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.
Finally got this book. Boo-yah.
So for anyone that's read anything about this book you'll know that Lu* wanted to modernize (and slightly change) Les Miserables** with this book. Dunno if you've seen this movie, read the actual book, or recently seen the remake of the movie with Hugh Jackman and Amanda Seyfried. I haven't seen the newest one, or read the book, but I know that the original movie was awesome. So I could not wait for this story. Don't worry though, it's not a huge, complete and utter rip off of Les, it's pretty creative I think. Plus it only sort-of plays on the Valjean vs. Javert crisis.
The setting is in the future at some point. North America. Los Angeles CA, US-o'-A. But they're not the states anymore, they're split into the Republic and the Colonies. There's also a random group of rebels called Patriots and of course their tag is a crudely painted American flag.
Any-hoo. First you learn about June, I think. It doesn't really matter what order you learn about them, but I'm pretty sure her chapter is first. Chapters go from June's POV to Day's, then back to June's. Lather, rinse, repeat.
So, as I was saying: June is first. June Iparis is a prodigy, and you'll learn that she's the only person ever to score a 1500/1500 on her Trial. The Trial details don't really matter, but she's the only one in the Republic to get 100%. June is pretty independent and strong-willed; analytical and a genius. Like every other storybook heroine, her parents are dead. Her big bro Metias takes care of her and their little family dog, Ollie. Okay so that little thing about Ollie wasn't important but I love dogs. So.
Then we move on over to our handsome little bad boy, Day. Or, Daniel Wing. He's a smooth criminal (LAWL; MJ reference, anyone?). Honestly, he's pretty freakin' smart for a 'street brat'--Captain Thomas' words, not mine. He doesn't matter (Cap'n Thomas, that is). Well, to make an already long story a little bit shorter: he's got awesome eyes, brilliant blond hair and he's sticky particky. I don't really know what that means, but maybe it's a good thing? And it's fun to say.
Next main character: The Republic. As a whole. Not much I can say about what their part is, but you'll see; and I'm sure you can guess anyway. I mean really. If a book is placed under the dystopian label, I think you can guess what role the oh-so-perfect, oh-so-controlling Republic plays. If you can't, maybe you're new to this genre. Have fun, good luck, and don't be afraid to cry.
There are some minor characters I guess: Tess, Kaede, the Patriots (okay, maybe they're kind of a big part of it), Metias (another big part), Cap'n Tommy, John, Eden, blah-dee-blah and all that jazz.
All in all, this book is definitely worth the wait for the sequel. Cannot wait. OhmyGod. It's so good. Go and rent it, buy, borrow it, I don't even care! Just read it!
*The author, Marie Lu. We're on a last name basis already.
**Pronounced: LAY MIZ - ERR - AH - B. Weird.
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