They like us.  They really like us.

Authority #23 is getting some high praise on internet forums and I’ve also had a number of emails and facebook messages from people singing the praises of the issue.

A couple of good reviews have surfaced already.  And the first one, from Comic Vine, really put a smile on my face.  See an extract below.

“OMG! Ok stand back just a little, I’ve got to get this out of my system.

You didn’t experience what happened in the two minutes between the previous line and this one, but trust me, I needed it. I liked this issue. A lot. I’ve liked what’s been going on with The Authority since they’ve taken off, but this issue was great.”

“That scene with Grifter at the beginning was not only very funny, but also really worked to add an element of continuity by connecting it to the last issue in a fun way. It’s not just random stuff happening on the Carrier. The Grifter/Flint…encounter also shows that a network of relationships (not just sexual) is building and by the end Taylor has used this joke to add a strong element of community. There are natural friendships, but the lives of the people on the ship are going to be crisscrossing more and more.”

“This issue really shows that these characters have character, and I’m glad to see it. And even better is that the character development doesn’t get in the way of telling a story that draws you in and is exciting. I’m so pumped for the next issue.” – Comic Vine.

And from Comic Addiction…

“One thing I appreciate about Taylor’s writing is his insertion of humor.  There’s a great moment at the beginning between Grifter, Flint, The Engineer, and Swift.  Even though he can do good humor, Taylor is also good at giving the story scope.  The Carrier as a ship is massive in its own right.  But there are two times in this issue that we see that out here in space, The Carrier seems real small real quick.  Add that to the fact that Taylor introduces TWO threats for the heroes in this issue and you’ve got a great set-up for conflict.”

“If you like your superheroes with a dash of sci-fi, this book is the place to be right now. Rating: 8 out of 10 (On Its Way to Greatness!)“ – Comic Addiction.

Issue #23 sadly marks the end of Mike S. Miller’s short run as the artist.  Mike captured these guys fantastically and, as well as showing some incredible action and scope, he really helped inject the humour that I was after at this stage of my run.

Issue #24 sees the return of regular series artist, Al Barrionuevo.  I’m a lucky guy to get to work with two incredible artists on this book.  An exclusive preview page of Al’s pencils from The Authority #24  can be seen right here at the official Wildstorm Blog.