Terms and Conditions by Lauren Asher
Book Review of Terms and Conditions by Lauren Asher
REVIEWS
6/5/20252 min read


This is by far the best book in the Dreamland Billionaires series. If you're a workaholic, a slow-burn romance addict, or just someone who loves watching emotionally closed-off characters get cracked open by love—this is your book. It dives into trauma, vulnerability, and love with more emotional maturity than you’d expect from a "fake marriage" setup. And it works so well.
Characters:
Declan Kane is the emotionally shut-down, high-functioning workaholic CEO who treats feelings like a distraction. He’s sharp, calculated, and seriously allergic to vulnerability—but also deeply layered.
Iris is the true MVP. She’s beautiful, driven, sarcastic in all the right ways, and secretly in love with her boss (yes, him). She has the strength to either walk away or ask for everything, and that kind of clarity? Iconic.
The side characters also have great arcs and make meaningful appearances, adding depth to the world without stealing the spotlight.
Plot:
When Declan's inheritance depends on marrying and producing an heir (yes, his grandfather was really committed to these challenges), Iris agrees to be his fake wife. Contract signed, conditions listed, boundaries set… and you already know how this goes. But what makes this book different is how emotionally real it gets.
As they move in together, work together, and start to blend lives, secrets start to surface—especially Declan’s deep-rooted trauma and Iris’s quiet heartbreak. What starts as a business agreement becomes a journey of healing, confrontation, and yes, absolutely swoon-worthy romance.
⭐ Rating: 3.5/5
Emotions:
This book is a rollercoaster—but not the dramatic, overly angsty kind. It’s the kind where you feel seen. You root for healing. You cry when a character finally opens up. There’s frustration, longing, humor, and a genuine tenderness that builds between Declan and Iris. Their emotional tug-of-war is intense but incredibly satisfying to watch unfold.
Ending:
A heartfelt, emotional ending that feels earned. Nothing is rushed. Everything builds and clicks into place beautifully. It closes their arc with a sense of real growth, love, and hope—and leaves you smiling, a little teary-eyed, and absolutely full.
Final Thoughts:
This book has everything: forced proximity, fake marriage, tension, sarcasm, emotional damage, and healing. But what really sets it apart is how it handles trauma and emotional availability—with care, depth, and believability. Iris is a standout character that makes the whole story shine, and Declan’s journey is so rewarding to witness.
💼 For the emotionally unavailable CEOs in your heart and the badass women who love them.
❤️🩹 A love story that feels real—and stays with you.