REVIEW: ‘Exceptional X-Men’ #9 - Sinister’s Secrets Revealed
- Keith M.
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
In my review of the previous issue, I expressed some disappointment at Mister Sinister’s reappearance so soon after the Krakoan era’s end—a move that initially felt like a misstep. But with Exceptional X-Men #9, Eve Ewing skillfully makes you forget that hesitation. Despite only a few nods to Krakoa and Nathaniel Essex’s role in its downfall, Ewing delivers a strong, character-driven issue that keeps the focus where it belongs: on the new generation of mutants and their mentors.
Once again, Bronze and Melee shine as standouts—not only in this series, but among many of the new characters introduced in this post-Krakoan era. Ewing has a deft hand with young voices, balancing humor and heartache with ease. The issue opens with Trista and Thao confronting the shocking decomposition of their companion Alejandro—picking up from the shock of last issue—but even then, the emotional throughline remains strong.
Sinister is, unsurprisingly, back to his usual schemes. The kids quickly piece things together after discovering the cloned Axo’s body and form a clever mutant circuit to cover their tracks. They rush to find Kitty and bring the rest of the Exceptional X-Men up to speed. A mention of the resurrection-linked degenerative sickness drew a groan from me—I still find the whole thing odd—but that was immediately balanced by a genuinely funny moment when Kitty deciphers what the “S” and “X” in Sheldon Xenos stand for. It’s a small but well-placed bit of levity.
By their reactions, it’s clear the adult X-Men are just as tired of Sinister as we readers are. Kitty, Iceman, and Emma Frost quickly gear up to face him head-on, while the younger mutants are ordered to stay behind. (Of course, that doesn’t last long.) A highlight here is a smart callback to Kitty’s hacking prowess, something the teens are surprised by, while Emma gets in a great quip about Kitty’s many lives. It’s both a meta-joke and a respectful nod to her long history.
The inevitable showdown with Sinister delivers what X-Men fans expect: psychic battles, mutant powers on full display, and high emotional stakes. Iceman’s fight against a clone of himself is particularly impressive, while Melee steps up in a big way, showing just how far she’s come under Kitty’s guidance. Still, the psychic duel between Emma and Sinister may be the standout sequence. Though Emma seemingly triumphs, she’s swiftly and mysteriously incapacitated—proof that Sinister is never quite out of tricks.
I’d be remiss not to mention Carmen Carnero’s art, which has been consistently excellent throughout the series. Her ability to capture subtle emotion—especially in scenes like Kitty’s contact with the Axo clone goop or her dawning realization of Sinister’s involvement—elevates the storytelling. With their combined talent, Carnero and Ewing make an outstanding team, proving that Exceptional X-Men truly earns its name among the From the Ashes titles.
Even if Sinister isn’t gone for good (and let’s be honest—he never is), I’m eager to see where the story goes next. Between the veterans we’ve loved for years and this promising new generation, Exceptional X-Men continues to strike the right balance—and keeps me coming back for more.
About Exceptional X-Men #9
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Written by: Eve L. Ewing
Art by: Carmen Carnero
Cover by: Carmen Carnero
Page Count: 26
Synopsis: The team figures out the truth about Sheldon Xenos' true identity, and EMMA FROST has to go somewhere she really, really doesn't want to go - deep inside the mind of one of her worst enemies, SINISTER!