Legend

Legend cover
Good Books rating 4.73
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Technical
  • ID: 4617
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9781405511988
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2011-12-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Legend is a classic heroic fantasy novel by David Gemmell, set in the richly detailed world of the Drenai. The story follows Druss, a hardened veteran and living legend, who is drawn out of his self-imposed exile to defend the fortress of Dros Delnoch against the invading Nadir army. The fortress, once a symbol of Drenai strength, now stands as the last line of defense against an overwhelming enemy. Druss, known for his unmatched skill and bravery, becomes the Drenai's final hope in a desperate battle for survival. Gemmell's novel is praised for its adrenaline-fueled action and emotional depth, blending heroism with heartbreak. The author's mastery of heroic fantasy is evident in the vivid world-building and the complex characters that drive the narrative. Legend is the first book in the Drenai series, which has become a cornerstone of the genre, beloved by fans and critics alike.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-10-22
excellent 4.95

The characters are well-developed with just the right amount of backstory, and the book balances action, suspense, and plot effectively. It's a gripping tale that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The reviewer praises the character development in the book, noting that each character is given just the right amount of backstory, which adds depth without overwhelming the reader. They also appreciate the balance of action, suspense, and plot, making it a thrilling read. The reviewer finds the book to be a standout in the fantasy genre, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked. They highlight the book's ability to maintain a high level of excitement and engagement throughout, making it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.


Quick quotes

    The characters are given just the right amount of back history, not too little and not too much and there is a pleasant mixture of action, suspense and plot.

    The book is a gripping tale that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

    Legend is a standout in the fantasy genre, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked.

The Fantasy Reviews · 2023-06-01
great 4.50

The book is praised as a brilliant standalone novel that is less demanding than modern fantasy, making it accessible and enjoyable. It's a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers.

The reviewer describes Legend as a brilliant book that stands the test of time. They appreciate that it is less demanding than modern fantasy novels, making it accessible to a wider audience. The reviewer finds the book to be a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its engaging narrative and well-crafted characters. They highlight the book's ability to provide a satisfying reading experience without the complexity often found in contemporary fantasy. The reviewer also notes that the book is an excellent choice for readers looking for a less demanding but still highly enjoyable read.


Quick quotes

    Legend is still a brilliant book and an excellent standalone novel that will sate the appetite of readers looking for something less demanding than what modern fantasy offers.

    It's a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers.

    The book is an excellent choice for readers looking for a less demanding but still highly enjoyable read.

Chogg Blog · 2023-04-13
fantastic 4.75

The book is described as a perfect read that pulls readers in and keeps them engaged. It's a fantastic addition to the fantasy genre, with a compelling narrative and memorable characters.

The reviewer describes Legend as the perfect book to pull readers in and keep them engaged. They appreciate the book's ability to captivate readers from the very beginning and maintain their interest throughout. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and the characters memorable, making it a fantastic addition to the fantasy genre. They highlight the book's ability to balance action, suspense, and character development, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable reading experience. The reviewer also notes that the book is a great choice for fans of fantasy, offering a thrilling and satisfying read.


Quick quotes

    LEGEND (1984) by David Gemmell was the perfect book to prove my worries wrong and pull me back in like someone trying to escape the mafia.

    It's a fantastic addition to the fantasy genre, with a compelling narrative and memorable characters.

    The book is a great choice for fans of fantasy, offering a thrilling and satisfying read.

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