The Defenders #9

   As writer Brian Michael Bendis wraps up his long career at Marvel, he's apparently having fun and leaving a memorable finale.

   This issue of The Defenders brings us the next-to-the-last issue in his 'Kingpins of New York' story, and it's all about confrontations.

    So we have Luke Cage confronting Diamondback, a team of villains facing Luke's allies, Jennifer Jones confronting... well everyone, some surprise appearances and a twist at the end.

    Add in lots of sharp, funny dialogue and terrific art by David Marquez (with color by Justin Ponsor) and you have a crackling good time.

Grade: A-

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