Mini-Review: Legend by Marie Lu

Title: Legend
Author: Marie Lu
Series: Legend #1
Genre: Dystopian Young Adult
Release Date: 11/29/11
Reviewed by: Sara
But the Book:

Summary:

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.

Mini-Review: This novel is definitely a must read for anyone who needs more dystopian YA after seeing the Hunger Games. My favorite part of the novel was the alternating points of view. Each chapter switches between Day and June, giving the reader a look at both sides of the Republic simultaneously. Sometimes POV switches can slow the plot down, but it did the exact opposite in this novel. Day and June were equally strong and interesting. They really balanced each other out throughout the novel, even before they met. This cover conveys the feel of the novel very well (and looks even better in person). But for a book as fantastic as this, I wish there was just a bit more detail in it.

Plot: 4.5 Stars
Pace: 5 Stars
Characters: 4.5 Stars
Cover: 3.5 Stars
Overall: 4.5 Stars

Disclosure: I received a copy of this novel as a Christmas gift.