Wow.  Really, any other words chosen to describe just how good Dark Avengers #12 is would be understated and would not do the issue justice.  Brian Michael Bendis has once again provided the masterstrokes in the ongoing Dark Reign.  Just as "event fatigue" may have started to settle in and wavering thoughts of the upcoming Siege were starting to simmer, Bendis gives us Dark Avengers #12.  Seriously, 'nuff said.

However, if you are looking for more reasons to read this issue.  Let's begin with Mike Deodato's pencils and Greg Horn's assists on a few pages when delving into the psyche of one Norman Osborn.  Victoria Hand has been stepping up more and more in recent issues and in Dark Avengers #12, she is there in literally all her glory.  This one has the Molecule Man and a huge showdown with the Sentry.  It's got the goods.

All I can say, after reading this issue, I wanted more.  And I am officially on the "can't wait for the Siege" bandwagon.

Taking a Look at Batgirl

Five issues in and this new incarnation of Batgirl has been a pleasant surprise. Bryan Miller has done a nice job transferring the flag from Cassandra Cain to Stephanie Brown. Another neat touch by Miller is Barbara Gordon's mentorship of the former Spoiler. Babs was a lot like us at first, probably not wanting to invest ourselves in another Batgirl, but just like us she can't just help herself after getting to know her. And honestly, there is something endearing about the character that makes you root for her.

Miller did a nice job of letting the title get its own feet before bringing Batman and Robin into the title for a cameo, or whatever, this month in issue #5. To be honest, this issue was definitely the most-fun I had of all of them - the interaction between Damian and Stephanie is worth the $2.99 (now a bargain) cover price alone.

Add in Lee Garbett's pencils and Trevor Scott's ink and Batgirl is a good title to be added to the monthly pull. Operators are standing by ...