NOT SO MINI REVIEW #53: Legend (Legend #1) by Marie Lu

Title: Legend

Series: Legend #1
Author: Marie Lu
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Release Date: November 29, 2011
Pages: 305, Hardcover

Summary from Goodreads:

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.

So, unless you live under a rock, you have probably heard about this book. (No offense intended to those of you that live under a rock). This is probably one of those books that has gotten enough positive ratings that, if you haven't already, you should probably just jump on the bandwagon and read it so you won't be left out of the next conversation. BUT before you do, I suggest you don't buy into all the hype.

I mean that in the best possible way. This is one of those books that we have all heard so much about that all comments and reviews have morphed together and expanded into this overwhelming gigantic unavoidable ball of positiveness. At that point, the reality of the book is preceded by its reputation and you begin to expect, rather than hope, for an amazing read. But naturally all of our expectations are different based on our unique definition of awesome and since this book can't be all things to everyone - it will fail to meet the expectations of some. This is what happened with me and Legend.

Don't get me wrong - this is a damn good book and I enjoyed it. I can't really think of anything it lacks.  But if I am honest,  I can't really think of anything that would make me single this book out among others, like my 5 star reads.  The characters are strong. The plot is engaging.  But that can be said about a lot of books. And after all I heard about it, I went in expecting it to knock my socks off and that may have had an effect on my overall rating because at the end of the day, sure I enjoyed this book but my socks were most definitely still on.

The unfortunate fact that I expected more than I reasonably should have is probably what left me feeling a little disappointed and why you see 4 stars instead of 5 at the start of my review. But this is definitely a solid 4 star book.

So I realize I have yet to actually say anything about the book. You've probably heard it all but here goes - I really liked June's strength. I liked how she easily matched Day, if not exceeded him in intellect, combat skills, stealth, deception - you name it. She was fierce. I also liked how she didn't give in easily to her emotions but stayed dedicated to her mission until natural events led her to change. She was always in control of herself and I admired that. I also liked Day. He was dangerous but he fought for the good guys. My favorite mix. And the story was well-paced and had a lot of action. But the dystopian world was just ok in my opinion. I will end with my favorite quote from June:

"In my mind, I make a silent promise to my brother's killer. I will hunt you down. I will scour the streets of Los Angeles for you. Search every street in the Republic if I have to. I will trick you and deceive you, lie, cheat and steal to find you, tempt you out of your hiding place, and chase you until you have nowhere else to run. I make you this promise: your life is mine.”

Anyway, mini review fail. Sorry.