Fasten your seatbelts, rom-com lovers, because Lauren Asher’s “Terms and Conditions” takes us on a journey of a fake marriage turned oh-so-real. A fake marriage fueled by ambition, unexpected emotions, and a whole lot of steam. The love story where he fell first and harder. Him doing everything she ever asked for only to make her happy. Family get-together. Dog. Minivan of kids.
The Assistant and the Billionaire
Declan Kane, cold, dark and unnervingly quiet CEO of Kane company. From his dark hair to the permanent grimace etched into his face, he gives off a feeling that makes everyone turn in the opposite direction expect for one, his assistant, Iris who thrives on challenges. She is a Black woman. He’s a White male. She smiles and he scowls. He wakes up early every morning to work out while she wouldn’t be caught dead at the gym unless it was to grab a smoothie at the café.
A Contract with Clauses (and Consequences)
Declan has a problem. According to his grandfather’s will, he must get married and have an heir in order to be appointed to the CEO post. When Declan’s meticulously planned marriage falls through, Iris, known for her unwavering dedication and ability to handle Declan’s demanding personality, seems like the perfect solution. This results in a shocking proposition between them: a fake marriage, complete with a detailed contract outlining expectations and boundaries.
From Workplace Bickering to Cohabitation Chaos
Iris and Declan couldn’t be more different. She’s sunshine personified, while he thrives in the shadows. Their dynamic is a delightful mix of workplace bickering and forced intimacy as they navigate the legal paperwork – the hilariously titled “Terms and Conditions” – that outlines the parameters of their fake marriage. What could go wrong, right?
Meanwhile, Declan believing “Fake marriage or not, Iris is destined to be with one man and one man only. Me.”
Fake Marriage, Real Feelings?
What starts as a purely business arrangement quickly becomes more complicated. The journey from co-workers to pretend-fiancés to (almost) lovers is paved with hilarious situations, playful teasing, moments of genuine connection and all the things the terms and conditions of their contract don’t account for. The slow-burn romance keeps the reader engaged, yearning for the inevitable moment when their true feelings can’t be contained any longer.
Facing Personal Demons
While the romance takes center stage, Asher delves deeper into the characters’ emotional baggage. Iris grapples with insecurities about her self-worth and scarred by past relationships, hesitates to trust with her whole heart. While Declan confronts the emotional neglect, he experienced in his childhood and is convinced that love is a weakness. Their journey towards love is intertwined with personal growth, making their connection all the more endearing.
A Cast of Colorful Characters
There are a number of interesting supporting characters in the plot. Declan’s siblings, who are likewise striving for achievement, offer levity and companionship. Iris has a secure environment to confide in thanks to her understanding closest friend. The main romance is surrounded by a colorful tapestry created by these characters.
Even though it’s a standalone, there are two more books to this series of “Dreamland Billionaire”. Find more about them- https://elopeinfiction.com/category/dreamland-billionaire-series/
A Must-Read for Rom-Com Fans with a Soft Spot for Fake Relationships
If you’re looking for a rom-com with a clever premise, witty dialogue, and a slow-burn romance that sizzles, then “Terms and Conditions” is a must-read. It’s a delightful tale about the unexpected consequences of faking love, proving that sometimes, the most binding agreements are the ones written in the heart. A hilarious and heartwarming escape that will leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed belief in happily ever afters, even for fake fiancées and demanding billionaire bosses.
So, grab a copy, settle in for a delightful rom-com adventure, and see if love can blossom when the terms and conditions are clear (or not so clear!).
Have you read “Terms and Conditions”? What did you think of their fake marriage turned real love? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Happy Reading!
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