Legend by Marie Lu

 Legend by Marie Lu. Published Nov 29, 2011 by Putnam Juvenile. CDN $9.50 paperback copy.

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 Excerpt)

I seem to be on a bit of a dystopia kick lately. Not that I’m complaining, since so far I have not been disappointed. My 16 yr old daughter gave me this book to read first since it isn’t something she would normally read. I was pleasantly surprised. The book is written from both June and Day’s POV. I love this type of writing. I like how we get into both heads and learn what makes them tick. I have to say I was shocked at Metias’s death. (Not a spoiler since it is on the goodreads excerpt!)

The back and forth chase between the characters is engaging and keeps you on the edge waiting until they meet face to face. I love how alike these characters are even though they don’t see it. There is a lot of suspense, action, thrills and chills. I’m a big fan of kick ass heroines and this delivers with impact. Day is equally bad ass but with a kind soft side that is endearing.

The love connection between the two is sweet and maybe a little quick, but I will chalk it up to how they met and the intensity of the timing. I was a little surprised at the ending, not in a bad way but just surprised. I’m looking forward to the next book.

4 ½ stars for me.