Legend

by Barry Maher

This growing cult classic is now available in a new edition. It ranks with the best, most imaginative, and most inspirational novels of the genre. It has been favorably compared to Dune and The Postman (the books not the movies). The story takes place in a decaying city of the future, a city that is in the process of devouring itself. The heroes—a young man and woman—escape their rough lives on the streets only to be trapped between a parasitic government and an insane satanic netherworld. The only way for the young woman to triumph is to penetrate what cannot be penetrated. The only way for the young man to survive is to become a god. In this futuristic, post-apocalyptic novel, the author convincingly portrays one of the major elements of so-called spiritual fiction—an imaginative presentation of self-discovery amid life’s hindrances and limitations, out of time and place.

313 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 1987

About the author

Barry Maher may be the only horror novelist who's ever appeared in Funeral Service Insider. In his misspent youth, he committed journalism of sorts, freelance. His work appeared in maybe a hundred different publications, and in order to eat he held nearly that many jobs. At one point he lived on the beach. Not in a house on the beach. On the beach. With the sand and the seagulls.

Then he started telling his stories to audiences. Known for for keynotes that mix sharp insight with deadpan humor, that took him all over the country and around the world, his clients a who’s who of multinational companies and top associations, His media appearances include The Today Show, CNN, CBS and CNBC. And he’s been featured in everything from The New York Times, USA Today, and The Wall Street Journal to, yes, his personal favorite, Funeral Service Insider.

Maher writes the “Slightly Off-Kilter” syndicated column and, is of course, the author of The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon, a darkly funny, supernatural thriller set in California in 1982. with acclaim like, “wholly fresh and original,” “witty, literate, scary, sexy,” and “an absolute blast.”

Barry’s education includes four years at the University of Notre Dame, ninety minutes at UC Berkeley’s Graduate Journalism Program, and five befuddled weeks at Burger King’s Whopper College.

On the downside, he's been incarcerated twice. Once for not making a left hand turn out of a left hand turn lane. And once for adding and abetting a loiterer. He's deeply repentant. Especially about the weeks at Whopper College.

Reviews

[Mako Lefosa]

Wow, what a book. Legend is extraordinarily packed with a mixture of past, current and futuristic outlook. I am fond of Martin how his character mirrors that of the Biblical Christ. I believe it is helpful when one has a background in mythology, Metaphysics and contemporary grasp of the world we live in. This book would not be accessible to children or occasional readers but to those who are widely read and have a passion and capacity to grasp the multidimensional nature of the world. The book exposes concepts of beliefs, indoctrination, mythology, reality and science. It is one thing to dogmatically believe as opposed to knowing. It helps also when one understands history of political economy, class structure and different modes of production to inform how the system of the Gov-Cent, stratified people's lives in to folkers, prowlers, desciples, big eaters, bureaus etc. I love how it is paced, the plot is phenomenal. Whilst the book expands one's intellectual rigour, it simultaneously limits those with limited intellectual range. I am humbled by the opportunity to make this review and wish the author well with his immense writing skill and prowess. Excellent read indeed. Martin was my best character especially when paired with Gena-Gul. The choice of character names is classic viz Jefuson, Zaletus, Kreeops etc. Lovely 👌

[Jana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Legend, by Barry Maher, went well out of my expectations. At first, I thought that it would be yet another story about a dystopian society that's completely broken.
But, to my surprise, there was much more to it. This world he created seemed dark and empty, yet somehow real and familiar.
Through Martin, the main character, you start to experience what it is to live in the system that controls every part of life and kills curiosity.
What really stuck with me was when Brodwich told him, "questions are for philosophers we do our job". That line alone shows how people in this world are taught not to think for themselves.

The story starts off slow, but that slowness makes sense because it really puts you into how trapped Martin feels in his job and his tiny office, where even the door talks to him. When Gena enters the story, things finally start to change, and you can feel a little bit of life returning to the book.

What struck me most was the fact that Legend isn't just about survival but about trying to remember what it means to be human and to dream when everything feels lost. The story left me thinking how people easily forget their own humanity when they stop asking questions.

[Stella Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Legend is a thoughtful and engaging novel that blends insight, emotion, and reflection in a way that feels both accessible and meaningful. Barry Maher’s storytelling draws the reader in with a steady pace and a clear sense of purpose, exploring personal growth, belief, and the choices that quietly shape our lives.

What stands out most is the underlying message how perspective and inner conviction influence outcomes delivered without feeling heavy handed. The narrative invites readers to pause, reflect, and consider their own assumptions while still enjoying the flow of the story.

A compelling read for those who appreciate fiction with depth and substance, Legend offers moments of insight that linger well after the final page.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Legend is an engaging and reflective novel that explores the power of belief, self awareness, and personal responsibility. Barry Maher weaves these themes into the story in a way that feels organic rather than instructional, allowing the message to emerge naturally through the characters and their experiences.

The book encourages readers to think about how mindset and perception influence both success and failure, without preaching or oversimplifying complex ideas. The storytelling is steady and thoughtful, making it an easy read while still offering substance.

Readers who enjoy fiction that quietly challenges assumptions and inspires reflection will find Legend to be a rewarding experience.

[Ramesh Bhatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Legend by Barry Maher is a unique blend of dystopian storytelling and myth inspired symbolism. The world feels dark, broken, and intriguing, and the story asks deeper questions about power, identity, and what it means to become more than human. The pacing can feel slow at times, especially during the more reflective or symbolic sections, but the ideas and character journey make up for it.

If you enjoy stories that mix adventure with spiritual themes and metaphor, this book will stay with you long after you finish it. A hidden gem, especially for readers who like deeper meaning beneath the action.

Rating:-4/5

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Legend is a quietly powerful novel that blends storytelling with insight in a way that feels both thoughtful and approachable. Barry Maher uses the narrative to explore how belief systems, choices, and internal dialogue can shape a person’s path, without turning the story into a lesson.

The strength of the book lies in its subtlety. Rather than pushing a message, it invites readers to reflect on their own perspectives while staying engaged with the characters and their journeys. The pacing is smooth, and the themes unfold naturally, making it an enjoyable and meaningful read.

A solid choice for readers who appreciate fiction with depth and a reflective edge.

[M Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting story, I enjoyed reading it. The story unfolds slowly, a fair amount of description and information is told from a first-person point of view and which affords deep intimacy with the characters and the settings. Different characters share their part in the overall plot and there are lots of twists and turns as a result. I don't give spoilers, so I will say no more except you will enjoy the story of life that is brutal for most people.
I award 4.9 stars.

[Musa Nana Rukaiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Legend was something unexpected, I took several breaks while reading this book to wonder what kind of mind the author has because the world he built in the book was highly imaginative. It was slow then fast paced, from one interesting turn to yet another. The story built up to a perfect climax and the end, although unexpected(and I wanted more)was brilliant.

[Hank Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read this novel only to realize that I'd read and actually still own an earlier edition with a different cover from a different publisher. I'd forgotten just how good the book is. Well worth the read, even a second time.

[Ellen Eagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A fascinating world and an exciting adventure. I have to say though that I don't need any more end of civilization books for a while. Maybe the news is going in that direction and that's enough til things get better.

[Andy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's a lot more going on here than meets the eye. Worth a careful read. This is not just another dystopian novel.