The Gift: A Short Story by McFadden, Freida

A THRILLER SHORT STORY!

A gripping Christmas-themed short story from #1 New York 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 New York Times bestselling author Freida McFadden delivers a chilling holiday short story where love, desperation, and deadly consequences collide.

Author: Freida McFadden
Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press
Published: 11/03/2026
Pages: 80
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.25lbs
Size: 6.10h x 4.30w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9781464249655

Review Citation(s):
Booklist 10/01/2026
Kirkus Reviews 11/01/2026