This was cool super hero stuff. Nothing mind-blowing or original but fun and the plot was decent. I've always been a sucker for fights where there are a bunch of heroes at the same time and this doesn't disappoint in that area. ( )

I liked Fear Itself. It wasn't as good as previous crossover events like Civil War or Siege, but it was enjoyable. And I love reading about the aftermath of events. So, I was a bit surprised to be underwhelmed by Fearless - it felt like a retread.

After the Serpent is defeated, the 8 hammers of the worthy were collected and hidden by our heroes. Valkyrie was instructed by Odin to collect the hammers, only the Avengers are opposed to this. Captain America, justifiably, feels that the whole event was Asgard's fault and that Odin abandoned Earth to its fate rather than fight with them. The hammers should remain in Earth's custody. Naturally, Valkyrie proceeds to collect the hammers anyway - battling the heroes who are guarding them. Interspersed with this are flashbacks to Valkyrie's past, which helped develop her character and flesh out her story arc. I love Valkyrie, and this should have been a great read with her at the forefront. However, she is not the only one after the hammers. Recently escaped Sin is also after them.

This is where the story seriously faltered. Sin was the instrument that brought about Fear Itself; she was the first of the worthy. And honestly, she's just not that good a villain to begin with. Red Skull's daughter is nothing more than a female version of him. Been there, done that (better). Added onto that, we just had Fear Itself so to have her causing almost the same strife again felt like a retread. Didn't we do this already and defeat Fear?

I really enjoyed Valkyrie's mission and her interaction with the various heroes and Aesir. We learn that she is tired, so very tired and just wants to stop the endless cycle of death/rebirth and be in Valhalla. So, her motivation makes sense. And her battles are epic, especially her one on one against Storm. But, the whole reason for this battles is weak. Valkyrie has a very good reason for collecting the hammers. A reason that if she had simply told Cap, he would have agreed and even helped her! This was somewhat dissatisfying. The book closes with a set-up for Valkyrie's future Marvel Now title, Fearless Defenders. I like her character and the idea has promise so I'll definitely pick up the new series.

Overall, I think I would have enjoyed this book more if I had waited a long while after Fear Itself before reading it. I think those who haven't read Fear Itself, or didn't like it, may still enjoy this. And, the hardcover collection is an excellent value with a lot of content. Cautiously recommended. ( )