📚 Book Description: Terms and Conditions
This 2021 novel by Lauren Asher is the second book in the New York Times bestselling Dreamland Billionaires series, a contemporary romance that delivers a marriage-of-convenience story with plenty of heart and heat .
The Plot: A Contract with a Catch
The story follows Declan Kane, the second Kane brother, who is destined to become the next CEO of his family's massive media empire . There's just one problem: his late grandfather's inheritance clause requires him to marry and produce an heir . The task seems impossible until his devoted assistant, Iris, unexpectedly volunteers for the job.
Their plan seems simple in theory: move in together, throw a wedding, have a baby. They establish clear rules to prevent complications and maintain their professional relationship . But as they perform their roles publicly and navigate the intimacy of their arrangement, the lines between their fake relationship and real feelings begin to blur .
The Characters
Themes and Tropes
The book delivers beloved romance elements:
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Marriage of Convenience: A contractual arrangement that evolves into genuine emotion
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Fake Relationship: Pretending for the public while feelings develop privately
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Boss/Assistant Dynamic: Workplace tension with high stakes
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Forced Proximity: Living together while maintaining appearances
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Slow Burn: Growing attraction complicated by rules meant to prevent it
Reception
The book is described as a "spicy standalone" featuring emotionally complex characters . Readers praise the chemistry between Declan and Iris, though some note the plot can be predictable . The story explores themes of vulnerability, trust, and whether love can flourish within the confines of a contract
