Pickpocket Lenny Masterson has two rules he never breaks: no working kids in packs, and don't mess with anybody connected. But Las Vegas is a tough town for a small-time thief, and sometimes a guy like Lenny has to do almost anything to survive.

BONUS: This edition of "Strike Two" includes a free copy of Annie Reed's story "Dead Things."

"I've been a fan of Annie Reed's short stories for a long time." –Marcelle Dube, author of THE SHOELESS KID

"The appearance of a new Annie Reed story is a treat. Try one and you'll be hooked." –Dave Hendrickson, author of CRACKING THE ICE

"A friend recommended the works of Annie Reed. I was not disappointed. In fact, if her other shorts are as good as this one, I plan to read many more." –Carol Davis Luce, author of NIGHT GAME (reviewing Annie Reed's short story CHANGELING)

Author Annie Reed is a prolific, award-winning writer whose stories have been published in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine as well as in numerous science fiction and fantasy anthologies.