This issue begins well. At the very least, we have an actual book with a team in it, which is something we seemed to have been missing since the whole “Secret Invasion” thing began. The basic concept of this issue is a reforming of a “New Avengers” team, now consisting of the new Captain America, Wolverine, Spider-Man, Spider-Woman, Ronin aka Hawkeye, Ms. Marvel and Luke Cage.

The story revolves around a massive search for the now kidnapped baby of Luke Cage and Jessica Drew, who was nabbed by a Skrull disguised as the Avengers’ butler Jarvis. A massive search, which includes the help of the Fantastic Four, begins. I won’t give away the ending other than to say this plot point seems to be something that will continue throughout this title if not the entire ‘Dark Reign’ saga (this title is a tie-in issue). The ending seems somewhat predictable yet leaves you scratching your head and wondering how this will actually help solve the problem?

I don’t mind saying that enough is enough with these constant mega-crossovers, one after the other. I would like to have these books go back to a more self-contained storyline, at least for awhile before we jump back into another big crossover.

Billy Tan’s art is enjoyable throughout the title and gives you a feel of just how desperate a time it is for many of these heroes.

New Avengers continues to be one of my favorite active Avengers titles, however I am afraid that the current story is one that will require you to follow all the “Dark Reign” books to keep up with events – a major minus for this and all the Avengers titles of late.