I expected this to be a novelization recap of the Phase 3 MCU films. (The cynic in me was thinking “cash grab” to capitalize on Infinity War.) However, it does so much more than just recap events. This novel provides connecting threads between the films, with perspectives from other characters besides the Avengers. The book answers questions that, while not exactly burning, flesh out events and provide insight into characters.

What happened to Black Widow after the airport battle in Civil War? She has an encounter with Everett Ross where readers get a peek into her mind to see how she feels about Steve Rogers. Follow the events of Ragnarok from Heimdall’s perspective and learn how he feels about the sons of Odin. Witness Doctor Strange and Wong ward off a threat to the Earth. Follow Nebula through the events of the Guardians’s films. The book touches on events from each of the Phase 3 films, and even gives very brief recaps of events from prior phase films as well. Woven throughout, readers follow Tony Stark as he interacts with his old friend Happy Hogan all while being driven to upgrade his armor incessantly. Something is coming, and he has to be ready.

There is nothing ground breaking in this book, but it adds a layer of richness to the MCU leading up to Infinity War. It is a joy to spend more time with these characters and get to know just a bit better. Overall, a very entertaining read that is well worth the time. ( )