As a fan of both characters, I never bothered to grab the single issues. Truth be told: I figured it'd not be worth it. Both characters have had dreadful mini's and they by now only seem to be defined by their past and the cannot-ever-be-together-again relationship. Then I read reviews that were not just good, but raving. So I got the TPB.
It's simple: Thompson obviously is a shipper. And of course, to me that's kinda like preaching to the choir. In five issues she managed to unclutter all the trouble that was their relationship and get them past their issues. The story is fairly simple: the X-Men need someone, preferably a couple with a past, to investigate the disappearance of some mutants in a couples-retreat. As leader Kitty gets to decide it's not her and Colossus going, but Rogue and Gambit. What follows is basically a story which mainly hinges on some of their biggest moments and fun writing. Sure, the story is just a plot device to reestablish their relationship. And yes, five issues is an issue too long, but it never feels to forced or decompressed (mainly because every so often there's a memory again). In the end, their relationship basically is completely salvaged. As a fan, I couldn't wish for more, because the negative vibe is completely gone (also see: Mr & Mrs X).
Oh yeah, the art: solid work from Perez, it's really nice to look at. And Rogue and Gambit literally fighting past versions of themselves is fun (also, the fight is actually decently choregraphed).
I recommend a buy, or at least a read. And replies, so we can discuss comics a bit more.
