For the first time since the New 52 started, we get a glimpse of Barbara's life during the three years she was paralyzed, and while it is understandable that she went to a dark place soon after her injury, the real kicker of the story is that she actually never left it, even after her recovery. The way Simone teases readers with that typical moment when the hero's values kick in at the last second -but surprises everyone by actually not making it happen- is proof of her talent.

This move does not turn Barbara into an evil woman, or makes her seem out of character; it actually shows how human she is, flaws and all. Ed Benes and Daniel Sampere do a nice job with consistent artwork that Ulises Arreola makes even more seamless with his colors. The only objection with the story has more to do with the crossover itself than anything else; having Joker everywhere, attacking Batman and his allies all at the same time makes "Death of the Family" look like a poor remake of "Night of the Owls."