Wastelanders: Star-Lord by Sarah Cawkwell, adapted from podcast by Benjamin Percy
Synopsis:
The Guardians of the Galaxy return to Earth to save the world from Doctor Doom in this exhilarating novelization of the acclaimed Marvel scripted podcast
Star-Lord and Rocket are a little older, a little slower, and a lot saltier than they were during their glory days. When they crash land in the desolate Midwest, they soon discover that Earth isn’t what it used to be either, thirty years after Doctor Doom seized control and created his new domain: the Wastelands. They aren’t there by choice: the former Guardians are working for The Collector, who’s sent them to find the Black Vortex – an ancient relic reported to yield cosmic powers – before the guillotine collars of their employer snap their necks. In the Wastelands, they encounter the ageless telepath Emma Frost, outlaw Ghost Riders, and the bloodthirsty Kraven the Hunter. Who will find the Black Vortex first and what will be the price of its power?
Review:
I hadn’t listened to the podcast before reading this novelization. But after finishing, I started listening to the rest of the series – and became hooked. Star-Lord may be an old man, but he still has the same personality and believes he’s invincible. Rocket is his voice of reason. As they look for answers in an unfamiliar, post-apocalyptic landscape, they face villains who have taken over and seemingly squashed everyone’s hope for the future. As it also seems most of Earth’s heroes are dead. This fast-paced first installment in the Wastelanders series is dark, engaging, and thrilling. It’s unexpected and fun. I look forward to the rest of the series in print as well.