Loving Lies

Dangerous Desires #1

by Tina Donahue

Deception knows no limits. Passion knows no bounds.

When she is kidnapped, Senorita Isabella knows the men have been sent by her uncle in a murderous attempt to control her family’s fortune. But when she is rescued by a dashing and mysterious warrior, Isabella can’t imagine why a stranger would risk his life for her—until she discovers her rescuer believes she’s someone else…

Fernando de Zayas loves nothing more than the cry of battle. Defying death is his way of life. But when he discovers his betrothed has been kidnapped, he rushes to her aid—never suspecting that spirited beauty would soothe his warrior heart…

With her uncle’s minions close on their heels, Isabella finds herself drawing closer to Fernando. But as the desire between them builds, her secret could keep them apart forever…

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Spain

228 pages, Paperback

First published February 16, 2016

About the author

I'm an Amazon and international bestselling novelist who writes passionate romance for every taste - 'heat with heart' - for traditional publishers and indie. Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Romantic Times, and numerous online sites have praised my work. I've won Readers' Choice Awards, was named a finalist in the EPIC competition, received a Book of the Year Award, The Golden Nib Award, awards of merit in the RWA Holt Medallion competitions, and second place in the NEC RWA contests. I'm featured in the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market. Before penning romances, I worked at a major Hollywood production company in Story Direction.

On a less serious note: I'm an admitted and unrepentant chocoholic, brake for Mexican restaurants, and have been known to moan like Meg Ryan in "When Harry Met Sally" while wolfing down tostadas. I've flown a single-engine airplane (freaking scary), rewired an old house using an 'electricity for dummies' book, and am horribly shy despite the hot romances I write.

You can find me here:

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Reviews

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had such a fun time with this one. It starts off with our heroine who has been kidnapped and is about to be sold as a sex slave. But she is rescued by her sisters betrothed....although he believes she is her sister. Isabella and her sister traded places, since she knew her sister only wanted a life in the convent....to live a life of peace and healing. She could never handle being a wife to a warrior. Isabella was willing to save her sister. But her uncle has dangerous plans for her, and only her "husband" can save her if she is willing to confide in him. After a time, Isabella and her deception works, but at a terrible price, keeping a secret from the man she has come to love and respect. She knows he deserves the truth, but never finds the right time.

What was most unqiue about this story, is one this was a new author for me. I hadn't read Tina Donahue before and I was very impressed with the world building she has done. I loved the history of Spain we learn, and see the intricate details she puts into this story. Also another aspect was our hero's family. These brothers are a riot....like really, I could never get enough of them!! The only reason I rated this book a four instead of a five, was because toward the end of the book I felt the story dragged a bit, and didn't feel as engaging as the previous parts of it. But I still enjoyed it, would recommend it to romance lovers and plan on reading the second book!!

[Roxie's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Another Stunning Scorching hot book by Tina Donahue!"
Such a stunning story with amazing characters. Isabella is a daughter of a Spanish Grandee and a duke. Do to an evil Uncle finds her self in a slave auction. While trying to protect her older sister she was abducted and took to be sold as a sex slave. Before she can be sold a what she thinks is a Fakir (holy Man) saves her. But he turns out to not be a Fakir he is Fernando a Spanish Knight. Fernando thinks he is saving his Betroth only he is saving her younger sister. To protect her Sister Isabella does not inform Fernando the truth. Fernando tries very hard to get Isabella to let him make love to her only she keeps putting him off as she knows she is not the one meant for him. During their travels Isabella falls in love with Fernando not what is she going to do?. She knows as soon as he gets her back home the truth will come out that she has tricked him.
This book is a stunning erotic Journey filled with danger, suspense, seduction, humor that will captivate you!. It is a must read 5-star plus book you will not want to miss!.

[Gabrielle Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet story about deception but this deception is done in the name of love not hate. Isabella sacrifices everything including her life for her older sister but when Fernando shows up to rescue her from a fate worse than death everything that Isabella knows is turned upside down She never thought that she would fall for a man like him but the longer she is with Fernando the harder it is to tell the truth. The two make a great couple but Isabella knows it cannot last, once Fernando finds out the truth she will lose him.



I enjoyed this fast paced story. I quickly found myself lost in the adventure that Fernando and Isabella were on. Love knows no boundaries and these two must fight through many to find their happy ever after. Not only do the main characters speak to you but the secondary ones have much to say as well. The author does a wonderful job of painting a world that pulls you in right from the very start and does not let go until the very end.

[Sydney Hopke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't normally read historical romances but am glad I read this one. Isabella is thought to be her oldest sister and is kidnapped and sent to be sold by the Moors. Before this can happen she's rescued by Fernando who thinks she's her older sister who he's actually betrothed to. As they travel back to her castle they face many obstacles and for Isabella she knows she needs to tell him who she really is but is starting to have feelings and doesn't know how to. Will their love survive her lies or will he claim the sister who's his true betrothed.

The author did a great job bringing the reader into their world, I had no trouble imagining that I was with them in their travels and feeling their emotions. A great read for anyone who loves a good romance! I received this in exchange for a honest review.

[Christine Woinich · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a gripping story, hard to put down. Fernando made my heart strings sing. This was a man who rescued Isabella from becoming a concubine and an unhappy life. He admitted his attraction to her immediately, even though he mistakenly thought her to be his betrothed. He loved her spirit and headstrong ways, and worked at winning her over. Isabella lied to protect her sister from certain death at the hands of their uncle. Her loyalty to her sister and her struggle as to what was right and what was wrong kept me turning page after page. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next in the series.

I had a chance to read this story in exchange for an honest review.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read the name of the book fits this story well. They say you should always tell the truth but sometimes if you do it could get people killed. This story starts out with a bang and continues with one throughout the story. Isabella is at a slave auction trying to work out a way to escape when an old man comes up with a few tricks of his own and takes her way. Little does she know who he is and could even be the man her uncle sent to killer her. She must think on her feet to keep herself alive. When she finds out the truth is it is too late for her to come clean she still must protect her sister at all cost. They are on the run to stay alive with much danger around them.

Isabella is a wonderful strong woman that will always put family first. Her first loyalty is to her sister there is nothing she wouldn’t do for her to keep her safe and happy. She takes her sisters place and is kidnapped than sold. This is one strong tough woman who is sassy, sweet, kind and loving. She knows how to fight and will stand her ground.

Fernando is a true knight in shining armor who saved the day when he takes his betrothed back. There is no need to wait for love they will be married soon. Things are just not making sense Isabella is hiding something he is going to find out. She is one strong sassy lady and he is so lucky to call her his.

This was a well written story that you will not want to put down. I thought at times it was a little longer than it needed to be. I loved the characters and the battles they fought together and against each other. I adore his brothers and can’t wait to read their stories. There are times you will laugh or smile and others where your heart breaks. I totally enjoyed this and look forward to reading more by this author.

[Amy ~ Love At 1st Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

To keep her elder sister Sancha hidden from their murderous uncle who is determined to take over their holdings, Senorita Isabella Lopez de Lara takes her place journeying to the convent. Along the way, she is kidnapped by her uncle's minions and is about to be sold. Fernando de Zayas rushes to her aid thinking she is his long ago betrothed, Sancha. As the two travel back to Isabella's castle, they are faced with many threats, the greatest being what will Fernando do when he realizes, in spite of their growing desire, Isabella is not his betrothed.
Ms. Donahue tells a great story with intriguing characters. You feel Isabella's dilemma of keeping her sister safe but also keeping the man she has grown to love. Ms. Donahue also paints a vivid description of the Spanish countryside and this time in history. This is the first book in her Dangerous Desires series. I look forward to reading future books in this series. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical read with lots of steam! Isabella has been kidnapped by her Uncles henchmen but little do they know she is the wrong sister. Fernando rescues Isabella thinking she is his betrothed and the chemistry between these two soon sizzles. Great story and hot sex scenes. Loved it!

[Armenia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Steamy Medieval

As second daughter of a duke, Isabella Lopez de Lara devises a plan to trade places with Sancha in the abduction. In disguise, Isabella travels to the convent and is kidnapped by her uncle’s henchmen who sell her to the slave market in Granada. The switch was to ensure Sancha’s safety from her uncle whose greedy plans include killing their parents, and the firstborn of the de Lara family. With Sancha’s demise, Don Rodrigo, will ultimately claim the inheritance by murdering all heirs to the estate.

Fernando de Zayas rescues Isabella in time from being sold to the sultan’s harem. Fernando thinks the woman on the dais is his intended but does not remember her name. Isabella plays along as she’s wary of a possibility he might be one of her uncle’s agent come to finish her off. As Isabella realizes Fernando is Sancha’s betroth, she hides her true identity. Isabella’s loyalty to her sister’s protection by withholding identity and lying all through her escape is the major force in this book. The conflict, to protect both Sancha and Fernando from her uncle through all her lies, creates turmoil with her heart as she grows to love Fernando.

What I liked about this book: Plot line is believable. The heroine’s willpower and loyalty to her sister is admirable. The ending. Relief to the struggle and anguish felt for Isabella over the secret lie.

What I didn’t like about this book: Though there was a lot of sex, I didn’t feel the chemistry between these two was really affection. Isabella grows to love Fernando, I don’t know why, other than he’s handsome and is full of testosterone. I know it’s a medieval romance, but Fernando’s dialogue is stilted, awkward, and he’s curt when he speaks to Isabella like he’s a dom. His actions toward her are noble as he wants to protect her, but his delivery is all machismo and demanding, and I find him an unlikable character. And the lie? I think there was plenty of times Isabella could have divulged her secret.

I’ve read several books by Tina Donahue, I know how talented she is as a writer, and she writes sexy scenes like nobody’s business. Reviews are subjective and my opinion is my own, but Loving Lies just did not work for me, as my inner romantic girl did not get the fuzzy feeling over the hero and heroine. But I look forward to reading more of Ms. Donahue’s contemporary romances where she usually rocks it.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My rating: 3

[Krys · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was not one of my favorites. However, I think it would appeal to a lot of people - and I believe more people will enjoy it than not. But then - I'm getting ahead of myself.

Story wise, there is nothing really wrong with the setting or the author's story-telling. She provides a wonderfully written story that draws the reader in from the very start. Time seems to fly by as you immerse yourself in the world that she has created and the plight of the characters.

However, for me at least, the main characters were deeply annoying. I felt nothing for either of them. Fernando thinks himself "Lord and Master" and while that may be true for the time period, the way he was presented made him seem more an arrogant jerk than someone anyone could fall in love with. For over half of the story, I found myself wishing he would either shut up, or that Isabella would bash his head in with a heavy rock. Not that she was any better. While I completely understand her reasoning behind lying to him to begin with - she had ample opportunities afterwards to tell the truth, and yet she didn't because she feared his reactions. It made their entire part in the story seem shallow and immature.

Then there was the overused sexual encounters between the pair. Don't get me wrong, I am by no means a prude of any sort, but there were times when the sex not only seemed to overpower the rest of the story, but it just went on and on in some parts. Yes, they are attracted to one another, yes they have a passion for one another, but I do not need to read in detail about them having sex repeatedly the same night. It got to the point where I found myself skipping those scenes entirely because I felt as though they were taking too much away from the main story.

All of those things considered however, I still strongly believe that what I did not like about this story, someone else will love. And I would recommend it to people who enjoy a different sort of story-line, and who enjoys gratuitous sexual content with their historical novels.


DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

[Kymberly Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sizzling Hot Dangerous Desires!

This book by the Fabulous Tina Donahue is by far one of the best reads so far this year! Her depiction of historical Spain is full of grandeur and rich detail. She has a talent of hooking her readers with the opening of the book and pulling us into the story along side of her characters. I loved the way she built the tale up layer by layer adding more with each until the reader is so apart of the story you cannot put it down until finished!

In this book we get to meet Isabella the second daughter of a Grandee. Isabella mistaken as her older sister Sancha, is taken captive by the hired thugs of her Uncle who wants control over the family fortune. To be sold to the Moors as a sex slave. When the word gets out that supposedly Sancha was kidnapped, Fernando a Knight to the Spanish Realm, and also Sancha's betrothed since childhood. Saves her not knowing what she looks like. He too mistakes Isabella as his betrothed and falls in love with her. Isabella knowing she can't have Fernando as her own still falls for him and doesn't know how to tell him the truth with out destroying the friendship they have built. Through out the book the witty banter and intense chemistry between Isabella and Fernando is fun and hot. the book smolders with the heat of these two characters. You will find yourself gripping it with excitement and not putting it down until the end. Then you will wish for it to have been longer. I'm hoping Ms Donahue is planning to write about the wonderful secondary characters she has in this book with a hope of getting to revisit Isabella and Fernando again.

It is a fast but steady read with great details. One couldn't ask for more with this fabulous author. I give it a solid 5 stars wishing I could rate it higher!

I received this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion and review.

[Amy Alvis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 1 in the Dangerous Desires series.

When Señorita Isabella is kidnapped, she knows that her uncle is the person behind it. The only problem is that everyone thinks that she is her older sister, the heir to her father's estate, including the man that rescues her.

When Fernando de Zayas learns that his betrothed has been kidnapped, he does everything in his power to get her back. Having not wanted this marriage, he is pleasantly surprised to fell an instant attraction for her.

What happens when Fernando learns that the woman who he has fallen in love with is not the woman he believes her to be?

This is my first book by Donahue and I definitely enjoyed it. Most of the historical romances I read include H/H from England, Scotland or the Untied States, so it was nice to get a different historical perspective as Isabella and Fernando were from Spain.

The chemistry between Isabella and Fernando was almost instantaneous, which had Isabella trying to deny it as Fernando was meant for her sister. She struggles with this for most of the journey and then must deal with the effects of Fernando learning the truth about who she is...

The next book in the series features the siblings of Isabella and Fernando, whom we meet in this story. It will be out in May. I can't wait to read it!

Thanks go out to Kensington Books via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Awesome book by Tina Donahue. Tina has a way with bring characters to life for her readers. This book has a bit of everything that makes the reader not want to put it down: Suspense, Humor, Romance and a HUGE case of mistaken identities.

The story is about Isabella, the daughter of a Spanish Grandee and a duke. While trying to protect her older sister, from their evil Uncle, Isabella is abducted and sent to market to be sold as a sex slave. While trying to plan an escape to the madness she finds herself in, she is rescued by a Holy Man. However the Holy Man isn't really a Holy Man.

The hero of the story is a Spanish Knight named Fernando. Disguised as a Holy Man Fernando thinks he is saving the woman he is to marry - Isabella's older sister. Isabella, still trying to protect her sister, doesn't tell Fernando he's made a mistake but plays along hoping he will get her away from her uncles men. Fernando attempts to seduce her, thinking she is his betrothed. Isabella keeps putting him off knowing she is not his intended, yet inside she is falling for the handsome Spanish Knight.

What happens at the end of their travels? Does Fernando forgive and understand her lies? The book is a fun filled, dangerous tale with Ms. Donahue's erotic romance style added in. If you like Historical Romance books this is definitely a 2 thumbs up!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one in the "Dangerous Desires" series. I must say this was one hot book! Also I liked the story and felt that it worked out well. I just can't wait until book two "Wicked Whispers" comes out! Senorita Isabella who is the second daughter of three was trying to save her older sister from their Uncle who is trying to kill her and them. While presenting to be her older sister she was taken into a slave trade situation and was to be sold but our hero, Fernando de Zayas. Fernando is looking for his betrothed who he thinks is Isabella. But he is really betrothed to her older sister who does not wish to marry but continue to learn the art of healing and possible join a convent. So going along with protecting her sister she does not correct him. This leads them on a journey of desperation but also great love and passion. Really enjoyed this book and hope that you will too!!

[maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot steamy romance

I was hooked on page one!!! I finished Loving Lies in one sitting, I just couldnt put it down!! I have not read a historical romance in a while and this story just reached out and grabbed me and it wouldn't let go. I fell in love with Isabella and Fernando. I loved their relationship it was playful and witty. At times there is so much sexual tension you just wish for the ability to speed read, but then you might miss something. This is the first book I have read by tina Donahue and it won't be the last!! I can't wait to get my hands on the second book in the series when it is released.. to say ms donahue writes hot sexy steamy scenes is an understatement!! This is a fast paced story with a love story that will have your heart beating fast with anticipation!! Don't miss Isabella and Fernando's beautiful love story.

[Diane Vice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not always a fan of historical romance, but Tina drew me in with this one, and I couldn't put it down! She has a way of setting the scene that immerses the reader into the story. If you are a fan of history, action/adventure, romance, intrigue, and/or passion, this is the book for you!
Isabella is kidnapped by her evil uncle's henchmen in the mistaken belief the she is her eldest sister Sancha. Fernando rescues her from the slave auction, also believing that Isabella is the eldest daughter to whom he is betrothed. As they travel together, their relationship develops quickly and they encounter many perilous situations. Can their relationship survive? I highly recommend reading this book to find out.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

First in a new and sizzling Medieval Romance, "Dangerous Desires" series. WOW! "Loving Lies", is sizzling with sensuality, passion, lust, mistaken identity, secrets, lies, and protecting family. A kidnapping, mistaken identity, being sold as a sex slave, a rescue, makes for some intriguing reading.
Can lust and passion turn into romance and true love? Will the passion fade away to dust? Sparks fly between the H/H from the very beginning.
Well written, with characters who are interesting and the storyline intriguing. I found "Loving Lies" to be compelling, enjoyable and satisfying to read! I can't wait for the next installment.


*Received for an honest review*

Rating: 4
Heat rating: Sizzling
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with a new and exciting novel from the wonderful Tina Donahue, if you have not read any of her books... stop and get too it as they are all amazing. Now this book is nothing short than pure romance and on such a level that you no why so many readers are obsessed by this author.

I love historical romances and Tina Donahue has made me fall in love with them even more the way she brings too life this book is wow wow. her keen eye for detail and the way she depicted the characters is amazing.

A Great book you get everything you want and more, I am in Love.

5 Out Of 5 Hearts From Cariad Books

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first page Loving Lies, book one in the Dangerous Desires series, by Tina Donahue took off with its bold adventure and colorful characters. Wit, cunning and sassiness take readers on the fated course of love between the charismatic hero and heroine. Sensual in its ambiance, the author maintains a strong storyline throughout her novel that will hold readers to the very end and segues into the next story of this series. Ms. Donahue’s engaging writing and diverting tale will leave readers feeling their time was well spent in reading her work!
*I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am giving my honest review of this book. It was a goodreads prize book. I enjoyed this book. It held my interest thru out the book. This is the first book by Tina Donahue that I have read. She does a good job . I found this book suspenseful as well as romantic. Good contrast the brothers are nobles, yet they are seen teasing, wrestling with each other just like everyone else.

[Kelly Lotze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book love the Spanish hero and I love the easy banter an teasing manner between the two characters. History is a major plus in this book. Great read!

[Vicky · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the parental review; there are no bad words that I can remember but there are a few sexual scenes that are explicit.