A masterpiece in literary manipulation, 'A New Year's Gift' plays with our expectations while delivering a sobering dose of social commentary. We begin with Jacques, who is writing a letter to his sweetheart, Irene. When Irene appears on his doorstep, she brings with her a scandalous plan. Will he agree to her demands, or is there more to them than meets the eye? A tale of adultery, fealty, violence, and honour, 'A New Year's Gift' also highlights the stifling social conventions of the time.This short story will delight fans of Raymond Carver.-