It’s been a while since I’ve read a comic book written by Peter David, longer still an issue of X-Factor, but with Hickman’s looming departure from Fantastic Four I thought I’d shop around for a new team book.

As the solicit states, X-Factor #240 is a one-off issue featuring Layla Miller. I vaguely remember her character when the series relaunched by in 2006. Back then she was a kid but now she’s grown and dating Jamie Madrox. It isn’t explained how this happened but that’s ok, that’s what Wikipedia is for.

David is no amateur to story telling and it shows. There’s an effortlessness to how this issue moves. It’s a fine example of how to tell a story in a single issue. That said it isn’t a transcendent example. Some of what happens is a little too “on the nose” (like the surprise cameo Layla runs into).

Art wise the lawfirm of Edwards, Yeung, & Ketcham do a respectable job. Their cartooning communicates the story but there’s nothing pin-up or poster worthy.

The real heavy lifting comes from Rachelle Rosenberg’s colors. Different shades are used to convey alternate outcomes Layla Miller foresees.

While the one-off-ness of this issue makes it a good entry point for new readers I’m inclined to not recommend this issue as a jumping on point and wait for next issue and a new story arc.

Still it’s a fine issue.