What do you think?
Rate this book
Deadly #3
Deadly Lies
FBI Special Agent Samantha Kennedy is haunted by her memories of the serial killer who abducted her. To keep the darkness at bay, she pretends to be a different, more confident woman. This Samantha doesn't fear every unknown face. So she throws caution to the wind and shares a night of unbridled passion with a handsome stranger.
One night isn't enough for successful entrepreneur Max Ridgeway. He wants more of the sexy, smart, mysterious woman who slipped away before dawn. When they meet again, their attraction is undeniable—until his stepbrother goes missing, and Max realizes that Samantha isn't who she seems. But they must trust each other to trap a ring of bloodthirsty kidnappers before the nightmares that terrorize Sam become irrevocably real.
One night isn't enough for successful entrepreneur Max Ridgeway. He wants more of the sexy, smart, mysterious woman who slipped away before dawn. When they meet again, their attraction is undeniable—until his stepbrother goes missing, and Max realizes that Samantha isn't who she seems. But they must trust each other to trap a ring of bloodthirsty kidnappers before the nightmares that terrorize Sam become irrevocably real.
Audiobook
First published March 1, 2011
106 people are currently reading
2398 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
311 books6,802 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
June 10, 2017
4.5 Stars
I put off reading this book for a while because I loved book 1 when I read it. Loved the couple loved the plot but then I read book 2 and it fell flat. I don't know what it was about book 2 but I didn't like the couple didn't like the plot and the bad guy sucked. I was bored that whole read. But I didn't need to worry because Cynthia Eden rocked it out in this one. I loved this book. I loved Sam and Max. Thought they had a great connection and the lust was burning up the pages. The plot was great, it kept me guessing for a while. I did figure out the killer about half way through but the bad guy was so creepy and evil that it still had me on the edge the whole read wondering what he would do next. Glad I didn't quit after book 2 because this book was worth it. I really hate that this book is the last in the series. I wanted Kim, Jon and Hyde to get books. But when I was checking on the authors question page, she said that she didn't write books for Kim, Jon, and Hyde and that made me sad I bet they would have made good books.
I put off reading this book for a while because I loved book 1 when I read it. Loved the couple loved the plot but then I read book 2 and it fell flat. I don't know what it was about book 2 but I didn't like the couple didn't like the plot and the bad guy sucked. I was bored that whole read. But I didn't need to worry because Cynthia Eden rocked it out in this one. I loved this book. I loved Sam and Max. Thought they had a great connection and the lust was burning up the pages. The plot was great, it kept me guessing for a while. I did figure out the killer about half way through but the bad guy was so creepy and evil that it still had me on the edge the whole read wondering what he would do next. Glad I didn't quit after book 2 because this book was worth it. I really hate that this book is the last in the series. I wanted Kim, Jon and Hyde to get books. But when I was checking on the authors question page, she said that she didn't write books for Kim, Jon, and Hyde and that made me sad I bet they would have made good books.
March 25, 2015
“How much is he worth?” The voice taunted. “How much will you pay?”
Wow.
W. O. W.
This author sure knows how to write suspense!
Another winner from the Deadly series, simply a superb book :)
The story
The case is about some crazy as f*ck kidnappers who are getting more brutal with each victim, so the SSD and Samantha are the ones investigating it.
She is still trying to prove that she is able to work in the devision, although Hyde doesn't agree.
When the man she is casually having sex with receives a call from the kidnappers, telling him his brother will die unless he pays, Samantha realises this is the best chance they'll have at capturing the serials.
But that means she can't tell Max who she really is.
This was uber-intense, just like every book from this series, and really unpredictable all the way, though I did suspect who might be the main culprit and I was shocked to be right ahahhahahahah but I still couldn't predict what would happen at any point i the story, that might just be my stupidity or the author's brilliance :D
The romance
“I tried to sleep, but every time I closed my eyes, I saw you.”
Oh, damn. Sam admitted, “I didn’t even try.” Because he’d been all she could think about.
“Fuck.” He pulled her even closer. His clothes were wet, but she didn’t care. “I need you,” he growled.
When they kissed this time, she was desperate for him.
Samantha is both fragile and strong, while Max is just... Perfect.
I love those two together but honestly, I just loved Max like crazy <3
OMG he is sooo amazing and I know this is stupid gushing, but damn if you read this, you'd know just what I'm talking about.
It was sad seeing Samantha having , but damn it was all worth it to see Max there for her <3
When they finally trusted each other in the end...
Amazing :)
And so, I just have a HUUUUUUUUGE rec for this entire series, if you want some real suspense, grab it, don't even think about it!
The writing is so amazing, I bet you'll devour every word of it like I did :)
September 1, 2013
We met Samantha Kennedy back in Deadly Fear. We witnessed her sadistic torture, and have since watched bits and pieces of her try to come back to life. Real life, not just the version she puts on for show. And yet Samantha is still haunted...every day is a struggle to deal with the crippling fear of having her GREATEST fear realized. She lived through it, now she has to move past it.
Samantha begins this story by acting somewhat out of character. She goes on a hunt for someone to take her mind off of her fears. She finds Max Ridgeway and has a night of no strings attached sex, and then disappears. Max is NOT pleased. (understatement) When Samantha finds Max again, she expects the same scenario to play out. Much to her shock, Max isn't that type of guy. Max sees in Samantha a vulnerability that he can't ignore, and a woman that he wants more than his next breath. His protective instincts kick in, and we get a small taste of a tender Max...
...until the case that Samantha is working comes to Max's life, exposing her as more than what she claims to be. And yet Sam still keeps her secrets, because she's trying to prove to her FBI team...and to herself...that she has what it takes to do her job.
While Samantha tries to keep her feelings for Max from affecting her ability to perform effectively, Max's life now begins to spiral out of control. His step brother is the newest victim in a string of kidnappings for ransom. The kidnapper(s) take a young rich man and hold him, extracting ransom money from his family. And if the family doesn't cooperate, it's instant death for the victim.
Only the killer seems to be getting more and more greedy, their M/O changing quickly, and the FBI team is beginning to lose their grip on the case.
All the while, Max and Samantha are both coming to terms with heavy feelings that they have for one another, and Samantha is trying to deal with her PTSD while learning to let Max into her heart and her life.
This is my absolute favorite of the series, even better than book one. Cynthia Eden is, in a word: INTENSE!!! It's nonstop action, from page one...the scene constantly changes, the villain is truly an evil piece of work...and to top it off, the mystery is done VERY well...I was guessing at the whodunnit until he/she was revealed...and I kept changing my mind!!! I simply LOVED Max, and I equally loved Samantha. I wish I could give girl a hug, because boy did she ever need one! But it's okay, because Max was there for her and he did a fine job of taking care of his woman.
The ending was fantastic...bloody and scary and intense right up to the very end. I'm really really hoping that the last few pages means that we will get some more of Hyde's story. I am hoping against all hope that Eden will continue this series.
Samantha begins this story by acting somewhat out of character. She goes on a hunt for someone to take her mind off of her fears. She finds Max Ridgeway and has a night of no strings attached sex, and then disappears. Max is NOT pleased. (understatement) When Samantha finds Max again, she expects the same scenario to play out. Much to her shock, Max isn't that type of guy. Max sees in Samantha a vulnerability that he can't ignore, and a woman that he wants more than his next breath. His protective instincts kick in, and we get a small taste of a tender Max...
...until the case that Samantha is working comes to Max's life, exposing her as more than what she claims to be. And yet Sam still keeps her secrets, because she's trying to prove to her FBI team...and to herself...that she has what it takes to do her job.
While Samantha tries to keep her feelings for Max from affecting her ability to perform effectively, Max's life now begins to spiral out of control. His step brother is the newest victim in a string of kidnappings for ransom. The kidnapper(s) take a young rich man and hold him, extracting ransom money from his family. And if the family doesn't cooperate, it's instant death for the victim.
Only the killer seems to be getting more and more greedy, their M/O changing quickly, and the FBI team is beginning to lose their grip on the case.
All the while, Max and Samantha are both coming to terms with heavy feelings that they have for one another, and Samantha is trying to deal with her PTSD while learning to let Max into her heart and her life.
This is my absolute favorite of the series, even better than book one. Cynthia Eden is, in a word: INTENSE!!! It's nonstop action, from page one...the scene constantly changes, the villain is truly an evil piece of work...and to top it off, the mystery is done VERY well...I was guessing at the whodunnit until he/she was revealed...and I kept changing my mind!!! I simply LOVED Max, and I equally loved Samantha. I wish I could give girl a hug, because boy did she ever need one! But it's okay, because Max was there for her and he did a fine job of taking care of his woman.
The ending was fantastic...bloody and scary and intense right up to the very end. I'm really really hoping that the last few pages means that we will get some more of Hyde's story. I am hoping against all hope that Eden will continue this series.
June 15, 2019
FBI Special Agent Samantha Kennedy is drowning in the dark memories of the serial killer who kidnapped her and used her worst fear against her. She’s barely hanging onto her control, keeping her fellow agents from seeing how she’s falling apart. She longs to feel confident, different so she pretends to be so and shares one night of passion with a sexy stranger, who makes her feel fearless and unbroken.
Max Ridgeway is used to women wanting him for his money and he can’t help but be captivated by the mysterious Samantha, who only seems to want his body, the pleasure he can give her. But he wants more than just one night. But when his step brother is kidnapped, Max realises that Samantha isn’t who he thought she was. Can they trust each other when both has dark secrets? Work together to stop the serial kidnappers who gets more violent with each kidnapping?
Walking away from her that night hadn’t been possible, not after he’d tasted her. He’d taken her lips and known he’d take her.
The beginning. For him, that’s what it had been.
Max wanted more from Samantha Kennedy than just a few hot hours in the dark.
I’ve been worried about Samantha who seemed to have broken after what happened to her in the first book, but it was great seeing her become stronger in this book, realising that she wasn’t weak and totally broken. I liked how serious she took her job, how hard she tried to prove that she could still do it.
I liked Max and how he couldn’t stop wanting Samantha, even once he found out that she was FBI and even when he assumed wrongly that she was just using him to stop the kidnappers.
“Why do I need you so damn much?” Like an addiction. The more he had, the more he craved.
Their romance was passionate and full of distrust and need. I loved how Samantha became more herself the longer she spent time with Max.
Once again the plot was gripping and full of twists. I love how this author keeps me guessing until the very end. I also liked the glimpses we got of the previous main characters’ relationships and seeing how happy they all are.
This has been an intense and dark RS and I’m sad to see it come to an end. I really wish there were more books, especially since I would have loved seeing Special Agents Jon Ramirez and Kim Donalds get their own books too. I loved this series and it’s a definite must read for all RS fans.
March 10, 2011
This was one heck of a romantic suspense thriller. Cynthia uses the right formula in her book's that just keeps me wanting more. Like all the other book's in this series, Deadly lies also had great chemistry between the H&h and the love scenes were well done, What Cynthia does the best in my opinion is weaves a story unlike any I have read before. Her villains are so twisted and the story is so chilling. I have not read many Romantic Suspense thrillers but of the one's I have read, Cynthia Eden is on the top of the list for me and I plan on waiting very impatiently for the next book to come.
Warning, if you don't like violence in your book's, this is NOT for you.
Warning, if you don't like violence in your book's, this is NOT for you.
June 9, 2012
Loved this book!! Deadly Fear was good, Deadly Heat was Great, and this 3rd book to the Deadly Series blew me away!!! I loved Sam & Max. The story was intense and again Cynthia Eden had me guessing almost to the end on who the actual killer was. Hopefully this will not be the last book in the series....I would love to read Jon Ramirez', Hyde's & Kim's book's. Excellent series lots of suspense that keeps you guessing and plenty of hot romance!!
December 21, 2014
It starts as a great romantic suspense. Note the starts. Sam has serious issues because of what happened in Deadly Fear. Her nightmares are not going away, she has trouble functioning and it seems that even her boss doesn't trust she could do her job. After her horrifying ordeal, it isn't surprising that she is trying to cope the best she can.
Max Ridgeway should have been a distraction, but only one night simply is not enough for either of them. Max doesn't know who Sam really is at first.
At the same time, someone is kidnapping rich college boys and they are escalating pretty fast. The last victim, whose father refused to pay, got delivered to the house. It wasn't a pretty sight.
So, the case is interesting. The kidnappers seem to change their M.O. with every boy they take. The case itself saved this story for me even if all the potential that that group of kidnappers had wasn't used.
I am shelving this as romantic suspense because 'it says so on the tin'.
The romance part is ridiculous at best. It must be really uncomfortable walking around aroused all the time and everywhere. Sam and Max are like animals in heat. When they meet in the beginning of the book - arousal, after his brother disappears and they are stuck together - constant arousal, hurt - don't worry, at least one part of the body is always for it. Those scenes made my eyes glaze over. Romance? What romance? Her eyes were always widening, he was often growling.
The suspense part was a bit better if only because it was more readable. It is also very close to be ridiculous. You know almost from the beginning who the real threat is. At least, I did. You know that and you are left almost the whole book (two thirds for sure) watching them running around, being incompetent or naive. Sure, you get a couple of red herrings thrown your way but as for me, they were too weak to make any difference.
Of the three Deadly books, this one I liked the least. The previous books are much better. If it weren't for the interesting case, it would be even worse.
Max Ridgeway should have been a distraction, but only one night simply is not enough for either of them. Max doesn't know who Sam really is at first.
At the same time, someone is kidnapping rich college boys and they are escalating pretty fast. The last victim, whose father refused to pay, got delivered to the house. It wasn't a pretty sight.
So, the case is interesting. The kidnappers seem to change their M.O. with every boy they take. The case itself saved this story for me even if all the potential that that group of kidnappers had wasn't used.
I am shelving this as romantic suspense because 'it says so on the tin'.
The romance part is ridiculous at best. It must be really uncomfortable walking around aroused all the time and everywhere. Sam and Max are like animals in heat. When they meet in the beginning of the book - arousal, after his brother disappears and they are stuck together - constant arousal, hurt - don't worry, at least one part of the body is always for it. Those scenes made my eyes glaze over. Romance? What romance? Her eyes were always widening, he was often growling.
The suspense part was a bit better if only because it was more readable. It is also very close to be ridiculous. You know almost from the beginning who the real threat is. At least, I did. You know that and you are left almost the whole book (two thirds for sure) watching them running around, being incompetent or naive. Sure, you get a couple of red herrings thrown your way but as for me, they were too weak to make any difference.
Of the three Deadly books, this one I liked the least. The previous books are much better. If it weren't for the interesting case, it would be even worse.
March 6, 2011
5 Stars!GASP…I need air….I don’t think I took a breath while reading this book.
I thought book one Deadly Fear was great. Then ok…can Cynthia Eden do a repeat with Deadly Heat? YES! Alright, what are the chances the third book Deadly Lies can measure up since the bar has been set so high? It jumped right over that bar, because this book was even BETTER! Oh, our quiet, shy, Samantha Kennedy is no longer the victim. She is going to prove that she has overcome the trauma inflicted on her in Deadly Fear. She is back guns a-blazing, and she got herself a man, Max Ridgeway, and when the two of them get together…WHAM! She has set her sights on him and she is relentless. I loved it! A women who knows what she wants, and what she wants is Max, all attitude, all male, who needs her as much as she needs him.
Terrific plot, which kept right on packing a punch. And they’re all back…Monica, Luke, Hyde, Ramirez, Kim and even Kenton. I can’t even imagine where this series is going next, or if my heart can take it. What I would like is for ghost man, Ramirez, to take front and center stage. He is silent, but oh so deadly. We also need to find out more about Hyde, that story is just waiting to be told. So, Ms. Eden, don’t keep us waiting too long, but for now I’ll just catch my breath!
September 2, 2013
OMG OMG OMG I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
For me this was the absolutely best book of this series! I loved everything about this story! It was fast paced, intense, steamy, sweet and it had a hero that was oh so SEXY!
Samantha Kennedy is an FBI agent in the SSD division. We met Sam in the first book in the series, she was kidnapped by the serial killer and forced to go through her worst fear. Now unsure of herself, she is trying to convince her fellow FBI agents that she is ready to handle cases again. Which is really hard considering she is not sure she is ready, she is riddled with self doubt and fear. And honestly 1/3 of the way into this story I wasn’t sure she was ready either.
So she goes to a party for the expressed purpose of picking up a guy, having casual sex and then dumping him. Convincing herself that she is in control and calling the shots. So she meets business man Max Ridgeway. And let me tell you, OMG is he hot! And the sex between them, OH MY MY!!
But soon Max’s brother is kidnapped and the Samantha has to tell Max who she really is. The suspense part of the book was awesome! Kidnappings, murder, fear, intensity I couldn’t stop reading till I reached the end. I did nothing i was planning on doing today because I had to finish this book! Now the series is over and I am so sad!
AWESOME BOOK!
For me this was the absolutely best book of this series! I loved everything about this story! It was fast paced, intense, steamy, sweet and it had a hero that was oh so SEXY!
Samantha Kennedy is an FBI agent in the SSD division. We met Sam in the first book in the series, she was kidnapped by the serial killer and forced to go through her worst fear. Now unsure of herself, she is trying to convince her fellow FBI agents that she is ready to handle cases again. Which is really hard considering she is not sure she is ready, she is riddled with self doubt and fear. And honestly 1/3 of the way into this story I wasn’t sure she was ready either.
So she goes to a party for the expressed purpose of picking up a guy, having casual sex and then dumping him. Convincing herself that she is in control and calling the shots. So she meets business man Max Ridgeway. And let me tell you, OMG is he hot! And the sex between them, OH MY MY!!
But soon Max’s brother is kidnapped and the Samantha has to tell Max who she really is. The suspense part of the book was awesome! Kidnappings, murder, fear, intensity I couldn’t stop reading till I reached the end. I did nothing i was planning on doing today because I had to finish this book! Now the series is over and I am so sad!
AWESOME BOOK!
February 4, 2011
“You knew the rules. You fucked up. It’s your fault. And now, he comes back to you, in pieces.”
A blunt, to the point message from the sadistic serial killer in Deadly Lies, the third installment of the Deadly series by Cynthia Eden.
FBI Special Agent Samantha Kennedy has been to hell and back after being abducted and tortured by a serial killer dubbed “The Watchman” (Deadly Fear). Plagued by constant nightmares of her abduction, Sam has had a difficult time trying to take her life back both personally and professionally. Her boss and co-workers question if she will be able to continue with the job and if it is too soon for her to be on the case of another brutal murderer. While Sam knows that she is currently the “weak link” in her division, she also believes that without her job, she has nothing. Sam is not usually the type of woman to seek a relationship of casual sex, but she has changed and now only wants to feel and forget. When Sam sets her eyes on entrepreneur Max Ridgeway in a bar, she knows he is the one to satisfy her need for a “one night stand”….. only after she has him, she wants more. Max is not a “one night stand” kind of man either. Given most women use him for money and power, he is blown away when all that Sam initially wants from him is anonymous sex. So when their next interlude is prematurely interrupted by a text message from Agent Dante about another killing, Max is determined to quickly reconnect with Sam and pick up where they left off.
When Sam and Max hook up again at his place, Max receives a call from the serial killer Sam has been investigating. This vicious killer kidnaps college men from local bars, then attempts to extort their wealthy families. The family receives a ransom call within 24 hours of the abduction. If the family demands proof of life, they get it…in flesh form. If the family refuses to pay the ransom, they get their son back…in pieces. This time, the murderer has Max’s stepbrother Quinlan and if dad doesn’t pay up, Quinlan is dead. Once Max and the family know of Quinlan’s capture, Sam reveals that she is an FBI agent who is working the killer’s case. The couple pose as lovers so Sam can stealthy track the killer and uphold her promise to Max to find Quinlan alive.
In Deadly Lies, Cynthia Eden crafts her best plot yet with many twists and turns as well as the most shocking and malicious of all killers in this series. And Ms. Eden does not fail in producing strong yet flawed characters that have a passion and intensity that keeps you glued to the pages! I loved Samantha Kennedy from the first book, Deadly Fear. She is a survivor and while she is dealing with post traumatic stress, she is determined to take her life back and no longer live in fear. The chemistry between Sam and Max is a palpable wave of passion and desire that leaves the reader breathless. This couple is all about tangible lust in the beginning but by the end of the story, they have formed a solid relationship in the midst of all their secrets and personal flaws. Both characters are blown away by their intense need for each other which provides serious steam in the bedroom as well as in their daily interaction.
We also continue to see the progression in the relationships between Luke and Monica as well as Lora and Kenton from the two prior books. I personally love that all of the main characters of Deadly Fear and Deadly Heat continue to be relevant and develop through each consecutive book. This makes the series that much more fluid and enjoyable. While there are no additional books currently slated in the series, I can only hope that recurring characters like Agents Jon Ramirez and Keith Hyde eventually get their time in the spotlight and their own HEA.
Cynthia Eden delivers stellar action and sizzling romance in the Deadly series. Any romantic suspense reader should not pass up this incredible read!
Favorite Quote:
“I’m not in an easy mood, baby,” he warned. Had she asked for easy? Ever? “I need you,” Max said gruffly, “so damn bad, but-” She kept walking. When she reached him, she put her fingers to his lips. “I need you, too.” More than she could say. She was desperate for him. She needed to feel him against her, in her, needed to be certain he was safe. Alive. Hers again. Because that was how she thought of him. Mine.
April 10, 2017
I started this over a MONTH ago and I don't see myself continuing with it, even though I enjoyed the first two in the series this one did not hook me in AT ALL.
December 29, 2017
3,5 stars
I wanted to like it more.
Honestly.
I tried.
I wanted to like it more.
Honestly.
I tried.
December 4, 2013
What an ammmmaaaaaazzziiinnnnngg ride!!! I sure was blown away!
Deadly lies is the last book (so far, I hope!) of the deadly series and it's just fitting coz the author saved the very best for last (but pls this better not be the last, PLS! *pleads*)
I was riveted from the very first page. The author has the ability to create dark, heart-wrenching, tortured characters. The thriller part of this book was an out of control roller-coaster ride. The whole story was incredible and a puzzle at the same time where it kept me guessing. As a reader that excites me to no end, making myself glued to my e-reader as often as I can grab that hard earned free time. I was absorbed the whole time and was so hard to put it down as I turn those pages and read before my eyes about and when those complications increased and the brutality worsens. I felt for those who are trying to catch the killer ESP when they have realized that the vicious and a psychopath of a killer will just keep killing until the truth is finally brought out in the open...
Definitely a nail-biter book, with all the previous characters sub-stories (not to mention HOT sex scenes!) woven skillfully together ended in a delightful finish.
5 star out of 5
Deadly lies is the last book (so far, I hope!) of the deadly series and it's just fitting coz the author saved the very best for last (but pls this better not be the last, PLS! *pleads*)
I was riveted from the very first page. The author has the ability to create dark, heart-wrenching, tortured characters. The thriller part of this book was an out of control roller-coaster ride. The whole story was incredible and a puzzle at the same time where it kept me guessing. As a reader that excites me to no end, making myself glued to my e-reader as often as I can grab that hard earned free time. I was absorbed the whole time and was so hard to put it down as I turn those pages and read before my eyes about and when those complications increased and the brutality worsens. I felt for those who are trying to catch the killer ESP when they have realized that the vicious and a psychopath of a killer will just keep killing until the truth is finally brought out in the open...
Definitely a nail-biter book, with all the previous characters sub-stories (not to mention HOT sex scenes!) woven skillfully together ended in a delightful finish.
5 star out of 5
October 22, 2016
I'm rating this book 3.75 stars. I liked it. It wasn't bad for the book genre, it was just that there were just some issues I had. First of all it got kinda draggy in my opinion. This whole finding the killer part was like a wild goose chases. In a bad way. The two main characters were average. I though they were okay. Sam was a good character but she was a little judgmental in one scene. But overall I liked her. Max was irrating at times. He lead with his emotions and was sometime not rational. I really don't think this was very romancy. It was more like one of those serial killer documentaries that take you threw the whole case. In the romance of the couple it lacked substance. I felt it was mostly smut and almost dying in the romance department. It wasn't uninteresting though. I loved that it was unpredictable. It wasn't boring either. But overall I liked this but it was just more of an okay book you read when your bored.
August 13, 2025
Deadly Lies is the third book in the Deadly series by Cynthia Eden. A very riveting romantic suspense that truly kept me on the edge of my seat, guessing until the end. Well, I sort of guessed a little before the end but still...
The characters were well developed and the plot moved swiftly along. I almost gave it 5 stars but I did have minor issues with the timing/location of a couple of love scenes. Still, I highly recommend this to lovers of good romantic suspense.
The characters were well developed and the plot moved swiftly along. I almost gave it 5 stars but I did have minor issues with the timing/location of a couple of love scenes. Still, I highly recommend this to lovers of good romantic suspense.
August 2, 2013
4.5 stars!Joint review for all 3 books in the series to come:
For now
For now
January 21, 2020
This was a good romantic suspense, especially considering that it's an older one. I liked the main characters and the plot was interesting and kept me involved and wondering what would happen next. I didn't find it at all predictable. I kept waffling back and forth on who I thought the killer was, and it was a more complex plot that I realized as I read most of the book.
May 11, 2011
Cynthia Eden seems to just get better and better with each of the books in her Deadly Series. Not only are these books full of nail-biting, heart-pounding suspense, but they are also scorching hot! Deadly Lies, in my opinion, was the best in the series so far.
Deadly Lies focuses on SSD FBI Agent Samantha Kennedy. If you’ve read Deadly Fear, then you already know the trauma she suffered at the hands of a cold-blooded serial killer. Sam is desperate to get past the nightmares and fear that consume her, going to any lengths to block out the past. At first, Sam tries to act like all the death and sick-twisted murders she witnesses don’t affect her. When it becomes obvious that her tough guy act isn’t working, Sam goes to more interesting measures.
Sam heads into a popular Georgetown bar one night in search of one thing; hot meaningless sex. Sam finds it with sexy owner/builder Max Ridgeway. Sam is desperate to feel something other than fear and Max sure knows how to deliver. The problem is one time is not enough, not for Sam and definitely not for Max.
Max Ridgeway has worked hard all of his life to get where he is despite being raised by an extremely wealthy stepfather Frank Malone. He successfully owns and runs his own construction company that he started himself that Frank can’t help but respect. Frank and Max’s mom married when Max was a teenager and Frank brought into the marriage his extremely spoiled brat of a son Quinlan. As Max continues to succeed, Quinlan continues to fail and constantly rely on Max to help bail him out of his problems.
Sam and Max’s relationship sizzles throughout the novel and Sam does a good job of keeping her FBI position a secret to Max until the unthinkable happens. A serial kidnapper is kidnapping sons of wealthy families and demanding outrageous ransoms for their return. If these demands are not met, the sons are returned to their families; in pieces. Sure enough, Frank’s son Quinlan becomes the latest victim of the kidnapping saga and Sam is forced to reveal her true identity to a less than happy Max. Together, they race against a clock to save Max’s brother and each other
This book is full of action and surprises and leaves you guessing and wondering right up until the very end. Throw all this fantastic suspense and action on top of FANTASTIC sex and steamy scenes and you have one of my favorite reads from this year!! FIVE STARS!!!
Deadly Lies focuses on SSD FBI Agent Samantha Kennedy. If you’ve read Deadly Fear, then you already know the trauma she suffered at the hands of a cold-blooded serial killer. Sam is desperate to get past the nightmares and fear that consume her, going to any lengths to block out the past. At first, Sam tries to act like all the death and sick-twisted murders she witnesses don’t affect her. When it becomes obvious that her tough guy act isn’t working, Sam goes to more interesting measures.
Sam heads into a popular Georgetown bar one night in search of one thing; hot meaningless sex. Sam finds it with sexy owner/builder Max Ridgeway. Sam is desperate to feel something other than fear and Max sure knows how to deliver. The problem is one time is not enough, not for Sam and definitely not for Max.
Max Ridgeway has worked hard all of his life to get where he is despite being raised by an extremely wealthy stepfather Frank Malone. He successfully owns and runs his own construction company that he started himself that Frank can’t help but respect. Frank and Max’s mom married when Max was a teenager and Frank brought into the marriage his extremely spoiled brat of a son Quinlan. As Max continues to succeed, Quinlan continues to fail and constantly rely on Max to help bail him out of his problems.
Sam and Max’s relationship sizzles throughout the novel and Sam does a good job of keeping her FBI position a secret to Max until the unthinkable happens. A serial kidnapper is kidnapping sons of wealthy families and demanding outrageous ransoms for their return. If these demands are not met, the sons are returned to their families; in pieces. Sure enough, Frank’s son Quinlan becomes the latest victim of the kidnapping saga and Sam is forced to reveal her true identity to a less than happy Max. Together, they race against a clock to save Max’s brother and each other
This book is full of action and surprises and leaves you guessing and wondering right up until the very end. Throw all this fantastic suspense and action on top of FANTASTIC sex and steamy scenes and you have one of my favorite reads from this year!! FIVE STARS!!!
June 23, 2011
Overall a really good romance suspense story, but a bit too dark for my normal reading tastes. This had some seriously gruesome scenes, so beware. But the romance was hot, and I loved the chemistry between H/h.
August 13, 2018
So sad to see this series ended. Very good story about Samantha and her finding her strength again...with some romance to boot!
February 6, 2014
4.5 stars
Reading this gave me a sense of deja vu because we had some recurring cast from Book 1 Deadly Fear, which I totally forgotten that I had read before. This can definitely worked as a standalone, however, Luke and Monica from Book 1 did took up some page time, so you might not appreciate it as much.
There was a serial kidnapping case that the SSD was handling. Two victims came back after ransom was paid, but those families that refuses to cooperate, their sons were killed gruesomely. The kidnapper cum killer was truly sadistic that might make you squirm. Things were quite dark and gruesome.
Samantha Kennedy of SSD was one of the victim in Book 1 and she still recovering from her PTSD. She was trying hard to prove to her teammates that she was fit for work. She met Max Ridgeway and had a one night stand with him, and during their subsequent encounter, she found out that Max's brother, Quinlan was being kidnapped.
By hiding her identity, she tried to get herself into Max's family and obtained information on the kidnapping for her boss. She was ordered to stick with Max. When her true identity was reveal, Max didn't actually flipped out, but he was having problem trusting her. Did Samantha want to catch the killer at the cost of his brother's life?
Max had his own dark past that he tried to hide away. He promised his mother that he will take care of Quinlan and he will do anything to save his brother. Finding out Samantha turned out to be a cop might threw him off guard, but he still believe they had a chance to be together despite the awful circumstances that they were facing.
Told in a multiple POV, I felt that the story did not have enough focus on developing Sam and Max's relationship. Everything was happening so fast and there was so much pressure in regards to the case that they didn't have much romance beside some really hot sex. The sex scenes were very well written that manage to convince me they did have a solid connection. I like the fact that Sam's always put Max's interest as the priority in her decision making and she was being honest with him therefore they didn't have any misunderstanding.
"They'd started fast, started red-hot, and gone barreling through the darkness. More darkness might come - that was just part of life - but they'd be together."
I found this to be a totally great suspense story with a serial killer plot line. I kept trying to guess who was the killer and mind you I was threw over the loop whenever there was a new player reveal. This was one of those rare occasion where I care more about the case than the couple. I did care about Sam and Max, but the suspense was really awesome!
Reading this gave me a sense of deja vu because we had some recurring cast from Book 1 Deadly Fear, which I totally forgotten that I had read before. This can definitely worked as a standalone, however, Luke and Monica from Book 1 did took up some page time, so you might not appreciate it as much.
There was a serial kidnapping case that the SSD was handling. Two victims came back after ransom was paid, but those families that refuses to cooperate, their sons were killed gruesomely. The kidnapper cum killer was truly sadistic that might make you squirm. Things were quite dark and gruesome.
Samantha Kennedy of SSD was one of the victim in Book 1 and she still recovering from her PTSD. She was trying hard to prove to her teammates that she was fit for work. She met Max Ridgeway and had a one night stand with him, and during their subsequent encounter, she found out that Max's brother, Quinlan was being kidnapped.
By hiding her identity, she tried to get herself into Max's family and obtained information on the kidnapping for her boss. She was ordered to stick with Max. When her true identity was reveal, Max didn't actually flipped out, but he was having problem trusting her. Did Samantha want to catch the killer at the cost of his brother's life?
Max had his own dark past that he tried to hide away. He promised his mother that he will take care of Quinlan and he will do anything to save his brother. Finding out Samantha turned out to be a cop might threw him off guard, but he still believe they had a chance to be together despite the awful circumstances that they were facing.
Told in a multiple POV, I felt that the story did not have enough focus on developing Sam and Max's relationship. Everything was happening so fast and there was so much pressure in regards to the case that they didn't have much romance beside some really hot sex. The sex scenes were very well written that manage to convince me they did have a solid connection. I like the fact that Sam's always put Max's interest as the priority in her decision making and she was being honest with him therefore they didn't have any misunderstanding.
"They'd started fast, started red-hot, and gone barreling through the darkness. More darkness might come - that was just part of life - but they'd be together."
I found this to be a totally great suspense story with a serial killer plot line. I kept trying to guess who was the killer and mind you I was threw over the loop whenever there was a new player reveal. This was one of those rare occasion where I care more about the case than the couple. I did care about Sam and Max, but the suspense was really awesome!
March 23, 2011
SO GOOD!
While this book is fine as a stand-alone, I think it's best if Deadly Fear is read to get the entire story of what happened to her. Sam, still trying to heal from the aftermath of book one, is determined to show the other Serial Service Division members she can handle the pressure. A wealthy self-made Max happens to be Sam's target for a one-night stand. An insane kidnapper also happens to set his target on Max through his stepbrother Quinlan. Soon he finds that Sam isn't being entirely truthful with her identity but he must put his trust in her as she's the one who's the best bet to get Quinlan back safely.
The mystery plot was a lot better than the previous book. It's up there with Deadly Fear's case. It was pretty interesting how Cynthia Eden changed it up versus the previous perpetrators. I pegged out who it was a little bit into the story but with it was great how she spun this one. She did a great job to keep things up in the air and make you doubt who you think the killer was.
The romance between Max and Samantha was ah-mazing. I pretty much fell for them instantly. They had that spark and intensity. I know they were sleeping together right off the bat—by the way, they sizzled, like whoa—but I believe there was something much deeper going on with them than just sex. I was turned into a puddle of goo watching them grow together and be there for each other. I just hope that Sam doesn't leave the SSD à la Kenton.
Monica and Luke, the core couple! They own my heart and I love seeing their relationship taking the next step. I view them as a Jack and Mel (from Virgin River) of this series. It always comes back to them. :) I hope to see more scenes of them as the series goes on.
Happy to see Kenton appear. So pleased to hear his news but ugh, I still wish he was part of the group.
There are potential stories for Hyde (!), Jon (!!!), and Kim; I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for them to come out (hopefully).
While this book is fine as a stand-alone, I think it's best if Deadly Fear is read to get the entire story of what happened to her. Sam, still trying to heal from the aftermath of book one, is determined to show the other Serial Service Division members she can handle the pressure. A wealthy self-made Max happens to be Sam's target for a one-night stand. An insane kidnapper also happens to set his target on Max through his stepbrother Quinlan. Soon he finds that Sam isn't being entirely truthful with her identity but he must put his trust in her as she's the one who's the best bet to get Quinlan back safely.
The mystery plot was a lot better than the previous book. It's up there with Deadly Fear's case. It was pretty interesting how Cynthia Eden changed it up versus the previous perpetrators. I pegged out who it was a little bit into the story but with it was great how she spun this one. She did a great job to keep things up in the air and make you doubt who you think the killer was.
The romance between Max and Samantha was ah-mazing. I pretty much fell for them instantly. They had that spark and intensity. I know they were sleeping together right off the bat—by the way, they sizzled, like whoa—but I believe there was something much deeper going on with them than just sex. I was turned into a puddle of goo watching them grow together and be there for each other. I just hope that Sam doesn't leave the SSD à la Kenton.
Monica and Luke, the core couple! They own my heart and I love seeing their relationship taking the next step. I view them as a Jack and Mel (from Virgin River) of this series. It always comes back to them. :) I hope to see more scenes of them as the series goes on.
Happy to see Kenton appear. So pleased to hear his news but ugh, I still wish he was part of the group.
There are potential stories for Hyde (!), Jon (!!!), and Kim; I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for them to come out (hopefully).
December 4, 2023
🔪I love these suspense romance reads and have been reading more and more. So I’m gonna break them down differently from my other reviews.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
4 stars
It was an interesting dynamic and I like the twists this one took. It had me guessing till the end
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
4 stars
They had lots of passion but also distrust
The hero was all about our h
Lots of chemistry between them and a few tasteful and passionate sex scenes
🚹Hero-
4 stars
I liked him he had some trust issues with the h but he wanted her from the moment they met and he definitely wanted more than sex or a ONS
🚺Heroine-
3.5 stars
She’s a bit messed up form what happened in book 1
I felt bad for her at times. But she came out stronger in the end. But the ending was a huge disappointment for her character she makes some DUMB choices and it was hella annoying and frustrating.
⚠️Safety-
No OMD
No OWD
no talks about H past
No PO after meeting
🎧Audiobook Narration-
3 stars
Same narrator for the series she’s just ok not that easy to listen to.
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I enjoyed this series a lot I think CE does a great job w the romance suspense genre.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
4 stars
It was an interesting dynamic and I like the twists this one took. It had me guessing till the end
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
4 stars
They had lots of passion but also distrust
The hero was all about our h
Lots of chemistry between them and a few tasteful and passionate sex scenes
🚹Hero-
4 stars
I liked him he had some trust issues with the h but he wanted her from the moment they met and he definitely wanted more than sex or a ONS
🚺Heroine-
3.5 stars
She’s a bit messed up form what happened in book 1
I felt bad for her at times. But she came out stronger in the end. But the ending was a huge disappointment for her character she makes some DUMB choices and it was hella annoying and frustrating.
⚠️Safety-
No OMD
No OWD
no talks about H past
No PO after meeting
🎧Audiobook Narration-
3 stars
Same narrator for the series she’s just ok not that easy to listen to.
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I enjoyed this series a lot I think CE does a great job w the romance suspense genre.
March 3, 2011
Cynthia Eden tells a delicious tale of lies, deceit and danger in Deadly lies and let me tell you she sure didn’t skip out on the blazing hot sex in this book *still fanning self*. I sure hope Cynthia will keep writing more books for this series, because not only is this my favorite suspense series, but this book left me wanting to read more. The best part of Cynthia writing suspense romance is I’m getting to read a terrific romance along with the suspense, where most suspense writers skip out on the romance and just writes a good suspense. For those who haven’t tried this series all I can say is you’re missing out on a very talented author and one of the hottest series I have read in a while.
I liked Samantha from the first book, so I couldn’t wait for this book and Cynthia didn’t disappoint me a bit. If you read the second book you found Samantha going to a bar and picking up Max for sex. Well, she finds she isn’t done with him. Samantha goes and finds Max again, of course, she doesn’t plan on staying with him the rest of her life and so she lies to him about a few things and all goes as planned, until Max’s stepbrother gets kidnapped by the very kidnappers the SSD have been working on trying to find. Now her lies are laid out into the open, but Max has a few of his own. This book is so tangled with lies from Samantha, Max and his stepbrother you never catch on to who the real killer is. This is a book that has so many twisted events; it will keep you turning pages as fast as you can to see if you were guessing the killer right. So far this is my favorite book out of all three of them. Now go get the first book out of this series if you haven’t already and read.
I liked Samantha from the first book, so I couldn’t wait for this book and Cynthia didn’t disappoint me a bit. If you read the second book you found Samantha going to a bar and picking up Max for sex. Well, she finds she isn’t done with him. Samantha goes and finds Max again, of course, she doesn’t plan on staying with him the rest of her life and so she lies to him about a few things and all goes as planned, until Max’s stepbrother gets kidnapped by the very kidnappers the SSD have been working on trying to find. Now her lies are laid out into the open, but Max has a few of his own. This book is so tangled with lies from Samantha, Max and his stepbrother you never catch on to who the real killer is. This is a book that has so many twisted events; it will keep you turning pages as fast as you can to see if you were guessing the killer right. So far this is my favorite book out of all three of them. Now go get the first book out of this series if you haven’t already and read.
September 28, 2020
Reread/listened to the audiobook version 9/28/20
Original rating/review:
5 stars – Romantic Suspense
Original rating/review:
5 stars – Romantic Suspense
May 23, 2016
Wow. That was some ride!
June 5, 2011
Deadly Lies was one quite fascinating read that was full of action and steamy encounters between the hero and the heroine. If you love Pamela Clare's I-Team series or have a thing for romantic suspense, then you should definitely check this one out. Cynthia Eden is slightly new to the romance department but she is one talented lady! You can't exactly read this certain book as a stand-alone because the first book, Deadly Fear is significantly important or related to our heroine, Samantha Kennedy. I've enjoyed and loved every single one of the Deadly books so far because it had a combination of thriller, mystery, and plenty of spice between it's hero and heroine.
Samantha Kennedy has changed drastically ever since the villain from the first book scarred her forever. She's been to hell and back... and as a result, she pretends to be a confident and sexy woman in order to ease the pain away. With that in mind, she ends up meeting a handsome and sexy stranger and shares a one night stand with him. But of course, things don't always go as planned because the stranger that Sam shares the night with happens to be Max Ridgeway. He doesn't want to let her go and as a result, he wants more from his relationship with Sam. Whoo! Talk about some sizzling hot chemistry these two have. From the very beginning, their attraction was undeniable. I loved how even though Sam tells herself that nothing will ever happen between her and Max, it's obvious that she's falling in love with Max and vice-versa. From the very beginning, Max has always wanted more from Sam... even when he finds out that his stepbrother Quinlan, ends up being a 'victim' of the kidnappings that has been occuring lately and Sam happens to be an agent for the CIA.
Oh boy, the killer of the story! Wow, I totally did not expect it-- at all. The thing I love about Cynthia Eden's Deadly series is that she keeps the antagonist of the story myserious at all times until the very end when he reveals himself. There are a few excerpts here and there in the books where the scene shifts from the good guys to the bad guys. It definitely provided readers a good prospective of the killers. Overall, this was a wonderful read and I totally recommend it to any romantic suspense lovers who are in the look out for a very good series to read. 5/5 stars!
Samantha Kennedy has changed drastically ever since the villain from the first book scarred her forever. She's been to hell and back... and as a result, she pretends to be a confident and sexy woman in order to ease the pain away. With that in mind, she ends up meeting a handsome and sexy stranger and shares a one night stand with him. But of course, things don't always go as planned because the stranger that Sam shares the night with happens to be Max Ridgeway. He doesn't want to let her go and as a result, he wants more from his relationship with Sam. Whoo! Talk about some sizzling hot chemistry these two have. From the very beginning, their attraction was undeniable. I loved how even though Sam tells herself that nothing will ever happen between her and Max, it's obvious that she's falling in love with Max and vice-versa. From the very beginning, Max has always wanted more from Sam... even when he finds out that his stepbrother Quinlan, ends up being a 'victim' of the kidnappings that has been occuring lately and Sam happens to be an agent for the CIA.
Oh boy, the killer of the story! Wow, I totally did not expect it-- at all. The thing I love about Cynthia Eden's Deadly series is that she keeps the antagonist of the story myserious at all times until the very end when he reveals himself. There are a few excerpts here and there in the books where the scene shifts from the good guys to the bad guys. It definitely provided readers a good prospective of the killers. Overall, this was a wonderful read and I totally recommend it to any romantic suspense lovers who are in the look out for a very good series to read. 5/5 stars!
June 11, 2011
The third of a series, Deadly Lies had potential that wasn't reached. The basic kidnapping/murder plot was ingenious. Eden did a good job setting up a complicated plot, just as she has in the two previous books. Samantha and Max are an interesting couple and I mostly thought their dynamic worked.
But there are several issues with this book that make me uncertain I will continue with the series. First, the gore and body count got too high for me. This book will appeal to readers who like gritty, bloody suspense orchestrated by a sick serial killer. It was over-the-top to me.
Secondly, while I liked Sam and Max, they needed more time to just talk and get to know one another. It was all so fast and furious, and felt more like lust and obsession than love.
Third, they had sex all the time. Every time they were alone, they ripped each others clothes off. I started skimming sex scenes so I could find out about the kidnappers!
Fourth, I hate it when authors put something unbelievable in a story that simply doesn't need to be there to forward the plot. In this case, The author has a character shot through the shoulder, losing so much blood they thought he'd nicked an artery. But lo and behold, he won't go to the hospital, has the EMTs "patch him up" on the scene, and then accompanies the FBI while they chase the bad guys. He didn't seem to be faint, or light-headed, and seemed in control enough of the pain to have sex later that night. Stupid.
So the book is a mixed bag for me. On one hand, it was very exciting and action-packed. On the other hand, Eden gives in to excess on several fronts. A good book, but with flaws.
But there are several issues with this book that make me uncertain I will continue with the series. First, the gore and body count got too high for me. This book will appeal to readers who like gritty, bloody suspense orchestrated by a sick serial killer. It was over-the-top to me.
Secondly, while I liked Sam and Max, they needed more time to just talk and get to know one another. It was all so fast and furious, and felt more like lust and obsession than love.
Third, they had sex all the time. Every time they were alone, they ripped each others clothes off. I started skimming sex scenes so I could find out about the kidnappers!
Fourth, I hate it when authors put something unbelievable in a story that simply doesn't need to be there to forward the plot. In this case, The author has a character shot through the shoulder, losing so much blood they thought he'd nicked an artery. But lo and behold, he won't go to the hospital, has the EMTs "patch him up" on the scene, and then accompanies the FBI while they chase the bad guys. He didn't seem to be faint, or light-headed, and seemed in control enough of the pain to have sex later that night. Stupid.
So the book is a mixed bag for me. On one hand, it was very exciting and action-packed. On the other hand, Eden gives in to excess on several fronts. A good book, but with flaws.
September 4, 2020
This was fine to listen to while I did some chores but I didn’t get into like the last audiobook by loreth ann white I listened to.
I’ve found this series quite boring in parts.
I’ve found this series quite boring in parts.
June 1, 2025
4.5 stars: great romantic suspense
Wow, this series is such a pleasant surprise. I tried book one recently and really enjoyed it, so immediately ordered books two and three. The series gets better as it goes along and this book has been the best of the series so far!
I like the lead gal--the strength/growth she showed in the aftermath of her attack. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the bad guy was a total surprise. Only negative for me is the sex scenes are sometimes a bit much for me. (That's a personal preference I realize.) Those are easy to skim though, so not a biggie. Be sure to read book one before reading this book. The lead gal in this book Sam has a key role in the first book. You'll need to have that background before starting this book.
I like this series as well as other well known romantic suspense authors -- C. Gerard, S. Brockman, R. St Clair, etc.
Wow, this series is such a pleasant surprise. I tried book one recently and really enjoyed it, so immediately ordered books two and three. The series gets better as it goes along and this book has been the best of the series so far!
I like the lead gal--the strength/growth she showed in the aftermath of her attack. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the bad guy was a total surprise. Only negative for me is the sex scenes are sometimes a bit much for me. (That's a personal preference I realize.) Those are easy to skim though, so not a biggie. Be sure to read book one before reading this book. The lead gal in this book Sam has a key role in the first book. You'll need to have that background before starting this book.
I like this series as well as other well known romantic suspense authors -- C. Gerard, S. Brockman, R. St Clair, etc.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews