Legend

Legend is the first novel in a trilogy of the same name by Chinese-American author Marie Lu. Set in a dystopian future America in which the nation has been divided into two, the novel follows a military prodigy and a vandal living on the streets as their lives cross.

Teaser
"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."

--from Goodreads

Characters

 * Day Wing, a vandal on the streets
 * June Iparis, a military trainee

Series and Sequels
Legend is the first novel in a trilogy. It is followed by Prodigy and the series concludes with Champion.