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Lady Mechanika Volumes #Day of the Dead Special
Lady Mechanika: La Dama de la Muerte
After suffering a tragic loss, Lady Mechanika takes a trip to a small Mexican village just in time for their DIa de los Muertos celebration. But the festivities turn truly deadly after the arrival of the Jinetes del Infierno, the mythical Hell Riders. Collects the complete Lady Mechanika Day of the Dead special, La Dama de la Muerte.
85 pages, Paperback
First published September 26, 2017
9 people are currently reading
279 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 128 reviews
February 2, 2018
Fantastic!
Review to come.
Review to come.
April 6, 2024
La Dama de la Muerte is a prequel to the other volumes in this series. It takes place about 10 years before the other ones. We get to hear more tidbits about Mechanika's past. She has recently lost someone she loved dearly - Dallas. We have heard his name before and now we know that they were definitely in love and, in a way, he saved her from becoming something very terrible. Years later, she is attempting to run from her broken heart. She lands in Mexico just as the Dia de los Muertos festival is taking place. She makes friends with the locals, who help her to come to terms with her loss. When her new friends are threatened, she goes into overdrive to save them. Will she be able to save others and become the hero she was meant to be or will she put them all at risk? Perhaps it will be a little bit of both.
While the overall mystery is not at all a part of volume six, we do still get to know more about her background. Winter, the gang, Dallas - all little pieces of Mechanika's past that add up to what she did after leaving her "father's" basement laboratory and the Ministry of Health. I love a good prequel and this is definitely a good one. We get to see some elements of her history and we also see her origins as a hero. Benitez also takes time to share his culture through this volume and it is gorgeous! Beautiful art work and culture blended together really makes this volume so perfect. While the overarching storyline hasn't developed, seeing this new story is still worthwhile.
Update: Changing this to five stars after reading a few more times. The avenging spirit of Mechanika and the lady of the dead is a fantastic match made in the afterlife. The breadcrumbs of her life story add to the overarching story, especially if a reader continues reading the newest additional volumes.
While the overall mystery is not at all a part of volume six, we do still get to know more about her background. Winter, the gang, Dallas - all little pieces of Mechanika's past that add up to what she did after leaving her "father's" basement laboratory and the Ministry of Health. I love a good prequel and this is definitely a good one. We get to see some elements of her history and we also see her origins as a hero. Benitez also takes time to share his culture through this volume and it is gorgeous! Beautiful art work and culture blended together really makes this volume so perfect. While the overarching storyline hasn't developed, seeing this new story is still worthwhile.
Update: Changing this to five stars after reading a few more times. The avenging spirit of Mechanika and the lady of the dead is a fantastic match made in the afterlife. The breadcrumbs of her life story add to the overarching story, especially if a reader continues reading the newest additional volumes.
March 16, 2018
This were awesome! Honestly, I need to read more of Lady Mechanika, 'cause I'm amuse!
This book is not exactly an accurate exposition of "Day of the Death" but isn't that far away...but that's a discussion for other time, I just want to point that.
The story of this book is good, just good, probably I could enjoyed more if I read something about lady Mechanika befote, 'cause there's cero to nothing about her story, but we saw a good character development and the plot make us believe that she's an heroine, but not the best "person" in the world.
However, the really appealing part is the art work. This comic is absolutelly stunning, every page shows a lot of this but nothing look messy ir out of place, and is one of the most eye catching drawns that I ever saw in a comic (for your information, I'm not an expert in comics), and make the best thing that an author and and illustrator wsh: make you desire back to the story and the character.
This book is not exactly an accurate exposition of "Day of the Death" but isn't that far away...but that's a discussion for other time, I just want to point that.
The story of this book is good, just good, probably I could enjoyed more if I read something about lady Mechanika befote, 'cause there's cero to nothing about her story, but we saw a good character development and the plot make us believe that she's an heroine, but not the best "person" in the world.
However, the really appealing part is the art work. This comic is absolutelly stunning, every page shows a lot of this but nothing look messy ir out of place, and is one of the most eye catching drawns that I ever saw in a comic (for your information, I'm not an expert in comics), and make the best thing that an author and and illustrator wsh: make you desire back to the story and the character.
July 8, 2017
*** Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
The art in this book is phenomenal! Seriously, I know there's a coloring book for this series and I really want to buy it now because the art is breathtaking! The lines and the colors give it such a distinct tone that is such a cool blend of the themes of Dia de Los Muertos and steampunk. I usually want every comic to be a live-action TV show but unless we're talking some Bryan Fuller realness, I don't even know if we could capture this type of feel with live-action television.
So, I've gushed quite a bit about the art - now on to the story.
Unfortunately, this is the first Lady Mechanika story I've read. Whenever me and my friends pass it in our comic book store, the first volume is always sold out. So, I thought this read just fine as a solo, oneshot story but I could be wrong. I didn't feel that lost (barring the bits about Dallas) because Lady Mechanika gives Lucito and Zita some of her story.
This begins with Lady Mechanika having gone off on her own for the first time (?). She comes to a small town, Santa Catrina, the day before they were to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. This appears to be a foreign custom to Lady Mechanika but she participates because the villagers really sell it to her. She becomes quite taken with a little girl, Zita, and gets into the spirit of things. As this is happening, a mutilated boy comes into town and collapses. He's the latest punishment of the Jinetes. These are the "gods" that require tithes every year. If villages don't have enough to give, or if the leader feels like it, they torture people, usually children, and send them as warnings. Lady Mechanika takes it upon herself to stop them.
The story is fairly simple. She's on a quest to rid these people of the Jinetes for good. I really enjoyed this story because I quite like Lady Mechanika as a character, there's a compelling reason for her quest and the art was beautiful. I won't spoil any of the events but I'll just say, I felt no remorse for the Jinetes. They got what they had coming to them.
So, this was a perfectly enjoyable reading experience. I'm definitely going to check out more of the Lady Mechanika series.
The art in this book is phenomenal! Seriously, I know there's a coloring book for this series and I really want to buy it now because the art is breathtaking! The lines and the colors give it such a distinct tone that is such a cool blend of the themes of Dia de Los Muertos and steampunk. I usually want every comic to be a live-action TV show but unless we're talking some Bryan Fuller realness, I don't even know if we could capture this type of feel with live-action television.
So, I've gushed quite a bit about the art - now on to the story.
Unfortunately, this is the first Lady Mechanika story I've read. Whenever me and my friends pass it in our comic book store, the first volume is always sold out. So, I thought this read just fine as a solo, oneshot story but I could be wrong. I didn't feel that lost (barring the bits about Dallas) because Lady Mechanika gives Lucito and Zita some of her story.
This begins with Lady Mechanika having gone off on her own for the first time (?). She comes to a small town, Santa Catrina, the day before they were to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. This appears to be a foreign custom to Lady Mechanika but she participates because the villagers really sell it to her. She becomes quite taken with a little girl, Zita, and gets into the spirit of things. As this is happening, a mutilated boy comes into town and collapses. He's the latest punishment of the Jinetes. These are the "gods" that require tithes every year. If villages don't have enough to give, or if the leader feels like it, they torture people, usually children, and send them as warnings. Lady Mechanika takes it upon herself to stop them.
The story is fairly simple. She's on a quest to rid these people of the Jinetes for good. I really enjoyed this story because I quite like Lady Mechanika as a character, there's a compelling reason for her quest and the art was beautiful. I won't spoil any of the events but I'll just say, I felt no remorse for the Jinetes. They got what they had coming to them.
So, this was a perfectly enjoyable reading experience. I'm definitely going to check out more of the Lady Mechanika series.
August 7, 2017
The storyline is interesting and dramatic, keeping your attention, and is a perfect prop for the simply excellent graphics, exactly like I have become accustomed. I think this is the main reason that draws me back to the series of Lady Mechanika's adventures: the attention to details, the beautiful curves, just the right mix of époque and steampunk, even the gear contours. Keep 'em coming!
***Note: I received a copy curtesy of Netgalley and Diamond Book Distributors & Benitez Productions in exchange for an honest review.
***Note: I received a copy curtesy of Netgalley and Diamond Book Distributors & Benitez Productions in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2017
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story was pretty good, but it's really the artwork that keeps me coming back to this series. It's simply fantastic! More, please!
The story was pretty good, but it's really the artwork that keeps me coming back to this series. It's simply fantastic! More, please!
November 12, 2017
Western, rather than steampunk, but utterly satisfying. The graphics are astounding. For a detailed review, please visit my blog: http://tesatorul.blogspot.ro/2017/11/...
July 29, 2017
Best art and story yet from all the Lady Mechanika rereleases. Lady Mechinka travels to Mexico during the Day of the Dead while she's mourning a lost love. The town she visits is plagued by "Demon Riders" and she pits herself against them.
Lady Mechanika looks gorgeous in her Day of the Dead makeup. In fact, all of the characters look amazing in their getups. I loved the characterization and stories of the locals talking about their loved ones and what the Day of the Dead is actually all about.
Received an advance copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Mechanika looks gorgeous in her Day of the Dead makeup. In fact, all of the characters look amazing in their getups. I loved the characterization and stories of the locals talking about their loved ones and what the Day of the Dead is actually all about.
Received an advance copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2018
This was a re-read for me as I read the first few issues of this on Comixology a few years back I believe and I really enjoyed reading the physical edition too. It's again stunning and ties in a lot of culture, which is pretty cool. The art was fun and the drama exciting. 4*s from me!
September 14, 2019
Wonderful as always. From the gorgeous art to the well thought-out storyline. Joe Benitz always adds a child that is enamoured with Lady Mechanika and this short series (3-shot) is no exception. A little three year old and her brother of maybe 8 or so have lost their parents to bandits whom Mechanika realizes are not as scary as they may appear to the villagers.
Easily one of my top 5 favourite comic book characters; Lady Mechanika is a kick-ass heroine whom has no “place” in life and so wanders joining up (when needed) with those whom need her help or are fighting the ‘good fight’, if you will.
If you want intricate art, steampunk style and good stories you won’t go wrong with any of Benitz’s comics; but Lady Mechanika is one of my favourites.
Easily one of my top 5 favourite comic book characters; Lady Mechanika is a kick-ass heroine whom has no “place” in life and so wanders joining up (when needed) with those whom need her help or are fighting the ‘good fight’, if you will.
If you want intricate art, steampunk style and good stories you won’t go wrong with any of Benitz’s comics; but Lady Mechanika is one of my favourites.
July 25, 2017
I received an ARC through Netgalley, for which I'm grateful. This does not, however, affect my review, or how friggin' much I love this series.
This was probably my most favourite installment yet. It had everything; culture, heart and action. And even though the premisse isn't a new one (little Mexican town is terrorised by a gang of bandits...), it's presented in such a way, that it does not feel stale at all. On the contrary.
The artwork is always top notch in this series, but the details in this one were particularly great. I loved the make-up design. And the borders (which are usually decorated with gears), were, where appropriate, decorated with Aztec-inspired art, skulls, bones and roses. Absolutely stunning!
This was probably my most favourite installment yet. It had everything; culture, heart and action. And even though the premisse isn't a new one (little Mexican town is terrorised by a gang of bandits...), it's presented in such a way, that it does not feel stale at all. On the contrary.
The artwork is always top notch in this series, but the details in this one were particularly great. I loved the make-up design. And the borders (which are usually decorated with gears), were, where appropriate, decorated with Aztec-inspired art, skulls, bones and roses. Absolutely stunning!
November 7, 2019
Death is not something we need fear, mija. It is a natural part of our existence.
I have never heard of this comic before but somehow the guy I’m seeing, saw it and was like girl…this is so you. And you guys, he was totally and completely right.
This is part 1 of a special series of the Lady Mechanika series which is a steampunk comic about a reanimated corpse aka “Lady Mechananika”. In La Dama la Muerte she takes a trip to a Mexican village just in time for their Dia de los Muetos celebrations. But it seems that trouble seems to follow her wherever she goes, the veil of the dead has risen and so have the gates to hell.
As I stated I have never read this series before so I’m not really familiar with the character and her backstory which I’m sure is tragic. I mean, she’s an undead machine made of the parts of other people. Also she’s recently suffered a tragic loss hence why she’s taking this trip. Still, I didn’t feel lost jumping into this. There were little notes that supplied some information into what happened and reading this just increased interest in me into actually reading the entire series from the beginning which…job well done Joe Benítez lmao.
The story was beautiful. I always love reading about the Day of the Dead, it’s fascinating. And the art.
Goddamn. The art is absolutely riveting. I love comic books. Now, my parents had me fairly young. Both were in their early 20s and my earliest memories were playing video games and reading comic books with them. I would come home from preschool, grab some juice and read Archie while my sister napped. My best memories. It was great diving into the comic world again because it’s been a longgg time since I’ve read an actual comic like this…That cliffhanger at the end. OOF.
This is definitely something I would love to continue reading. Strong, beautiful, kick ass woman with horror/steampunk elements??? Sign me the hell up.
I have never heard of this comic before but somehow the guy I’m seeing, saw it and was like girl…this is so you. And you guys, he was totally and completely right.
This is part 1 of a special series of the Lady Mechanika series which is a steampunk comic about a reanimated corpse aka “Lady Mechananika”. In La Dama la Muerte she takes a trip to a Mexican village just in time for their Dia de los Muetos celebrations. But it seems that trouble seems to follow her wherever she goes, the veil of the dead has risen and so have the gates to hell.
As I stated I have never read this series before so I’m not really familiar with the character and her backstory which I’m sure is tragic. I mean, she’s an undead machine made of the parts of other people. Also she’s recently suffered a tragic loss hence why she’s taking this trip. Still, I didn’t feel lost jumping into this. There were little notes that supplied some information into what happened and reading this just increased interest in me into actually reading the entire series from the beginning which…job well done Joe Benítez lmao.
The story was beautiful. I always love reading about the Day of the Dead, it’s fascinating. And the art.
Goddamn. The art is absolutely riveting. I love comic books. Now, my parents had me fairly young. Both were in their early 20s and my earliest memories were playing video games and reading comic books with them. I would come home from preschool, grab some juice and read Archie while my sister napped. My best memories. It was great diving into the comic world again because it’s been a longgg time since I’ve read an actual comic like this…That cliffhanger at the end. OOF.
This is definitely something I would love to continue reading. Strong, beautiful, kick ass woman with horror/steampunk elements??? Sign me the hell up.
November 9, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
MINI-REVIEW
After reading the mini graphic novel about Lady Mechanika I was thrilled to see this title on Netgalley and HAD to read it. This was a lot longer and even more wonderful. The artwork was as gorgeous as before if not even better. I love the extra artwork the author provides at the beginning of the book about Lady Mechanika's clothing and her weapons. I would LOVE to get my hands on a physical copy of the book so I could pore over it. The story is about Lady Mechanika going on a vacation of sorts after a terrible loss in her life only to find more darkness at the place where she goes. I personally LOVED the diversity in this book!
It was so interesting to learn about DIa de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and understand the culture of Mexico. It's wonderful that the author teaches us a lot of things in the story without it feeling like info-dumping.
Also a word of warning here that there's a lot of violence in these books and since it's depicted in artwork, if violent art makes you uncomfortable, be warned about picking up these books. Also even though this is a part of a series, I feel like you can read each novel separately without much trouble, although this might have spoilers for earlier novels.
Overall, really enjoyed this and glad to have forayed into the world of Graphic novels!
MINI-REVIEW
After reading the mini graphic novel about Lady Mechanika I was thrilled to see this title on Netgalley and HAD to read it. This was a lot longer and even more wonderful. The artwork was as gorgeous as before if not even better. I love the extra artwork the author provides at the beginning of the book about Lady Mechanika's clothing and her weapons. I would LOVE to get my hands on a physical copy of the book so I could pore over it. The story is about Lady Mechanika going on a vacation of sorts after a terrible loss in her life only to find more darkness at the place where she goes. I personally LOVED the diversity in this book!
It was so interesting to learn about DIa de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and understand the culture of Mexico. It's wonderful that the author teaches us a lot of things in the story without it feeling like info-dumping.
Also a word of warning here that there's a lot of violence in these books and since it's depicted in artwork, if violent art makes you uncomfortable, be warned about picking up these books. Also even though this is a part of a series, I feel like you can read each novel separately without much trouble, although this might have spoilers for earlier novels.
Overall, really enjoyed this and glad to have forayed into the world of Graphic novels!
September 19, 2017
44/45 books read in 2017
Provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating: 4,5 stars
Amazing addition to the Lady Mechanika universe. I absolutely adore the art. The combination of steampunk and Dia de los Muertos is brilliant!
You could definitely read this volume as a stand alone, but I want to bet you'll be interested in the rest of the books too :)
Dislaimer: This is however the most violent book out of the series (nothing sexual, just gory) and although it is definitely logical in the story and it reveals more about the character of Lady Mechanika, I just want you to be aware in case violence doesn't sit well with you.
Having said all that: I definitely recommend this series & this edition :)
Provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating: 4,5 stars
Amazing addition to the Lady Mechanika universe. I absolutely adore the art. The combination of steampunk and Dia de los Muertos is brilliant!
You could definitely read this volume as a stand alone, but I want to bet you'll be interested in the rest of the books too :)
Dislaimer: This is however the most violent book out of the series (nothing sexual, just gory) and although it is definitely logical in the story and it reveals more about the character of Lady Mechanika, I just want you to be aware in case violence doesn't sit well with you.
Having said all that: I definitely recommend this series & this edition :)
July 21, 2023
Lady Mechanika: La Dama de la Muerte is a one-shot comic book special written by Joe Benitez and M.M. Chen with art by Joe Benitez and Martin Montiel.
Trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Lady Mechanika gets on a train with no destination in mind. She soon arrives in a small Mexican town that is getting ready to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Lady Mechanika will soon learn she need to come to peace with her past before being able to tackle her future.
I really enjoyed this special issue of Lady Mechanika and to date it’s my favorite piece in the series. This books gives us a lot of character depth to our protagonist. Many of the earlier volumes just make her a badass with a mysterious past but we finally get layers pulled back here. Benitez also gets to use the Day of the Dead setting to draw some incredibly beautiful mash up art of Steampunk and Mexican culture.
Trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Lady Mechanika gets on a train with no destination in mind. She soon arrives in a small Mexican town that is getting ready to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Lady Mechanika will soon learn she need to come to peace with her past before being able to tackle her future.
I really enjoyed this special issue of Lady Mechanika and to date it’s my favorite piece in the series. This books gives us a lot of character depth to our protagonist. Many of the earlier volumes just make her a badass with a mysterious past but we finally get layers pulled back here. Benitez also gets to use the Day of the Dead setting to draw some incredibly beautiful mash up art of Steampunk and Mexican culture.
August 30, 2017
Received from Netgalley and Edelweiss in exchange of honest review.
Five Stars!
This is my first Lady Mechanika novel and it didn't disappoint. The artwork in this book was beyond anything I seen before and the story was pretty good. Even tho I haven't read the other LM books, I understood what was going on with the Lady M and how she become to be. So all over it was pretty good and wouldn't mind reading some more novels dealing with her..
Five Stars!
This is my first Lady Mechanika novel and it didn't disappoint. The artwork in this book was beyond anything I seen before and the story was pretty good. Even tho I haven't read the other LM books, I understood what was going on with the Lady M and how she become to be. So all over it was pretty good and wouldn't mind reading some more novels dealing with her..
September 26, 2017
Pros: gorgeous artwork, touching story
Cons: makes the locals look ignorant
Mourning the death of a friend, Lady Mechanika makes her way to Mexico, where she’s coerced into joining the Day of the Dead festivities.
This graphic novel gathers a 3 issue storyline.
As with the previous volumes the artwork is simply gorgeous. I love the costumes and make-up associated with the festival. There are some beautiful double page spreads.
I enjoyed the story, though it does depend on the ‘superstitious natives are easily duped’ trope and it’s not particularly original. I found the opening beautiful and sad, despite the positive message of the festival.
I was confused by who Dallas was. He isn’t mentioned in the earlier volumes nor was there a flashback explaining how he died or any explanation of why Mechanika felt responsible for his death.
Despite a few minor issues, I love this series. Each volume stands alone and uses unique new locations and outfits. The artwork really is worth it.
Cons: makes the locals look ignorant
Mourning the death of a friend, Lady Mechanika makes her way to Mexico, where she’s coerced into joining the Day of the Dead festivities.
This graphic novel gathers a 3 issue storyline.
As with the previous volumes the artwork is simply gorgeous. I love the costumes and make-up associated with the festival. There are some beautiful double page spreads.
I enjoyed the story, though it does depend on the ‘superstitious natives are easily duped’ trope and it’s not particularly original. I found the opening beautiful and sad, despite the positive message of the festival.
I was confused by who Dallas was. He isn’t mentioned in the earlier volumes nor was there a flashback explaining how he died or any explanation of why Mechanika felt responsible for his death.
Despite a few minor issues, I love this series. Each volume stands alone and uses unique new locations and outfits. The artwork really is worth it.
October 7, 2019
WOW! WOW! WOW!
The art for the second story is so, so, so, so incredible. Every page more gorgeous as the one before. I gasped with some of the pages and squeed out loud with some others. Wow. The story itself? Cool and creepy and heartbreaking. Even though - I can't remember who Dallas is. -.- /o\
I liked the first story too. The introduction of Singh is *ngh*. I love Mechanika being all Detective and going after the bad guy and winning. <3
The art for the second story is so, so, so, so incredible. Every page more gorgeous as the one before. I gasped with some of the pages and squeed out loud with some others. Wow. The story itself? Cool and creepy and heartbreaking. Even though - I can't remember who Dallas is. -.- /o\
I liked the first story too. The introduction of Singh is *ngh*. I love Mechanika being all Detective and going after the bad guy and winning. <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2017
Full review to come!
July 22, 2017
I was provided a copy of this book through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Upon first requesting this book, all that was going through my head was “holy shit, I love that design in the cover!” That’s what led me to request it and when I opened it I knew I would just be in awe of the art. The colors and lineart were mesmerizing, kept you focused on the story and wishing you could spend an eternity soaking in the intricate details. (I saw an art so beautiful I cried???)
As for the story, I was curious, seeing as I hadn’t really read a lot of steampunk. I really loved the setting and the characters introduced. I had no previous knowledge of the series, but I wished I had some; not because the story felt in complete without the rest, but because it genuinely made me want to read them.
Lady Mechanika, our main character, was running away at the beginning of the book. She arrived in Santa Clarita, an area that I assumed was in Mexico, to get away from a tragic past. (To unlock tragic backstory you must read past issues but the story gives you a gist of it.) Mechanika wasn’t wholly human, but isn’t getting your heartbroken and knowing love in its different forms The Human Experience? She lived (and sorta died), she saw, she got her vengeance. I loved seeing Lady Mechanika be invited into a culture and be painted with a sugar skull, not just having her gratuitously don it for the sake of it being colorful.
My caveats with the story lay on the fact that Lady Mechanika was depicted as this sort of White Savior sent from the US to protect them from the Evil White Men. This type of persecution of Mexican people by white men was real, and this is something that has evolved nowadays with the many structures of systemic and institutionalized racism towards Mexicans in the US. Along these lines, there were some racialized slurs towards Native Americans and Mexicans thrown in there that didn’t sit well with me, seeing as the author went as far as censoring cursing. I don’t know much about the author, but he has a Latinx-sounding name so I’m going to assume he knew what he was writing about and that the parallels were on purpose. Fantasy doesn’t exist in a vacuum and the historical context excuse is grating on my nerves when it comes to fantasy.
All in all, I found the book to be very interesting! I enjoyed the art and the main character’s arc. Lady Mechanika should be your next to-read book and I can’t wait to dig into the rest of the series.
Upon first requesting this book, all that was going through my head was “holy shit, I love that design in the cover!” That’s what led me to request it and when I opened it I knew I would just be in awe of the art. The colors and lineart were mesmerizing, kept you focused on the story and wishing you could spend an eternity soaking in the intricate details. (I saw an art so beautiful I cried???)
As for the story, I was curious, seeing as I hadn’t really read a lot of steampunk. I really loved the setting and the characters introduced. I had no previous knowledge of the series, but I wished I had some; not because the story felt in complete without the rest, but because it genuinely made me want to read them.
Lady Mechanika, our main character, was running away at the beginning of the book. She arrived in Santa Clarita, an area that I assumed was in Mexico, to get away from a tragic past. (To unlock tragic backstory you must read past issues but the story gives you a gist of it.) Mechanika wasn’t wholly human, but isn’t getting your heartbroken and knowing love in its different forms The Human Experience? She lived (and sorta died), she saw, she got her vengeance. I loved seeing Lady Mechanika be invited into a culture and be painted with a sugar skull, not just having her gratuitously don it for the sake of it being colorful.
My caveats with the story lay on the fact that Lady Mechanika was depicted as this sort of White Savior sent from the US to protect them from the Evil White Men. This type of persecution of Mexican people by white men was real, and this is something that has evolved nowadays with the many structures of systemic and institutionalized racism towards Mexicans in the US. Along these lines, there were some racialized slurs towards Native Americans and Mexicans thrown in there that didn’t sit well with me, seeing as the author went as far as censoring cursing. I don’t know much about the author, but he has a Latinx-sounding name so I’m going to assume he knew what he was writing about and that the parallels were on purpose. Fantasy doesn’t exist in a vacuum and the historical context excuse is grating on my nerves when it comes to fantasy.
All in all, I found the book to be very interesting! I enjoyed the art and the main character’s arc. Lady Mechanika should be your next to-read book and I can’t wait to dig into the rest of the series.
August 26, 2018
This volume is by far the most emotional one so far. A massacre humanizes the main character better than in previous stories and several dramatic scenes may draw a tear from the reader. A group of men decide to prey on the fears of Mexican villagers, but Lady Mechanika won't stand for it. Her first move ends badly for her and for the villagers, but her determination will win out in the end.
Lady Mechanika is greaving for her dead friend Dallas, so she takes a train to Mexico. A blind healer named Bembe guides her to Santa Catrina right before the Dia de los Muertos festival begins. The town welcomes her and the innkeeper in particular notices her sorrow and invites her to the festival which has a calming effect on her. The festivities are interrupted by a young boy rising from the dead.
Lady Mechanika is greaving for her dead friend Dallas, so she takes a train to Mexico. A blind healer named Bembe guides her to Santa Catrina right before the Dia de los Muertos festival begins. The town welcomes her and the innkeeper in particular notices her sorrow and invites her to the festival which has a calming effect on her. The festivities are interrupted by a young boy rising from the dead.
October 21, 2017
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The plot and art were okay. Nothing amazing though but it was a good and quick read overall.
The plot and art were okay. Nothing amazing though but it was a good and quick read overall.
December 18, 2023
4.5 star rating
"The mind is not always given to know that which the soul seeks" - Joe Benítez
This was a wonderful graphic novel and I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading it, this review will be for the three sections as a whole and not individually, just because I think that's easier and gives the piece/review a more fair feeling.
This graphic novel is also currently under 'read now' on NetGalley, which means that you don't have to make a request for it you can just read it straight away!
The first thing that I have to point out and that I cannot ignore is the absolutely stunning artwork that is used in this novel, the colours and the art style just take my breath away and it was the first thing that drew to read this specifically; I haven't read any of the others in the 'Lady Mechanika' series' but this one has definitely made me want to. On that note I do love Lady M, she is such a cool character, being both badass and compassionate is such a rare thing with female characters who can often time be portrayed as such 'strong characters' that they no longer feel human.
The plot was interesting. I will admit that I do love the setting and the decision to go into Mexican folklore is a decision that I loved, but because this mini-series was so short I do think that it was hard to really get into the plot and become invested in it but that isn't a deterrent to the actual storytelling which I did find well done and many of the characters did have some form of depth to them.
So I would definitely recommend this series and I actually do want to read the main series to this spin-off one so that must mean this series did something right.
Warnings for graphic violence.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Benitez Productions for this review copy in exchange for a completely honest review.
"The mind is not always given to know that which the soul seeks" - Joe Benítez
This was a wonderful graphic novel and I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading it, this review will be for the three sections as a whole and not individually, just because I think that's easier and gives the piece/review a more fair feeling.
This graphic novel is also currently under 'read now' on NetGalley, which means that you don't have to make a request for it you can just read it straight away!
The first thing that I have to point out and that I cannot ignore is the absolutely stunning artwork that is used in this novel, the colours and the art style just take my breath away and it was the first thing that drew to read this specifically; I haven't read any of the others in the 'Lady Mechanika' series' but this one has definitely made me want to. On that note I do love Lady M, she is such a cool character, being both badass and compassionate is such a rare thing with female characters who can often time be portrayed as such 'strong characters' that they no longer feel human.
The plot was interesting. I will admit that I do love the setting and the decision to go into Mexican folklore is a decision that I loved, but because this mini-series was so short I do think that it was hard to really get into the plot and become invested in it but that isn't a deterrent to the actual storytelling which I did find well done and many of the characters did have some form of depth to them.
So I would definitely recommend this series and I actually do want to read the main series to this spin-off one so that must mean this series did something right.
Warnings for graphic violence.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Benitez Productions for this review copy in exchange for a completely honest review.
December 2, 2021
Stunning artwork as always a real eyes opener.
December 14, 2017
These mini series are great Steampunk reads. Very nice art and good stories make them a great enjoyable read
November 1, 2017
*I received an ARC of this book through Edelweiss+ in exchange for an honest review*
Lady Mechanika arrives into Santa Catrina, a small village, during the Día de los Muertos festival after suffering a loss. The Jinetes, horseback-riders from the world of the dead, come to the village to collect their offerings. Lady Mechanika then decides to act to save the villagers.
By Joe Benítez
What struck me first was how gorgeous all the artworks are! In fact, they are jaw-dropping with the flamboyant colours and numerous details in their clothes, build, bodies, and objects. I really enjoyed how all the acts' titles (even the main title) are in Spanish—now that speaks of culture and experience! Because, if you don’t know, the Día de los Muertos is celebrated in Mexico, where the people speak Spanish. Did I say acts? Yes, I did. Instead of chapters, acts divide the whole book, just like a play, a movie, or most stories for that matter (depending on the technique used, there can be from 3 to 6 or 7 of them in a novel).
Moreover, the characters’ clothes and makeup are sensational. Wow! They even serve the story which is doubly amazing. The panels are dynamic (sometimes we even get a glimpse from Lady Mechanika’s point of view under her big hat). Fun times, I’m telling you! Last note about the graphic aspect of Lady Mechanika is how the panels’ borders are made of pipes and gears which really make for a steampunk feel to it! The background has got scratches like used paper, which feels old too… A subtle but great touch!
Now, what about the story? The beginning is intriguing and jumps right into the subject. It doesn’t wait around. Instead, it sets the tone for the rest of the story and is creepy enough while being stunning. It also sets up the setting and the events quite early on and this comic does it quite nicely. You’d have to be blind to miss the information! The story itself is exciting and starts drastically, mixing folk tales with the Lady Mechanika’s invented story. The use of children as important characters in the story impressed me—it is rare but exquisite and fun when it happens! As for the other characters, they are all different and lovely in their own ways. But most noticeable, they all have their own agendas, stories, thoughts, and everything else that makes them unique. It is enjoyable to see them all mix and react to each other!
It’s hard to feel for Lady Mechanika, the main character, at the beginning, but the more I read the more lovable she became. After all, she’s courageous, a trait I respect. Moreover, we get to see a bit of her backstory, which helps us understand more about where she comes from and why she’s so different. Mostly for people who don’t read Lady Mechanika (like me) and thus don’t know her well over several comics.
On top of that, I found it to be culturally respectful of Mexico and El Día de los Muertos. The author and artist really made La dama de la muerte a pleasure to dive into. I felt like I was there, sucked into these magnificent pages and trying to do good alongside Lady Mechanika. It was insightful, that’s for sure. The emotions are well-portrayed. We can identify them without any problem. The action is thrilling and nice in terms of visual. I’m not one who likes fight scenes much in comics, but I can say those are entertaining.
The story is intriguing and sometimes misleading (a real treat!) as the plot unfolds. I admit it emotionally destroyed me (I cried, yes), but it was SO good! The ending… Awww, what can I say about the ending? I loved it! It’s such a surprise even I couldn’t see coming (and I usually detect all the major twists in a story).
There is only one negative point and I think it’s somewhat big. Let’s say the villagers’ reaction to the tragedy befalling them is… strange to say the least. I didn’t find it realistic, but it was cute and soothing—if not comforting.
I give this comic a rating of 5 out of 5 despite the negative point because I had such a wonderful time reading it. Seriously, it is well-done and impressive. I have fond memories of this book and I am certain I’ll keep them for a long, long time… Why? Because I will buy and read Lady Mechanika’s other comics! I am a fan now.
Lady Mechanika arrives into Santa Catrina, a small village, during the Día de los Muertos festival after suffering a loss. The Jinetes, horseback-riders from the world of the dead, come to the village to collect their offerings. Lady Mechanika then decides to act to save the villagers.
By Joe Benítez
What struck me first was how gorgeous all the artworks are! In fact, they are jaw-dropping with the flamboyant colours and numerous details in their clothes, build, bodies, and objects. I really enjoyed how all the acts' titles (even the main title) are in Spanish—now that speaks of culture and experience! Because, if you don’t know, the Día de los Muertos is celebrated in Mexico, where the people speak Spanish. Did I say acts? Yes, I did. Instead of chapters, acts divide the whole book, just like a play, a movie, or most stories for that matter (depending on the technique used, there can be from 3 to 6 or 7 of them in a novel).
Moreover, the characters’ clothes and makeup are sensational. Wow! They even serve the story which is doubly amazing. The panels are dynamic (sometimes we even get a glimpse from Lady Mechanika’s point of view under her big hat). Fun times, I’m telling you! Last note about the graphic aspect of Lady Mechanika is how the panels’ borders are made of pipes and gears which really make for a steampunk feel to it! The background has got scratches like used paper, which feels old too… A subtle but great touch!
Now, what about the story? The beginning is intriguing and jumps right into the subject. It doesn’t wait around. Instead, it sets the tone for the rest of the story and is creepy enough while being stunning. It also sets up the setting and the events quite early on and this comic does it quite nicely. You’d have to be blind to miss the information! The story itself is exciting and starts drastically, mixing folk tales with the Lady Mechanika’s invented story. The use of children as important characters in the story impressed me—it is rare but exquisite and fun when it happens! As for the other characters, they are all different and lovely in their own ways. But most noticeable, they all have their own agendas, stories, thoughts, and everything else that makes them unique. It is enjoyable to see them all mix and react to each other!
It’s hard to feel for Lady Mechanika, the main character, at the beginning, but the more I read the more lovable she became. After all, she’s courageous, a trait I respect. Moreover, we get to see a bit of her backstory, which helps us understand more about where she comes from and why she’s so different. Mostly for people who don’t read Lady Mechanika (like me) and thus don’t know her well over several comics.
On top of that, I found it to be culturally respectful of Mexico and El Día de los Muertos. The author and artist really made La dama de la muerte a pleasure to dive into. I felt like I was there, sucked into these magnificent pages and trying to do good alongside Lady Mechanika. It was insightful, that’s for sure. The emotions are well-portrayed. We can identify them without any problem. The action is thrilling and nice in terms of visual. I’m not one who likes fight scenes much in comics, but I can say those are entertaining.
The story is intriguing and sometimes misleading (a real treat!) as the plot unfolds. I admit it emotionally destroyed me (I cried, yes), but it was SO good! The ending… Awww, what can I say about the ending? I loved it! It’s such a surprise even I couldn’t see coming (and I usually detect all the major twists in a story).
There is only one negative point and I think it’s somewhat big. Let’s say the villagers’ reaction to the tragedy befalling them is… strange to say the least. I didn’t find it realistic, but it was cute and soothing—if not comforting.
I give this comic a rating of 5 out of 5 despite the negative point because I had such a wonderful time reading it. Seriously, it is well-done and impressive. I have fond memories of this book and I am certain I’ll keep them for a long, long time… Why? Because I will buy and read Lady Mechanika’s other comics! I am a fan now.
Read
July 24, 2017Lady Mechanika: La Dama de la Muerte by Joe Benetiz proves beyond a doubt that this is Benetiz's character and he has a firm handle on developing Lady Mechanika into one of the few Steampunk characters that will transcend into the mainstream. Whether that be in comic form only or in all literature.
Reeling from the death of her closest friend and confidante, Lady Mechanika leaves England for a small town in Mexico where she can hide away and find solace. She needs time to grieve and deal with the guilt she feels. She finds that she has arrived just in time for a festival and though she would like to stay alone in her room, she is enticed by the family she is staying with to take part in the celebration for the Dia de los Muertos. The festival for the dead. It seems just the thing to ease her pain.
But the festival turns into a time of horror as a young bleeding boy wanders into the town. He is the lone survivor of the Jinetes del Infierno, the mythical Hell Riders. They are on their way to take thier payment from the village. They cannot be opposed but Lady Mechanika cannot sit back and allow them to pillage the small town. But can even she stand against these supernatural creatures?
One of the more put together and well plotted stories so far from Benitez and crew. Lady Mechanika flows seamlessly into Mexican culture and takes the helm as the Lady of Death during the time of Day of the Dead. Benitez has actually humanized her more than ever for this book, allowing her humanity to outshine her mechanical attributes for this tale.
The villains are well constructed and evil beyond reproach. The horror they do to the weaker townspeople is repugnant and even more so as we learned their past and their secrets. This is an old west kind of comic, with the lone hero protecting the village from the oncoming marauders. Benitez has adapted this tale well into his comic and Mechanika is terrific.
Another well written and beautifully drawn series.
Reeling from the death of her closest friend and confidante, Lady Mechanika leaves England for a small town in Mexico where she can hide away and find solace. She needs time to grieve and deal with the guilt she feels. She finds that she has arrived just in time for a festival and though she would like to stay alone in her room, she is enticed by the family she is staying with to take part in the celebration for the Dia de los Muertos. The festival for the dead. It seems just the thing to ease her pain.
But the festival turns into a time of horror as a young bleeding boy wanders into the town. He is the lone survivor of the Jinetes del Infierno, the mythical Hell Riders. They are on their way to take thier payment from the village. They cannot be opposed but Lady Mechanika cannot sit back and allow them to pillage the small town. But can even she stand against these supernatural creatures?
One of the more put together and well plotted stories so far from Benitez and crew. Lady Mechanika flows seamlessly into Mexican culture and takes the helm as the Lady of Death during the time of Day of the Dead. Benitez has actually humanized her more than ever for this book, allowing her humanity to outshine her mechanical attributes for this tale.
The villains are well constructed and evil beyond reproach. The horror they do to the weaker townspeople is repugnant and even more so as we learned their past and their secrets. This is an old west kind of comic, with the lone hero protecting the village from the oncoming marauders. Benitez has adapted this tale well into his comic and Mechanika is terrific.
Another well written and beautifully drawn series.
April 1, 2018
[I received a copy of this book through Netgalley.]
Not sure where chronologically this volume is set, among the other ‘Lady Mechanika’ ones. In this story, Mechanika travels to Mexico without a goal, grieving for her friend Dallas, and finds herself taking a room in a village whose inhabitants are about to celebrate the dead.
The characters she meets throughout the pages were in general endearing and friendly, passing along their traditions and encouraging Mechanika to have fun for the sake of fun itself, and teaching her of a different way to celebrate her departed ones. To be fair, I don’t know that much about this specific tradition, but from what I know, the comics seemed to respect it and try to delve into it deeper than just ‘oh hey let’s paint skull faces’—a welcome addition.
Less steampunk-oriented than the previous volumes, the story follows some typical western codes: a village terrorised by bandits, and a lone vigilante stepping up to defend them. Not an unwelcome change, although in terms of scenario and plot twists, it was easy to guess where this was going, and that made the story unexceptional in that regard.
The art and style remain very good in this volume, too, mixing Victorian and steampunkish aesthetics with more traditional ‘Día de Muertos’ ones, including costumes and face paint. The latter somehow contributed to keeping the ‘outlandish costuming’ toned down, in that apart from one short corset, Mechanika appears in clothing that looks more tribal, but also easier to move in (much as I like the style, the ‘tiny corset + narrow sleeves’ combo is an awful one for fighting, so I’m all for graphically striking options that are also convenient). If just for the art, this series is definitely worth reading.
Not sure where chronologically this volume is set, among the other ‘Lady Mechanika’ ones. In this story, Mechanika travels to Mexico without a goal, grieving for her friend Dallas, and finds herself taking a room in a village whose inhabitants are about to celebrate the dead.
The characters she meets throughout the pages were in general endearing and friendly, passing along their traditions and encouraging Mechanika to have fun for the sake of fun itself, and teaching her of a different way to celebrate her departed ones. To be fair, I don’t know that much about this specific tradition, but from what I know, the comics seemed to respect it and try to delve into it deeper than just ‘oh hey let’s paint skull faces’—a welcome addition.
Less steampunk-oriented than the previous volumes, the story follows some typical western codes: a village terrorised by bandits, and a lone vigilante stepping up to defend them. Not an unwelcome change, although in terms of scenario and plot twists, it was easy to guess where this was going, and that made the story unexceptional in that regard.
The art and style remain very good in this volume, too, mixing Victorian and steampunkish aesthetics with more traditional ‘Día de Muertos’ ones, including costumes and face paint. The latter somehow contributed to keeping the ‘outlandish costuming’ toned down, in that apart from one short corset, Mechanika appears in clothing that looks more tribal, but also easier to move in (much as I like the style, the ‘tiny corset + narrow sleeves’ combo is an awful one for fighting, so I’m all for graphically striking options that are also convenient). If just for the art, this series is definitely worth reading.
May 7, 2019
WOW! Just wow....
As a "Dia de los Muertos" special miniseries, Joe Benitez (and crew) bring tradition, history and a shocking amount of violence to Lady Mechanika.
Basic story boils down to this: Lady Mechanika is out travelling randomly after suffering the loss of a loved one (at what point in her story does this come in? Who is this guy?). She arrives at a small Mexican town that is about to celebrate Day of the Dead. Making friends with the peaceful innocent villagers and learning about the holiday (which would have been very informational for me had I not seen Coco), she begins to participate. It is then that she finds out that Jinetes (Riders of the Dead) come to the village to claim a tribute for "La Dama de la Muerte" and if the tribute isn't enough, they kidnap children. When they show up, she beats them down and they leave. Determined to prove they are not supernatural like the villagers believe, she goes to find their encampment. When she isn't there to protect the town, the Jinetes come and murder everyone in the town, and critically injure her when she comes back.
This is where I got really shocked... When she wakes up, she swears vengeance, dresses up as "La Dama de la Muerte" (The Lady of Death) and goes and brutally murders all of the Riders. She does spare the last one, not only to spread the story, but because he dedicates his life to good from that moment on.
I love this title. Art is some of the best in comics right now, and the stories are always great.
Bring on Vol 4!
High recommend.
As a "Dia de los Muertos" special miniseries, Joe Benitez (and crew) bring tradition, history and a shocking amount of violence to Lady Mechanika.
Basic story boils down to this: Lady Mechanika is out travelling randomly after suffering the loss of a loved one (at what point in her story does this come in? Who is this guy?). She arrives at a small Mexican town that is about to celebrate Day of the Dead. Making friends with the peaceful innocent villagers and learning about the holiday (which would have been very informational for me had I not seen Coco), she begins to participate. It is then that she finds out that Jinetes (Riders of the Dead) come to the village to claim a tribute for "La Dama de la Muerte" and if the tribute isn't enough, they kidnap children. When they show up, she beats them down and they leave. Determined to prove they are not supernatural like the villagers believe, she goes to find their encampment. When she isn't there to protect the town, the Jinetes come and murder everyone in the town, and critically injure her when she comes back.
This is where I got really shocked... When she wakes up, she swears vengeance, dresses up as "La Dama de la Muerte" (The Lady of Death) and goes and brutally murders all of the Riders. She does spare the last one, not only to spread the story, but because he dedicates his life to good from that moment on.
I love this title. Art is some of the best in comics right now, and the stories are always great.
Bring on Vol 4!
High recommend.
August 22, 2017
Steampunk and strong women? Sign me up.
Lady Mechanika: La Dama de la Muerte is beautifully done in both art and story. This is my first Lady Mechanika, and I didn't feel at a loss at all considering that I was jumping in midway. The first half of the story is exposition, introducing the characters just enough to make you care about them and be devestated when they're attacked and killed by some ghostly figures (and it's really not easy to make a reader care about an entire village, so well done on Benitez's part).
Also, this is perhaps the most well-written description of the Day of the Dead that I've ever read. It can tend to come off as semi-spooky or occult by some authors'/speakers' descriptions, but this honestly made it out as the sweet, honorific celebration that it is.
Overall, the story was well thought out, the actions scenes were enthralling, and the entire novel was gorgeously drawn. I can't wait to start this series at the beginning and see what I've been missing.
Lady Mechanika: La Dama de la Muerte is beautifully done in both art and story. This is my first Lady Mechanika, and I didn't feel at a loss at all considering that I was jumping in midway. The first half of the story is exposition, introducing the characters just enough to make you care about them and be devestated when they're attacked and killed by some ghostly figures (and it's really not easy to make a reader care about an entire village, so well done on Benitez's part).
Also, this is perhaps the most well-written description of the Day of the Dead that I've ever read. It can tend to come off as semi-spooky or occult by some authors'/speakers' descriptions, but this honestly made it out as the sweet, honorific celebration that it is.
Overall, the story was well thought out, the actions scenes were enthralling, and the entire novel was gorgeously drawn. I can't wait to start this series at the beginning and see what I've been missing.
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