A review by emily_smith2007
Legend by Marie Lu

adventurous inspiring mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 
Legend 

Maria Lu 

Los Angeles, California, The Republic of America: He is Day; The most wanted criminal. She is June; the Republic’s prodigy. 

The United States is long gone and now divided into two. 15 years old June Iparis was born into an elite family in one of the Republic’s Wealthiest sectors. 15 years old Day was born in slums. He is known for his crimes against the Republic, but his motivation isn’t as malicious as it seems. 

Neither of them seem to have reason to ever meet, but when June’s Brother, Metias, is murdered she swears to avenge him. Day becomes the prime suspect. 

On the run and under cover they meet by chance. They are both intrigued by each other. Neither of them knows the others past. Can they put two and two together? 

Day is in a race against time, he must protect his family. The Republic is filled with plagues and has been for a long time. The rich and elite get vaccinations each year but the poorer section of the population is left to fend for themselves. 

The Republic is brutal, militarised and nationalistic. However, is there something ever more sinister? How far will the Republic go to keep things hidden? 

The book is told in the dual perspective of Day and June, which I loved. It does hit close to home because of how the Plagues are a key point. It almost made it even more real to me as aspects were very similar to Covid and lock down. 

I will give it a 4/5 (8/10) stars, because I really enjoyed it. I loved listening to it on audiobook, the narration was great. I loved the characters and their energy. The contrast of societies was really interesting, I liked the juxtaposition that it gave the story. I also enjoyed the fact that the romance was a prominent story line but there was also lots of other story lines. It didn’t feel like it took over. 

I would recommend this to 12/13+, anyone that enjoyed The Hunger Games,  and anyone that wants a book that has a hint of mystery but has a much bigger plot. If you feel like reading a book with strong characters in that aren’t perfect, If you enjoy Dystopia, romance, law and army’s/war then I think you will enjoy Legend. Even if you just like the sound of it give it a go. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings