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Terms of Exposure

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She built her life on control.
He taught her to release it.

Now they face what comes after surrender—
the terrifying, uncharted act of staying.

His family pulls her into a world she never expected.
His past drags her toward a truth she never saw coming.

Between boardroom and bedroom,
between power and vulnerability,
between the words he can’t say and the ones she can’t stop—

something buried waits to be uncovered.

Because love does not exist in isolation.
Secrets do not stay buried.

The life they are building demands light.

Because exposure is never just a consequence.
It is the cost of being seen.

Terms of Exposure is a high-heat contemporary romance exploring emotional power exchange, slow-burn intimacy, and corporate intrigue. Intended for mature readers.

453 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 14, 2026

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About the author

Nicole Gregory

6 books12 followers
Nicole 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.

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Faiza BEGUM.
740 reviews17 followers
May 14, 2026
Nicole, thank you so much for trusting me not only as a beta reader but also as an ARC reader for this story. Being able to experience this journey early has honestly been such a privilege.

Terms of Exposure dives straight into the aftermath of book one and immediately pulls you into something far heavier and more emotionally gripping than a standard romance. This story thrives on emotional intensity, exploring themes of trust, control, trauma, vulnerability, and the difficult process of allowing another person to truly see you. The deeper I got into the book, the more invested I became in every complicated layer of these characters’ lives.

Emma and Damien continue to be the heartbeat of this series. Their relationship is messy, passionate, frustrating, healing, and incredibly human all at once. Nothing about their connection feels forced or overly polished, which made every breakthrough between them feel earned. Nicole Gregory does an incredible job showing that love alone does not magically fix people. Watching Emma and Damien actively work through their struggles, especially through couples therapy, added such an authentic and grounded dimension to their relationship. Their journey highlights how healing is ongoing, uncomfortable, and rarely straightforward, but that effort and communication matter just as much as desire and chemistry.

And the chemistry? Absolutely explosive. This book does not hold back emotionally or physically. Every interaction carried weight, tension, and vulnerability, and I loved how emotionally charged even the quieter moments felt. Nicole has a talent for writing scenes that completely immerse you in what the characters are experiencing, making it impossible not to feel everything alongside them.

Candace completely shattered me in this book. Her storyline was raw, heartbreaking, and incredibly powerful. Watching her try to reclaim herself after leaving a toxic relationship felt painfully real at times, and her emotional journey was handled with so much care. Sebastian’s own struggles and emotional wounds added another compelling layer, and seeing the two of them navigate healing in their own ways has me desperately wanting more from their story moving forward.

Rosie also deserves all the love because she brings so much warmth and brightness into the heavier moments of the book. She feels like the emotional glue holding everyone together at times, and every scene with her added a softness that balanced the darker themes beautifully.

Nicole Gregory continues to approach difficult subject matter with honesty and sensitivity. Themes involving addiction, abuse, trauma, manipulation, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and destructive inner dialogue are woven into the story thoughtfully rather than being included simply for shock value. The emotional weight feels purposeful, and the characters’ struggles never come across as superficial.

This book genuinely took me through every emotion possible. I laughed, cried, gasped, got frustrated, and fully rolled my eyes anytime Nathan Bell appeared because honestly… sir, respectfully, enough. The emotional investment this series creates is unreal.

What impressed me most is how much stronger this installment feels because of the groundwork laid in the first book. The relationships feel richer, the emotional stakes hit harder, and the character development feels even more natural and immersive. Nicole’s writing continues to pull me completely into this world, and despite usually avoiding long series commitments, I am fully invested in whatever comes next for Emma, Damien, Candace, Sebastian, and the rest of this beautifully complicated cast.

Terms of Exposure is absolutely one to pick up. I already need the next book immediately.
Profile Image for Lindsayrosereads .
65 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 11, 2026
Terms of Exposure is intense, emotional, and completely consuming in a quiet, powerful way.

This book picks up right at the end of the first book and from the start, this felt like a much deeper emotional read than a typical romance. It explores control, vulnerability, and what it means to trust someone enough to let your walls down. The emotional depth really sneaks up on you and keeps building as the story unfolds.

The relationship at the center of this story is where it really shines. It’s not rushed, and it’s far from simple. Their dynamic is layered, emotional, and built on trust just as much as tension. They’re imperfect, and I appreciated that the book allows them to work through that in a realistic way. One of my favorite aspects was seeing them attend couples therapy together. It added such a human element to the story and reinforced that even in a powerful, structured relationship, trust and connection require ongoing work. Healing is not quick or linear, and this book handles that beautifully.

I also really loved the shift toward Candace and Sebastian’s stories. Candace’s courage in leaving a toxic relationship and the raw honesty of her heartbreak were incredibly moving. Watching both her and Sebastian navigate their own trauma and healing felt deeply authentic, and I am absolutely ready for more of their story.

And Rosie deserves a special mention because we truly need more of her. She brings a much-needed lightness and warmth and feels like the glowing heart of this family.

Nicole Gregory continues to handle difficult topics like power dynamics, abuse, addiction, trauma, and toxic internal dialogue with care and authenticity. None of it feels included for shock value. It feels honest, raw, and thoughtfully explored without shying away from the uglier parts of healing.

I received both books one and two as ARCs, and I’m so grateful to the author for the opportunity to read this series early. I felt even more connected to this installment than I did to book one. The foundation built in the first book made this one feel deeper, more emotionally grounded, and even more genuine. The writing remains strong, the plot is compelling, and I’m genuinely excited to see where this series goes next.

Definitely check the trigger warnings, as this book covers several heavy topics. But for readers who enjoy emotionally complex, high-heat romances like the Crossfire Series or the Stark Trilogy, this is absolutely worth picking up. I normally hesitate when committing to longer series, but I cannot wait for book three and beyond.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
409 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
This book is intense, emotional, and completely consuming in a quiet, powerful way.

From the start, you can feel that this isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about control, vulnerability, and what it really means to let someone see you. The emotional depth here runs strong, and it pulls you in more with every chapter.

The FMC is someone who has built her entire life around control, structure, and keeping things contained—and watching that slowly unravel is both beautiful and a little heartbreaking. Her journey feels raw and very real.

And then there’s him…
He doesn’t force change—he waits for it.
Pushes gently. Challenges her. Sees things she tries to hide.

Their dynamic is where this story really shines. It’s not rushed, and it’s not simple. It’s layered, emotional, and built on trust just as much as tension.

What stood out most to me was the balance between power and vulnerability. It’s present in every part of the story—
in the boardroom,
in their personal lives,
and in the quieter moments where everything shifts.

There’s also an undercurrent of mystery and past secrets that adds another layer, keeping things intriguing beyond just the romance.

✨ If you enjoy:
• emotionally intense, character-driven romance
• slow-burn connection with depth
• power dynamics rooted in trust and growth
• strong character development
• romance mixed with personal and professional stakes

This one is deep, layered, and really stays with you after you finish.

Overall: powerful, vulnerable, and full of emotional tension. Definitely not a light read—but absolutely worth it ❤️‍🔥
103 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 9, 2026
This book is book two of the series and continues on from book 1.

Emma Sinclair is CEO of Elion who recently merged with Falkirk. She’s secretly dating Falkirks CEO, Damien Holt. In this book we see their relationship bloom and also delve deeper into the BDSM world - something book 1 only touched on. We still hate Nathan Bell.

Damien Holt embraces his title as both CEO and Dom in this book. Him and Emma explore some of their interests further and she starts to understand why he is the way he is. Damien’s hiding something big he did from her. He did it to protect her but will that be her downfall?

Absolutely loved Candace and Sebastian. He seems like just the man she needs after the horrible things Garrett put her through. Secretly hoping Sebastian comes head to head with him in the next book *hint hint* and he finally leaves Candace alone 🤞🤞 those scenes are heartbreaking but really show what the victims are out through after they’ve gained the courage to leave. Leaving isn’t always the end.

Again, we still hate Nathan Bell, hopefully he’s torn down in the most savage way in the next book 😉

I received this book as an ARC (as I did with book 1 also), and am leaving an honest review. I loved this book! I felt more connected to this one then I did to book 1. It just felt more genuine. The plot was great. Definitely check triggers if you have any as there is quite a few in there. Cannot wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Toni Wallace.
24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 3, 2026
I absolutely devoured this in 48 hours. I stayed up way too late both nights, completely consumed by this story! I’ve been following Nicole on Facebook and was counting down until this landed in my inbox.

Emma, our girl, is hands down my favourite FMC. By page four, she’s already standing her ground with Damien, and I was immediately obsessed.

And then… Candace’s chapter. My jaw absolutely dropped. I adore Candace, her courage to leave a toxic relationship, and the raw, authentic emotion in her journey through heartbreak, was incredibly moving. The connection between Candace and Sebastian was such a highlight for me. I am absolutely rooting for those two.

Emma and Damien’s relationship continues to develop so beautifully throughout this book. The deeper exploration of their dominant/submissive dynamic, along with the supportive community surrounding that lifestyle, was handled exceptionally well. The trust, communication, and power exchange between them felt authentic, respectful, and deeply intimate.

This series strikes the perfect balance between plot and spice, it’s intense, captivating, and impossible to put down. I’m so grateful to have been part of the ARC team for both Book One and now Book Two. I am fully invested and cannot wait to see where Nicole takes us next!
Profile Image for Andrea Markert.
394 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2026
Terms of Exposure ARC review

This book picks up right where the first left off. Damien and Emma are back but with Sebastian and Candace with Rosie who stole the show. I’m a sucker for a book with extra POVs and having more of Candace was amazing. The extra look into a different perspective, the emotion, it was incredible.

Damien and Emma learn more about the dynamics of their relationship. Where the betrayal comes from, how they move on, how trust is gained after being lost. When Emma lets down her walls, Damien is there to hold her while she’s vulnerable. Emma is there while Damien is struggling to keep up with his family, his work and keeping her. He is able to confront his own issues while helping Emma with hers. It’s a testament to communication and openness.

I love a book with a happy ending but I know this series isn’t over yet, too many things still hang in the balance. The crash will be devastating, but the rise will hopefully be just as beautiful.
Profile Image for Su2108.
100 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 24, 2026
I review this book after having received an advanced reader copy from the author

Oh my word, I thought Terms of Surrender was intense, and now Terms of Exposure.... Just wow!

This book.... I'm struggling to find the words.....

It's intense, compelling, captivating, deeply emotional, intriguing, and carries everything that you could possibly want and need from a beautifully written romance.

The word 'romance' doesn't actually do this book justice, it's not simply a romance. It's a gripping love story, with wonderful power exchanges and plenty, oh plenty of spice!

Bringing Candace and Sebastian's troubles into this story highlights some hard-hitting realities and I'm hoping and looking forward to hearing more of their struggles.

I loved this book and will be patiently yet impatiently waiting for the next in the series.
Profile Image for SJ Whelan.
19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 10, 2026
*Review of an advance readers copy from the author*

First and foremost… I am eagerly awaiting the rest of the series. And for this to be Nicole’s debut? You wouldn’t even know!

Terms of Exposure came in HOT and left absolutely no breadcrumbs of details behind. You got it all, every single time (and so did Emma). One of the reasons I am absolutely loving this series and Nicole as an author is that she has a way of being able to really push through emotion within scenes so you as a reader can really become one with the characters within the books.

I gasped, cried (Candace, oh my god), laughed and even caught myself rolling my eyes at the sight of someone’s name. Nathan Bell, that would be you.

I know I already mentioned it but I truly am looking forward to the rest of this series and the ever-growing relationship between Emma & Damien.
Profile Image for Beatriz.
55 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 9, 2026
Okay, so… I’m officially obsessed with this series.

First of all, Nicole, thank you sooooo much for not offing Sebastian. Seriously. THANK YOU.

Now, Damien and Emma. I love them. Watching them go from “let’s keep things to ourselves” in the first book to Damien finally saying those three sacred (and slightly terrifying, at least for him) words was everything.
This power couple is adorable. They’re out there conquering the world together, and I’m loving every second of it.

And last but definitely not least: I NEED more of Candace and Sebastian. They deserve their own series.

Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity. I can’t wait for Terms of Devotion.
Profile Image for Sarah Frederick.
25 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 14, 2026
OH.MY.GOD. I thought Terms of Surrender was good. Book 2 just took it to a whole new level. I am so in love with Emma, and Damien, and Candace, and Sebastian, and Rosie. Omg Rosie. I think she's my favorite at this point. I loved her conversation with Candace. I love seeing Candace find pieces of herself and truly grow. And Emma? Still a total badass. 100%. I love how true to the Lifestyle these books are. They dont shy away from the nitty gritty. The emotions are so raw you can feel them. Every high, every low, the joy, the pain. This series has just sky rocketed to the top of my favorites and I cant wait to see what Nicole brings to us in the book.
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
Another fantastic and spicy entry into the Terms series! A really captivating dive into Emma and Damien’s new BDSM dynamic. There’s also a theme of self reflection and coming to terms with something new about yourself. Especially in the line, “ A queen who chooses to kneel. Is that what I was to him? Is that what he saw when he looked at me?” I think this quote especially captures, the self doubt about how we are seen by those we love. And being afraid of how others perceive us.

But I love love loved it! Cant wait to read the next installment!!!
120 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 13, 2026
I love this story. Terms of Exposure follows Damien and Emma, both successful in their careers but wanting something deeper—and they find exactly that in each other. In this second book, we really get to see how they handle stress at work and within their families, and it adds so much depth to their relationship. The intimate moments are amazing, but the story is genuinely so much more than that. I also loved getting a little bit of Candace and Sebastian woven in. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
4,250 reviews124 followers
May 15, 2026
I received this wonderful book as an ARC, and I’m thankful for this opportunity. This was an absolutely wonderful read. I loved the depth of this. It was filled with so much more than just words on a page. It was life, romance, emotion, trust, and so much more. The vulnerability AB’s the willingness to trust one another. And the fact that they were willing to go to therapy to resolve issues was sweet and so deep. I really loved being pulled into everything that was this story. The intimacy, the slow burn, it was everything.
Profile Image for Alona.
29 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
4.5 stars!! Thank you Nicole for the chance to read book 2!!

I had the opportunity to ARC read book 1 and was absolutely in love now book 2… im obsessed!! I loved the progression with Emma and Damien and watching their dynamic unfold.

I absolutely loved the addition of Candace and Sebastian having there own chapters as well, i hope we get to see more of them 😏
Profile Image for Monica Minniti.
165 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2026
Book 2. Still with Damien and Emma. These two finally are able to show themselves as the couple they are. Nathan still causing problems for them..but the sleeper couple that came through with Candice and Sebastian really got me intrigued! I honestly can’t wait for the next book. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
69 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
Spice 2. This book has romance, slow burn and powerful characters
Profile Image for Kim Whitehead.
2,878 reviews
May 17, 2026
Such a incredible read, filled with angst, humor and love! Awesome!
Profile Image for Meghan.
151 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 17, 2026
Book two was another beautiful whirlwind.

I love how dedicated both Emma and Damien are to one another and their goals, happiness, and love. They navigate through broken trust, threats of exposure, rules for their power dynamic, and learning to lean into love and a chance for true happiness.

I couldn’t get enough of how their growth was depicted both through their actions and inner dialogue. Plus Rosie, Candace, and Sebastian’s involvement brought a beautiful layer of family and humor into the mix. Cannot wait to see what their next chapter brings!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews