The Escapists #2 hit stores today, featuring the second part in the tale of Max Roth and Case Weaver!

“This is the issue where Jason Shawn Alexander and I jump on board as artists, masterfully coloured by Matt Hollingsworth and Dave Stewart,” artist Steve Rolston e-mailed fans this morning. “Esteemed writer Brian K. Vaughan has really woven a beautiful story here that’s clever & original on its own but also faithful to the vibe of a great novel.”

Vaughan had his own thoughts. “If you can find a new book with a better team than that, you… I don’t know, live in some kind of alternate reality,” Vaughan posted on his Web site’s forum. “I LOVE this issue, so I hope you guys give it a read.”

The story had been set to appear in Michael Chabon Presents: The Amazing Adventures of the Escapist #9 before Dark Horse Comics canceled the series in January.

In issue #2, Roth and Weaver complete their first issue of the new Escapist comic. The solicitation notes that “their promotional plans include a risky publicity stunt that puts Denny in an old Escapist costume… and in harm’s way!”

And if perhaps that’s not enough for you, take a look at the preview for issue #4, due in stores October 11.