As a kid, I bought a few lots of comic books from eBay and flea markets. One crossover event I managed to compile was a Spider-Man series that guest starred Darkhawk and several other Marvel heroes. I clearly remember reading and re-reading the story. I was fascinated by Darkhawk and wanted to find out more.

Many years later, Marvel has finally released a TPB collecting Darkhawk 1-9. Although some of the stories involve Captain America, DareDevil, Spider-Man, and the Punisher, the guest stars are the highlight of the collection. Even new villains are part of the book but they really seem lackluster. Hoping to learn about Darkhawk's origin, I finished the book with more questions than answers. While this TPB is only "Volume 1", it is so wrapped in stereotypical 90s writing and narration style that even getting some of the basics was a long derailed story.

What does Darkhawk look like under the helmet? Will his family ever be free from the intimidating mob boss Bazin? Will the main character, Chris Powell's father return? Will he tell his girlfriend about Darkhawk?

"all-out brawls with Venom and the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants." That happened? We had Hobgoblin, Bazin, Savage Steel, Portal, U-Foes, and Lodestone. I think the description of this book might have been a little embellished.

Darkhawk has appeared in recent titles and always seems like an intriguing character. From his mysterious powers to his Wolverine-looking claw (actually a grappling hook), Darkhawk seems to have enough mystery to remain interesting. Unfortunately, the story is due for a reboot and a better narrative. I would recommend sticking to the Wikipedia entry of Darkhawk's factioids.