A Jade's Trick

Jaded #1

by Lilly Black

A Jade's Trick, the first installment in Lilly Black's Jaded Series, tells the story of Evan Lucien (F), a former runaway left frigid by years of sexual abuse, and Cain Ballantyne, a strikingly handsome billionaire who is accustomed to getting everything he wants all the time...until he meets his match in Evan. Streetwise and hardwired to expect the worst in people, she sees right through him, instantly recognizing him for what he is - a rich playboy just out for a good time, but this playboy comes with much darker desires than she could have imagined.

Determined to prove her assessment wrong, Cain spares no resource in seducing her, reminding her at every turn that he is the one who will succeed where all others have failed, and when Evan surrenders to his charms, she finds everything she ever wanted. In her, Cain finds everything he never knew he needed, becoming the man he pretended to be to make her his.

On the arm of San Diego's most eligible bachelor, the poor girl from New Orleans finds herself thrusts into the spotlight among the Southern Californian elite, where she learns that the people in Cain's world all seem painted and fake like the tricks of a jade.

Everyone has secrets and hidden motives beneath their perfect facades, even Cain himself, and over the course of the four book series, as their tumultuous yet unstoppable love grows, he gradually begins to share his secrets with her amid grand gestures of love and phenomenal, mind-bending sex, all while a killer hunts among his ex-submissives.

Enjoy the guilty pleasures of sensual bondage, switching, and Femdom as Evan finds her sexual muse and reshapes Cain's sexual norms...and maybe yours as well.

408 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 6, 2015

About the author

From San Diego, Lilly Black moved to the southeastern U.S. with her husband of 20 years without whom, this series would not be possible. Check out books II and III of the Jaded Series, available now on Amazon.com.

Reviews

[TopsieJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just Wow!!

Hot, steamy and romantic with off the charts chemistry! I experienced all the emotions possible reading this book, including utter sadness and anger when it became apparent what Jade had experienced in her past.
A beautiful love story with an ending that I never saw coming!! Looking forward to reading book 2!

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Awesome

Where do I begin,first you must read this book! Omg when I first started reading, I thought it was just another love story with a BDSM flare. Boy was I wrong, so very wrong! Lilly takes you on a wild ride of love, pain, passion and oh yeah a murder!!!!!! Bet you didn't see that coming, cause lord knows I didn't. This story has pulled me in and won't let go, had me on edge the whole time reading it. Now I don't want to give anything away but I will say that I am mad at Cain right now, how could he play Evan like that, I actually need t know what he was thinking, after she opened up to him and then he just.........read the book to find out!

[Sabrina McVeigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

I started this book the other day and I have had such a hard time putting it down. Its a great story and different from other books in the erotic category. Sometimes you can just predict what's going to happen because some (but not all) follow the same path. I'm very happy to say that this book is very different. It introduced a story that I haven't read before and I was instantly hooked.

I instantly liked Evan. She is a very strong willed character and not afraid to speak her mind. She has had a very rough childhood, but she escaped and started a new life with her best friend Nicole. Her sole focus is work and forgetting her past. She still has trouble with certain things but is determined to put it behind her.
Everything seems to be going fine until a certain playboy enters the bar one night. She has seen his type many times before and is determined to ignore him. But that proves to be much harder than she anticipated.

Cain is... what is a good way to describe him.... dominate, passionate and downright hot!!! He is used to getting his way and not used to anyone avoiding him the way Evan does... but with time and some very determined moves..he finally gets his way. I was really intrigued by Cain. At first you think he is going to be very much like Christian grey... but he is in a league of his own. Just the way he treats her was amazing. Perfect book boyfriend!!!

This story is not just Cain dominating Evan, it also shows Evan embracing her own dominate side. The tables were defiantly turned and it made a very interesting book. A mysterious murder and a crazy group of ex girlfriends will keep you on the edge of your seat. This story shows two people who are learning about each other, who fall in love despite all of the crazy obstacles thrown in their way....
I am so ready for part 2 in this series! I have to know what happens. Lilly black is now one of my go to authors! Amazing job!!!!

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evan won't give Cain the time of day as she figures he is a playboy who is only looking for another notch on his bedpost. He finally gets through her defenses and has her seeing him for himself not a composite of those who have hurt her in the past. Their relationship is unlike any either has had in the past and their future looks bright.

I liked this book. I hated the cliffhanger ending. I want, and am not waiting patiently for book 2. I liked Evan and Cain. Both are strong willed. Both protective of themselves but they opened up for each other. Even when they looked like they were breaking up, they managed to get through the anger and eventually talk the problem through. Cain has too many secrets. Evan is insecure but finally opens up about her past. I really thought after that breakthrough they would make it work. Unfortunately, the ending came and it was not what I expected or wanted. I was in agony from it. Actually I was p*ssed by it.

The story is believable. The BDSM works well within their relationship. While Cain is dominate most of the time, Evan has her share of dominance. Cain's eyes are opened by Evan's play. Evan discovers and owns her sexuality.

There are some secondary story lines I want to see play out--Nicole and Caleb, the past, the murder, the exes, and the future. What does it hold for them? Right now, I hope Evan sticks it to Cain, I am so mad at him.

[Debbie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC from Lilly Black for my honest review.
It's much more than a girl meets rich boy story.
Evan is a troubled girl after years of abuse who ran away with her best friend to escape her troubles. She's still quite strong and confident however and can see through people. Well that is until she meets Cain at the bar she's working in. She resists for some time but eventually he gets what he wants and they begin dating (as friends) until things take a turn. Lots of hot sex, BDSM, jealousy and ex partners.
I kept telling myself I'd read just one more chapter but I found myself with late nights unable to find the right point at which to take a break. So very hard to resist. Lilly Black writes this genre superbly and I now need to read the next book as this one ends with a massive cliffhanger. Don't let the cliffhanger put you off reading. You will love it!!!!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I didn't see that coming... You'll find yourself saying that a couple of times while reading this gem. I was given a copy to read and give my opinion to the author. I have to say I'm really excited for the next installment to this series. I bought everything in this book. Evan is strong yet damaged. Cain is every woman's dream and controlling but not over dramatic about it. Drama wasn't drama for no reason. BDSM in this is light which plays well for the characters. I bought the idea that Evan is exploring this for the first time. If your looking for something new give this a shot I doubt you'll be disappointed. I wasn't and I read a lot!

[Marcie Wegner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Jade's Trick introduces us to Evan Lucien, a former runaway left frigid by years of sexual abuse, and Cain Ballantyne, a handsome billionaire who is accustomed to getting everything he wants. But Cain wants Evan and will do anything to get her. Both Cain and Evan have secrets that are hinted at in the book( I assume they will be revealed in later books), and now have to deal with a killer in their midst. I fell in love with the characters and their story. The book was so well written that you felt like you were in the story. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

[Chell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.8 stars for me ! This was an intriguing story . This story reminded me of 50 shades of grey but in this they both shared the control and consent in the bedroom. If you are not into BDSM then don't read! The twists and turns will keep you wanting more. The things i didn't like about this story was the fact that it was so long . I had to take a few long breaks to get through it and i'm not a huge fan of cliffhangers . But if you are then this book will be great for you !

[Keira Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

First let me start by saying Wow! This book was free on my Nook and I am glad I downloaded it. Evan and Cain are made for one another both are strong and sassy but at the same time scared of losing the love they just found. The BDSM in the book is both hot and not overwhelming as in some books I have read. Lilly didn’t make it dirty and uncomfortable she actually made sure you followed the characters emotions and feelings as they both learned how to be submissive to one another. The story is a roller coaster with Evan letting go and then holding back her emotions, her demons try to take her over and as she fights for control you feel her pain. I will not give the story away but I will say the end is a cliff hanger that makes you want more of Evan and Cain. Read A Jade’s Trick, it will not disappoint you.

[Debbie Krouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first book my Lilly Black and it won't be the last. BDSM is so vivid and you you feel you are in the dungeon with both, Cain is the handsome billionaire playboy type where as Evan is the tough but damage woman but can hold her own with Cain. The ups and downs between them give you a ride of emotions. So mad at Cain how could he.... The murder threw me and still trying to figure it out ready for book 2 to see when Cain and Evan goes even Lucy

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cain and Evan's story is thoroughly captivating and erotic. Evan is scarred, both inside and out, and hides behind her snark and wit. When Cain sets his sights on her, what follows is an all-consuming seduction that even the most jaded of us would be hard put to ignore. As Cain introducing Evan to BDSM and she begins to open up, their feelings for each other are almost palpable.
The story is beautifully written and emotional as Black paints a picture of not just romance and sex, but of obsession, betrayal, love, lust, trust, and even hope. This first book in the series is more than just a love story, it's a journey for this pair as they fight an claw their way through the beginnings of a relationship amid the many pitfalls created by so many around them.
Lilly Black has given us romance, mystery, and a bit of mayhem with twists and turns that will give you whiplash - right to the very last page. Speaking of the last page, I was floored and can't wait to dive in to book two!

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Don't get the idea that it is just another BDSM romance! Yes, I would recommend it for anyone interested in light/romantic BDSM, but the BDSM is not all this book is about. In fact, less than half of the sex is BDSM. It's some of the hottest sex I've ever read, and the BDSM sex is some of the most accurate - like the author really knows what she is talking about. And in the middle of all the sex is a great story about a girl who could have been eaten alive by the bad circumstances in her life yet she fought to rise above them, then she is rewarded for all of her suffering by a man who is a billionaire and sex god. Cain is more than just a sex god, though. He's a genuine good guy. He's filthy rich, but he cares about people less fortunate and takes good care of the people who work for him. It's not the kind of thing he advertises, so Evan has to find out through other sources because even though he is usually arrogant, he is humble in that way. I also think there is more to him than the writer tells us in book 1. I think he has some sort of abuse in his past, too. I just can't figure out what it is. Anyway, there is also a murder mystery going on throughout the second half of the book, and I cannot for the life of me figure out who the killer could be.

The only complaint I have is that it took a little long to get to the sex (not counting that intro blurb,which is nothing compared to the actual sex scenes) but it really paid off, and once I got to know Cain and Evan, book 1 wasn't enough. I want to know more.

[Cheryl Woods-lucero · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Jade’s Trick by Lilly Black had me at the first page. This is the story of Evan (female) and Cain. Cain is a billionaire who is use to getting any woman he desires with no emotions involved and Evan a woman who shields her heart. At times it appears that they are moving forward and bam backwards they go, throw in a murder and what happens next??? I don’t know since this is a click hanger! I can’t wait to see how Lilly gets Evan and Cain together for their HEA or do they? I can’t wait for the next installment.

Purchase this book, you won’t be disappointed.

I was given this book for an honest review. (Trust me I wouldn’t give the book a 5 stars rating if I didn’t thoroughly enjoy it.)

[Ana Rita]

Once i stated this book i couldn't put it down, the story captivated me from the begining.
The love story between Evan and Cain is like no oder,
Evan had a past of abuse and negleted relationships, and Cain, oh dear lord Cain is the handsome billionaire who is accustomed on getting everything and anything that he wants, and girls he wants Evan so bad.
I saw myself wanting to read more and more, once i finished a chapter a told myself, read just a little bite more, one more.
The book is full of mystery, romance, intrigue, jealousy and .... you need to read to know.
I can't wait for the next book.

[Helen (Blissfully Bookish Besties) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evan is a runaway who, due to past abuse, protects her heart and is very guarded. She catches the eye of billionaire playboy, Cain, and he is determined to make her his. I liked the two leads, Evan is sassy and strong, she is bruised but not broken and Evan is sexy, dominant and willing to give Evan everything. I really enjoyed this book, the overall story was great, the sex scenes were hot and Lilly Black really knows how to write BDSM. The only thing is, the book does end on a major cliff hanger!!!

I was given a copy of A Jade's Trick in exchange for an honest review.

[Victoria Tortelini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin?! This story had me frantically turning the page to find out what happens next. Very well written in its multiple plot twists, you'll be dying to see what happens with Evan, a fiercely independant woman who stands for herself, especially when dominant Cain falls into her life. With the ups and downs of living with both their pasts, their relationship is one you'll long to know more about! And you're in luck, because Lilly leaves you at a crazy cliffhanger but thankfully you'll have relief with A Deeper Shade of Jade!

[Nicola Puttick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gifted this book for an honest review and all I can say is wow ! This book has everything, the strong sassy but damaged girl and the hot billionaire dominant who is willing to give her everything even handing over the "chains" in the dungeon. I had to keep reading to find out what was coming next it had me gripped from the start. I can't wait for the second instalment.

[Keesha · Rating 5 out of 5]

My head is in a tizzy

Wow. There is so much going on with these two i can’t begin to explain other than to say you have got to read this. Evan Annoyed the heck out of me with always jumping to conclusions but man I did not see that end coming! Cain, I just loved him up until the very end. Then I wanted to smack him silly. Cannot wait to read the next book!!!

[Wendy Ballard · Rating 5 out of 5]

all I can say is wow ! This book has everything, the strong sassy but damaged girl and the hot billionaire dominant who is willing to give her everything even handing over the "chains" in the dungeon. I had to keep reading to find out what was coming next it had me gripped from the start. I can't wait for the second instalment.

[Vera Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow. I have never said OMFG so many times reading a book. The journey of Cain and Evan takes on some major trips. The sex is hawt and the plot leaves you saying OMFG I did not see that coming. This book end with a major cliffhanger beware but so worth it.

[Avril · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well written roller coaster ride of feelings! Great characters, even if I wanted to hate on the H sometimes! Major Cliffy with an excerpt from the second book that makes you want to demand second book now! Buckle up!

[Candy76 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book in return for an honest review. OMG it didn't end the way I wanted. With all the twist and turns the end was not I expected. Evan and Cain probably were meant for each other but now I'm not sure.

[Carolyn Muller · Rating 5 out of 5]

AJades Trick
I was Sucked right in Evan and Cain are amazing together
Inable to put the book down their chemistry together is awesome the secrets come out and the story envelops you, you won't want to put it down light bdsm great story well written thanks Lilly Black can't wait for the next book

[Jacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was kindly gifted this book for an honest review.FANTASTIC start to a series.This book had me hooked from the start I seriously could not put it down.Can't wait for book 2.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've come to the conclusion that everyone in this book is insecure and crazy. The story was laid out perfectly. I kept reading because I just had to know what was going to happen next.

[Colleen Hurley Jozwiak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very similar to other books I have read, which makes me love it even more. I'm in love with Cain & Evan's love story. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

[Cely · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book, Lilly you are killing me by leaving me hanging!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

This is an awesome book. I was hooked the whole time. I can't wait to read the next book, that's how good this book was.

[LS Kralicek · Rating 5 out of 5]

10 star series!!!!

I did not know what to expect when I ran across the Jaded Series book I. I have to say it a definite must read Evan and Cain leave you wanting more. Their love story is powerful and Lilly Black is a fantastic author. This series is up there with Fifty shades of grey! Love it!

[Lynn Stifle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow an amazing read!! I was captivated from the beginning and couldn't put it down. I loved everything about this book, the storyline is gripping and intriguing, the characters, Cain and Evan, are engaging, complex, and their chemistry was steamy and hot!! What a great book, totally loved it and definitely recommend it.