‘Legend’ kicks off trilogy based on ‘Les Miserables’

“Legend” kicks off a trilogy based on Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserables.”

“Legend” is the first book in a trilogy written by Mary Lu and published in 2011. This dystopian young adult novel is Lu’s retelling of the conflict in “Les Miserables” from a teenage perspective. This heartbreaking novel follows June Iparis, a 15-year-old military prodigy, and Daniel “Day” Altan Wing, a 15-year-old rebellious criminal, as they collide over the investigation of June’s brother’s death.

June’s brother, Metias, raised her after her parents were killed some years ago, so when she was told that Metias’ killer was Day, she made it her mission to put him behind bars. June poses as a street urchin to get close to Day. June’s resolve is put to the test when she enters a street fight and is saved by Day, whose identity she doesn’t yet know. 

“When I look to my side, I see a boy holding his hand out to me. He has bright blue eyes, dirt on his face, and a beat-up old cap on, and at this moment, I think he might be the most beautiful boy I’ve ever seen.” As June and Day build a relationship without knowing who each other is, they become friends. 

But what will happen when their true identities are revealed to each other? Will they be able to still be friends? Will June ever forgive Day for killing her brother? As the Plague, a disease that periodically ravages the Republic, spreads, June and Day must decide what is most important to them—friends, family or honor.

This dramatic read will have even the most patient readers cheering for it to speed up so that they can figure out what happens between June and Day. “Legend” draws the reader into this new world and keeps them wanting more.

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