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All-New X-Men 32 Cover by Sara Pichelli

Last time we left off with the All-New X-Men, they had just been transported to the Ultimate universe by a newly fledged mutant unable to control her powers.

The unexpected trip landed each of the team members alone in different locations. Some are more fortunate than others in this respect, but each faces challenges in his or her circumstances. It is at this point that we can begin to speculate how this turn of events may play out in the face of the recent NYCC announcements regarding Marvel's "Secret Wars."

So far, during the All-New X-Men series Brian Michael Bendis has taken us from one challenge to the next as the group adjusts to the lasting effects of time travel. They have faced this admirably and, with the understandable exception of young Scott (Cyclops), the group has stayed together. Now we get to see the All-New X-Men group face a new and uncertain test as individuals.

Of particular interest to audiences will be the plot dealing with mutants on the Ultimate universe. The reaction to Laura (X-23) when it is discovered she is a mutant is intriguing. Bendis has already hinted elsewhere that this will be an important twist in the narrative, and we will have to wait to see how it plays out. Given the divergent threads and characters to follow in All-New X-Men there may be some mileage yet available for Bendis to lengthen out the story details.

The art by Mahmud Asrar in All-New X-Men 32 looks stronger than the previous issue. The lines seem more certain and play well with the use of shading and light that Marte Gracia employs. The way that Asrar draws faces and imbues them with emotion and expression is fantastic. This element brings the story to life through its characters. We can see the uncertainty in Jean Grey or the fear and confusion in young Iceman. The effort from the artists extends to some specific notable pages, such as the double page splash of Miles Morales as his mind is read by Jean Grey.

Miles Morales has an out of body experience.

The All-New X-Men end up separated in some strange places.

There certainly seems to be a lot of art for your money's worth. The number of panels used between the writer and artists is on average 8 per page, with the most being 18 across the double-page spread. The diversity of environments and scenes, due to the scattered characters, also means we get to see a depth of ability used to bring each scenario to life. From what we have seen so far in the series, it is clear why Asrar has been put under the spotlight as one of the new Marvel Young Guns.

All-New X-Men #32 provides a nice next step in a strong series. It is an engaging story, and the art is great to see. I continue to wait each week, hoping for the next issue to turn join my mailbox, and can't wait for the next issue.

So what do you think of All-New X-Men?

Make sure you leave your thoughts about the series or this issue and comment below.