What do you think?
Rate this book
The Order #4
Masterpiece
This book is no longer available.
Finalist for Best BDSM Romance of 2015 at the BDSM Writers Conference/NYC.
"Masterpiece is a book that should be on every BDSM lover’s bookshelf." Literary Nymphs Reviews - 5 Nymphs.
"5 Stars." ARe Cafe.
"This was the first book of this genre to give me a "book hangover" in a long time, and for that I commend the author...I had a hard time starting another book because I was still thinking about this one...Julianne was my favorite part of the book and there was emotional depth linked to her." Wicked Reads Book Reviews - 5 Stars.
"An intense, sexy and exhilarating read that we could not put down!!!!...Jillian’s development of [Nicolai and Julianne] is absolutely amazing and breathtaking...Did we mention that it was smokin’ hot, sexy and has some of the best ménage scenes we have read in a long, long time???" Sassy Bitches Book Reviews - 5 Stars.
Master. Lover. Submissive. Muse.
When Julianne Giroux, an aspiring artist with a dark secret, apprentices with Nicolai Stavros in his Paris gallery, she finds far more than a passion for art. She finds herself. The masterful artist with forbidden tastes strips away her reserved veneer to reveal the daring, darkly passionate woman beneath and introduces her to the erotic world of The Order.
A celebrated artist, an indulged heir, and a sexual Dominant, Nicolai has it all...except what he needs. In Julianne, he finds his muse. Nicolai crafts the ingénue into his living masterpiece and through the arduous process, finds himself re-created. With Julianne as his inspiration, Nicolai aspires to become something greater than he has been.
But in an erotic world where powerful players enjoy dark games and buried secrets bite, new life comes at a painful price.
Welcome to The Order, an elite and secret society of powerful brothers bound by social status and sexual tastes. Come. Play dark games with us.
Publisher's Note: This book was previously released by another publisher, but it has been revised and re-edited in this edition.
Finalist for Best BDSM Romance of 2015 at the BDSM Writers Conference/NYC.
"Masterpiece is a book that should be on every BDSM lover’s bookshelf." Literary Nymphs Reviews - 5 Nymphs.
"5 Stars." ARe Cafe.
"This was the first book of this genre to give me a "book hangover" in a long time, and for that I commend the author...I had a hard time starting another book because I was still thinking about this one...Julianne was my favorite part of the book and there was emotional depth linked to her." Wicked Reads Book Reviews - 5 Stars.
"An intense, sexy and exhilarating read that we could not put down!!!!...Jillian’s development of [Nicolai and Julianne] is absolutely amazing and breathtaking...Did we mention that it was smokin’ hot, sexy and has some of the best ménage scenes we have read in a long, long time???" Sassy Bitches Book Reviews - 5 Stars.
Master. Lover. Submissive. Muse.
When Julianne Giroux, an aspiring artist with a dark secret, apprentices with Nicolai Stavros in his Paris gallery, she finds far more than a passion for art. She finds herself. The masterful artist with forbidden tastes strips away her reserved veneer to reveal the daring, darkly passionate woman beneath and introduces her to the erotic world of The Order.
A celebrated artist, an indulged heir, and a sexual Dominant, Nicolai has it all...except what he needs. In Julianne, he finds his muse. Nicolai crafts the ingénue into his living masterpiece and through the arduous process, finds himself re-created. With Julianne as his inspiration, Nicolai aspires to become something greater than he has been.
But in an erotic world where powerful players enjoy dark games and buried secrets bite, new life comes at a painful price.
Welcome to The Order, an elite and secret society of powerful brothers bound by social status and sexual tastes. Come. Play dark games with us.
Publisher's Note: This book was previously released by another publisher, but it has been revised and re-edited in this edition.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2016
5 people are currently reading
603 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Verne
4 books104 followersJillian publishes contemporary romance. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband (who has been her rock for longer than she is willing to admit) and has two magnificent daughters (who are and always will be her inspiration). Perfect day: The beach with the fam and a great book. Perfect date: Flyers game and a Tony Luke's cheesesteak. She is an Italian goddess, cook-extraordinaire (not bragging—well maybe a little), UPenn and NYU alum, lawyer, professor, writer, traveler, and “life is too short for small boxes” kind of lady. She is a member of the Valley Forge Romance Writers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 5, 2020
A Message from Julianne:
My name is Julianne Giroux, and Masterpiece is my story. It is a love story.
There is a fine line between love and hate, between pleasure and pain, between sex and violence, and I have lived on both sides of it. My story is filled with parallels. Some of my most euphoric moments are mirrored by terrible moments of unspeakable suffering, but I have no regret. Without darkness, it is impossible to appreciate light. The beauty of my love stands in stark contrast to its darker twin: the violence that threatened to destroy me.
Nicolai is my lover. I met him during an apprenticeship at his Paris gallery, and he took me on a journey to myself. He says that I am his muse. He calls me Beauty. I think because, in a certain way, he created the part of me that is the most beautiful. He is a great artist, and I am the medium he crafted into his living masterpiece. You see, I am not simply Nicolai’s lover and muse; I am his submissive. He offers me the peace of accepting the truth of myself and lets me taste the sublime freedom, true and honest freedom, of surrender. He saved me from the secrets of my past. With him, I am indomitable.
Nicolai is not the only artist in this story. I created my lover as much as he created me. He came to me as a man without faith in love and, ultimately, without faith in himself. I give him purpose and make him believe in the purity of love. I satisfy the passions that drive him to dark extremes, the passions that make him such a sensual artist, and complete the man who delights in submission. He is my lover, my Master, my creator, and together, we are beautiful. Two people lost to the erotic rhythm, moving in perfect synchronicity, one unable to dance without the other.
Nicolai and I live our sexuality within the Order. European life is rife with secret societies, and ours draws from its highest echelons. We come together within the Order to indulge life’s sweetest sins. Our group adheres to an honor code and follows strict protocol because we recognize that the exercise of one will over another is a form of violence. One that people can gain an unholy taste for, if allowed. The Order provides a safe place for us to play the dark game of consensual power exchange.
For some, my story may be shocking, but for those with the eyes to see, it is uniquely beautiful. Open your mind and your heart, dear reader. Welcome to the Order. Come. Play dark games with us.
My name is Julianne Giroux, and Masterpiece is my story. It is a love story.
There is a fine line between love and hate, between pleasure and pain, between sex and violence, and I have lived on both sides of it. My story is filled with parallels. Some of my most euphoric moments are mirrored by terrible moments of unspeakable suffering, but I have no regret. Without darkness, it is impossible to appreciate light. The beauty of my love stands in stark contrast to its darker twin: the violence that threatened to destroy me.
Nicolai is my lover. I met him during an apprenticeship at his Paris gallery, and he took me on a journey to myself. He says that I am his muse. He calls me Beauty. I think because, in a certain way, he created the part of me that is the most beautiful. He is a great artist, and I am the medium he crafted into his living masterpiece. You see, I am not simply Nicolai’s lover and muse; I am his submissive. He offers me the peace of accepting the truth of myself and lets me taste the sublime freedom, true and honest freedom, of surrender. He saved me from the secrets of my past. With him, I am indomitable.
Nicolai is not the only artist in this story. I created my lover as much as he created me. He came to me as a man without faith in love and, ultimately, without faith in himself. I give him purpose and make him believe in the purity of love. I satisfy the passions that drive him to dark extremes, the passions that make him such a sensual artist, and complete the man who delights in submission. He is my lover, my Master, my creator, and together, we are beautiful. Two people lost to the erotic rhythm, moving in perfect synchronicity, one unable to dance without the other.
Nicolai and I live our sexuality within the Order. European life is rife with secret societies, and ours draws from its highest echelons. We come together within the Order to indulge life’s sweetest sins. Our group adheres to an honor code and follows strict protocol because we recognize that the exercise of one will over another is a form of violence. One that people can gain an unholy taste for, if allowed. The Order provides a safe place for us to play the dark game of consensual power exchange.
For some, my story may be shocking, but for those with the eyes to see, it is uniquely beautiful. Open your mind and your heart, dear reader. Welcome to the Order. Come. Play dark games with us.
March 26, 2015
I'm not sure how to rate this book, I really enjoyed reading it and there are things I both liked and disliked. I think i'll settle on 4 stars.
First, I'm not usually a fan of BDSM books that feauture a secret organisation of ridiculously wealthy Doms. I prefer my kinky romances to be a little more realistic. That being said, I did enjoy this story, it was a nice fantasy.
my favourite character has to be Darion. That may seem strange since he's not the main character but there's something about him I was drawn to. He just screamed Dom. His scene with Julianne in the foyer was super hot and I think I prefer him to Nikolai who was quite insecure.
I enjoyed Juliannes transformation from timid mouse to kinky sex fiend, I found it very amusing. Her relationship with Nikolai was sweet, if at times full of miscommunication.
I would recommend this to those who enjoy sugarkink and the whole secret organisation thing. It was an enjoyable read.
**A review copy of this book was provided by the author through the BDSM group on Goodreads**
First, I'm not usually a fan of BDSM books that feauture a secret organisation of ridiculously wealthy Doms. I prefer my kinky romances to be a little more realistic. That being said, I did enjoy this story, it was a nice fantasy.
my favourite character has to be Darion. That may seem strange since he's not the main character but there's something about him I was drawn to. He just screamed Dom. His scene with Julianne in the foyer was super hot and I think I prefer him to Nikolai who was quite insecure.
I enjoyed Juliannes transformation from timid mouse to kinky sex fiend, I found it very amusing. Her relationship with Nikolai was sweet, if at times full of miscommunication.
I would recommend this to those who enjoy sugarkink and the whole secret organisation thing. It was an enjoyable read.
**A review copy of this book was provided by the author through the BDSM group on Goodreads**
September 14, 2016
Spoiler Ahead This is book one of the " Masters of The Order" When Julianne Giroux, an aspiring artist with a dark secret, apprentices with Nicolai Stavros in his Paris gallery, she finds far more than a passion for art. She finds herself. When Nick first saw Juli he was struck by her beauty and her innocence. Juli has led a sheltered live led by her over protective father the Colonel who beat her to keep her in line. Nicolai Stavros is a Dominate who grew up also with wealth and a father who told him no one would love him he is a famous artist with his own gallery and he mentored Juli. Nick was very hard and very demanding of her he knows that she is very innocent and a virgin. Juli has dark sexual desires so she goes to a club where she meets another sub Lukas who helps her and tells her about "The Order". This book also introduces the players in this series like Juli's bestfriend Jerard who is in love with her he is also an artist when she tells him about her desires he decides to become a Dom to give her what she wants. Then there is Darion LeClair who is second in command of "The Order" who was like a father figure to Nick. We also met Nick's cousin Jacques who is also a Dom who is bi and messing around with Jerard. When they express feelings for each other Nick doesn't think and he can be himself with her and she wants him to be her master. This book has a twist too it that I want spill in this review. This book was really good and well written with a lot of hot sex scenes and also some dark scenes as well. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling I also liked that Jillian put in dictionary in the back for the French words. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. If you like reading BDSM books with a good storyline than I recommend that you read this book.
March 5, 2016
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review through Wicked Reads.
This was the first book of this genre to give me a "book hangover" in a long time, and for that I commend the author. I had a hard time starting another book because I was still thinking about this one. I can't tell if I feel in love with the book, or the idea in the book, A.k.a The Order.
I was instantly drawn to this book when I saw that it had references to art, BDSM, and an elite group. All things that sounded intriguing. I was not disappointed. The Order is a group of elite people members who all belong to a BDSM filled secret society, andI found it interesting. I still want to know more about it and every single one of it's members.
The characters in this book were very fun and interesting to read about. They were nicely developed, and I definitely wanted to learn more about them and hope to in future books. Julianne was my favorite part of the book and there definitely was emotional depth linked to her. Nicolai didn't seem nearly as developed, but was still intriguing. Their romance was nice, and at moments quite sexy.
I really felt like this was a long book, and yet, I felt like it wasn't all there like I would have wanted it to be. I'm hoping future books resolve this, but overall I did like this book and will be looking to the next in the series.
This was the first book of this genre to give me a "book hangover" in a long time, and for that I commend the author. I had a hard time starting another book because I was still thinking about this one. I can't tell if I feel in love with the book, or the idea in the book, A.k.a The Order.
I was instantly drawn to this book when I saw that it had references to art, BDSM, and an elite group. All things that sounded intriguing. I was not disappointed. The Order is a group of elite people members who all belong to a BDSM filled secret society, andI found it interesting. I still want to know more about it and every single one of it's members.
The characters in this book were very fun and interesting to read about. They were nicely developed, and I definitely wanted to learn more about them and hope to in future books. Julianne was my favorite part of the book and there definitely was emotional depth linked to her. Nicolai didn't seem nearly as developed, but was still intriguing. Their romance was nice, and at moments quite sexy.
I really felt like this was a long book, and yet, I felt like it wasn't all there like I would have wanted it to be. I'm hoping future books resolve this, but overall I did like this book and will be looking to the next in the series.
April 2, 2015
this book is in one word like the title a masterpiece Julianne is a women desperate to make herself more then she is more then a particle slave to her father the Cornell every wish he keeps her physically and emotionally scared of him if she dose anything to his displeasure he beats if she gets close to a man he makes sure she will cut that person from her life she has desires that she must keep hidden from her father she is a gifted artist when she is given the opportunity to work with nicholi she is so excited an amazing artist that most would kill to work for he is part of an order of people in the bdsm world all who are wealthy and have power called the order when nicholi sees she is a submissive at first he stays back it is wrong for a teacher to want his student but inevitably he can't stay away and dose everything in his power to make her see that she can be more and he can help her but the leader Xavier of the order has an unknown past with Julianne's mother and father and grants her entry into the order why has Xavier let her into the order? Will Julianne get away from her father and will her and nicholi have a future to find out I strongly recommend that you read this book it is awesome I loved it 5 gold stars
October 18, 2014
*sigh* When asked as a reader to read someone elses work it is an honor and privilege, although no less intimidating. When I was asked to read Masterpiece by the very lovely Jillian Verne I was fan girl star struck. To say that I suffered from sweaty palms and a touch of anxiety is putting mildly. Every author that writes a story is a brave hero in my eyes because they are taking that chance. The chance to put their words and thoughts and expressions in print for us as readers to read. I was warned that I could experience massive ovary explosion. So when I cracked open Masterpiece I was nervous. But once I read past chapter 1 and on to two and so on I was brought into this amazing love story. And Nicolai.... that man is pure sex on a stick. He is worthy of any explosion my ovaries might endure. God, I wanna lick him. For every trait he has as a dom, there is one weakness. And her name is Julianne. Their is beautiful and scary and amazing and neverending. Paradise can not be released soon enough....
August 4, 2015
I won a copy of this book from the Goodreads group Erotica anniversary event.
The story is about a well known rich and sophisticated artist finding his true match. The twist is the erotic nature of his sexual desires and the secret society he belong within. The readers are given a taste of several other characters within the secret society, and there is a character for all types of erotic play.
I am so happy I was given the opportunity to read this book. The characters are very well developed and the storyline is interesting. The length of the book was ideal and well worth the authors charge for anyone interested in purchasing.
The story is about a well known rich and sophisticated artist finding his true match. The twist is the erotic nature of his sexual desires and the secret society he belong within. The readers are given a taste of several other characters within the secret society, and there is a character for all types of erotic play.
I am so happy I was given the opportunity to read this book. The characters are very well developed and the storyline is interesting. The length of the book was ideal and well worth the authors charge for anyone interested in purchasing.
February 26, 2016
DNF 25%
I can't connect to the characters and I don't like the writing style, it feels formal and a bit stilted to me. I really wanted to enjoy this, but I can't :(
I can't connect to the characters and I don't like the writing style, it feels formal and a bit stilted to me. I really wanted to enjoy this, but I can't :(
February 11, 2015
I've seldom come across a book as wacky as this one. The only well written scenes were the sex scenes. Which is why I persevered, naturally!
The heroine of our story went through some kind of brain transplant somewhere in the middle of the book. Who she was in the first half had nothing in common with who she was in the second half. Then towards the end she started having some inner dialog that belonged to yet another woman. Our hero had an inconsistent personality, too.
Some of the lesser characters were kind of interesting but they weren't introduced in ways that always helped the reader build an accurate picture. Sometimes they started off with unimportant details, then they had dialogue, then we cut to another scene for a paragraph or two, then we were back to other incomplete scenes, and then we'd get an in depth look at the character and be left trying to figure out who was who. I was very confused many times. For example, why did we not get an in depth description of Darion until his scene with Julianne in the foyer? He had shown up in countless scenes by then but we had never been shown his very distinctive hair.
A couple of times there were scenes that seemed to be missing a paragraph or two. I couldn't figure out what had happened.
At one point the author introduced us to Zachary/Zachery. The name was spelled with an A as often as it was with an E. Call me picky but that kind of thing bothers me. Make up your mind!
I'm not usually this critical because I think authors should be honored for their creativity and their bravery for putting themselves out there. But sometimes someone needs to be held accountable for the less than adequate professionalism. Where are the editors?
The heroine of our story went through some kind of brain transplant somewhere in the middle of the book. Who she was in the first half had nothing in common with who she was in the second half. Then towards the end she started having some inner dialog that belonged to yet another woman. Our hero had an inconsistent personality, too.
Some of the lesser characters were kind of interesting but they weren't introduced in ways that always helped the reader build an accurate picture. Sometimes they started off with unimportant details, then they had dialogue, then we cut to another scene for a paragraph or two, then we were back to other incomplete scenes, and then we'd get an in depth look at the character and be left trying to figure out who was who. I was very confused many times. For example, why did we not get an in depth description of Darion until his scene with Julianne in the foyer? He had shown up in countless scenes by then but we had never been shown his very distinctive hair.
A couple of times there were scenes that seemed to be missing a paragraph or two. I couldn't figure out what had happened.
At one point the author introduced us to Zachary/Zachery. The name was spelled with an A as often as it was with an E. Call me picky but that kind of thing bothers me. Make up your mind!
I'm not usually this critical because I think authors should be honored for their creativity and their bravery for putting themselves out there. But sometimes someone needs to be held accountable for the less than adequate professionalism. Where are the editors?
Read
May 31, 2016
Power and rich men enjoy sexually dominating willing submissives. Said powerful men also create a secret society which brings the elite together based on mutual delight in sexual proclivity. A nice side benefit is a network of businessmen who can connect and make deals behind closed doors. Sounds exciting, doesn't it? This is the kind of glitterkink fantasy lonely submissives dream about. The blurb of this book captures my attention and I want to read about the high society. To my surprise, this story is more about young adult-esque drama than an all-inclusive ticket into sexual debauchery.
This story did not work for me on several accounts, based on my own preferences. Whilst the story is well edited and did flow smoothly, it did take me a long time to get through it. First, from a character perspective, I could not stand either Julianne or Nicolai. Julianne is a burgeoning artist. Finding Nicolai as her mentor is a coup. When Nicolai senses Julianne's submissive tendencies, he wants to show her his exclusive private world. This is pretty exciting. What is not exciting and becomes tedious is how so many characters go on and on about Julianne. It is as if they are trying to convince me she is so awesome. At the same time Julianne is constantly self-deprecating. Her incessant mantra - "Moi? Ce n'est pas possible. Je suis ennuyeux et plaine." This type of annoying setup where everyone has to reassure the delicate bloody flower how incredible she is makes me think otherwise. To make it worse, Julianne is supposed to be so courageous and yet doesn't get why she is so beautiful and talented. Then Nicolai is some master dominant who is sought after and now in love. He is masterful, talented, an excellent lover, etc. Contrary to how many times we are told this, his actions show him to be an out of control crazy man. I would have no interest in being dominated by him. With both main characters so off putting, it is difficult to enjoy the story.
Second, the story dragged on for a long time. Most of this could have been cut down to at least half the length. It is a very slow buildup between Julianne and Nicolai. There are multiple threads going on which could be either cut out or more precision applied to them. For one, Julianne's best friend's sexual needs are a distraction. Another, going to Japan was needed but the going on of how the Trinity of the 3 masters of the Order went on too long. What really went too long for me was the seduction of Julianne and the subsequent meltdown of Nicolai.
Third, the BDSM scenes are overly scripted. For me, this book told too much instead of showed. The inner musings of each of the characters bored me to death. This is how shrinks must feel when they have a patient who cannot shut up about their first world problems. I just wanted to slap them across the face and say, "Just bloody flog/whip and fuck her!" It is almost as if the BDSM was overly politically correct.
Overall, the concept of this story is good. The world building is alluring. The characters detract from my pleasure. The pace of the story is too slow. The BDSM is mild. This story is for those who enjoy fantasy glitterkink.
November 24, 2014
Masterpiece starts off with the words "Inspire me. Two simple words that are infinitely complex" and ends with the words, "I believe. Two simple words that are infinitely...simple." In between, OMG. It's dark, it's sexy, but above all, it's romantic. Two flawed people take an erotic journey and end up finding out who they really are. I liked that Nicolai isn't a typical one-dimensional alpha. He's a real man who struggles to find the right path with Julianne. I loved that Julianne evolves into the heroine and takes control in the end to save their relationship. Heavy story, lots of steam, but well done. Okay, my heart has stopped pounding now so I'll just leave it at saying thanks Ms. Verne for asking me to read her first novel. Can't wait to read Jaccques's story in Paradise.
June 16, 2015
Oh my goodness, What a great book!
I'll be back later with a more detailed review.
Cover: Like, very alluring.
Smexyness: 5
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: I loved it!
Characters: Hot dang! I love them all!
Page Turner: yes
Series Cont. Yes
Recommend: Absolutely
Book Boyfriend: Several, but I found my muse in Nicolai
I'll be back later with a more detailed review.
Cover: Like, very alluring.
Smexyness: 5
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: I loved it!
Characters: Hot dang! I love them all!
Page Turner: yes
Series Cont. Yes
Recommend: Absolutely
Book Boyfriend: Several, but I found my muse in Nicolai
October 17, 2014
NOT the same-old, same-old. What starts out as a traditional romance turns into a wild, exotic, and erotic thriller! The romance is there as the two lovers find each other and themselves in their erotic relationship and artwork. But, then the heroine finds herself pursued and imperiled by a powerful man seeking to take revenge for the sins of the father. The Order intervenes with its ancient rituals and relationships, but we have to wait and see if the Order is the threat or the savior.
This book combines romance with suspense and tremendous character development and story/plot. Verne brings the reader into an unknown but contemporary world of moneyed alliances and very personal connections. The plot and characters are real and human, but the reader still feels that voyeuristic thrill of entering a secret world known only to the rich and famous. Think Entourage meets a modern-day Game of Thrones with a touch of Fifty Shades.
All I can say is I've never read anything quite like it. I can't wait for Paradise, her next book.
This book combines romance with suspense and tremendous character development and story/plot. Verne brings the reader into an unknown but contemporary world of moneyed alliances and very personal connections. The plot and characters are real and human, but the reader still feels that voyeuristic thrill of entering a secret world known only to the rich and famous. Think Entourage meets a modern-day Game of Thrones with a touch of Fifty Shades.
All I can say is I've never read anything quite like it. I can't wait for Paradise, her next book.
June 4, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the blurb I was expecting some glitter-kink - Paris, super wealthy artist hero, up echelons of society, hot kinky sex. All of which I got - and a whole lot more. Lyrically written, Masterpiece had me thoroughly engrossed in the relationship between Nickolai and Julianne as it it moved believably from attraction, to desire, to profound love. There are dark forces in both their lives that inhibit and threaten their developing relationship, but after some dark moments and scary developments, the HEA triumphs.
Oh, and make that super hot kinky sex. As amazing as Nickolai is, he's not the hottest Dom in the book. M-f, MfM.
Oh, and make that super hot kinky sex. As amazing as Nickolai is, he's not the hottest Dom in the book. M-f, MfM.
December 1, 2014
Def a 5 stars read if you are into erotic thriller/suspense. Nicolai, the sexy Dom and Julianne, the pure innocent = some sexy steamy scenes. Love that it's read as historical scene with a mordern day feel to it. Little pain does not hurt ;).
Love that it took place in Paris (the city of Love). I like the writing style cause she incorporated French and English together.
Can't wait for the second book.
Love that it took place in Paris (the city of Love). I like the writing style cause she incorporated French and English together.
Can't wait for the second book.
July 21, 2016
Although the first in the series, I read this after volume 2, so I can say for certain, it is not necessary to read these books in order. That said, I wish I'd know about the Masters of Order ages ago. What a ride! Glitterkink with an edge. The Julianne's path isn't smooth for all her talent and wealth. There are some really nasty characters in her life, but she gets Nickolai, so it's all worth it.
October 22, 2014
Three cheers for Jillian Verne's first novel-Masterpiece. Readers that loved Fifty Shades will find this book way sexier and "naughtier". Can't wait for her second novel.
February 6, 2015
An intense, sexy and exhilarating read that I could not put down!!!! I love-love-love The Masters of the Order!!!!!!
April 5, 2015
Holy wow what a ride. This book has everything. I loved loved loved the characters.
June 5, 2016
Not usually my thing, but a friend recommended this author. She did not disappoint. Surprised me for this genre. Better than most.
November 21, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author. I was originally approached by her to beta read the second one, but I've stepped away from beta reading. I indicated the first one sounded interesting, and she graciously offered a copy to me.
The writing style is good... interesting, because they're in Paris, so there is some dialogue in French, but most in English. Since I don't know French, a brief explanation of what was said might have been helpful, and in some cases, the author was able to work the meaning in to the story just after it was spoken. That was nice. In some cases, I was able to figure out what was said by the context. And in some cases, I just moved on. It was also really weird... this is a contemporary story, but I kept thinking I was reading a historical. I have absolutely no idea why. Every time I read the name of another popular shoe designer (Juli loved shoes, lol), I had to remind myself this is contemporary.
I will say that while the writing was good, the events that occurred were a little outside my wheelhouse. I'm not big on pain when I read BDSM-themed stories, and that seemed to be a fair part of this one. A little pain is OK, domination is good, maybe a little bondage, but sometimes, the scenes in this one were outside my comfort zone. I also didn't quite understand how a woman, who had been a virgin and completely sheltered, could give herself so freely to other men, simply because her lover wished it. And, well, I suppose she wanted it, too. It just felt like a stretch.
I sort of saw the twist at the end coming, and I was glad it was revealed before any lasting damage could be done. Not that what Juli experienced wouldn't stay with her for a while, but it could have been so much worse.
One last thing. I didn't understand
This was definitely a good effort from a new author. The subject matter just wasn't exactly the type of thing I generally read, and maybe because of that, I didn't enjoy it as much as I could have.
Thank you to the author for giving me an opportunity to read this story.
The writing style is good... interesting, because they're in Paris, so there is some dialogue in French, but most in English. Since I don't know French, a brief explanation of what was said might have been helpful, and in some cases, the author was able to work the meaning in to the story just after it was spoken. That was nice. In some cases, I was able to figure out what was said by the context. And in some cases, I just moved on. It was also really weird... this is a contemporary story, but I kept thinking I was reading a historical. I have absolutely no idea why. Every time I read the name of another popular shoe designer (Juli loved shoes, lol), I had to remind myself this is contemporary.
I will say that while the writing was good, the events that occurred were a little outside my wheelhouse. I'm not big on pain when I read BDSM-themed stories, and that seemed to be a fair part of this one. A little pain is OK, domination is good, maybe a little bondage, but sometimes, the scenes in this one were outside my comfort zone. I also didn't quite understand how a woman, who had been a virgin and completely sheltered, could give herself so freely to other men, simply because her lover wished it. And, well, I suppose she wanted it, too. It just felt like a stretch.
I sort of saw the twist at the end coming, and I was glad it was revealed before any lasting damage could be done. Not that what Juli experienced wouldn't stay with her for a while, but it could have been so much worse.
One last thing. I didn't understand
This was definitely a good effort from a new author. The subject matter just wasn't exactly the type of thing I generally read, and maybe because of that, I didn't enjoy it as much as I could have.
Thank you to the author for giving me an opportunity to read this story.
March 19, 2015
I have thoroughly enjoyed this read, what a lovely story.
It is classed as dark, but only because of violence at home( not Dark to a hard Dark reader like myself!!).....Julianne an art student is physically abused by her very controlling father. He controls her life so much that she is still a virgin and has not even kissed a guy. What I never understood was when she ultimately finds the courage to leave her controlling father, that we do not hear from him again. How can that be from such a volient controlling man. Also some of the descriptives had me confused as to what was occurring, so for this the story lost a star.
But apart from that I loved the story. I found it a bit slow about half way, but then the book gets up momentum and carried me through to the end. I couldn't put it down
Julianne is taken on as an art student by Nicolai an arts master, and a Dom, also a Mater of the order. A group of high profile wealthy men are part of an order who have very select sexual tastes. They are attacked to very submissive woman, again who have high standing in society. They all carry themselves, with no outward look to show their true kinky tastes. Julianne and Nicolai are instantly attracted to each other, but because of juliannes father the relationship struggles for quite a while. The slow build up of the book is a reflection of how patient Nicolai is with Julianne and how he attracts her away from her father.
The book is emotionally charged and I could feel the love for all the characters. We get a good insight into not only the maters but their mentors and how a master is developed. We also get the insight of a switch with Jerard, and how his thought processes work, which I found interesting.
I can honestly say I never got bored with the book and found it was full of interesting twists and turns...I did see the end coming..not going to say more except that it wasn't unexpected for me, but still nice.
I thought the ending fitting and lovely, and was just a reflection of the commitment of both characters. I loved it and would read more.
The author has a unique way of weaving humour within the story line...it was fun as well as serious. Great stuff
I was given the book for an honest view, and I loved it xx
It is classed as dark, but only because of violence at home( not Dark to a hard Dark reader like myself!!).....Julianne an art student is physically abused by her very controlling father. He controls her life so much that she is still a virgin and has not even kissed a guy. What I never understood was when she ultimately finds the courage to leave her controlling father, that we do not hear from him again. How can that be from such a volient controlling man. Also some of the descriptives had me confused as to what was occurring, so for this the story lost a star.
But apart from that I loved the story. I found it a bit slow about half way, but then the book gets up momentum and carried me through to the end. I couldn't put it down
Julianne is taken on as an art student by Nicolai an arts master, and a Dom, also a Mater of the order. A group of high profile wealthy men are part of an order who have very select sexual tastes. They are attacked to very submissive woman, again who have high standing in society. They all carry themselves, with no outward look to show their true kinky tastes. Julianne and Nicolai are instantly attracted to each other, but because of juliannes father the relationship struggles for quite a while. The slow build up of the book is a reflection of how patient Nicolai is with Julianne and how he attracts her away from her father.
The book is emotionally charged and I could feel the love for all the characters. We get a good insight into not only the maters but their mentors and how a master is developed. We also get the insight of a switch with Jerard, and how his thought processes work, which I found interesting.
I can honestly say I never got bored with the book and found it was full of interesting twists and turns...I did see the end coming..not going to say more except that it wasn't unexpected for me, but still nice.
I thought the ending fitting and lovely, and was just a reflection of the commitment of both characters. I loved it and would read more.
The author has a unique way of weaving humour within the story line...it was fun as well as serious. Great stuff
I was given the book for an honest view, and I loved it xx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2014
Thank you author for giving me a copy of this book for read and review.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot, the plot is very intriguing and is as amazing as the sex contents.
The plot-sex ratio was also quite balanced.
HOT SEX CONTENTS + BDSM
Julianne has a abusive-father, controlled-life,virgin background. She is a natural submissive and eventually is apprenticed to Nicolai who later becomes her Dom. I kinda liked her a lot based on the story until 9/10 of the story. This book is good as hell but I rated this masterpiece as 4 stars maybe a 4.5, because I sort of disliked the ending. There are a few (very little) unexplained french terms which i did not understand as well.
Nicolai is a caring, loving, considerate, a little (only a little) possessive Dom and I compliment him for that.
This story revolves about an innocent Julianne who is apprenticed to Nicolai (in art) and she eventually submitting herself to him and acknowledge him as her dom. The story is about how they get together and face those ups and downs (all caused by Julianne's own background *facepalm, but needless to say I somehow couldn't put the book down until its finish).
Pardon me but I'm trying not to put in any more spoilers as there are many interesting contents in the story which you'll have to read yourself to find out.
Thanks again Author for providing me a copy for this book, looking forward to read the sequel(s).
I enjoyed reading this book a lot, the plot is very intriguing and is as amazing as the sex contents.
The plot-sex ratio was also quite balanced.
HOT SEX CONTENTS + BDSM
Julianne has a abusive-father, controlled-life,virgin background. She is a natural submissive and eventually is apprenticed to Nicolai who later becomes her Dom. I kinda liked her a lot based on the story until 9/10 of the story. This book is good as hell but I rated this masterpiece as 4 stars maybe a 4.5, because I sort of disliked the ending. There are a few (very little) unexplained french terms which i did not understand as well.
Nicolai is a caring, loving, considerate, a little (only a little) possessive Dom and I compliment him for that.
This story revolves about an innocent Julianne who is apprenticed to Nicolai (in art) and she eventually submitting herself to him and acknowledge him as her dom. The story is about how they get together and face those ups and downs (all caused by Julianne's own background *facepalm, but needless to say I somehow couldn't put the book down until its finish).
Pardon me but I'm trying not to put in any more spoilers as there are many interesting contents in the story which you'll have to read yourself to find out.
Thanks again Author for providing me a copy for this book, looking forward to read the sequel(s).
March 26, 2016
This is kind of a hard review to write, because I feel like the book was split into two parts. The first half was kind of slow and hard to get into, but the second half really made up for it. So do continue on with the book, even if it doesn't grab you immediately. ( And as an aside, I am about 30% into the second book, and it is awesome! Totally into it right away. So do continue on with the series, as I suspect they are only going to continue to get better and better). By the second half of the book, I was entertained and interested and had no trouble continuing.
I do enjoy the writers style, as it is a well written book. Especially for a first book. All the characters in the book are intriguing and I am hoping they will all get their own books as well.
As far as this first book there were a couple of times I thought, no way would that ever happen in "real" life. Yet, then I realized that we don't necessarily read to have only 100% reality, but more to be entertained and invested in the story of the characters. And I can definitely say Jillian managed that very well. Both the H and h had tough lives, and you really pulled for them to get their HEA, because they were so much in love and they so deserved it. I do recommend this book, and especially recommend you continue with the series.
I do enjoy the writers style, as it is a well written book. Especially for a first book. All the characters in the book are intriguing and I am hoping they will all get their own books as well.
As far as this first book there were a couple of times I thought, no way would that ever happen in "real" life. Yet, then I realized that we don't necessarily read to have only 100% reality, but more to be entertained and invested in the story of the characters. And I can definitely say Jillian managed that very well. Both the H and h had tough lives, and you really pulled for them to get their HEA, because they were so much in love and they so deserved it. I do recommend this book, and especially recommend you continue with the series.
July 9, 2015
3.5 STARS
A very unique, complex, slow building story. The order, as they call themselves run a club that's into BDSM. The story is about the artist and Dom, Nicolai and his "muse" Julianne. Both of them looking for what the other can offer. Both of them held back by insecurities, and secrets.
There are many characters in this book as told by dual POV. It takes awhile to get to the "good stuff". At first, I was disappointed by the sex, but then it seemed the author (characters) took a turn and it got HOT....not only with sex but dirty talk.....but this was well past the 50% mark. All in all a good read. There are secrets and lies all set with the art world in the backdrop. I will read book 2 which is Jacques story.
**Contains menage**
A special thank you to the author, Jillian Verne. She was kind enough to offer her books in the erotica group anniversary event. I was one of the fortunate participants that won her 2 MASTERS OF THE ORDER books. Thanks so much!
A very unique, complex, slow building story. The order, as they call themselves run a club that's into BDSM. The story is about the artist and Dom, Nicolai and his "muse" Julianne. Both of them looking for what the other can offer. Both of them held back by insecurities, and secrets.
There are many characters in this book as told by dual POV. It takes awhile to get to the "good stuff". At first, I was disappointed by the sex, but then it seemed the author (characters) took a turn and it got HOT....not only with sex but dirty talk.....but this was well past the 50% mark. All in all a good read. There are secrets and lies all set with the art world in the backdrop. I will read book 2 which is Jacques story.
**Contains menage**
A special thank you to the author, Jillian Verne. She was kind enough to offer her books in the erotica group anniversary event. I was one of the fortunate participants that won her 2 MASTERS OF THE ORDER books. Thanks so much!
January 15, 2015
Def 5 Star Read. A beautifully written, edgy story that turned me on AND made me think. How much is too much. How far is too far. Not just for the characters but for the readers too. Juli and Nico's boudoir scene after seeing Juli suffer similarly in an earlier scene shows how the bdsm dynamic must be rooted in love to rise above the specter of abuse. Brave author to challenge the reader like that. Juli becomes Nico's masterpiece and he becomes hers. Love is art and love hurts ;) Loved this book.
January 22, 2015
Took me a little time to get my head wrapped around the story and to finish it, but 1000% glad I did. I had been reading sweet contemporary for a while which had tainted my pallet a bit. ;-)
Not the typical BDSM novel at all, well worth the time to read and I will absolutely read the next installment.
4.5/5
Not the typical BDSM novel at all, well worth the time to read and I will absolutely read the next installment.
4.5/5
February 22, 2015
This is one of the most unique books I have read in a long time. When I finished the book, I literally felt that I have walked through Nicolai and Julianne’s journey with them. The writing is unique and does read more like a historical novel rather than contemporary. The author did a very good job with the description of the characters’ thoughts and feelings. The concept of a secret society was intriguing and the sex scenes were HOT! The only thing that I felt missing was an explanation of what happened with Julianne’s father – the Colonel just stopped appearing in the book and given his past behavior, it was hard to imagine that he just accepted Julianne’s decision to move out.
Going into the book, I knew it was going to be dark, but it was still hard for me to wrap my mind around some things. This book is heavy on the pain and although I have no problems with reading about that, it did get some getting used to. I do have to say that the author again did an excellent job at describing the thoughts and emotions that the characters were going through which explained the reason/satisfaction gained from these acts. One thing that I could not get over and did not know that this book contained was sharing. I think that my brain just isn’t wired to accept that an alpha male who is truly in love with someone – whether in a D/s relationship or not – is willing to share her with anyone else.
I rated this book 3 stars which by Goodreads standards mean that I liked the book, which I did. In fact, I will be reading the second book and look forward to Jacques’ story.
Going into the book, I knew it was going to be dark, but it was still hard for me to wrap my mind around some things. This book is heavy on the pain and although I have no problems with reading about that, it did get some getting used to. I do have to say that the author again did an excellent job at describing the thoughts and emotions that the characters were going through which explained the reason/satisfaction gained from these acts. One thing that I could not get over and did not know that this book contained was sharing. I think that my brain just isn’t wired to accept that an alpha male who is truly in love with someone – whether in a D/s relationship or not – is willing to share her with anyone else.
I rated this book 3 stars which by Goodreads standards mean that I liked the book, which I did. In fact, I will be reading the second book and look forward to Jacques’ story.
March 11, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
I really don’t know how to review this book. I was so bored at times, I put the book down several times and had to keep coming back to it because there wasn’t a lot until half way into the book and by that point I really wanted to give up but everyone kept telling me to keep going. Well, I kept going but the only thing I enjoyed about this book was the sex scenes, everything else, was just blah for me. Julianne had a controlling father that she finally got away from but then he was never from again, that is odd. Julianne seemed to flip from one personality to another and that frustrated and confused me. It was just too slow for me but I am sure others will enjoy it.
Characters: so confusing at times
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: BDSM Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
I really don’t know how to review this book. I was so bored at times, I put the book down several times and had to keep coming back to it because there wasn’t a lot until half way into the book and by that point I really wanted to give up but everyone kept telling me to keep going. Well, I kept going but the only thing I enjoyed about this book was the sex scenes, everything else, was just blah for me. Julianne had a controlling father that she finally got away from but then he was never from again, that is odd. Julianne seemed to flip from one personality to another and that frustrated and confused me. It was just too slow for me but I am sure others will enjoy it.
Characters: so confusing at times
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: BDSM Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
March 4, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I am going to be very interested to read other people's reviews of this book - as I have very mixed feelings about it. As a very sexy read, it definitely works, but there were some parts that I could have lived without. I think it just is too long, and possibly too tortured in places - and by two people who really drag out their emotional pain a lot. And yet, I had to keep reading, because I wanted to know what happened. I guessed the main twist, although silence caused it to be far worse than necessary. But is it sensual and erotic? Most definitely scorchingly hot, and very enjoyable - hence my mixed opinion. I do want to read the next one - especially as I read the introductory chapter at the end of this book!
I am going to be very interested to read other people's reviews of this book - as I have very mixed feelings about it. As a very sexy read, it definitely works, but there were some parts that I could have lived without. I think it just is too long, and possibly too tortured in places - and by two people who really drag out their emotional pain a lot. And yet, I had to keep reading, because I wanted to know what happened. I guessed the main twist, although silence caused it to be far worse than necessary. But is it sensual and erotic? Most definitely scorchingly hot, and very enjoyable - hence my mixed opinion. I do want to read the next one - especially as I read the introductory chapter at the end of this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews