From Econ Consulting to M&A

Heyo fellas!

I have experience in the economic consulting world (litigation, public policy, and especially merger analysis) and I would like to transfer to an IBD as an M&A analyst. Why? Simply because I would like to get a better understanding of what happens financially during a merger analysis. I need to understand the inner mechanisms of "synergies" and I want to operate valuation methods etc. I am also looking for a more intellectually challenging and exciting job. I will need some advice in terms of educating myself with the relevant information or books.

Here's what I have:

-Strong background in economics (macro, micro and especially industrial organization) from good schools (Msc in UK)
-3.6 GPA
-Learn very fast and on the spot
-very sociable

Here's what I'm missing:

-Knowledge of finance (I had one class of corp. finance during my undergrad studies, quite easy)
-a prior internship in IB or finance
-A network in IB

Here's my questions people: if you were me, how would you approach the problem? Should I buy a few must-have books before I start networking? If so, which books would you recommend? Could I just land an internship/job with my CV? Can my strong experience in merger analysis help me land a job in IB?

I would be grateful for any help provided! Thank you!