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The Gift Exchange
A worldwide pandemic hit the Big Apple and shook the city to its core, forcing millions into isolation. For Willa Coleson, this was a marginal change of lifestyle. Her life is not one that is normally described as exciting, even on the best of days. Thanks to a little help from a meddlesome and overly dramatic mother, she finds herself entered into a local holiday gift exchange.
However, Willa realizes--too late--that she has made quite a mistake. The confirmation email for her entry into the gift exchange is signed “Painfully Yours.” Unable to back out, she embarks on a new adventure into a world she has only read about.
Rhett Rossi should have been living the dream life. He has made a name for himself in graphic design, but the substantial paycheck came at the cost of the art he loves most. So, to regain some much-needed control, he joins his local community’s gift exchange event.
What he was not expecting was to be matched with a girl who knew nothing about his particular community--one where control is valued second only to the gift of submission. As they exchange not only gifts, but correspondence, Rhett must choose between educating the fledgling Willa, or letting her fade back into a vanilla lifestyle.
Will the twelfth gift be the end of their adventure, or just the beginning?
However, Willa realizes--too late--that she has made quite a mistake. The confirmation email for her entry into the gift exchange is signed “Painfully Yours.” Unable to back out, she embarks on a new adventure into a world she has only read about.
Rhett Rossi should have been living the dream life. He has made a name for himself in graphic design, but the substantial paycheck came at the cost of the art he loves most. So, to regain some much-needed control, he joins his local community’s gift exchange event.
What he was not expecting was to be matched with a girl who knew nothing about his particular community--one where control is valued second only to the gift of submission. As they exchange not only gifts, but correspondence, Rhett must choose between educating the fledgling Willa, or letting her fade back into a vanilla lifestyle.
Will the twelfth gift be the end of their adventure, or just the beginning?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2021
47 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Elle Sparrow
17 books253 followersElle Sparrow has had stories roaming in her mind for years. When the COVID-19 Pandemic caused states and counties to issue stay-at-home orders, resulting in her being laid off from work as a paralegal, she seized the opportunity to tell you the story that is The Omega Trilogy. Her books take a look into a world and a community that she has been a part of for over a decade, bringing personal experiences, along with research, into her craft.
When she isn't writing, Elle spends her time with her loving family, as well as working full-time as a paralegal, once the stay-at-home orders were lifted and she could return to the office, that is.
With the love and support from her family and friends, and many more stories in her mind that are begging to be told, she has no plans to stop writing, now that the creative goddess inside of her has been awakened!
When she isn't writing, Elle spends her time with her loving family, as well as working full-time as a paralegal, once the stay-at-home orders were lifted and she could return to the office, that is.
With the love and support from her family and friends, and many more stories in her mind that are begging to be told, she has no plans to stop writing, now that the creative goddess inside of her has been awakened!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 1, 2021
Kinky secret Santa gifts leads to something hot!!
This was cute and sweet with a little bit of BDSM thrown into the mix. This also was the a kinky version of my favorite trope which is falling in love through letters or notes.
Willa is a workaholic romance novel editor stuck in a rut. Her mom pushes her to join a community gift exchange to put herself out there. Due to a little snafu involving accidental wine spillage she ends up signing up for the local BDSM kinky Secret Santa gift exchange. Willa gets paired with the super sexy Dom Vesper and the hijinks ensue from there.
Rhett, is a Dom in a rut, overworked underappreciated and touch starved due to the pandemic lockdowns. When he's paired with a vanilla newbie by mistake, he decides to go with it and be open to whatever Willa wants to know or do. She breathes a breath of fresh air into his life, and he finds himself inexplicably attracted and drawn to her through their communications, even though he has no idea what she even looks like.
This was a quirky little holiday story with a kinky twist. I really liked both Rhett and Willa. Their anonymous interactions were the perfect vehicle to give us a steamy slow burn build up. When they did finally meet, there were some things that were a little over the top but I did actually want to see more of them once they finally meet so that detracted from it a little for me. Overall I enjoyed it.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was cute and sweet with a little bit of BDSM thrown into the mix. This also was the a kinky version of my favorite trope which is falling in love through letters or notes.
Willa is a workaholic romance novel editor stuck in a rut. Her mom pushes her to join a community gift exchange to put herself out there. Due to a little snafu involving accidental wine spillage she ends up signing up for the local BDSM kinky Secret Santa gift exchange. Willa gets paired with the super sexy Dom Vesper and the hijinks ensue from there.
Rhett, is a Dom in a rut, overworked underappreciated and touch starved due to the pandemic lockdowns. When he's paired with a vanilla newbie by mistake, he decides to go with it and be open to whatever Willa wants to know or do. She breathes a breath of fresh air into his life, and he finds himself inexplicably attracted and drawn to her through their communications, even though he has no idea what she even looks like.
This was a quirky little holiday story with a kinky twist. I really liked both Rhett and Willa. Their anonymous interactions were the perfect vehicle to give us a steamy slow burn build up. When they did finally meet, there were some things that were a little over the top but I did actually want to see more of them once they finally meet so that detracted from it a little for me. Overall I enjoyed it.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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January 5, 2024primera lectura del año lets goooo
May 1, 2025
What the heck happened. This book was an utter delight until they finally meet in person (~90%). Then all of a sudden it’s like the book was written by someone else. First, the “omg you’re gorgeous“ scene was all purple prose, without the aching honesty of everything before. All of a sudden she’s coy. He smirks. What?
Then, BAM. An epilogue 2 months later where the D/s relationship had progressed to a level of dynamic they had never discussed before. Without understanding their negotiations the type of relationship doesn’t make sense, especially given their personalities and what attracted them to each other. He doesn’t notice the first time that kneeling hurt her knees so much that she had trouble walking? Really? And he’s so condescending.
I am so disappointed.
Then, BAM. An epilogue 2 months later where the D/s relationship had progressed to a level of dynamic they had never discussed before. Without understanding their negotiations the type of relationship doesn’t make sense, especially given their personalities and what attracted them to each other. He doesn’t notice the first time that kneeling hurt her knees so much that she had trouble walking? Really? And he’s so condescending.
I am so disappointed.
February 1, 2022
This cute romance is all about mystery. This couple meets virtually through gift exchange. It isn't your typical gift exchange though so Willa ends up reaching out to Rhett to figure out what to get him. The two get to learn about one another through email and something begins to spark the two of them. I can't get enough of their story. Elle Sparrow is an amazing writer.
December 14, 2023
The Gift Exchange by @authorellesparrow
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“The Gift Exchange” by Elle Sparrow is a captivating tale set against the backdrop of a worldwide pandemic that transforms the mundane life of Willa Coleson into an unexpected adventure. The story unfolds as Willa, prompted by her meddlesome mother, unwittingly enters a local holiday gift exchange, only to discover too late that the email from her mysterious gift partner is signed “Painfully Yours.” Kennedy weaves a delightful narrative that explores the unexpected connections forged during isolation. As Willa navigates this unfamiliar world, readers are taken on a journey filled with humor, self-discovery, and the magic of unexpected relationships.
The novel introduces Rhett Rossi, a graphic designer seeking a return to his artistic roots. The story takes an intriguing turn when he becomes Willa’s gift exchange partner. The contrast between their worlds adds depth to the narrative, creating a tension that keeps readers engaged. Kennedy skillfully explores themes of control, submission, and similar themes in the BDSM community that Willa finds herself intrigued by. “The Gift Exchange” is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that beautifully combines elements of romance, self-discovery, and the power of connection in the midst of a challenging time. Elle Kenne’s storytelling prowess shines in this delightful exploration of love, art, and unexpected gifts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
3.75 stars. This book started so good and has one of my favourite (and sadly rare) tropes - falling in love through letters/emails/text.
I loved how it progressed authentically. However, towards the end I thought things moved first too slow and then too fast. After
I feel like I just bashed this a lot, but I did really like it. It was going to be a 5 stars until a couple things started to bother me.
I loved how it progressed authentically. However, towards the end I thought things moved first too slow and then too fast. After
I feel like I just bashed this a lot, but I did really like it. It was going to be a 5 stars until a couple things started to bother me.
March 10, 2024
This book is amazing. Not at all what you’d expect from the cover. This is a tasteful intro to BDSM lifestyle book. The way the author tackles introducing a “vanilla” newbie into the scene.
I love how the author was so thoughtful addressing a lot of the stereotypes we see associated with a person who has a submissive type of need. There’s a lot of shame that can be carried with that, and the author handled that beautifully while showing just how strong of a person it takes to give true submission when finding a D type that’s worth it—and boy was Rhett worth it!
I love how the Dom Rhett was represented, having such realistic characteristics of someone who is actually a Dom. I struggle when reading BDSM books when this is not done with explicit consent and “mind reading magical Doms, although I get that as a fantasy. Not shaming anyone for what they like to read, just know this is not that kind of book, this hero is in my humble opinion, one of the best Dominants written. And one of the best intro to BDSM books on the market.
The characters were both so interesting. I love how much of a boss they both were in their daily lives showing contrast to stereotypes. And I really want to read Angela’s story now!
I can’t wait to read more!
I love how the author was so thoughtful addressing a lot of the stereotypes we see associated with a person who has a submissive type of need. There’s a lot of shame that can be carried with that, and the author handled that beautifully while showing just how strong of a person it takes to give true submission when finding a D type that’s worth it—and boy was Rhett worth it!
I love how the Dom Rhett was represented, having such realistic characteristics of someone who is actually a Dom. I struggle when reading BDSM books when this is not done with explicit consent and “mind reading magical Doms, although I get that as a fantasy. Not shaming anyone for what they like to read, just know this is not that kind of book, this hero is in my humble opinion, one of the best Dominants written. And one of the best intro to BDSM books on the market.
The characters were both so interesting. I love how much of a boss they both were in their daily lives showing contrast to stereotypes. And I really want to read Angela’s story now!
I can’t wait to read more!
December 22, 2025
The Gift Exchange was a fun, festive read that delivered exactly what I expected going in—quick holiday vibes, steamy moments, and a no-strings-attached premise that leans hard into spice. Elle Sparrow knows how to write heat, and that’s definitely where this book shines.
That said, while the concept of a secret Santa–style gift exchange with benefits was entertaining, the story itself felt a bit surface-level. The characters were enjoyable but not especially deep, and I found myself wanting more emotional buildup and development beyond the physical connection. Things moved fast—sometimes a little too fast—which made the romance feel less earned by the end.
Overall, this is a solid choice if you’re in the mood for a short, spicy holiday romance that doesn’t require a big emotional investment. It didn’t fully sweep me away, but it was still a cozy, easy read perfect for the season. 🎄📚
That said, while the concept of a secret Santa–style gift exchange with benefits was entertaining, the story itself felt a bit surface-level. The characters were enjoyable but not especially deep, and I found myself wanting more emotional buildup and development beyond the physical connection. Things moved fast—sometimes a little too fast—which made the romance feel less earned by the end.
Overall, this is a solid choice if you’re in the mood for a short, spicy holiday romance that doesn’t require a big emotional investment. It didn’t fully sweep me away, but it was still a cozy, easy read perfect for the season. 🎄📚
November 29, 2025
This was fun!
The Gift Exchange was a festive Christmas themed story with a little pandemic a whole lot of holiday spice and some kinky and playful BDSM thrown into the mix. This was a quick and entertaining read with engaging characters and a well thought out plot with some twists.
The Gift Exchange could have used a little proofreading to catch some editing errors but nothing to distract from the clever storyline. I loved the side characters as well and think they could have their own story told!
The Gift Exchange is the perfect holiday read!
The Gift Exchange was a festive Christmas themed story with a little pandemic a whole lot of holiday spice and some kinky and playful BDSM thrown into the mix. This was a quick and entertaining read with engaging characters and a well thought out plot with some twists.
The Gift Exchange could have used a little proofreading to catch some editing errors but nothing to distract from the clever storyline. I loved the side characters as well and think they could have their own story told!
The Gift Exchange is the perfect holiday read!
November 15, 2022
This book is set during the Covid Pandemic.
Ok, first thing: we all need a friend like Melissa who laughs at us (and with us)
"I honestly haven't stopped laughing since this conversation began. It's good for my soul, and your life is tragically hysterical"
The author had a good idea for a book: a cute and shy editor paired with an artist Dom meeting and getting to know each other through mails while in lockdown during the Pandemic.
I'm big fan of the "You've got mail" trope.
Although it was a fun, slow burn, cliché and predictable read I enjoyed it.
Ok, first thing: we all need a friend like Melissa who laughs at us (and with us)
"I honestly haven't stopped laughing since this conversation began. It's good for my soul, and your life is tragically hysterical"
The author had a good idea for a book: a cute and shy editor paired with an artist Dom meeting and getting to know each other through mails while in lockdown during the Pandemic.
I'm big fan of the "You've got mail" trope.
Although it was a fun, slow burn, cliché and predictable read I enjoyed it.
December 6, 2023
Oh my this was so cute and romantic. So it starts with Willa mom hounding her about do a Christmas exchange. So Willa goes over all the exchanges to figure out with one she wants to do. Well she submits the wrong one by mistake and can’t get out of it. So Willa has to do a 12 days of Christmas bdsm style. Which she didn’t know about it. She meets Rhett through emails. He’s a Dom. Must read. The relationship they have. It’s not super spicy at all. But I loved it.
May 6, 2024
I absolutely ate this story up! Rhett and Willa are the best! I'm loving the gift exchange and the option to learn BDSM from a trained Dom and teacher is so enticing that I want to sign myself up! I love the conflicts in their respective jobs and how Gia was weaved into both of their stories! There was just so much to enjoy is this tale! I was not ready for it to end! Wonderfully written! I want more!
January 2, 2025
I met the author at a book fair a while back and was waiting for the holidays to read this! I loved the circumstances of how these characters met but also, it was super sweet how they were both very open and nonjudgemental about... well, everything. One of my favorite little things about this was how they each were signing off their emails. This was a fun spin on a classic holiday activity and a good introduction to "winks" and other kinds of play!
December 23, 2025
Ok, I really liked this. I loved that it didn't follow the typical roamce novel formula. I loved the gift exchange idea and I loved the pen pal back and forth. I loved the BDSM element. However, it was a little too meet cute which felt a little counterintuitive to the BDSM lifestyle. It felt like when Jess nearly lost her virginity after prom in New Girl and both her and her date just kept asking permission for consent. Like jesus man, just touch me already. Jesus.
December 2, 2021
A new Author to me her story of Willa Coleson and Rhett Rossi is well written a BDSM with suspense thrown in. It grabbed my interest from the first pages and did not let go until I had finished reading. I want to read more by her. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2021
A Fun Holiday Read!
I absolutely adore this book. I’ve read it three times and it just keeps getting better! I don’t think anyone could pull off a story like this, where the relationship is built completely through e-mail and messaging, quite like Elle did. And all the characters bring a smile to my heart.
I absolutely adore this book. I’ve read it three times and it just keeps getting better! I don’t think anyone could pull off a story like this, where the relationship is built completely through e-mail and messaging, quite like Elle did. And all the characters bring a smile to my heart.
January 13, 2022
Awww so enjoyable! slow build with lovely verbal foreplay between main characters. Well done in ease of educating the reader of the enticing world of submissive vs dominant and empowerment on all levels. The male character - so hot and female character - smart and curious.
I’d read this author again.
I’d read this author again.
December 16, 2023
The perfect quick read.
First of all, can we talk about the names? Rhett and Willa? in my hundred of books ive read, ive never seen those names before.
I felt for Willa the entire time reading. The curiosity but the self shame for being interested.
Rhett was a perfect of example for the BDSM community.
10/10 I just wish we could see more of their dynamic afterwards
First of all, can we talk about the names? Rhett and Willa? in my hundred of books ive read, ive never seen those names before.
I felt for Willa the entire time reading. The curiosity but the self shame for being interested.
Rhett was a perfect of example for the BDSM community.
10/10 I just wish we could see more of their dynamic afterwards
December 28, 2023
This was a cute, quick read. There were definitely moments that required some suspension of disbelief for me, but overall I enjoyed it.
Kinky Christmas gift exchange that takes place over the covid quarantine, with a dash of crazy ex.
Spice level was decent, and +1 for having a smutty epilogue!
BDSM, dom/sub education, holiday
Kinky Christmas gift exchange that takes place over the covid quarantine, with a dash of crazy ex.
Spice level was decent, and +1 for having a smutty epilogue!
BDSM, dom/sub education, holiday
December 1, 2021
Spicy Gift exchange? Yes Please!!
Christmas gift exchange turns spicy! When Willa finds out that she can’t get out of the surprising gift exchange she goes with it- and learns a whole lot in the process from her spicy pen pal.
Christmas gift exchange turns spicy! When Willa finds out that she can’t get out of the surprising gift exchange she goes with it- and learns a whole lot in the process from her spicy pen pal.
December 7, 2023
I really liked this book. I thought it was going to be on the spicier side, since there is kink & bdsm but I was pleasantly surprised that it was a cute romance with just a little spice. It was exactly what I felt like reading at the time!
December 26, 2024
so good!!!
Absolutely enjoyed every page of this book! Like every good book I read I wish there was more. A part two for Willa and Rhett. Amazing work, very descriptive and very attention grabbing. Highly recommend
Absolutely enjoyed every page of this book! Like every good book I read I wish there was more. A part two for Willa and Rhett. Amazing work, very descriptive and very attention grabbing. Highly recommend
December 7, 2021
The book is a good romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.
December 15, 2021
this is a great book and love the back and forth with the characters and you get something great to read for the holidays and you won't want to put it down
December 30, 2022
oh???? definitely what i wasnt expecting but im not complaining. it was cute and hot
November 28, 2024
This was a fun book to read. Vanilla learning all things spice. A great read.
December 20, 2024
This book was done well. I typically despise books that take place during Covid. This one was done perfectly. Willa accidentally joins a BDSM gift exchange. It was such an enjoyable read.
December 21, 2024
Fun, funny, and educational with lots of spice for Christmas. Great main and secondary characters.
December 11, 2025
Concept had huge potential, but I really didn’t like how this was written. Really struggled with it and unfortunately the MMC gave me the creeps once they finally met in person. Just not for me!
December 20, 2021
Incredible
This book draws you in instantly. I started this thinking I'd take a couple days to get through. Nope, I devoured this novel in a day abandoning all responsibility. The kink is just right without getting clinical, the passion is very much in the forefront, but the overall book had a plot and a focus. Elle has captured my attention as she had many times before. An absolute holiday must read.
This book draws you in instantly. I started this thinking I'd take a couple days to get through. Nope, I devoured this novel in a day abandoning all responsibility. The kink is just right without getting clinical, the passion is very much in the forefront, but the overall book had a plot and a focus. Elle has captured my attention as she had many times before. An absolute holiday must read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews