SciFi Book Review: Rebel

Rebel: A Legend Novel by Marie Lu

Synopsis:
Eden Wing has been living in his brother’s shadow for years. Even though he’s a top student at his academy in Ross City, Antarctica, and a brilliant inventor, most people know him only as Daniel Wing’s little brother.

A decade ago, Daniel was known as Day, the boy from the streets who led a revolution that saved the Republic of America. But Day is no longer the same young man who was once a national hero. These days he’d rather hide out from the world and leave his past behind. All that matters to him now is keeping Eden safe―even if that also means giving up June, the great love of Daniel’s life.

As the two brothers struggle to accept who they’ve each become since their time in the Republic, a new danger creeps into the distance that’s grown between them. Eden soon finds himself drawn so far into Ross City’s dark side, even his legendary brother can’t save him. At least not on his own . .

Review:
Rebel takes place 10 years after the last book in the Legend series. The previous novels concentrated on Day/Daniel and June. But this final installment focuses on Eden, Day/Daniel’s younger brother as well as Daniel. The narrative switches back and forth between the two. It’s a new, fresh story with enough complexity to make readers think. The system behind Ross City is fascinating, with a points system giving a better (or lesser) quality of life according to the good or bad that an individual does.

The characters are engaging. And the story is full of suspense, drama, and a bit of romance. I don’t really remember the details of the previous novels, as it’s been years since I’ve read them. But it’s easy to jump into this novel, as it works well as almost a standalone novel as well. This YA science fiction series ends with an exciting and endearing finale.