The Lucky Break Kid
I had to admit, the kid didn’t look good. But then again, it’s hard looking your best after twelve hours of rigor mortis.
Bio: Patrick Ryan
I split my time between writing fiction and working in television. I’m currently working in production on CSI: Miami. My first cold case novel is in second draft territory. I live in the posh spectrum of lights known as sultry Los Angeles.
Near-Mint Condition
It had taken quite an effort in Carrie’s head not to put the chain lock on the door. That was the first thing she reached for as soon as the guys were out. First it would be the chain lock, then the deadbolt, the lock in the handle, and three other locks she didn’t even know the proper names for. She had to wonder what they would say if they came back in a hurry only to find her keeping them out. Actually, they would probably skip saying anything and go right to breaking down the door and splattering her brains all over the carpet with a .45
Derringer nominee
Congratulations to Rick Noetzel. His story “Joyride” is a nominee for the Short Mystery Fiction Society’s 2008 Derringer Award.
Congratulations to the other nominees as well, with special shout outs to Shred alums Patricia Abbott, Beverle Graves Myers, and Herschel Cozine.
Author’s Preface
I don’t come from a very literary family. Well, my father once wrote a suicide note, but he never followed up with a sequel, so he doesn’t count.
Two and a Half Days
Midway through lunch, Taylor Chaste stands up from her table at Vicente’s and tells her entourage of three she has to go to the ladies room.
Harlan watches her lurch away, wondering if her clumsiness is more from the pitcher of Long Island Ice Tea or the handful of vikes she dry-swallowed on the drive over. Or some magical synergy of both. Taylor’s two buddies, Mandy and Tate, start laughing as soon as she’s out of earshot. They point at the pitcher and gulp down imaginary drinks with both hands. Mandy pretends to fall out of her chair.
Crawl Space
I’m alive, thank god, I’m alive.