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Showing posts with label Marie Lu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Marie Lu. Show all posts

Thursday, 24 March 2016

{Review} Legend (Legend #1) by Marie Lu

17800966Posted by Donna
Release Date: November 29th, 2011
Finished Date: January 30th, 2016
Publishers: Putnam Juvenile
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Source: Bought
Format: Hardcover 
Pages: 305
Buy: Amazon UK Amazon US / Book Depo 
 
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.

The Review: “You’re brilliant,” he says. “But you’re a fool to stay with someone like me.” I close my eyes at the touch of his hand. “Then we’re both fools.”

This being one of my favourite dystopia series I decided that it was time to re-read the series and see if I still felt the same about it. Well even for the second time around this has completely surpassed my expectations and Legend is a powerful, addictive and fast paced novel that is action packed, with an explosive story line and a love story that will leave you begging for more.

June and Day are both fifteen years old who both live in completely different worlds and both will do anything for the ones they love. The only thing is Day is the world’s most wanted criminal and June is the super intelligent girl working for the Republic. When Day breaks into a hospital to try to find medicine for his sick brother, he is accused of murdering June’s brother, Metias leading June to make it her mission to hunt down Day and capture him so he can no longer run around the streets of Los Angeles’. However, when June finally meets Day he’s not like how the Republic have made him out to be - he’s kind, sweet and not at all a monster. So who should June believe Day or the Republic?

I’m so thrilled to have loved this book just as much the second time around if not more. Marie Lu captivated me from start to finish and made me want to continue reading about the story and characters even after I’d finished the book and even though I knew the general plot of the story its scary how much I had really forgotten since the last time I read it. 

I love how very unique the characters were and how much re-reading them again made me feel like I’d been reunited with long lost friends. Both June and Day are portrayed as very different characters but if anything they are more alike than anyone else. They are very smart, very brave and very loyal and even with everything going on in their crazy world; they manage to stay true to themselves. 

The romance in this book isn’t the main focus, it’s the back story and something you know is there but doesn’t truly reveal itself until the very last moment. I remember reading it for the first time wishing for more romance but the second time around I think it was just the right touch. It’s a slow burning one – one that makes you love it even though it isn’t truly there yet.  And with that awesome sending, the ending it did leave me a very content and satisfied reader. 

Overall, Marie Lu has created a fascinating, dangerous and thrilling world with Legend, one full of exciting twists and turns, full of betrayal and hidden secrets that will have you sitting on the edge of your sit until the very last page. A must read for any dystopian fan! 

**This is an updated version of my first review which you can read HERE**
 

Thursday, 31 October 2013

A Review for Champion (Legend #3) by Marie Lu

14290364
Posted by Donna
Release Date:  November 5th, 2013
Finished Date: October 30th, 2013
Publishers: Penguin UK
Genre: YA, Dystopia, Romance
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback
Pages: 353
The explosive finale to Marie Lu’s New York Times bestselling LEGEND trilogy—perfect for fans of THE HUNGER GAMES and DIVERGENT!

He is a Legend.
She is a Prodigy.
Who will be Champion?

June and Day have sacrificed so much for the people of the Republic—and each other—and now their country is on the brink of a new existence. June is back in the good graces of the Republic, working within the government’s elite circles as Princeps Elect while Day has been assigned a high level military position. But neither could have predicted the circumstances that will reunite them once again. Just when a peace treaty is imminent, a plague outbreak causes panic in the Colonies, and war threatens the Republic’s border cities. This new strain of plague is deadlier than ever, and June is the only one who knows the key to her country’s defense. But saving the lives of thousands will mean asking the one she loves to give up everything he has. With heart-pounding action and suspense, Marie Lu’s bestselling trilogy draws to a stunning conclusion.

The Review: "You drive me insane, June." He murmurs against my hair. "You're the scariest, most clever, bravest person I know, and sometimes I can't catch my breath because I'm trying so hard to keep up. There will never be another like you. You realise that, don't you?" I tilt my face up to see him. His eyes reflect the faint lights from the JumboTrons, a rainbow of evening colours. "Billions of people will come and go in this world," he says softly, "but there will never be another like you."

Starting 8 months after Prodigy finished, we see June working as a Princeps Elect and learning the political side to the war, and then we see Day receiving a high level military position. June and Day haven't seen each other in months, but soon they are reunited when the Elector informs them that a new plague has broken out and the Republic are being blamed. The only way the Colonies will not start  another war with them, is if they come up with a cure, but the cure the Republic may have, may lie with Day's brother Eden. But will Day give up his brother so others may live?

I don't even know where to start telling you how much I completely adore this series, it's definitely one of my favourites and as a writer Marie Lu continues to deliver epic work. Champion was a book for that gave me so many conflicting feelings before I even started reading. I was dreading it because I was so nervous about how it would end, and of course I was excited because I couldn't wait to see how it ends - see the conflicting feelings? Well, let me tell you that Marie Lu held my heart in her hands from the moment I started reading, and she didn't let go until the end!

Marie Lu really did pull out the stops with Champion - if you like mind-blowing, non-stop action, then this is for you. She doesn't leave one dull moment, if it's not the action keeping you glued to this book then, it's your emotions pulling you in every different direction. The plot of the story increased a lot in Prodigy, and it only increases again in Champion. There's so many different factors in this book that had to all come together and I believe it was done so well. Marie Lu's imagination really has no limits - she really does have a creative mind.

June and Day have really grown as characters - they're independent, selfless and strong characters - ones that have the fate of the world on their shoulder and who constantly sacrifice their own happiness for the rest of the world. June and Day's voice work so well together during this series, that reading the dual point of view really was a pleasure to read. Their love for one another is truly touching, it's one that completely consumes you and leaves you a bundle of nerves. All the odds are against them as a couple - even more so when Day's illness was introduced in Prodigy - but Marie Lu doesn't leave her readers disappointed. She doesn't make their story easy, but it's one that's worth fighting for.

And ending, the ending that you all want to know about? Well, that ending left my heart completely and utterly bursting from the seams! Champion truly is a spectacular and stunning conclusion and it's one I won't be forgetting any time soon.

Thursday, 31 January 2013

A Review for Prodigy (Legend #2) by Marie Lu

Prodigy (Legend, #2)
Posted by Donna
Release Date: January 29th, 2013
Finished Date: January 18th, 2013
Publishers: Penguin 
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback
Pages: 384
Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request—June and Day must assassinate the new Elector.

It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long. 

But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood—what if the Patriots are wrong?

In this highly-anticipated sequel, Lu delivers a breathtaking thriller with high stakes and cinematic action

The Review: 4.5 Stars!

"The first time I saw you, when you stepped into that skiz ring against Kaede, I thought you were the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. I could've watched you forever. The first time I kissed you......well, that might as well have been my first kiss ever." 

Prodigy is finally here and my god is it good! I feel like I've been ticking down the days until I finally had this book in my hands, and when I did get it, I started it immediately. But firstly I'd like to say, BRAVO to Marie Lu because she really does know how to raise the bar on this fantastic series!

Prodigy continues as we see June and Day arriving in Las Vegas so they can track down the Patriot group and help bring the Republic down. However, upon arriving it is announced to the world that Elector Primo is dead, leaving his son Anden to take his place. Everyone in the Patriot group is happy about the death of the Elector because Anden is young and naive, and he will be an easier target to assassinate than the Elector would have been. In order for June and Day to seek refuge with the Patriot group, they want something in return. They want June and Day to help assassinate Anden but June suddenly starts to question everything she is being told. Leaving her questioning like are the Patriots really the good people? 

Well, I certainly didn't expect ANY of that! Wow! In my head, I kind of thought I knew where Prodigy would lead us.  It seemed like everything was set up a certain way after the events of Legend, but I was so very wrong. It was just so unpredictable! Everything you learnt from the first book is twisted and turned around and it honestly leaves you questioning everything. Who really is the bad guy? Honestly, I couldn't even guess! Marie Lu does create a fascinating read that is so heart-pounding and full of adrenaline, that I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat from nerves and anticipation. Not only that but we do get a total different experience reading this time around because we finally get to see the Patriot's in the act. It's more military based with the fire fighter jets, street bombing, and we see more runners - which I really enjoyed.  Everything just comes together so well and it really brings it more to life. I'm so excited to see this book on the big screen - if it ever happens. 

Now not only is the story line fantastic but the dual point's of view does not disappoint. They are written perfectly and they complement each other so well. Not once do you get lost in either of the narratives. June and Day are unique and such well rounded characters that it's hard not to love them. Their faced with a lot of tough decisions through out this book - if not, more than before. They seem to have to take everything will a little bit of faith. Everywhere they turn, there seems to be someone there who is using them and it's a shame they can't confide in anyone - other than themselves and possibly even one unlikely ally, which is honestly going blow your mind. And there also a lot of uncertainty about June and Day's relationship which really throws a spanner in the works and then of course, that ending. HOLY SMOKES THAT ENDING!! I felt like screaming "WHY MARIE, WHY DID YOU HAVE TO DO THAT TO US?!" No!!! It can't possibly be true....I refused to believe it. It's safe to sending the ending of Prodigy will leave you completely blown away but it will also leave you wanting to pull your hair out. It's that good! 

"We're in this together, right?" he whispers. "You and me? You want to be here, yeah?" There's guilt in his questions. "Yes," I reply. "I chose this." Day pulls me close enough for our noses to touch. "I love you."

All in all, there are many things that make Prodigy is a fantastic book and the only way you're going to find out, is by reading it yourself. I urge you to pick up this series because it just becomes even more mind-blowing with each book. 

Wednesday, 19 December 2012

PRODIGY - Sequel to LEGEND by Marie Lu; Extract + UK/IRE Giveaway

Prodigy (Legend #2) by Marie Lu
Release Date: January 29th, 2013
Publishers: Penguin UK
June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request—June and Day must assassinate the new Elector.

It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long. 

But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood—what if the Patriots are wrong?

In this highly-anticipated sequel, Lu delivers a breathtaking thriller with high stakes and cinematic action.
Prodigy First Chapter
You can check out the book trailer below;


As well as the game trailer;

 
And you can win a copy of the PRODIGY too! 
Fill out the rafflecopter form below. 
Ends December 31st, 2012
- UK/IRE only 
Good Luck! 
 

Sunday, 29 January 2012

A Review for Legend (Legend #1) by Marie Lu

Posted by Donna
Expected Published Date: February 2nd, 2012
Finished Date: January 29th, 2012
Publishers: Puffin
Source: ARC, For Review
Format: Paperback
Pages: 368
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The Blurb from Goodreads: The United States is gone, along with its flooded coasts. North America's two warring nations, the western Republic and the eastern Colonies, have reached a breaking point. In the midst of this broken continent and dark new world are two teenagers who will go down in history....
<
 Born into the slums of Los Angeles, fifteen-year old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. A mysterious boy with no recorded image or fingerprints. A boy who should no longer exist. A boy who watches over his family until one evening, when the plague patrols mark his family's door with an X--the sign of plague infection. A death sentence for any family too poor to afford the antidote. Desperate, Day has no choice; he must steal it.

Born to an elite family in Los Angeles' wealthy Ruby sector, fifteen-year old June is the Republic's most promising prodigy. A superintelligent girl destined for great things in the country's highest military circles. Obedient, passionate, and committed to her country--until the day her brother Metias is murdered while on patrol during a break-in at the plague hospital.

Only one person could be responsible. Day. And now it's June's mission to hunt him down. The truth they'll uncover will become legend.

The Review: “You’re brilliant,” he says. “But you’re a fool to stay with someone like me.” I close my eyes at the touch of his hand. “Then we’re both fools.”
<
This is the second dystopian book I’ve read this week that has completely surpassed my expectations and I have to say, Legend is a powerful, addictive and fast paced novel that is action packed, with an explosive storyline and a love story that will leave you begging for more.

June and Day are both 15 years old who both live in completely different worlds and both will do anything for the ones they love. The only thing is, Day is the worlds most wanted criminal and June is the super intelligent girl working for the Republic. When Day breaks into a hospital to try to find medicine for his sick brother, he is accused of murdering June’s brother, Metias. So June makes it her mission to hunt down Day and capture him so he can no longer run around the streets of Los Angeles’. However, when June finally meets Day for the first time, he’s not like how the Republic have made him out to be - he’s kind, sweet and not at all a monster but who is the real monster in this story…..Day or the Republic?

I’m so thrilled to have loved this book as much as everyone else because I’d heard a few mixed reviews recently but after reading the first two chapters, I was hooked. Marie Lu captivated me from start to finish and made me want to continue reading about the story and characters even when I finished the book. Now I have a long and painful wait until September for the next instalment.

What I noticed and loved about this book was how very unique the characters were. Both June and Day are portrayed as very different characters but if anything they are more alike than anyone else. They are very smart, very brave and very loyal and even with everything going on in their crazy world; they manage to stay true to themselves. What I had to keep reminding myself through-out this book, was that they are only 15 years old. Sometimes they appear to much older and I personally think 15 is a little young for this book but with June being a super smart kid and Day being Day, I guess it fits with the story and it’s something I can overlook.

Now the romance in the book isn’t the main focus of the story, it’s the back story and something you know is there but doesn’t truly reveal itself until the very last moment. I have to say, I wished for more romance BUT the ending did leave me very content and satisfied, so I have very high hopes for the next book.

Overall, Marie Lu has created a fascinating, dangerous and thrilling world with Legend, one full of exciting twists and turns, full of betrayal and full of hidden secrets that will have you sitting on the edge of your sit until the very last page. A must read for any dystopian fan! I loved it!
 
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