw me in. Add in some Romeo & Juliet type romance, and I’m a goner.

Oh yes, did I mention the delicious romance? Because Lu does a fantastic job with it. The minute we meet the cool, calculating June, we know that she’s both a complete foil to Day as well as his complete complement…and we’re just *rooting* for them to get together. Not that their romance is anything easy. Considering he’s the most wanted criminal in the Republic and she’s the military’s star spy, they’re hardly in a position to fall head over heels. But the attraction between them is undeniable (and sizzling!).

If you like thrilling action (a là Divergent), clever mystery (a là Sherlock [no joke, June totally reminds me of Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlck!]), or high-tension romance (a là Romeo & Juliet), then you’ll definitely want to pick up Marie Lu’s Legend.

You tell me: have you read Legend? What did you think?