The Gift : A Short Story

Author: Freida McFadden

Thriller / suspense

Published on 3 November 2026 by Sourcebooks, Inc (Poisoned Pen Press) in the United States

Hardback | 80 pages
158 x 118 x 14 | 114g

A gripping, Christmas-themed thriller short story from #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Freida McFadden, author of The Housemaid!What would you sacrifice for the perfect gift?Despite working two jobs, she can’t even afford a present for her husband on their first Christmas together. It was supposed to be a magical holiday, but instead it’s a reminder of how much she can’t provide.

Then a mysterious pawn shop owner offers Stella an intriguing trade. She wants more than anything to buy her husband the perfect gift. But there’s a catch, and it may come at a terrible price…Inspired by O. Henry’s beloved classic The Gift of the Magi, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Freida McFadden delivers the perfect stocking filler—a chilling holiday short story where love, desperation, and deadly consequences collide.

Also by Freida McFadden:The WitchBrain DamageThe HousemaidThe DivorceDear DebbieThe Tenant