3.5 Stars 
 While many YA series suffer from the dreaded second-book-syndrome, Prodigy feels like a subtle but tangible improvement on the first book: Legend. (And looking back now, I can definitively call it my favorite book in the trilogy.) 
 Picking up right where its predecessor left off, this book layers in the complications for our fleeing hero and heroine. June is asked to become a sort of double-agent assassin for the Colonies, and Day brings all of his saboteur and figurehead capacities to bear in a driving play against the establishment. The only problem is, the new dictator they're out to destroy may actually be a heck of a lot better (and more innocent) than his father... 
 Here Lu expands the world-building to a much more satisfying degree than what readers experienced in Legend. The government structure is explored, and other nations are given some tangible mention--if not participation. While it starts out a little slow, the overall action is high, and the tension remains a steady motivator throughout. 
 On the downside there is an apparent love-square going on, and Day and June spend most of the story in different places carrying out their separate-yet-equally-treacherous tasks. Both are still so young, it requires a continual suspension of disbelief to buy the stakes that apparently ride on their shoulders. 
 I did appreciate the contrasting of character perspectives and experiences. There was a lot of deliberate effort paid toward building empathy--if not between characters, then at least with the reader. And the addressing of June's social and class-based programming was more extensive and convincing than what was shown in the first book. 
 For those who prefer a plot more complex than simple good vs. evil, take heart. It at least feels like the overarching story has been well thought out. 
 My hope is increased for the final installment--which I DO intend to read.