Legend by Marie Lu

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.

Goodreads Summary

Another breath-taking dystopian novel.  This book is perfect for a dark, rainy day or a long train or plane ride.  June is at the top of the feeding chain, Day is towards the bottom; however, both are brilliant.  Day has been surviving off the streets and helping his family secretly while June goes to a top-tier college and learns to becomes a better warrior. 

Their lives collide when June believes Day to be her brother, Metias's, killer.  But what if things are not always as they seem?  June digs deeper into the truth and discovers that the perfect world she lives in may not be so perfect after all. 

I loved the characters.  The author incorporates the perfect qualities to make them come alive and likable to the reader.  The reader will appreciate June's intelligence and Day's quick thinking.  The secondary characters, too, play a part.  They each have their own special quality that makes them stand out.  The events are fast-paced, some violent while other more serene; the vast majority of the events are intense.  This book is highly recommended to young adult/teens.

4 Stars

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