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Lady Mechanika Volumes #6
Lady Mechanika Vol 6: Sangre
Lady Mechanika accepts a job in Spain protecting a Barón's son who was allegedly attacked by a demonic entity, but she quickly begins to suspect the young man's condition was actually caused by illicit experiments forced upon him by his narrow-minded father. As she investigates further, Lady Mechanika gradually uncovers the sinister truth, leaving her entangled in a dangerous situation which seems to have unexpected ties to her own past. A dark tale that exposes the devastating power of love...and hate. Collects the entire five-issue Sangre mini-series, featuring a main story by guest artist Brian Ching (Supergirl, Star Wars) and a prologue story by Joe Benitez and Martin Montiel
145 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
9 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Joe Benítez
292 books180 followersJoe Benítez is an American comic book artist who has worked on such titles as "JLA", "Superman/Batman", "Detective Comics", "Supergirl", and "Titans" for DC Comics and "The Darkness" for Image Comics. He also co-created and penciled the sci-fi series "Weapon Zero" and the dark fantasy mini-series "Magdalena: Blood Divine" for Image. In 2005, Joe published his first creator-owned mini-series "Wraithborn" through Wildstorm. In 2009, he stepped in to finish up Michael Turner's run on "Soulfire". Joe is currently working on his steampunk adventure series, "Lady Mechanika".
http://www.joebenitez.com
http://www.joebenitez.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 27, 2020
There's still too much exposition but overall a good series. In this volume, Lady Mechanika heads to Spain to help a boy who has been possessed, at least that's what she's told. Of course, things are more complicated than that. If you know any Spanish, you know where the story is headed from the title, Sangre. I do like that some answers to Lady Mechanika's past are finally starting to eke out.
Brian Ching handles most of the artwork. He's gotten MUCH better since his Supergirl days. Although he still draws heads that are too large with pencil necks at times.
Received a review copy from Benitez Productions and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Brian Ching handles most of the artwork. He's gotten MUCH better since his Supergirl days. Although he still draws heads that are too large with pencil necks at times.
Received a review copy from Benitez Productions and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
October 13, 2020
I read the first volume of Lady Mechanika somewhere last year, and quite enjoyed it, but never quite felt inclined to continue it. And then The Husband made me aware of this sixth volume being available on Netgalley and I decided to just give the series another go. Because, if I could just look past the massive tits and lack of clothes… I should love this series. And I did. I absolutely binged it within two days. And yes I was still somewhat bothered by the fact that all women in here are skinny, big boobed, have amazing legs and wear barely any clothes. But they are also kick-ass, awesome, and aren’t actually sexualized in the story itself (one guy states ‘she is asking for it, being dressed like that’, and gets his ass handed to him for it). And the stories are Amazing.
In this volume Lady Mechanika travels to Spain, where a baroness asked her to hunt a demon who possessed her son. The story draws inspiration from Mexican folklore, as well as vampires. It is bloody. It doesn’t take the easy way out. It makes you feel and understand the ‘bad guy’. It shows Lady Mechanika reflect and question her past actions, and actually change her ways.
The artwork in this, as in the other volumes, is superb. It is still missing some of the extra steampunk flourishes and decorations I adored in the previous volumes, but the main art is there and I think it’s great.
Content warnings for gore, child death, homophobia and ‘treatment’.
This volume was just great. It would be an okay point to start the series, but at the same time it also connects a lot of the previous volumes, reflects on them, and gives us some answers to who and what Lady Mechanika really is. One of my favourites for sure.
In this volume Lady Mechanika travels to Spain, where a baroness asked her to hunt a demon who possessed her son. The story draws inspiration from Mexican folklore, as well as vampires. It is bloody. It doesn’t take the easy way out. It makes you feel and understand the ‘bad guy’. It shows Lady Mechanika reflect and question her past actions, and actually change her ways.
The artwork in this, as in the other volumes, is superb. It is still missing some of the extra steampunk flourishes and decorations I adored in the previous volumes, but the main art is there and I think it’s great.
Content warnings for gore, child death, homophobia and ‘treatment’.
This volume was just great. It would be an okay point to start the series, but at the same time it also connects a lot of the previous volumes, reflects on them, and gives us some answers to who and what Lady Mechanika really is. One of my favourites for sure.
October 4, 2020
3.5 Stars
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
June 21, 2025
The origin story we’ve been waiting for!! This sixth story arc gives us the most we’ve ever seen about how Lady Mechanika got the way she is and what some of her traumatic past has been. As with all of story arcs in this series it is quite dense in reading for a graphic novel. This does not bother me in the least, but I do know it’s the primary complaint for many. Along with the more verbose story telling we also get the highly detailed and wonderful art we’ve had all along.
This sixth volume is a great first time starting point. Unlike so many longer term series, you can actually start with any Lady Mechanika volume. Of course there are tips and continuity you gain from reading in order (something I generally must do because it bugs me otherwise); but it’s actually okay to start here or in any volume if you desire.
This is one of my favourite comic series out there because it’s sophisticated, steampunk-like, verbose, has a deep story, and it’s so easy to adore Lady Mechanika.
This sixth volume is a great first time starting point. Unlike so many longer term series, you can actually start with any Lady Mechanika volume. Of course there are tips and continuity you gain from reading in order (something I generally must do because it bugs me otherwise); but it’s actually okay to start here or in any volume if you desire.
This is one of my favourite comic series out there because it’s sophisticated, steampunk-like, verbose, has a deep story, and it’s so easy to adore Lady Mechanika.
December 29, 2022
Awesome! Favourite series alert.
October 9, 2020
I love, love, love this series. Strong female characters, intriguing story-lines, dynamic artwork.
Like the title says, this volume is all about blood, as in family, vampires and human sacrifices.
I received a copy for review through Netgalley, opinions are entirely my own.
Like the title says, this volume is all about blood, as in family, vampires and human sacrifices.
I received a copy for review through Netgalley, opinions are entirely my own.
August 3, 2023
Lady Mechanika Vol. 6 Sangre collects issues 1-5 of the comic book series written by M.M. Chen and Joe Benitez with art by Joe Benitez, Martin Montiel, and Brian Ching.
Lady Mechanika is called to Spain in order to investigate what she is told was an exorcism gone wrong. When the Lady discovers that the teenager has an overprotective religious family and the son may be homosexual, she starts to question what really happened.
Where the last story leaned towards fantasy, this volume went super heavy into gothic horror. I enjoyed the heavier subject matter this book tackled and we finally got some actual development on Lady Mechanika’s past.
In a departure from the series, Benitez and Montiel only do the art for the comic’s prelude and Brian Ching takes center stage as the main story’s artist. Ching’s art is a good fit for the series and I will admit it fit in so well that I didn’t even notice an artist change until about halfway through the book.
Lady Mechanika is called to Spain in order to investigate what she is told was an exorcism gone wrong. When the Lady discovers that the teenager has an overprotective religious family and the son may be homosexual, she starts to question what really happened.
Where the last story leaned towards fantasy, this volume went super heavy into gothic horror. I enjoyed the heavier subject matter this book tackled and we finally got some actual development on Lady Mechanika’s past.
In a departure from the series, Benitez and Montiel only do the art for the comic’s prelude and Brian Ching takes center stage as the main story’s artist. Ching’s art is a good fit for the series and I will admit it fit in so well that I didn’t even notice an artist change until about halfway through the book.
October 25, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley
Really loved this volume! This is overall a really fun series and this volume features vampires, lgbt characters, and religious commentary - all of which are right up my alley. I liked the new artist as well, some really cool designs and overall just a really fun read.
Really loved this volume! This is overall a really fun series and this volume features vampires, lgbt characters, and religious commentary - all of which are right up my alley. I liked the new artist as well, some really cool designs and overall just a really fun read.
November 1, 2020
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
The Lady Mechanika series has been a guilty pleasure - the stories are not groundbreaking but the artwork was breathtaking enough to make it worth every moment spent reading. With Volume 6, that beautiful Benitez artwork is missing here as new artists step in to fill his shoes. They are definitely not bad artists but I couldn't help but feel that a lot of the look and especially feel of the series was missing. But we do have a complete arc here and more tantalizing hints as to Mechanika's secret history.Story: In Aztec era Mexico, the Spaniards have brought more than firearms, horses, and disease: they also brought those who survive on blood. In Mechanika's day, what looks to be an investigation into a possessed Baron's son turns into far more as ancient history rears its head and an ancient vengeance plays out.
I have to admit, I greatly missed the decorative borders and and beautiful paneling of Benitez. Yes, his artwork is distinct and lovely but I came to realize through each volume that he is more than just preternaturally thin idealized characters. The lady Mechanika world had a unique look and feel that some how got tossed out here into a more generic no-so-streampunky-anymore bland world. I have to appreciate that Benitez gives his artists artistic freedom but do lament that so much flavor has been lost in the process for this series.
The story here is fine - on pat with previous volumes. There's always a main arc and then a secondary arc that will reveal more of Mechanika's mysterious origins. The series has been leaning more and more to the supernatural than the mechanical so it is going to be interesting to see where the story goes from here.
In all, I'll continue reading the series due to the mysteries unfolding about Mechanika's past. But I do greatly miss Benitez's work that was so amazing. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
December 2, 2021
This was an interesting revisit touching base with some of the previous volumes, hopefully to shed some light on Lady Mechanika's origin story.
January 13, 2021
This first paragraph contain spoilers.
What happens when you mix a steampunk world + some mexica mythology + fucking vampires? This volume.
And look, the combination could seems strange. It is strange, but works in a incredibly way. I was so entretained reading everything, and that mix of cultures it has was actually fantastic in a way.
The story too advances somewhat. We can see the struggles Lady Mechanika has for her decision in the last volume, and how she changed her behavoiur because of that. We learn a new thing about her that surely would help to discover more of her past.
What happens when you mix a steampunk world + some mexica mythology + fucking vampires? This volume.
And look, the combination could seems strange. It is strange, but works in a incredibly way. I was so entretained reading everything, and that mix of cultures it has was actually fantastic in a way.
The story too advances somewhat. We can see the struggles Lady Mechanika has for her decision in the last volume, and how she changed her behavoiur because of that. We learn a new thing about her that surely would help to discover more of her past.
September 26, 2020
More like 3 1/2 stars, really. 4 stars for the script. 3 stars for the graphics. I miss Mr. Peter Steigerwald's contribution to this series...
December 16, 2021
Lady Mechanika continues to be the reigning queen of comic book fashion, in my humble opinion. This is one of my favorite series in terms of art and ambience. Give me supernatural mysteries and steampunk any day of the week.
Something I think this series does well is giving each volume its own flavor and complete plot. You can see one of Lady M's investigations from start to finish and get some sense of closure. This volume introduces vampires and not only takes Lady Mechanika to Spain but also tells a vampire hunter origin story in Mexico, where an Indigenous woman takes on Spanish vampire invaders. In Lady Mechanika's timeline, she learns about vampires while attempting to help a gay young man who is suffering at the hands of his parents and the Church. *minor spoiler: things end well and in high romantic, paranormal splendor for Alejandro and his vampire lover, and we love to see it.*
Despite the standalone capability of the volume, I also love the connections to previous adventures. We see Lady M struggling with a decision to help a friend in the previous story since it was ultimately unwelcome. Here, she tries to be more careful of others' wishes and be open-minded about supernatural beings to learn from that experience. We also see a tie-in to her past with La Dama de la Muerte.
Basically, this is an auto-buy series for me. Always excited for more.
Something I think this series does well is giving each volume its own flavor and complete plot. You can see one of Lady M's investigations from start to finish and get some sense of closure. This volume introduces vampires and not only takes Lady Mechanika to Spain but also tells a vampire hunter origin story in Mexico, where an Indigenous woman takes on Spanish vampire invaders. In Lady Mechanika's timeline, she learns about vampires while attempting to help a gay young man who is suffering at the hands of his parents and the Church. *minor spoiler: things end well and in high romantic, paranormal splendor for Alejandro and his vampire lover, and we love to see it.*
Despite the standalone capability of the volume, I also love the connections to previous adventures. We see Lady M struggling with a decision to help a friend in the previous story since it was ultimately unwelcome. Here, she tries to be more careful of others' wishes and be open-minded about supernatural beings to learn from that experience. We also see a tie-in to her past with La Dama de la Muerte.
Basically, this is an auto-buy series for me. Always excited for more.
October 7, 2020
Yet another book in the growing set featuring the titular occult and killing specialist, the sort of steampunk cyborg Lady Mechanika. Here, possession in a university student in Spain drags her away from her home town, where evidence suggests not a demon at work, but something much worse – something brought back from the prologues to each episode, set in historical Latin America. It's all quite good, standard dark fantasy stuff – nothing is groundbreaking, and the main selling point of the book, a reason for one of the human characters to do what they are doing and feel what they are feeling, is belaboured in a very wordy scene that is summarised at least twice afterwards. So it's not brilliant, but as a time-passer these are all worth a look. I don't think the design is worth the second look some of the other volumes have caused with their really great art – this didn't stand out, but again it's a decent purchase, especially for fans of the series. Three and a half stars.
December 7, 2021
Eh. The story was alright. Not my favorite of the series, but not horrible. Solid. What I take issue with is the artwork. I’m sorry, but Brian Ching ruined this volume for me! Before going into this I didn’t notice that there was a guest artist or whatever, so imagine my surprise when I started reading and saw Lady Mechanika for the first time! She was unrecognizable! Also, the detail that is normally in this series’ artwork just was not there. The surroundings, clothes, and characters are always so intricately drawn, but this volume looked a little messy? Rushed? Idk. With the way this ended I don’t think this is the final volume, but I’m desperately hoping it isn’t so I can get the taste of this one out of my system.
September 16, 2020
I didn't actually read the kindle edition, I had read the trade edition of it. Goodreads did not give me the option to select that one.
I had been waiting for this trade for a while. (I can't do weeklies, I want everything at once.) I knew it was going to be pushed back because of COVID, but I didn't mind waiting a while longer. It was definitely worth the wait!
I really liked how this volume connected other volumes together. Some of the other volumes I wasn't sure how they were going to connect, but Sangre brought them all together...In probably the coolest way possible. As I was reading I kept going "Oh, okay this all makes sense now."
Sangre also tackled issues I didn't think I would see in Lady Mechanika, I loved how it was done. It was fitting and moving, and I came close to tears as I read it.
If you love Lady Mechanika, you definitely have to read this one. I think this is my favorite volume yet, and I hope Benitez continues to write Lady Mechanika comics.
I had been waiting for this trade for a while. (I can't do weeklies, I want everything at once.) I knew it was going to be pushed back because of COVID, but I didn't mind waiting a while longer. It was definitely worth the wait!
I really liked how this volume connected other volumes together. Some of the other volumes I wasn't sure how they were going to connect, but Sangre brought them all together...In probably the coolest way possible. As I was reading I kept going "Oh, okay this all makes sense now."
Sangre also tackled issues I didn't think I would see in Lady Mechanika, I loved how it was done. It was fitting and moving, and I came close to tears as I read it.
If you love Lady Mechanika, you definitely have to read this one. I think this is my favorite volume yet, and I hope Benitez continues to write Lady Mechanika comics.
August 17, 2022
(Note: I’m trying to read this series in order. But even though this is stated as volume five, La Belle Dame Sans Merci is also called volume five while this is stated as volume six even though it states “vol. 5” on the cover.)
Lady Mechanika has to tangle with more supernatural forces in this volume: VAMPIRES! But the matter isn’t as clear cut as she might hope.
We are drawn into this story of a worried mother, an intransigent father, a sensitive lad and the vampire into whose clutches the son has fallen. The Barón de Calvitero is a bellicose man, the sort who solves problems with bellowing and gunplay. He’s also extremely misogynistic, xenophobic and homophobic, backward attitudes which cause many problems in his household.
The story is a fascinating one, dealing with two separate strains of vampires. One seeks to dwell quietly among humans, using them as willing blood chalices and servants. The other, a rebel offshoot, wanted humans to be nothing more than food. They came to the New World in order to pose as gods to be fed human sacrifices by the terrified natives. The latter faction brought terror and bloodshed as vengeful humans rose up to wage warfare against all vampires.
La Reina Roja, the queen of the vampires who entered into a pact with humans to stop the warfare, is ancient and therefore a traditionalist. She’s dismissive of humans, referring to her kind as the first race and homo sapiens as cattle that they brought up and educated. She is clearly contemptuous of her son Lucian’s adoration of Alejandro but is willing to allow it.
Such tolerance is not to be found with the baron, who sees his son’s homosexual proclivities as sin and his love of a vampire to be an extreme abomination. Lady Mechanika must use all her skills at diplomacy to avoid bloodshed and make the baron see reason.
Striding through all this with drawn blades is La Dama de La Muerte. Once a human woman, she swore vengeance on all vampires after the bloodsucking rebels killed her entire village and devoured her children before her eyes. Her cause at first seems just—wipe out all vampires. But is it? As La Reina Roja states, her faction was not responsible for the wanton attacks on humans; should all vampires be blamed for the depredations of a few?
Lady Mechanika finds herself reevaluating all she’s ever known about the undead. Is Alejandro a witless thrall to these vampires or a willing servant (vasallo) to his vampire lover Lucian? Is extended life worth becoming other than human? Are alien beings who feast on humans ever to be trusted? Is La Dama’s cause just when it extends to innocent lives? Just how far should vengeance for an ancient crime be carried when it can’t be resolved in courts of law?
We get a stern lesson about repressive societal mores as well. The baron’s hatred of his son’s homosexuality drove poor Alejandro to despair and to try to stifle his own nature. It didn’t succeed, any more than the false priest’s “exorcism” did. When a parent tries to push a child into a mold, one that renders the offspring lonely and forlorn, they will turn to the first smooth-faced, kindly stranger with a sweet voice who makes a seductive offer of love. So it was with Alejandro. If his father had accepted his son’s nature, then perhaps Alejandro would have taken a human lover instead of turning to a blood-drinking hellspawn whose mother sees humans as little better than upright animals.
This is a lot to pack into a graphic novel. It manages to pose moral questions, action-packed fight scenes, images of grotesque horror and moments of tender love: maternal, paternal and amorous. As always, the storytellers and graphic artists perform splendidly, bringing us a terrific plotline, memorable characters, fodder for the mind and a feast for the eyes.
Lady Mechanika has to tangle with more supernatural forces in this volume: VAMPIRES! But the matter isn’t as clear cut as she might hope.
We are drawn into this story of a worried mother, an intransigent father, a sensitive lad and the vampire into whose clutches the son has fallen. The Barón de Calvitero is a bellicose man, the sort who solves problems with bellowing and gunplay. He’s also extremely misogynistic, xenophobic and homophobic, backward attitudes which cause many problems in his household.
The story is a fascinating one, dealing with two separate strains of vampires. One seeks to dwell quietly among humans, using them as willing blood chalices and servants. The other, a rebel offshoot, wanted humans to be nothing more than food. They came to the New World in order to pose as gods to be fed human sacrifices by the terrified natives. The latter faction brought terror and bloodshed as vengeful humans rose up to wage warfare against all vampires.
La Reina Roja, the queen of the vampires who entered into a pact with humans to stop the warfare, is ancient and therefore a traditionalist. She’s dismissive of humans, referring to her kind as the first race and homo sapiens as cattle that they brought up and educated. She is clearly contemptuous of her son Lucian’s adoration of Alejandro but is willing to allow it.
Such tolerance is not to be found with the baron, who sees his son’s homosexual proclivities as sin and his love of a vampire to be an extreme abomination. Lady Mechanika must use all her skills at diplomacy to avoid bloodshed and make the baron see reason.
Striding through all this with drawn blades is La Dama de La Muerte. Once a human woman, she swore vengeance on all vampires after the bloodsucking rebels killed her entire village and devoured her children before her eyes. Her cause at first seems just—wipe out all vampires. But is it? As La Reina Roja states, her faction was not responsible for the wanton attacks on humans; should all vampires be blamed for the depredations of a few?
Lady Mechanika finds herself reevaluating all she’s ever known about the undead. Is Alejandro a witless thrall to these vampires or a willing servant (vasallo) to his vampire lover Lucian? Is extended life worth becoming other than human? Are alien beings who feast on humans ever to be trusted? Is La Dama’s cause just when it extends to innocent lives? Just how far should vengeance for an ancient crime be carried when it can’t be resolved in courts of law?
We get a stern lesson about repressive societal mores as well. The baron’s hatred of his son’s homosexuality drove poor Alejandro to despair and to try to stifle his own nature. It didn’t succeed, any more than the false priest’s “exorcism” did. When a parent tries to push a child into a mold, one that renders the offspring lonely and forlorn, they will turn to the first smooth-faced, kindly stranger with a sweet voice who makes a seductive offer of love. So it was with Alejandro. If his father had accepted his son’s nature, then perhaps Alejandro would have taken a human lover instead of turning to a blood-drinking hellspawn whose mother sees humans as little better than upright animals.
This is a lot to pack into a graphic novel. It manages to pose moral questions, action-packed fight scenes, images of grotesque horror and moments of tender love: maternal, paternal and amorous. As always, the storytellers and graphic artists perform splendidly, bringing us a terrific plotline, memorable characters, fodder for the mind and a feast for the eyes.
March 23, 2023
Pokud se čtenáři těšili, že se konečně odhalí něco z minulosti steampunkové dobrodružky a oni se dostanou blíž odpovědi na otázku, kdo je vlastně Lady Mechanika, budou zklamáni. Joe Benitez sice nahodil další udičky a možnosti, jaká by mohla být Mechaničina minulost, ale k žádnému zásadnímu odhalení nedošlo. Stále dokola je to jen samé „možná“ a i přes dílčí střípky z minulých knih čtenáři nejsou ke složení celkového obrazu o nic blíž.
I přes nespornou líbivost světa a postav, jež ho obývají, začíná být tohle točení v kruhu poněkud únavné. Tajemství halící Mechaniku, táhnoucí se jako červená nit na pozadí všech doposud vydaných svazků, pomalu začíná ztrácet na přitažlivosti, jak Joe Benitez akorát vrství narážku za narážkou, ale na nic neodpovídá. Ačkoliv jsou jednotlivé díly série víceméně epizodní a vyprávěný příběh vždy dojde dovršení (stejně jako v případě pátého dílu s názvem Sangre), pořád napříč svazky existují jistá propojení – točící se především kolem Mechaničina původu –, a proto je absence aspoň dílčích odpovědí už poněkud frustrující.
Benitez nicméně nadále odvádí i tak výtečnou práci, příběh je dynamický a nechybí mu zvraty. V Sangre je navíc hromada akce a vzhledem k názvu i velké množství krve. Benitez se opět okrajově zabývá tématem viny a rozhodování o cizím životě v lepším zájmu dané osoby, ale jelikož se v Sangre jedná o Mechaničinu sólo akci, nedochází tu k interakci s ostatními známými postavami a tedy ani k žádnému posunu vzájemných vztahů. Což je, obzvlášť s přihlédnutím k událostem předchozího dílu, škoda.
Tentokrát se v celém svazku jméno literárního a výtvarného otce Lady Mechaniky – Joea Beniteze – objevuje pouze v roli scenáristy a koloristy (a autora prologu), což je patrné hned na první pohled. Vzhledem k tomu, že je výtvarná stránka komiksu tím, co mu dávalo nezaměnitelný punc, místy to poněkud zamrzí. Kresba Briana Chinga (známý je především prací na sérii Star Wars a na DC komiksech) ani Martina Montiela, který se na sérii podílel už dříve, sice nedělá Mechanice ostudu, ale není tak propracovaná a detailní. Zároveň na některých panelech, obzvlášť ze začátku, Mechanika působí spíš dojmem pubertální dívčiny než životem protřelé ženy, kterou až doposud byla.
I přes nespornou líbivost světa a postav, jež ho obývají, začíná být tohle točení v kruhu poněkud únavné. Tajemství halící Mechaniku, táhnoucí se jako červená nit na pozadí všech doposud vydaných svazků, pomalu začíná ztrácet na přitažlivosti, jak Joe Benitez akorát vrství narážku za narážkou, ale na nic neodpovídá. Ačkoliv jsou jednotlivé díly série víceméně epizodní a vyprávěný příběh vždy dojde dovršení (stejně jako v případě pátého dílu s názvem Sangre), pořád napříč svazky existují jistá propojení – točící se především kolem Mechaničina původu –, a proto je absence aspoň dílčích odpovědí už poněkud frustrující.
Benitez nicméně nadále odvádí i tak výtečnou práci, příběh je dynamický a nechybí mu zvraty. V Sangre je navíc hromada akce a vzhledem k názvu i velké množství krve. Benitez se opět okrajově zabývá tématem viny a rozhodování o cizím životě v lepším zájmu dané osoby, ale jelikož se v Sangre jedná o Mechaničinu sólo akci, nedochází tu k interakci s ostatními známými postavami a tedy ani k žádnému posunu vzájemných vztahů. Což je, obzvlášť s přihlédnutím k událostem předchozího dílu, škoda.
Tentokrát se v celém svazku jméno literárního a výtvarného otce Lady Mechaniky – Joea Beniteze – objevuje pouze v roli scenáristy a koloristy (a autora prologu), což je patrné hned na první pohled. Vzhledem k tomu, že je výtvarná stránka komiksu tím, co mu dávalo nezaměnitelný punc, místy to poněkud zamrzí. Kresba Briana Chinga (známý je především prací na sérii Star Wars a na DC komiksech) ani Martina Montiela, který se na sérii podílel už dříve, sice nedělá Mechanice ostudu, ale není tak propracovaná a detailní. Zároveň na některých panelech, obzvlášť ze začátku, Mechanika působí spíš dojmem pubertální dívčiny než životem protřelé ženy, kterou až doposud byla.
October 19, 2020
I've got to love the worldbuilding that goes into Lady Mechanika. Because this series never shies away from some of the darker aspects of the era it's meant to be in. Like when it comes to expectations and the means people are willing to go to fulfill them. Imagine if a person is gay and having to hide that part of people's lives out of fear of losing what little love they have from their family. Now imagine where the only place to not be ridiculed is with a vampire. These creatures of the night are traditionally predators that like to dominate whatever they feel a below them. So much so that people use whatever traditional means they can, no matter how unorthodox to fight back against them. But what about the vampires that don't fit that mold and have done nothing to earn people's scorn other than just being vampires? To people like a Spanish Baron and an Aztecan(?) slayer that doesn't matter, they'll go to any length to exterminate any of them to ensure their faction remains supreme.
As for Lady Mechanika her encounters with both of these parts bring up some unfortunate things from her past. The sexist Baron she can handle but past traumas, reflections, and revelations can be another. Through the Baron's expectations on his son and the lengths he's willing to go to ensure "normalcy" Mechanika sees a more extreme version to her assistance of her helper Mr. Wallace from the last story. While the circumstances are different, it doesn't necessarily change the consequences of those actions. Lady Mechanika has failed others before, reflected in the vampire slayer whose source of power calls back to another story. It's that lack of oversight from this slayer that calls back to Mechanika's own failures of that time. With this willingness for diplomacy and her encounter with the vampires, she becomes another step closer to finding out her origins.
As for Lady Mechanika her encounters with both of these parts bring up some unfortunate things from her past. The sexist Baron she can handle but past traumas, reflections, and revelations can be another. Through the Baron's expectations on his son and the lengths he's willing to go to ensure "normalcy" Mechanika sees a more extreme version to her assistance of her helper Mr. Wallace from the last story. While the circumstances are different, it doesn't necessarily change the consequences of those actions. Lady Mechanika has failed others before, reflected in the vampire slayer whose source of power calls back to another story. It's that lack of oversight from this slayer that calls back to Mechanika's own failures of that time. With this willingness for diplomacy and her encounter with the vampires, she becomes another step closer to finding out her origins.
October 12, 2020
I received a copy of Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It's that time again! Time for another volume of Lady Mechanika, that is. Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre is another dark addition to this series about the mysterious Lady Mechanika, and the world she thrives in.
Lady Mechanika has traveled all over the world, and faced all sorts of monsters. Now, she's in Spain, with a promise made to protect the son of a local Baron. Only, protection has many definitions, especially in a world that so badly wants to see things as black and white.
The problem is probably a little more complicated thanks to the local history, as well as the inclusion of yet another supernatural. All of which may help points towards a new lead about Lady Mechanika's creation.
Whew. Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre is every bit as dark and thrilling as I had hoped. Darker, actually, if we're being honest. Once again the creative team (Joe Benitez, M.M. Chen, Brian Ching, Beth Sotelo, Martin Montiel) are tackling heavy subjects, all while exploring Lady Mechanica's history and nature.
This is not a telling for the faint of heart...then again, I don't think her story has ever been. It's always been dark and brooding, and unafraid to show the massacres left behind by the careless and supernatural.
Now would be a good time to mention some of the warnings that come along with this volume. Along with some of the more usual warnings (graphic injuries, death, gore, blood, etc), there is a fair amount of child death in this one. As well as some (not condoned) homophobia, and abuse in the form of 'treatment.'
Despite those heavier elements, or maybe because of, this is truly a thrilling novel. It's dark, foreboding, and raises many questions about ethics, humanity, and so much more. All while setting the scene for a dramatic conclusion.
Not to mention hinting towards what Lady Mechanika truly is – a question that has lingered since the series first started. There is still a long way to go on that front, but Lady Mechnika Vol. 6 brought us ever closer.
As per usual, the artwork inside this volume is truly spectacular. It's one of my favorite series, in terms of artwork, and will be for the foreseeable future. The amount of details and general exquisite nature to the art style is unforgettable and always leaves me looking forward to more.
Though it does tend to add quite a bit of impact to the fight scenes, both good and bad. All of which is balanced by the steampunk elements, and Lady Mechanika's striking design (yes, it still feels striking, even after this many volumes).
See more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
It's that time again! Time for another volume of Lady Mechanika, that is. Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre is another dark addition to this series about the mysterious Lady Mechanika, and the world she thrives in.
Lady Mechanika has traveled all over the world, and faced all sorts of monsters. Now, she's in Spain, with a promise made to protect the son of a local Baron. Only, protection has many definitions, especially in a world that so badly wants to see things as black and white.
The problem is probably a little more complicated thanks to the local history, as well as the inclusion of yet another supernatural. All of which may help points towards a new lead about Lady Mechanika's creation.
Whew. Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre is every bit as dark and thrilling as I had hoped. Darker, actually, if we're being honest. Once again the creative team (Joe Benitez, M.M. Chen, Brian Ching, Beth Sotelo, Martin Montiel) are tackling heavy subjects, all while exploring Lady Mechanica's history and nature.
This is not a telling for the faint of heart...then again, I don't think her story has ever been. It's always been dark and brooding, and unafraid to show the massacres left behind by the careless and supernatural.
Now would be a good time to mention some of the warnings that come along with this volume. Along with some of the more usual warnings (graphic injuries, death, gore, blood, etc), there is a fair amount of child death in this one. As well as some (not condoned) homophobia, and abuse in the form of 'treatment.'
Despite those heavier elements, or maybe because of, this is truly a thrilling novel. It's dark, foreboding, and raises many questions about ethics, humanity, and so much more. All while setting the scene for a dramatic conclusion.
Not to mention hinting towards what Lady Mechanika truly is – a question that has lingered since the series first started. There is still a long way to go on that front, but Lady Mechnika Vol. 6 brought us ever closer.
As per usual, the artwork inside this volume is truly spectacular. It's one of my favorite series, in terms of artwork, and will be for the foreseeable future. The amount of details and general exquisite nature to the art style is unforgettable and always leaves me looking forward to more.
Though it does tend to add quite a bit of impact to the fight scenes, both good and bad. All of which is balanced by the steampunk elements, and Lady Mechanika's striking design (yes, it still feels striking, even after this many volumes).
See more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
February 13, 2021
Series Info/Source: This is the 6th volume in the Lady Mechanika series. I bought this graphic novel.
Story (5/5): In this volume Lady Mechanika is called to protect a Baron’s son from demons but quickly finds out it’s a creature of another type that she has to worry about. I loved the back story and the inclusion of other supernatural creatures. I also really enjoyed how this tied into Lady Mechanika’s quest to find out about her own past.
Characters (5/5): I continue to really love Lady Mechanika as a character and enjoyed a lot of the new characters we meet as well.
Setting (5/5): I continue to love this steampunk London setting. This time we also get to venture outside of London into the countryside.
Writing/Drawing Style (5/5): I love the dark, detailed Victorian illustration style used in this series. There is so much detail and the pages are just so beautiful to look at. The story is very well done and easy to follow as well. I love that there was again a contained mystery but that the main storyline featuring Lady Mechanika’s mysterious past also made progress.
My Summary (5/5): Overall I enjoyed this a ton; I love where the story is going and enjoyed all the mystery and action. There are some new and intriguing supernatural creatures introduced here and the illustration remains top notch. I am really looking forward to the next volume in this series.
Story (5/5): In this volume Lady Mechanika is called to protect a Baron’s son from demons but quickly finds out it’s a creature of another type that she has to worry about. I loved the back story and the inclusion of other supernatural creatures. I also really enjoyed how this tied into Lady Mechanika’s quest to find out about her own past.
Characters (5/5): I continue to really love Lady Mechanika as a character and enjoyed a lot of the new characters we meet as well.
Setting (5/5): I continue to love this steampunk London setting. This time we also get to venture outside of London into the countryside.
Writing/Drawing Style (5/5): I love the dark, detailed Victorian illustration style used in this series. There is so much detail and the pages are just so beautiful to look at. The story is very well done and easy to follow as well. I love that there was again a contained mystery but that the main storyline featuring Lady Mechanika’s mysterious past also made progress.
My Summary (5/5): Overall I enjoyed this a ton; I love where the story is going and enjoyed all the mystery and action. There are some new and intriguing supernatural creatures introduced here and the illustration remains top notch. I am really looking forward to the next volume in this series.
May 8, 2025
Maybe 4.5. I think I'm in the minority on the art. I did not care for the style change. Maybe if we hadn't had six previous books done by the same artists, it would be easier to accept. But seeing her differently made her come off differently. For example, when she's talking with the doctor, she seems like a demure high School Manga girl. Nothing in those scenes read to me like Lady Mechanika has read in the past. The entire tone changed. Even the voice I hear in my head for her changed. It was less noticeable during the adventure but it's still wasn't *her*. There's something about her iconic look that inherently defines her. I missed that in this volume.
That said...vampires! Come on! Love the vamps. Love the call back to the Lady of the Dead. Love the non-negotiable supernaturalness to it all. The narrative was a bit heavier here than it needed to be here and it felt like there was a bit of repetition unnecessarily. Ultimately I did like the ending and the message of the ending, although it seemed like a giant leap that came out of nowhere given the way the father had acted throughout every previous scene. I also really love the potential for the direction of her origin.
On to the next! (I've been stockpiling these lol)
That said...vampires! Come on! Love the vamps. Love the call back to the Lady of the Dead. Love the non-negotiable supernaturalness to it all. The narrative was a bit heavier here than it needed to be here and it felt like there was a bit of repetition unnecessarily. Ultimately I did like the ending and the message of the ending, although it seemed like a giant leap that came out of nowhere given the way the father had acted throughout every previous scene. I also really love the potential for the direction of her origin.
On to the next! (I've been stockpiling these lol)
October 2, 2020
Not a fan of the cover even though that's what got me attracted to it in the first place. I think the illustrations inside were way better, I loved them, especially the background graphics and the attention to details, the colour palette is just amazing. I really liked how the two stories, even though told together, were easily separable because of the majorly different illustrations and panel designs.
Even though it's vol 6 of the Lady Mechanica series (such a cheesy title, lol!), it's a perfect standalone too, except for the teaser at the end for the next volume, I'll be looking forward to it for sure. The story itself was great too, I really liked how it shows a different - sad, vulnerable, and lovable - side to the creatures, otherwise deemed full of viciousness. This story is more than just about blood, vampires, gods, and mythical creatures. I think there's was a basic lesson there too, that there's always a reason, circumstances, and hard choices that make people turn to the "dark side".
All in all, I loved it. Recommended.
I received an eARC of this Graphic novel via Netgalley. All opinions are mine. Pub Date: 31 Oct 2020.
Even though it's vol 6 of the Lady Mechanica series (such a cheesy title, lol!), it's a perfect standalone too, except for the teaser at the end for the next volume, I'll be looking forward to it for sure. The story itself was great too, I really liked how it shows a different - sad, vulnerable, and lovable - side to the creatures, otherwise deemed full of viciousness. This story is more than just about blood, vampires, gods, and mythical creatures. I think there's was a basic lesson there too, that there's always a reason, circumstances, and hard choices that make people turn to the "dark side".
All in all, I loved it. Recommended.
I received an eARC of this Graphic novel via Netgalley. All opinions are mine. Pub Date: 31 Oct 2020.
November 1, 2020
Fighting ancient monsters while wearing great outfits, just another day in the life for Lady Mechanika.
Volume 6: Sangre pits Lady Mechanika against a group of ancient monsters, a revenge seeking boogeyman, and very misguided parents. Hired by an upset mother to save her son from a demon, Mechanika stumbles upon another clue about her identity.
Long time readers of this series get another great adventure with steampunk heroine Lady M and one step closer to uncovering her mysterious past. New readers can dive right in here and enjoy because knowledge of past volumes is not essential to the enjoyment of this one.
The art work is once again stunning and the gorgeous cover art is very impressive.
Recommended for: fans of graphic novels with kick ass heroines, steampunk designs, and bloody fight scenes
Content warning: graphic violence, heads literally roll
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Volume 6: Sangre pits Lady Mechanika against a group of ancient monsters, a revenge seeking boogeyman, and very misguided parents. Hired by an upset mother to save her son from a demon, Mechanika stumbles upon another clue about her identity.
Long time readers of this series get another great adventure with steampunk heroine Lady M and one step closer to uncovering her mysterious past. New readers can dive right in here and enjoy because knowledge of past volumes is not essential to the enjoyment of this one.
The art work is once again stunning and the gorgeous cover art is very impressive.
Recommended for: fans of graphic novels with kick ass heroines, steampunk designs, and bloody fight scenes
Content warning: graphic violence, heads literally roll
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2021
Uusin Lady Mechanika on pitkä, viidestä numerosta koostuva tarina kostosta ja erilaisuudesta. Juoni on aikaisempia tarinoita polveilevampi, eikä se ole pelkästään hyvä juttu. Homma ei pysy ihan täysin lapasessa. Tai pysyy, mutta kontrastia aikaisempaan on reilusti.
Eikä kontrasti jää vain juoneen. Benítes tarjoaa tässä tarinassa kynän vierailevalle piirtäjälle ja kuvittaa itse vain kunkin numeron aloittavan prologin. Brian Chingin jälki on hyvää, mutta siitä puuttuu jotain oleellista. Jälki ei ole maagista, kuten aikaisemmissa tarinoissa... paitsi tietenkin prologien osalta.
Steampunk on saanut väistyä kauhukuvaston tieltä ja tämä on suunta, joka tuntui pahalta. Sangre tuntuu sivuaskeleelta kauniilta polulta. Askeleelta keskelle kuollutta ja mätänevää metsää.
Toivottavasti Benítes ottaa seuraavan tarinan kohdalla taas täyden vastuun!
Eikä kontrasti jää vain juoneen. Benítes tarjoaa tässä tarinassa kynän vierailevalle piirtäjälle ja kuvittaa itse vain kunkin numeron aloittavan prologin. Brian Chingin jälki on hyvää, mutta siitä puuttuu jotain oleellista. Jälki ei ole maagista, kuten aikaisemmissa tarinoissa... paitsi tietenkin prologien osalta.
Steampunk on saanut väistyä kauhukuvaston tieltä ja tämä on suunta, joka tuntui pahalta. Sangre tuntuu sivuaskeleelta kauniilta polulta. Askeleelta keskelle kuollutta ja mätänevää metsää.
Toivottavasti Benítes ottaa seuraavan tarinan kohdalla taas täyden vastuun!
December 23, 2025
As I said earlier, I don't particularly like the inclusion of fantasy elements – fairies, vampires, etc. – in a purely steampunk context. However, I admit that here, the inclusion of vampires, in addition to the extraordinary design for the vampire queen, allows for the establishment of a dark and particularly violent, even gory atmosphere, while also supporting a message that is certainly basic but one that I support, about acceptance and tolerance of differences.
On the other hand, Benitez opens up a new avenue – again – on the origins of the Lady, and that's where it starts to get tedious. Given the pace of publication, odds are I'll be long dead before we get anywhere on this topic.
Artwise, Brian Ching takes over the reins and it's... different. Not a radical change, no, but what is gained in dynamism and elasticity is somewhat lost in detail and atmosphere.
On the other hand, Benitez opens up a new avenue – again – on the origins of the Lady, and that's where it starts to get tedious. Given the pace of publication, odds are I'll be long dead before we get anywhere on this topic.
Artwise, Brian Ching takes over the reins and it's... different. Not a radical change, no, but what is gained in dynamism and elasticity is somewhat lost in detail and atmosphere.
February 23, 2023
Sixth volume slightly follows up story from La Dama de la Muerte, an introduces quite heavy teams like teenage struggle for acceptation, alienation and homosexuality. Despite the fact that it may looks like quite a lot, especially for easy adventure genre, it's manages it quite well and it didn't felt forced.
There are once again glimpses of Mechanika's past, and maybe one day (after another 5 or 6 volumes) we may finally learn something about her origin.
Covers and some static scenes are once again beautifully drawn, which is the main strong side of this series. But action scenes looked hasty and not so detailed. Also there are some strange illogical parts I would say, but if you close one eye you can enjoy this book. 3.5*
There are once again glimpses of Mechanika's past, and maybe one day (after another 5 or 6 volumes) we may finally learn something about her origin.
Covers and some static scenes are once again beautifully drawn, which is the main strong side of this series. But action scenes looked hasty and not so detailed. Also there are some strange illogical parts I would say, but if you close one eye you can enjoy this book. 3.5*
October 16, 2020
Lady Mechanika is hired by a baroness from Spain to help her son. The baron thinks that he has had a demon possess him while the baroness is not so sure. What Lady Mechanika finds is more complicated. There are two types of monsters fighting. And Lady Mechanika's world just got more complicated with Mexican goddesses and vampires come into view. And a bit more clues of Lady Mechanika's past has come to light. Very nice artwork accompany the story. A very nice addition to this series.
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this tale!
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this tale!
March 29, 2021
An entire review can be found at In Pursuit of My Own Library
For Volume 6, Lady Mechanika gets to dive into the vampire's den--and these aren't sparkly vegetarian vampires. They are the kind most likely to end up with the pointy side of a spike from the Scooby Gang of Sunnydale through their chest.
Dark and gruesome as ever, these comics have some very good themes going through the story, such as sin and the concept of humanity. But being a comic, I feel that we don't get to explore the full depth most of the time. The Father's take on sin had great potential but was moved along a little too quickly. Unfortunately, I felt Alejandro not fitting in with the Victorian standards was well overdone and worn out. So, so, so very worn out as a thematic device.
This is a story about Lady Mechanika. Sometimes I feel the mysteries get more development than the main character. While the mystery of the vampire's did lead to a direct tie-in with Lady Mechanika, we are still at the tip of the iceberg to her origin. I don't want to be running around with a whiny brat who doesn't fit in to expectations. I want Lady Mechanika doing her half robot thing on some bad guys.
Not my favorite of the volumes, nor my least favorite. The story is a clear continuation from previous story lines and promises new intrigue to come. And what an incredibly intriguing secret it appears to be. This volume balances completely on average with pacing, storytelling, and characters.
Now since this is a comic, a little about the art. Whoever drew Lady Mechanika in issue one did an absolutely amazing job. (I'm terrible at paying attention to title pages.) Her new 'do and facial structure were the best I've ever seen the mechanical Madame. I do truly look forward to the next volume.
For Volume 6, Lady Mechanika gets to dive into the vampire's den--and these aren't sparkly vegetarian vampires. They are the kind most likely to end up with the pointy side of a spike from the Scooby Gang of Sunnydale through their chest.
Dark and gruesome as ever, these comics have some very good themes going through the story, such as sin and the concept of humanity. But being a comic, I feel that we don't get to explore the full depth most of the time. The Father's take on sin had great potential but was moved along a little too quickly. Unfortunately, I felt Alejandro not fitting in with the Victorian standards was well overdone and worn out. So, so, so very worn out as a thematic device.
This is a story about Lady Mechanika. Sometimes I feel the mysteries get more development than the main character. While the mystery of the vampire's did lead to a direct tie-in with Lady Mechanika, we are still at the tip of the iceberg to her origin. I don't want to be running around with a whiny brat who doesn't fit in to expectations. I want Lady Mechanika doing her half robot thing on some bad guys.
Not my favorite of the volumes, nor my least favorite. The story is a clear continuation from previous story lines and promises new intrigue to come. And what an incredibly intriguing secret it appears to be. This volume balances completely on average with pacing, storytelling, and characters.
Now since this is a comic, a little about the art. Whoever drew Lady Mechanika in issue one did an absolutely amazing job. (I'm terrible at paying attention to title pages.) Her new 'do and facial structure were the best I've ever seen the mechanical Madame. I do truly look forward to the next volume.
July 20, 2022
What an action-packed volume! The artwork is excellent as always. What can I say about the story without spoiling it? There is more action. Lady Mechanika is hired for a job in Spain and given the events of the previous volume she has to go alone. What connects the volumes in this series is Lady Mechanika's quest to learn more about her past and find her maker. Sometimes this is very prominent, sometimes it barely registers, and in this volume it is subtle.
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