The way I want to reread the whole Legend series now. (I have them easily accessible...I might do it.)

I've read the whole Legend series at least twice, though I think I've only picked up the first (and now this) graphic novel so far. Rebel: The Graphic Novel is exactly what it sounds like: a graphic novel version of the fourth and final book in the Marie Lu's Legend series. From what I remember, it follows the plot very closely and keeps up with the rapid pacing and tension from the original novel. I don't think any fans of the novel will be disappointed by this adaptation.

I won't go into too much detail regarding the plot because I'm assuming most readers who pick this up will already be fairly familiar with the storyline. Following the events of the original trilogy, Day and his younger brother, Eden, have moved to Antarctica, which operates on a point-based social structure. Though it may seem like a utopia, darkness lurks beneath the surface, and when Eden finds himself caught in a web of undercity politics, the brothers must work together to save the world one more time. Like I said, the pacing in the graphic novel is incredibly fast. I definitely could have read it in one sitting. I wouldn't consider it particularly twisty, but there are dashes of social commentary, action, intrigue, and romance that keep the plot interesting at all times. The ending is satisfying (especially for the series as a whole). Again, I don't think any fans of the series will be disappointed with this.

I will take any excuse to spend more time with these characters. This book focuses primarily on the relationship between Day and Eden. I enjoyed seeing Day in adulthood, especially following the aftermath of the previous book. His concern for Eden is clear and makes him even more lovable. I really liked seeing more of Eden, given he doesn't spend much time on page (as far as I can remember) in the initial trilogy. He's a stark contrast to Day in many ways, and their relationship is full of tension that enhances the story in many ways. June gets some extra page time as well, and I loved seeing her tentative interactions with Day. They really are one of my favorite book couples of all time. I also really liked Pressa, one of Eden's new friends. Her friendship with Eden is enticing and her motivations gave her decent complexity given the shortness of this adaptation. Their designs are all great - I really liked the artwork in general. The colors felt perfect for the world, the panel choices conveyed the story well, and I liked a lot of the design choices.

Rebel: The Graphic Novel is the final graphic novel adaptation in the Legend series, and I highly encourage all long-time fans to indulge in more time with June and Day. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the free e-ARC!

4.5/5