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Terms of Surrender
Emma Sinclair lives by rules.
In boardrooms.
In negotiations.
In the careful economy of every breath she takes.
She survives by staying ahead of every variable—
by never wanting what can’t be measured,
never needing what can’t be controlled.
Until him.
He is inevitability given flesh.
A man who doesn’t challenge her authority,
but offers her something far more dangerous:
the freedom to set it down.
What begins as a careful exchange of power
deepens into something darker—
and far more intimate.
Trust sharpens.
Longing takes root.
Secrets surface.
And Emma must decide how much of herself she’s willing to risk—
not just for pleasure,
but for truth.
For trust.
For love.
Because surrender is never just an act.
It’s a choice.
Terms of Surrender is a high-heat contemporary romance featuring emotional power exchange, slow-burn intimacy, and corporate intrigue. Intended for mature readers.
In boardrooms.
In negotiations.
In the careful economy of every breath she takes.
She survives by staying ahead of every variable—
by never wanting what can’t be measured,
never needing what can’t be controlled.
Until him.
He is inevitability given flesh.
A man who doesn’t challenge her authority,
but offers her something far more dangerous:
the freedom to set it down.
What begins as a careful exchange of power
deepens into something darker—
and far more intimate.
Trust sharpens.
Longing takes root.
Secrets surface.
And Emma must decide how much of herself she’s willing to risk—
not just for pleasure,
but for truth.
For trust.
For love.
Because surrender is never just an act.
It’s a choice.
Terms of Surrender is a high-heat contemporary romance featuring emotional power exchange, slow-burn intimacy, and corporate intrigue. Intended for mature readers.
- GenresDark RomanceRomance
470 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2026
About the author
Nicole Gregory
6 books12 followersNicole Gregory writes emotionally intense contemporary romance about power, trust, and the courage it takes to choose vulnerability.
Her debut series, The Terms Series, explores high-stakes relationships shaped by negotiated power, explicit consent, and intimacy that must be earned.
Terms of Surrender, the first book in The Terms Series, releases April 2, 2026.
Her debut series, The Terms Series, explores high-stakes relationships shaped by negotiated power, explicit consent, and intimacy that must be earned.
Terms of Surrender, the first book in The Terms Series, releases April 2, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 8, 2026
*Review of an ARC received from the author*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Slow-burn, steamy, emotional, raw
First and foremost. I think my favourite line to come out of this book was directly from Nicole Gregory herself…
“My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one”
That gave me a good laugh at the end of what was a fantastic debut contemporary romance novel from the author herself.
Written phenomenally, you’re eased in to the storyline of Emma and the irresistible force that is Mr Holt.
It is a slow burn story to start you off before leading in to intertwined lives full of business, lies, heartache, connection and devotion before leading an emotional area of vulnerability from our main FMC that within itself is can be classed as taboo depending on who you asked. Morally grey I should say.
In saying that, the scenes that are steamy and taboo of nature are written so beautifully that there’s no vulgarity leaping off the pages. It’s honest, informative and as if asking for you consent as a reader too. Im amazed at how well Nicole was able to portray this from mind to paper!
All in all, I absolutely loved this novel and I applaud Nicole’s efforts because this is a phenomenal debut for what without a doubt will be a fantastic series.
Thank-you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Terms of Surrender. I can’t wait to read the next instalment of The Terms series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Slow-burn, steamy, emotional, raw
First and foremost. I think my favourite line to come out of this book was directly from Nicole Gregory herself…
“My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one”
That gave me a good laugh at the end of what was a fantastic debut contemporary romance novel from the author herself.
Written phenomenally, you’re eased in to the storyline of Emma and the irresistible force that is Mr Holt.
It is a slow burn story to start you off before leading in to intertwined lives full of business, lies, heartache, connection and devotion before leading an emotional area of vulnerability from our main FMC that within itself is can be classed as taboo depending on who you asked. Morally grey I should say.
In saying that, the scenes that are steamy and taboo of nature are written so beautifully that there’s no vulgarity leaping off the pages. It’s honest, informative and as if asking for you consent as a reader too. Im amazed at how well Nicole was able to portray this from mind to paper!
All in all, I absolutely loved this novel and I applaud Nicole’s efforts because this is a phenomenal debut for what without a doubt will be a fantastic series.
Thank-you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Terms of Surrender. I can’t wait to read the next instalment of The Terms series.
April 5, 2026
The title speaks for itself. It is just that. It is learning how to allow yourself to just let others help me, take care of you and handle things.
This book is about a CEO of a company called Elion her name is Emma. Emma's company is on the brink of failing and she has to find a company who would partner with Elion to make sure she saves her company and does not let down her employee/colleagues.
On a more personal note, Emma's best friend wants for her to start dating since Emma has made her whole entire life about Elion. She ends up meeting a guy who falls for her first. (We love a man who falls first). She experiences new things with this new love that she has never even thought of before.
A dark, emotionally charged story that explores the blurred lines between love and pain. Filled with intense passion, toxic dynamics, and deeply rooted trauma, it follows characters navigating abuse, complicated forgiveness, and the fragile process of breaking free from destructive bonds—while still finding themselves drawn back to each other.
This book is about a CEO of a company called Elion her name is Emma. Emma's company is on the brink of failing and she has to find a company who would partner with Elion to make sure she saves her company and does not let down her employee/colleagues.
On a more personal note, Emma's best friend wants for her to start dating since Emma has made her whole entire life about Elion. She ends up meeting a guy who falls for her first. (We love a man who falls first). She experiences new things with this new love that she has never even thought of before.
A dark, emotionally charged story that explores the blurred lines between love and pain. Filled with intense passion, toxic dynamics, and deeply rooted trauma, it follows characters navigating abuse, complicated forgiveness, and the fragile process of breaking free from destructive bonds—while still finding themselves drawn back to each other.
April 4, 2026
Terms of Surrender is a powerful start to a series that digs deep into control, trust, and healing. Emma and Damien both carry heavy pasts, and I loved how the story shows their vulnerability without making either of them feel perfect. The romance builds slowly, with a strong focus on consent, communication, and learning what they truly want. Even with the BDSM elements, this book feels more like the foundation for what’s coming next. The emotional tension is written beautifully, and the intimate moments are handled with so much care. Overall, it’s a compelling debut that pulled me in, and I’m excited to see where their journey goes next.
April 4, 2026
Incredible!
May 13, 2026
We meet our FMC Emma Sinclair, CEO of Elion. While she is a force to be reckoned with at work and takes care of everybody else’s needs to ensure everything runs smoothly, or is there for a friend in hard times, she tends to neglects her own needs and desires to a certain extent. She is still carrying the voices of childhood trauma of never being enough, never good enough, no matter what you do all while trying to save her company and herself.
Our MMC is just as headstrong and driven as our FMC when he needs to be. Until she enters the picture one night. He has his sights on Emma and will stop at nothing to make her his. He promises to always take care of her and protect her if she will allow him to. He also like Emma is carrying around childhood trauma of his own.
These two were made for each other. They are both successful people who learn that sometimes letting somebody in to truly see who you are is the most rewarding thing you can do.
April 13, 2026
Decent
New author for me
Writing was fine & enjoyed the banter between the H/H, it was cute.
Not sure how i feel about the BDSM aspect of things. The stuff written thus far wasn't really sexual, certainly not the spanking scene & I appreciated that. I'm grateful there isnt a sex club- i cant stand those in books.
Lots of things bothered me, I went in thinking the FMC was strong & independent CEO. She was anything but, her inner monologue in the first quarter nearly had me dnfing because she came off as an insecure doormat. She clearly needs therapy & i was glad to see the MMC suggest it more than once.
But all I could think about is how I started liking the mmc less as I read.
Yes, he lied to her for 2 months & why was he on the dating app? Was he looking to try dating when he saw her name or looking for a new sub? Having that room of toys etc seems like he didnt give up the lifestyle.
It skeeved me out that he kept it. Also those dildoes & butt plugs were used on other women- buy new ones dude.
I don't speak corporate merger but what mmc did at the end also was all him & not her, not really. He's still doing stuff that she isnt aware of- behind her back. He doesn't deserve the trust shes giving him. Sorry.
While I appreciate the MMC put the FMC first before his kink , I felt it was manipulative to say it was something he always craved but he'd give it up for her.
As the book went on rhe Fmc shrunk. Everything was his choices, his resteraunt, his pizza place- his bar tgat he recommended. It went i to this book thinking the FMC was a CEO that was going to be independent outside of the playroom. I can get behind the idea that ok, dude can pick out what she wears since maybe 1 less decisions off of her shoulders- what happens if she doesnt want yo wear it? The thought of a grown ass woman having to call her bf of what 3 months for permission is ridiculous..
The part at the end with the shower & her having to be there with him because she couldn't handle being alone- what?
“I’ll do most of the talking.”..
Right before the press conference - again he tells that to the FMC & it comes off as avoidance, she avoids & he takes over.
Day after she had her first spanking ....I found d this to be ott exaggerated. Come on now.
The woman in the mirrored walls was steady now—confident. Worlds away from the one I’d seen months ago. Gone were the dark hollows beneath her eyes. Gone the sleepless pallor, the brittle exhaustion clinging to her skin. Gone the crushing weight on her shoulders...
After reading g the part about his plans with tge whips, and just knowing she'd love it. Had me thinking about how authors write fmcs that are just into whatever, np no safeword used, just go with the flow fmc, it's doubtful ill read anything else in this series.
New author for me
Writing was fine & enjoyed the banter between the H/H, it was cute.
Not sure how i feel about the BDSM aspect of things. The stuff written thus far wasn't really sexual, certainly not the spanking scene & I appreciated that. I'm grateful there isnt a sex club- i cant stand those in books.
Lots of things bothered me, I went in thinking the FMC was strong & independent CEO. She was anything but, her inner monologue in the first quarter nearly had me dnfing because she came off as an insecure doormat. She clearly needs therapy & i was glad to see the MMC suggest it more than once.
But all I could think about is how I started liking the mmc less as I read.
Yes, he lied to her for 2 months & why was he on the dating app? Was he looking to try dating when he saw her name or looking for a new sub? Having that room of toys etc seems like he didnt give up the lifestyle.
It skeeved me out that he kept it. Also those dildoes & butt plugs were used on other women- buy new ones dude.
I don't speak corporate merger but what mmc did at the end also was all him & not her, not really. He's still doing stuff that she isnt aware of- behind her back. He doesn't deserve the trust shes giving him. Sorry.
While I appreciate the MMC put the FMC first before his kink , I felt it was manipulative to say it was something he always craved but he'd give it up for her.
As the book went on rhe Fmc shrunk. Everything was his choices, his resteraunt, his pizza place- his bar tgat he recommended. It went i to this book thinking the FMC was a CEO that was going to be independent outside of the playroom. I can get behind the idea that ok, dude can pick out what she wears since maybe 1 less decisions off of her shoulders- what happens if she doesnt want yo wear it? The thought of a grown ass woman having to call her bf of what 3 months for permission is ridiculous..
The part at the end with the shower & her having to be there with him because she couldn't handle being alone- what?
“I’ll do most of the talking.”..
Right before the press conference - again he tells that to the FMC & it comes off as avoidance, she avoids & he takes over.
Day after she had her first spanking ....I found d this to be ott exaggerated. Come on now.
The woman in the mirrored walls was steady now—confident. Worlds away from the one I’d seen months ago. Gone were the dark hollows beneath her eyes. Gone the sleepless pallor, the brittle exhaustion clinging to her skin. Gone the crushing weight on her shoulders...
After reading g the part about his plans with tge whips, and just knowing she'd love it. Had me thinking about how authors write fmcs that are just into whatever, np no safeword used, just go with the flow fmc, it's doubtful ill read anything else in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to start by expressing my gratitude to Nicole Gregory for letting me be part of the journey with her debut novel, Terms of Surrender, from beta reading to ARC.
This story marks a compelling introduction to what promises to be a richly layered series. At its heart, it’s an exploration of control, trust, and the courage it takes to reveal the parts of ourselves we usually keep hidden. Emma Sinclair is a commanding CEO whose life revolves around precision and discipline, yet the novel doesn’t present her—or Damien—as flawless. Both characters carry the weight of difficult childhoods, and the book thoughtfully examines how past trauma shapes their relationships, sense of power, and vulnerability. It’s a nuanced portrayal of how survivors navigate intimacy while acknowledging the lingering marks left by their pasts.
The romance unfolds gradually, built on emotional depth and mutual understanding rather than instant attraction. While there are BDSM elements, this first installment feels more like a careful introduction, laying the groundwork for the dynamics that will develop in later books. Nicole Gregory skillfully introduces themes of consent, communication, and structure, giving a sense that future installments will dive even deeper into these aspects as Emma learns to recognize and embrace her desires and limits.
What stands out is the author’s ability to handle steamy and morally complex scenes with sensitivity and grace. The intimacy is provocative without ever feeling crude, written in a way that respects both the characters and the reader. Nicole captures the tension between temptation and restraint beautifully, creating a narrative that is at once thrilling, emotional, and thoughtful.
Overall, Terms of Surrender is a remarkable debut. The characters are vivid and multi-dimensional, the emotional stakes are high, and the storytelling is compelling from start to finish. I’m excited to see how Emma and Damien’s journey unfolds in the upcoming books of the Terms series. Nicole Gregory has delivered a debut that is both emotionally resonant and irresistibly engaging.
This story marks a compelling introduction to what promises to be a richly layered series. At its heart, it’s an exploration of control, trust, and the courage it takes to reveal the parts of ourselves we usually keep hidden. Emma Sinclair is a commanding CEO whose life revolves around precision and discipline, yet the novel doesn’t present her—or Damien—as flawless. Both characters carry the weight of difficult childhoods, and the book thoughtfully examines how past trauma shapes their relationships, sense of power, and vulnerability. It’s a nuanced portrayal of how survivors navigate intimacy while acknowledging the lingering marks left by their pasts.
The romance unfolds gradually, built on emotional depth and mutual understanding rather than instant attraction. While there are BDSM elements, this first installment feels more like a careful introduction, laying the groundwork for the dynamics that will develop in later books. Nicole Gregory skillfully introduces themes of consent, communication, and structure, giving a sense that future installments will dive even deeper into these aspects as Emma learns to recognize and embrace her desires and limits.
What stands out is the author’s ability to handle steamy and morally complex scenes with sensitivity and grace. The intimacy is provocative without ever feeling crude, written in a way that respects both the characters and the reader. Nicole captures the tension between temptation and restraint beautifully, creating a narrative that is at once thrilling, emotional, and thoughtful.
Overall, Terms of Surrender is a remarkable debut. The characters are vivid and multi-dimensional, the emotional stakes are high, and the storytelling is compelling from start to finish. I’m excited to see how Emma and Damien’s journey unfolds in the upcoming books of the Terms series. Nicole Gregory has delivered a debut that is both emotionally resonant and irresistibly engaging.
April 2, 2026
Booktalk Review: Terms of Surrender
If you’re into emotional, character-driven stories with romance, tension, and real-life struggles, Terms of Surrender is a book you should definitely check out.
The story centers around complex relationships, personal growth, and the idea of what it really means to let your guard down for someone else. The main characters aren’t perfect—they’re flawed, guarded, and dealing with their own pasts—which makes them feel real and relatable. As the story unfolds, you see how their connection develops through conflict, vulnerability, and moments of honesty.
One of the strongest parts of this book is the emotional depth. It doesn’t just focus on romance—it dives into trust, fear, and what it takes to truly open up to another person. The tension between the characters keeps you hooked, and the pacing makes it hard to put the book down.
However, the story can feel intense at times, especially if you’re not a fan of heavy emotional drama. Some moments may feel predictable if you read a lot of romance, but the character development helps make up for it.
Overall, Terms of Surrender is a compelling read that blends romance with deeper emotional themes. If you enjoy stories about love, growth, and overcoming personal barriers, this is a book worth picking up.
Would you take the risk of surrendering your heart, even if it means getting hurt?
If you’re into emotional, character-driven stories with romance, tension, and real-life struggles, Terms of Surrender is a book you should definitely check out.
The story centers around complex relationships, personal growth, and the idea of what it really means to let your guard down for someone else. The main characters aren’t perfect—they’re flawed, guarded, and dealing with their own pasts—which makes them feel real and relatable. As the story unfolds, you see how their connection develops through conflict, vulnerability, and moments of honesty.
One of the strongest parts of this book is the emotional depth. It doesn’t just focus on romance—it dives into trust, fear, and what it takes to truly open up to another person. The tension between the characters keeps you hooked, and the pacing makes it hard to put the book down.
However, the story can feel intense at times, especially if you’re not a fan of heavy emotional drama. Some moments may feel predictable if you read a lot of romance, but the character development helps make up for it.
Overall, Terms of Surrender is a compelling read that blends romance with deeper emotional themes. If you enjoy stories about love, growth, and overcoming personal barriers, this is a book worth picking up.
Would you take the risk of surrendering your heart, even if it means getting hurt?
March 19, 2026
***ARC REVIEW***
Slow burn to hot and heavy. As the book unfolds, you’ll dive into a world about control, trust, connection, testing of limits, and peeling back the layers that no one else is meant to see. The main and side characters are presented with backstories, which allows you to connect to them more. The way Nicole writes, you will love, question, and hate characters.
Emma, CEO of Elion, is strong-willed, intelligent, driven, and beyond protective of those she cares for. Is it a front? What lingers deep inside of Emma? Her team, devoted and close to each other. Damien, CEO of Falkirk, is extremely successful, powerful, handsome, and a heart of gold. What secrets is he hiding? His team divided. Their businesses collide, will they flourish or will they fall?
Please note this book is spicy, as BDSM comes into play. It’s not laid on thick in this first book, more so a slow introduction to allow it to build throughout the series.
Overall a great read! I can’t wait to see what happens with Emma and Damien, as well as some side characters!
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Strong Female Character
Strong Male Character
Secret Relationship
Rescue Romance
BDSM
Domestic Violence
Found Family
Sisterhood
Toxic Masculinity
Misogyny
Slow burn to hot and heavy. As the book unfolds, you’ll dive into a world about control, trust, connection, testing of limits, and peeling back the layers that no one else is meant to see. The main and side characters are presented with backstories, which allows you to connect to them more. The way Nicole writes, you will love, question, and hate characters.
Emma, CEO of Elion, is strong-willed, intelligent, driven, and beyond protective of those she cares for. Is it a front? What lingers deep inside of Emma? Her team, devoted and close to each other. Damien, CEO of Falkirk, is extremely successful, powerful, handsome, and a heart of gold. What secrets is he hiding? His team divided. Their businesses collide, will they flourish or will they fall?
Please note this book is spicy, as BDSM comes into play. It’s not laid on thick in this first book, more so a slow introduction to allow it to build throughout the series.
Overall a great read! I can’t wait to see what happens with Emma and Damien, as well as some side characters!
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Strong Female Character
Strong Male Character
Secret Relationship
Rescue Romance
BDSM
Domestic Violence
Found Family
Sisterhood
Toxic Masculinity
Misogyny
March 30, 2026
**ARC Review**
The book begins as a slow burn with Ms. Sinclair and Mr. Holt, both forces forced to be reckoned with, yet battle with similar insecurities and problems. Their bond grows beautifully before the twist, then, it blooms even better than imagined.
This is hands down one of the best written BDSM books I’ve ever read, why? You are eased into it, everything is explained in detail and you are so far invested in the story that it doesn’t overpower the plot. Those chapters are full of boundaries, consent and deeper explanations of emotions, rather than straight smut. Everything is written tastefully and respectfully.
Nicole Gregory has written the perfect book for readers who are looking for dark but need the tender and love feeling of a romance more. I am so honored to be able to read and review for you! I can’t wait to read more about where Emma and Damien go from here.
Extra note: Let’s just say the book is so good that I started at around 10pm and was finished by 3:17am. Yes, I work in the morning but it was so worth it because when I read “My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one” - I said out loud “and that you did”!!
The book begins as a slow burn with Ms. Sinclair and Mr. Holt, both forces forced to be reckoned with, yet battle with similar insecurities and problems. Their bond grows beautifully before the twist, then, it blooms even better than imagined.
This is hands down one of the best written BDSM books I’ve ever read, why? You are eased into it, everything is explained in detail and you are so far invested in the story that it doesn’t overpower the plot. Those chapters are full of boundaries, consent and deeper explanations of emotions, rather than straight smut. Everything is written tastefully and respectfully.
Nicole Gregory has written the perfect book for readers who are looking for dark but need the tender and love feeling of a romance more. I am so honored to be able to read and review for you! I can’t wait to read more about where Emma and Damien go from here.
Extra note: Let’s just say the book is so good that I started at around 10pm and was finished by 3:17am. Yes, I work in the morning but it was so worth it because when I read “My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one” - I said out loud “and that you did”!!
April 5, 2026
I recieved this book as an ARC and am leaving an honest review. This was my first read from Nicole and I cannot wait for book 2, Terms of Exposure. This book ends on a cliff hanger. I couldn’t put It down!
Emma Sinclair is CEO of her own company, Elion. Her life consists of the constant struggles and challenges of running a business that has to deal with investors and partnerships. She doesn’t have time for dating or fun. One night Emma finally gives in to her friend setting up a profile on a dating app. She strikes up conversation with someone and they connect. After a few weeks, Emma agrees to meet him. She’s blindsided by who shows up.
Damien Holt is CEO of Falkirk. He’s in talks with Elion about partnering to help save the company. He’s been talking to Emma without her knowledge for weeks, his worries about how she’s going to react when she realises who he is and what she’s told him.
This story touches lightly on BDSM and a little heavier on childhood trauma and those nasty voices in your head.
I also loved that Nicole is quotes saying ‘My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one!’ - yes you did!
Emma Sinclair is CEO of her own company, Elion. Her life consists of the constant struggles and challenges of running a business that has to deal with investors and partnerships. She doesn’t have time for dating or fun. One night Emma finally gives in to her friend setting up a profile on a dating app. She strikes up conversation with someone and they connect. After a few weeks, Emma agrees to meet him. She’s blindsided by who shows up.
Damien Holt is CEO of Falkirk. He’s in talks with Elion about partnering to help save the company. He’s been talking to Emma without her knowledge for weeks, his worries about how she’s going to react when she realises who he is and what she’s told him.
This story touches lightly on BDSM and a little heavier on childhood trauma and those nasty voices in your head.
I also loved that Nicole is quotes saying ‘My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one!’ - yes you did!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Nicole’s debut, and I feel so grateful to have received an advance reader copy. And can I just say — the internal squeal when I read this quote at the end: “My husband wrote a book, so I wrote a better one.” YES queen, you delivered!
Terms of Surrender introduces us to Emma Sinclair, CEO of Elion. She is everything I love in an FMC — strong-willed, independent, and a strategic boss. Emma is single and laser-focused on her career, all while battling her own childhood trauma and struggles with self-worth. I really connected with her character — as someone who overthinks conversations and can take things a little too personally, Emma felt very real to me.
This is a slow burn 🔥 but it’s absolutely worth it. Enter Damien Holt, CEO of Falkirk… I won’t spoil anything, but when everything clicked into place, I was so here for it.
Damien is a great introduction to morally grey. The obsession, manipulation 🫣, and the push-and-pull between him and Emma were done so well. The dominant/submissive dynamic added another layer that really worked within the story and was so well written.
If you’re looking for a read that bridges the gap between lighter romance and something a little more steamy and obsessive — I highly recommend this one.
Terms of Surrender introduces us to Emma Sinclair, CEO of Elion. She is everything I love in an FMC — strong-willed, independent, and a strategic boss. Emma is single and laser-focused on her career, all while battling her own childhood trauma and struggles with self-worth. I really connected with her character — as someone who overthinks conversations and can take things a little too personally, Emma felt very real to me.
This is a slow burn 🔥 but it’s absolutely worth it. Enter Damien Holt, CEO of Falkirk… I won’t spoil anything, but when everything clicked into place, I was so here for it.
Damien is a great introduction to morally grey. The obsession, manipulation 🫣, and the push-and-pull between him and Emma were done so well. The dominant/submissive dynamic added another layer that really worked within the story and was so well written.
If you’re looking for a read that bridges the gap between lighter romance and something a little more steamy and obsessive — I highly recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Terms of Surrender is the first book in a six-book dark contemporary romance series. It features a powerful CEO heroine, a controlled and dominant MMC, and a relationship
built on negotiated consent. Blending high-stakes corporate tension with intentional power exchange and slow-burn desire, it explores choosing vulnerability over fear—
and discovering that strength can exist in both control and surrender.
Powerful CEO heroine • Dominant MMC • Negotiated consent • Power exchange •
Slow burn • Workplace proximity • Corporate tension • Trust before surrender
I honestly felt like I was missing something like there should have been a book before this one. I was sincerely lost and confused. I didn’t finish it based on this particular qualm. I will try to read it again and push through to see if maybe there’s some explanations later on in the book.
built on negotiated consent. Blending high-stakes corporate tension with intentional power exchange and slow-burn desire, it explores choosing vulnerability over fear—
and discovering that strength can exist in both control and surrender.
Powerful CEO heroine • Dominant MMC • Negotiated consent • Power exchange •
Slow burn • Workplace proximity • Corporate tension • Trust before surrender
I honestly felt like I was missing something like there should have been a book before this one. I was sincerely lost and confused. I didn’t finish it based on this particular qualm. I will try to read it again and push through to see if maybe there’s some explanations later on in the book.
April 4, 2026
~~~ARC REVIEW~~~
This book has a lot going on, but one thing is certain—I absolutely adored Damien Holt. He was a total green flag through and through.
At its core, the story is a slow-burn romance that feels passionate, emotional, and real. It explores complex relationships, personal growth, and what it truly means to let your guard down for someone. The characters aren’t perfect—they’re guarded, flawed, and shaped by their pasts—which made them feel incredibly authentic and easy to connect with.
I personally resonated with some of the trauma the FMC experienced, and I think it was portrayed with care and depth. That said, the ending felt a bit unclear, and I was left slightly confused about what exactly happened.
Overall, it was a good, engaging read, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book.
This book has a lot going on, but one thing is certain—I absolutely adored Damien Holt. He was a total green flag through and through.
At its core, the story is a slow-burn romance that feels passionate, emotional, and real. It explores complex relationships, personal growth, and what it truly means to let your guard down for someone. The characters aren’t perfect—they’re guarded, flawed, and shaped by their pasts—which made them feel incredibly authentic and easy to connect with.
I personally resonated with some of the trauma the FMC experienced, and I think it was portrayed with care and depth. That said, the ending felt a bit unclear, and I was left slightly confused about what exactly happened.
Overall, it was a good, engaging read, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My rating: 3.5 ⭐
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this debut. The story follows Emma, CEO of Elion, as she works to secure a crucial partnership with Falkirk, led by CEO Damien, in order to save her company.
The premise of a workplace relationship with a dom/sub dynamic initially drew me in, and the tension around the potential partnership creates a strong foundation for the story. This is a slow-burn romance, and the relationship builds gradually as the story unfolds.
Some of the workplace scenes felt a little stilted at times, but overall I still found the story engaging. I appreciate the work that goes into writing a novel, and this felt like a good start to what looks to be a developing series.
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this debut. The story follows Emma, CEO of Elion, as she works to secure a crucial partnership with Falkirk, led by CEO Damien, in order to save her company.
The premise of a workplace relationship with a dom/sub dynamic initially drew me in, and the tension around the potential partnership creates a strong foundation for the story. This is a slow-burn romance, and the relationship builds gradually as the story unfolds.
Some of the workplace scenes felt a little stilted at times, but overall I still found the story engaging. I appreciate the work that goes into writing a novel, and this felt like a good start to what looks to be a developing series.
Did Not Finish
April 4, 2026I received this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review.
Unfortunately, I ended up DNFing it after 15 chapters. From the very beginning, the story felt like it was missing something, and I found it hard to stay engaged.
What really made the experience worse for me, though, was Candace (the FMC’s bestie). Her character was incredibly frustrating. She’s fully aware that her boyfriend is toxic and narcissistic, yet she refuses to take any action. Even after Emma (FMC) repeatedly points it out, nothing changes.
I also found it hard to take her seriously when she tells Emma to break things off with Damien while she won’t leave her own unhealthy relationship. That contradiction made her feel hypocritical and difficult to like.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me.
Unfortunately, I ended up DNFing it after 15 chapters. From the very beginning, the story felt like it was missing something, and I found it hard to stay engaged.
What really made the experience worse for me, though, was Candace (the FMC’s bestie). Her character was incredibly frustrating. She’s fully aware that her boyfriend is toxic and narcissistic, yet she refuses to take any action. Even after Emma (FMC) repeatedly points it out, nothing changes.
I also found it hard to take her seriously when she tells Emma to break things off with Damien while she won’t leave her own unhealthy relationship. That contradiction made her feel hypocritical and difficult to like.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me.
Read
April 3, 2026I dont know if it's just me, but i felt like I started in the middle of a story. I felt like I was playing catch up. It was so frustrating. Emma's character didn't feel real, nor did I care for her at all. I understood what her character was supposed to feel like, but for me, there was a disconnect. I didn't care about the romance either, which makes sense because I didn't care about the characters. I only finished it because I dont dnf books and wanted to see if things changed. Im not rating this because the book was just released, and I dont want to harm this authors ratings. Its got to be difficult writing a book, publishing, and knowing your work will be criticized
April 6, 2026
I absolutely love this book. It starts off as a slow burn with the MFC and OMC talking but not knowing who the other really was. They have a beautiful bonds before the twist but it grows more beautiful after.
I love the BDSM aspect how the author ease you into it and explains everything as you go along. I didn’t feel like it took over the book. It went really well with the story.
It was well pasted and beautifully written with fantastic details. I love both the MFC and MMC and how they drew you into their story.
Thank you to the author for chance to read this as an arc. I’ll look forward to book 2.
I love the BDSM aspect how the author ease you into it and explains everything as you go along. I didn’t feel like it took over the book. It went really well with the story.
It was well pasted and beautifully written with fantastic details. I love both the MFC and MMC and how they drew you into their story.
Thank you to the author for chance to read this as an arc. I’ll look forward to book 2.
Review of advance copy
If you’re into slow-burn romance that actually earns its payoff, Terms of Surrender is the book for you. The author does a great job pacing the emotional development, without rushing the two into a dynamic that is unfamiliar to Emma. The characters are layered and complex, making everything feel real and personal. It has a gradual introduction to more intense relationship dynamics, written with intention that adds to their connection rather than overshadowing it. I am excited to read more of the series and any other book by Nicole Gregory.
April 3, 2026
Jagged. Sharp. Rough.
The edges of her life are control frayed, torn, tattered, with no way out.
Cool, calm, resolute.
His company helmed by a man he despises.
Their internal monologues tearing them to pieces; speaking words of doubt, fear, anguish.
Together they make something beautiful that will stir your heart and leave you engaged.
The FMC &MMC were well-written, thought out, balanced & companionable. The FSC's struggles can pull from the main story at times, but you will always turn back to the leads with a tug and a smile.
The edges of her life are control frayed, torn, tattered, with no way out.
Cool, calm, resolute.
His company helmed by a man he despises.
Their internal monologues tearing them to pieces; speaking words of doubt, fear, anguish.
Together they make something beautiful that will stir your heart and leave you engaged.
The FMC &MMC were well-written, thought out, balanced & companionable. The FSC's struggles can pull from the main story at times, but you will always turn back to the leads with a tug and a smile.
April 7, 2026
Worth the read, but personally the slow burn was a bit too slow for me.
The backdrop of the story also felt a little too intense—not in a bad way, but there was a lot of focus on the business side of things.
Since the story revolves around two businesses merging and all the dealings that come with it, there were moments where it felt like too many details, which slowed the pacing even more for me. That said, I do understand why—it’s the first book in the series, so there’s a lot of setup. It does evolve ito a high heat romance just a bit slow to start.
The backdrop of the story also felt a little too intense—not in a bad way, but there was a lot of focus on the business side of things.
Since the story revolves around two businesses merging and all the dealings that come with it, there were moments where it felt like too many details, which slowed the pacing even more for me. That said, I do understand why—it’s the first book in the series, so there’s a lot of setup. It does evolve ito a high heat romance just a bit slow to start.
April 14, 2026
My first book by this author and I am very impressed. However, I didn't realize this was part of a series, as it didn't show that it was in GR or on Amazon at the time I downloaded it. It is the first book in a six book series that is scheduled to be released book by book in it's entirety by October 2026. I hope that is true. I will not be reading any of the rest of these books until they are all published.
I will reread this first book at that point and then give a review. If you know me, then you know I never start a series until it's all published because I have been burned so many times. But this was a good book, so you make that choice for yourself.
4 stars
I will reread this first book at that point and then give a review. If you know me, then you know I never start a series until it's all published because I have been burned so many times. But this was a good book, so you make that choice for yourself.
4 stars
April 14, 2026
O.M.G. This book was absolutely amazing. I cannot believe how much I relate to Emma on such a personal intense level. The writing of her experiences, her feelings, the mental struggle she dealt with and tried to push through on her own was quite honestly the most eloquently written piece of work I've read. Damien. I cannot even begin to say enough about him. To truly see someone in his capacity look and feel so human was just stunning. The way he helped her and not just her but her best friend truly makes this man a gem. *chefs kiss* i cannot wait for the next book
Review of advance copy received from Author
Meet Damien and Emma. They both are leaders of their companies. Both shoulder incredible responsibilities. I can’t even start to break down how and why they meet- but they do and the roller coaster of emotions is a wild ride. Check your triggers. This book is beautifully written and explores the true core relationship in a healthy dom/sub relationship. I can’t wait for the next book. Just a fab read. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this.
Emma is fierce, strong, intelligent, and loyal. Damien is captivated by her when he sees her for the first time and a chance encounter puts his whole plan into motion to force her to see him in a different light. There is groveling, curiosity, growth, surrender, love, and a ton of spice! The book beautifully lays out the changes in their power exchange and structure and I CANNOT wait for what’s to come for them!!
Emma is fierce, strong, intelligent, and loyal. Damien is captivated by her when he sees her for the first time and a chance encounter puts his whole plan into motion to force her to see him in a different light. There is groveling, curiosity, growth, surrender, love, and a ton of spice! The book beautifully lays out the changes in their power exchange and structure and I CANNOT wait for what’s to come for them!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was pleasantly surprised with this debut novel by @Nicole Gregory
Damien and Emma, both CEOs for big companies, meet via a dating app.
Throughout the book they navigate merging companies, hiding their relationship, secret pasts and overcoming childhood trauma.
While most of my reads fall on the darker side, this contemporary romance kept me engaged and I am a sucker for BDSM, especially when the bonds and basis are respected.
I look forward to Emma and Damien expanding their BDSM experiences and wonder how they will manage to bring their relationship out of the dark- Likely not unscathed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Damien and Emma, both CEOs for big companies, meet via a dating app.
Throughout the book they navigate merging companies, hiding their relationship, secret pasts and overcoming childhood trauma.
While most of my reads fall on the darker side, this contemporary romance kept me engaged and I am a sucker for BDSM, especially when the bonds and basis are respected.
I look forward to Emma and Damien expanding their BDSM experiences and wonder how they will manage to bring their relationship out of the dark- Likely not unscathed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
April 2, 2026
ARC Review
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book is well written and easy to get pulled into. Emma (FMC) is incredibly relatable and a total boss. I loved that her features aren’t described as the typical “physically fit” standard, but instead as a voluptuous goddess.
I won’t spoil who the MMC is, but he had me gushing like a giddy schoolgirl 🤣. The banter between them is fantastic, and I’m already excited to see what they get into in the next book!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book is well written and easy to get pulled into. Emma (FMC) is incredibly relatable and a total boss. I loved that her features aren’t described as the typical “physically fit” standard, but instead as a voluptuous goddess.
I won’t spoil who the MMC is, but he had me gushing like a giddy schoolgirl 🤣. The banter between them is fantastic, and I’m already excited to see what they get into in the next book!
April 5, 2026
A slow-burn romance that gradually builds into something intense and emotional. The story explores themes of control, trust, and deep personal struggles, with well-developed characters you’ll both love and question. Emma and Damien are compelling leads with intriguing secrets, and their dynamic keeps you engaged. Light BDSM elements add spice without overwhelming the plot. Overall, an engaging and promising start to the series.
April 13, 2026
I was very lucky to receive this as an ARC. The characters are very well written and the details in them are very well written. This is a first book in the series and I can not wait to see how the characters continue to grow and expand. The FMC is a very strong and independent woman and as we know giving up that control and being vulnerable is very difficult. Nicole Gregory captures this growth and the feelings in a way that just makes you fully understand and want to grow with the FMC.
April 17, 2026
This is a really great emotionally intense story. Emma and Damien had a delicious slow burn. They had great chemistry and really good character development. The plot is solid and the romantic part is a blend of emotions and spice. It was satisfying to see them open up to each other and I liked reading about the BD$M parts. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style and can’t wait to read more of her work.
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