Having not read the Avengers V X-Men Marvel event I came into this series rather blind. Thankfully, the important bits are all easy to pick up so that you understand the situation more or less. Unfortunately, there seem to be too many characters at the moment who aren't getting enough attention to be fleshed out. The most interesting characters are Emma Frost, Tempus, and Magik and thankfully it looks like the story is heading in the direction of a Magik focused storyline. I prefer the art style of Irving over Bachalo but the first four issues contained in this volume are not bad. Plot wise the mutant situation is as it ever is and even though Cyclops is not necessarily very likable its difficult not to sympathize with the situation and the cause he follows. The relationship between Cyclops and I feels very similar to that of the relationship between Cyclops and Emma Frost. I sometimes hate him but at least I respect his position. I feel like the series still needs to pick up speed, as it seems to be doing by issue 5, but needs to also do a better job of establishing the numerous characters.

The other point of view from the conflict going on in the X books. Well done.

4.5