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Legend by Marie Lu

Set in a divided future United States, Legend tells the story of two very different people. One is regarded as a hero of the republic because she is the only one ever to get a perfect score. The other is regarded by the republic as enemy number one even though they don't know what he looks like. He is also supposed to be dead.

The republic is run by a dictator who selects the best from society to be in the military. The most important thing is to win the war against the colonies, and to that end people are conscripted into the military and electricity is turned off to houses in order for the military to operate. Both army and police can enter any house and detain anyone they want. It is a far cry from the land of the free.

Soon June and Day's paths cross as June is sent to hunt down the number one menace. She has a personal axe to grind as Day killed her brother and she vows to get revenge. But together they uncover an impossible truth about their leaders.

While some complain about the civil liberties that have been quickly eroded in the US following September 11th, it is still hard to see the US becoming a virtual third world country locked in a civil war. It would be easier perhaps to believe the setting if it was some part of Eastern Europe.

Readers will note that parts of the story seem to be inspired by other stories and parts of history. Day is obviously a 'Robin Hood' like figure, while aspects of the society are reminiscent of Stalin's Russia and Nazi Germany.

The story is filled with action and intrigue providing an exciting read.

RRP $26.00
Published and distributed by Penguin Group under the Razorbill title.

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