The Good
When we first saw Eva Bell in ALL-NEW X-MEN #1 and later more so in UNCANNY X-MEN, I thought she was an okay character. She had an interesting look and powerset but I didn't feel like we really got too many opportunities to really get to know her. With the other new mutants Cyclops discovered and the various X-Men crossover stories, we just weren't able to see too much of her. Then came the revelation that she had suddenly aged some. The idea that she had some sort of secret life during that period has completely captured my attention.
Brian Michael Bendis is joined by Andrea Sorrentino in giving us this story. If you're familiar with Sorrentino's art in GREEN ARROW or I, VAMPIRE, you have an idea what to expect. Sorrentino has the ability to create a special sort of vibe. The art might be a departure from the typical art we've seen in both UNCANNY X-MEN and ALL-NEW X-MEN but it fits perfectly with this story. You almost get a sense of what Eva's time powers and her journey must have been like.
With the story, Bendis could have done a number of things. If you're going to throw in time travel, especially in the Marvel Universe, the sky is pretty much the limit. But it's more than just an opportunity to see some welcomed familiar faces. While Bendis does take advantage to show us some different eras, the real meat of the story is in what happens in one of those time periods. I am now deeply interested in Eva and how all of this will affect her in the present.
The Bad
I don't really have anything to complain about here. I'm enjoying what Brian Michael Bendis is doing with the characters and absolutely love seeing Sorrentino's art. The only downside, I suppose, is having this 'to be continued' in ALL-NEW X-MEN ANNUAL #1. But that just means we get more of the story.
The Verdict
Fans of Eva Bell, aka Tempus will love this issue. While I was simply lukewarm to her character before, this issue has opened my eyes to who she is and who she has the potential to be. The idea of Eva spending some years in other time eras is a fascinating one. Others may cry out, "called it" but I didn't see the events from this issue coming. Andrea Sorrentino's art is a welcomed treat here. He captures the essence of the story perfectly. The only downside is we have to wait for ALL-NEW X-MEN ANNUAL #1 to find out what happens next.