"Maybe his fault maybe not, but I have to imagine it's a trick writing anything positive within the DCU these days."

Bingo. I think you've hit the nail on the head. None of Beechan's DCU-proper work has made me think much of him (not only did he massacre Batgirl but he was also one of the "team" behind Countdown). But it just may be that some people can't write the dark, dreary stuff Didio & Co. seem to want and make it read convincing. I don't think I could do it that well myself.

Maybe I should check out the Stargirl issue you mentioned.