Depths of Destruction

Behind Closed Doors #1

by Maggie Cole

She’s a Secret Treasure of War...
It’s a routine mission in Belize. Get in, get out, save the women.
Then I see Naomi’s photo and watch her hostage video.
A stirring...an ache...a desire so deep for her heats up my blood and annihilates me.
Then I meet her.
It accelerates my thirst, riling up my inner beast.
She’s an investigative reporter and knows things she shouldn’t.
But all the women have secrets...knowledge about a global force so powerful the world will implode with greed. Freedom will no longer exist.
Instead of delivering her, we run.
The heat of the jungle is a blow torch demolishing my restraint, until I have to make her mine.
But enemies lurk everywhere. After it’s over, I’ll have to piece her back together again. "DEPTHS OF DESTRUCTION " is the first jaw dropping installment in the "BEHIND CLOSED DOORS" series. Each novel is a stand-alone regarding the HEA of the couple, but the plot develops with each story. This steamy series is for mature readers only and is best if read in order. This series may contain situations that may be sensitive for some readers.

Genres: Military Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks

398 pages, ebook

Published January 5, 2021

About the author

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Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.

She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.

Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.

Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)

Reviews

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tubing Ride to End All Others

Oh holy beings! Firstly, I must admit that never have I found a tubing ride to be so erotic! It is just... WOW! Absolutely must read! As for the rest of the story? Phenomenal! It's fast paced and armed to the teeth with twists, turns, and unanswered questions. There are some horrible events that are encountered along the way, too.

On a happier and steamier note, the chemistry between Naomi and Andre (a.k.a Rambo, Tarzan, Clyde, and Julia Child) is in another stratosphere! There are also glimpses of heat with other characters that are likely to pop up in later books. Speaking of, I'm putting this out there now - it appears that the books in this series will be heavily intertwined even though they are for different captives / couples.

Once I started this book, there was no putting it down. I was a little intimidated by the nearly 400 pages length but between the action and dialogue, it went by a lot faster than I expected. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't make my mind up on a 3 or 4 for this, some parts I really liked so will go with a 4.

[Ashleyjo]

DNF.

MMC is hot for her after just a video clip.

FMC is hot for him at first sight.

Too much inner dialogue about how hot each other are as they’re facing immediate danger and haven’t even said a complete sentence to each other.

Actions aren’t believable… rescued from a cartel camp… they drive a short distance and set up camp from extraction 48 later - they’re f’ing around naked in a river the next morning after she’s rescued?

Immediately after meeting, the FMC is berating the MMC who rescued her about why he doesn’t questioning orders and internal dialogue about not liking the US president. I don’t read for political agenda… I read to be entertained, moved.

The dialogue is OTT simple, but it’s also overbearing in tone. She’s kidnapped by the cartel and thrown in a hole … yet seconds out and she immediately goes to acting like a sex tigress and making sarcastic and accusing remarks about the men who saved her?

Just didn’t feel it AT ALL.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review Depths of Destruction (Behind Closed Doors #1) by Maggie Cole

I cannot understand how I have not come across Maggie Cole before. Depths of Destruction had me riveted from the first to the last chapter and I had a hard time putting this book down and I was excited to learn that it the first book in a new series which I will be reading.
The writing was strong and I enjoyed Ms.Cole’s style of writing. This is Andre and Naomi’s story which was and entertaining story with suspense, drama and one that had me on the edge of my seat at times.
The characters are strong and Andre is most definitely an alpha who knows what and who he wants and is driven and focused. Whilst Naomi is a strong heroine who is feisty, independent and sassy.
This story takes place over numerous countries from Belize to Bermuda and as danger rears it’s head it is up to Andre to keep Naomi safe, The chemistry between them is intense and steamy and I was cheering for them to get their happily ever after.
I loved this story and cannot wait to read more in this series.

[Kaja 'Nelson' Ekern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie Cole did it again! The Behind closed doors Series started off with a bang! It will blow you away! Andre is the guy every girl wants. He’s not only gorgeous, but he’s tough, passionate, sweet and all alpha. He takes charge but shows his gentle yet dominating side when he wants something. He’s protective of his guys and leads by example. He falls quickly for Naomi, a strong, independent woman Oman who loves fiercely. Nothing goes right for any of the guys during the rescue mission, but the hot jungle sex helps to keep all the couples moving. Andre will do anything to protect Naomi and his fellow teammates, but will it be enough? I am so stoked to read the next story about Hunter and Vanessa! Maggie Cole blew me away again! The characters and connections just keep getting better and better! A+++++++! This book is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great beginning to the series. Excited to see where the world hopping story goes next.

[Varya · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dnf@ 23%.
There's insta love and it wasn't done right at all.Everything felt haphazard.

Also, the writing style didn't work for me...it felt bland and unemotional.

[Flavia Florean-Dumitru · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do not know why I had such low expectations about this book. It was pretty good actually, even if there are so few people talking about it.

However, I do agree that the story is a bit too fast paced and I would have wanted more depth.

Other than that:

〰️ military romance
〰️ instant attraction
〰️ (very) soft dark romance
〰️ some triggers: mental health, PTSD
〰️ no slow burn
〰️ around 2 steamy 🌶️
〰️ HEA

I read that the plot develops with each story, so I guess I’ll buy the second book as well.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋

Very steamy and hot, full of action and tension, aggressive and emotional moments.
Set in the jungle of Belize and the Beauty of Bermuda.
This is going to have you riveted to the pages.
Enjoy!

[LHS · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an imagination Maggie Cole has - the books just get better and better. This was the first book in a new series and I could not put it down from reading the first page and read it in one sitting.

The book has everything - alpha males, sexiness, love and heartbreak, drama, kidnap, torture and murder. Andre Lopez is a true alpha male sent by Interpol to rescue Naomi - an investigative reporter from Belize - and a number of other women, who have been kidnapped by a drug cartel after she uncovers evidence that they are linked to a number of politicians - evidence that she wants to release. As soon as Andre meets Naomi they fall for each other and he will do anything to protect her especially when he realises that his orders to deliver her to the US could put her in a more dangerous position that before. As they run go on the run trying to get her to safety they have to face obstacles that will test their love and faith in the world.

I don't want to say too much more as it would spoil this great book - but it cleverly weaves the characters in it from the other books and the fact that each book in this series is being released one after the other in a short amount of time is brilliant. It will help keep me occupied during lockdown. Can't wait Hunter and Vanessa's story in the second book - Marks of Rebellion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think Maggie Cole has written the best book ever ~ she tops it with the next one, and this is it! Get ready to be amazed because Andre’ and Naomi will rock your world! A total mind blower of a story! This book is crazy fantastic in numerous ways involving action, drama and several nail-biting moments. This intense, whirlwind romance will take you on the journey of a lifetime and make you believe in love again. I could not stop reading once I began because it’s just that great. As the first book in the Behind Closed Door series I can only imagine what incredible stories are yet to come. Don’t miss this one - it has ALL THE FEELS from tragic to lovestruck. Well done Maggie Cole you never cease to astound me!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tina Thompson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nope! Can’t do it. Second time trying to read this, it’s just too ridiculous!

I can’t believe how bad this book is! Maybe the author really shouldn’t write military books. I tried reading it a while ago and gave up. I can see why now. Sadly.

Naomi is a journalist in Belize. When she writes a story about the corruption in her country, she is taken hostage, along with her sister and several other women. This is where the plot gets ludicrous. Andre is sent from Interpol to rescue her and take her to America. So instead of being flown into the area, they drive, and leave their trucks at the side of the road. So no one would question why these trucks are there, and whose they are? Then they camp for two days in the jungle, and no bad men come looking for them? The other women are to be released when they are safe. Naomi is going to be exchanged for a prisoner in Belize, that the American president wants for the death of his daughter. Hmm.. So the American president, somehow knew exactly where Naomi was being kept and by who?

Are you confused yet? You will be!!!

So Andre and half of his men decide that they will each take a woman and rescue her. There’s no plan of action, no discussing it with their six other team mates. Even Andres best friend gets left out of it. As he might not want to rescue them. So they plod through the jungle, without knowing where they are going. Andre is supposed to be an experienced military man. Yet doesn’t seem to have a clue!

At one point they float down the river on a tyre and have sex, in the dark????? Okay, so no fear of danger at all! And how is that even possible?? Then they make a plan of how to get out of country, with Andre drawing with a stick on the ground, marking out where they are!!! I kid you not!!

I tried reading this book before and hated it. I can see why now. I loved Maggie Cole’s Mafia series. This is nowhere near as good.
Sorry.

[Catheryn]

DNF at 11%

I could almost get past the insta-lust but they were too much with it. Also, I didn't like that Naomi was so sassy with Andre from the start. The man JUST saved your life and now she is laying into him about what he knows. If I was Andre, I would just walk away. Both of them were a bit much and I could not continue with the story.

[Averi Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think Maggie cole has done her best with the Together we stands series, she comes out with yet another one just as good as the last one. I said it once, Ill say it again "Maggie cole is a writing genie" I can't wait for the next one.

[Floraljoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a thrilling ride!
Danger and desire collide in this first book of what looks to be an amazing new series.
Andre is tasked with rescuing Naomi and some other female hostages from the cartel however it soon became apparent that they were pawns in a bigger game. So instead of handing the women over, they flee into the Belizean jungle. It was quite fast paced as they dodged danger on all sides, but there were plenty of steamy interludes too. Whilst it was insta love they develop a strong emotional connection which you could feel and their relationship came across as authentic.
This book was quite gruesome and violent at times which made it challenging to read, however the suspense had me wanting to keep going to see what would happen next. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout. Now I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens with the rest of the female hostages and what the larger conspiracy is all about.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[peggylovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to start... Naomi and Andre draws you into the story. Naomi is a reporter who has a HUGE story that she wants published but is kidnapped before it can be. Andre is the guy who rescues her and other kidnapped women.

When Andre and his men realize something isn’t quite right they take off with the women to protect them.

Naomi is drawn to Andre while they make their way to safety. As they are running for their lives they have to figure out the mystery of why all of them were taken.

This is a roller coaster of a read where I was not wanting this story to end. When you think that you figured out why these women were taken it takes you into a different direction. The instant connection between Andre and Naomi was intriguing and how they came to trust and love each other. Totally can’t wait for the next book in this series.
*
*
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**Spoilers**
I want to leave a few lines that made me love this book even more:

I have no problem with you becoming my sex slave. Scratch that, I’ll be your sex slave.

This woman is going to be the death of me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tina M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depths of Destruction is the first book in Maggie Cole's new series Behind Closed Doors. She sets the tone right from the beginning. If you like romantic suspense, then this is it!

When a group of alpha men swoop in to rescue the kidnapped women from a drug cartel, they take matters into their own hands. "In the depths of destruction, there is a super, sexy, hot stud named Andre..." Naomi and Andre have instant attraction and running for their lives through the jungle just leads to steamy, hot jungle sex! As emotions run high and their feelings intensify, one thing is clear; Andre would do anything for Naomi behind closed doors.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Francesca Abbate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, WOW! I have read all of Maggie’s books and at the end of each book I’m always like woah that was insane. Depths of Destruction has seriously BLOWN. MY. MIND! This is by far one of the most nail biting, edge of your seat and of course panty melting books to date.
Andre is a serious BEAST. One look at Naomi and that was it, he was done for. He claimed her and did not let her go. I loved it. I love him!
Andre and Naomi are indestructible. No matter what came their way, they worked together from day one.
As it’s book one it’s given us a glimpse of the other characters and OH MYYY GOOOODDDD I seriously cannot wait for the next book. Like I need it NOW! Bring it on!!!

As always Maggie, my girl, you never disappoint.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome read! I absolutely loved Naomi and Andre. Their connection and the journey they go on is so suspenseful it’s unbelievable. Running thru the jungle, the ex, the earthquake, the love they share is well you have to read to find out. This a definite page turner. Andre is such a protective man and will do whatever he needs to to protect Naomi and keep her safe. Naomi is a journalist who along with her sister Emilia were kidnapped. She knows more than she should and needs to keep from being brought to the US President. This journey is full of passion and not knowing if she is going to ever be safe again or whether her and her sister Emilia will ever see each other and be brought together in the end. Get ready to be amazed and surprised by all the events that happen on this journey of Andre and Naomi! I can’t wait for the next book in this series.

[Denise Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in Maggie Cole’s Behind Closed Doors series and WOW! Depths of Destruction pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you reeling until the end (which also makes you want more!)

“In the depths of destruction, there is this super sexy, hot stud named Andre...”

Andre Lopez, an Interpol agent, is tasked with finding women who have been kidnapped. Naomi Salazar is a Belizean journalist who is trying to find the truth about the corruption in her country. Their connection to each other is instant and is on another level. Reading about these two was like watching a movie that you want more of.

Maggie Cole hit the jackpot with this book! Looking forward to the next one!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emma bramley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in this new series by this author. This is the story of Andre and Naomi. These two characters have amazing chemistry between them. This story is filled with intrigue, emotions, intensity, hot and steamy and angst. This story has lots of action mixed perfectly with the characters relationship. With lots of twists and turns this is a page turner of a read. Another amazing gripping read from this author.

I was given an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
www.obsessedbookreviews.com

[Beckey Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab a glass of cold water and get ready for an action packed adventure in Depths of Destruction. From the beginning to the end there is steamy adventure and danger that keeps you wanting more. Naomi and Andre have immediate chemistry that is palpable. As they are running for their lives and over coming so many obstacles they can't help but make the jungles hotter than they are already were. If this is how the Behind Closed Doors series is starting I can not wait to see the rest. Amazing job Maggie Cole.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jessica M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andre wasn’t prepared for what his mission was about to bring him. Now he will risk everything to keep Naomi safe.... but will they both survive and come out stronger together? Or will the depths of everything they’ve gone through be too much and destroy them? Trust me, you are gonna wanna keep up with the twists and turns of this one!! It had me on the edge of my seat, and I cannot wait to continue the saga with the next book!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in a new series Behind Closed Doors. Naomi is an investigative reporter from Belize, and she’s discovered evidence linking the politicians and the drug cartels. But this evidence gets her kidnapped. So Interpol sends in their best, and Andre Lopez is one of them. When he first see Naomi he knows she’s not like any other woman he’s ever met. And he vows to her that he will protect her at all costs.

This is an amazing book. From the start you are drawn in. Naomi is a strong character, and goes through so much, but still, stays strong. This book has all the heart pumping adrenaline you could want from a action movie. But I must also say, this book is hot! And I’m not just talking about the jungle the characters are running through. There are scenes in this book that will make you need a cold glass of water. There is a scene going down a river, in an inner-tube, and that’s all I’m saying because I don’t want to give spoilers away. But this book is a must read! And I can’t wait for the next book!

[Janice L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depths of Destruction opens up with Naomi Salazar, a strong female lead, getting kidnapped by men with connections to a drug cartel. In swoops Andre Lopez, an agent for Interpol, to save Naomi and others who all have their own secrets regarding the cartel’s major players. The chemistry between Naomi and Andre is instantaneous and it isn’t long before they find solace in each other. Andre cares for her and her safety and Naomi puts her trust in him, but is worried about her sister who seems to have her own set of secrets. This book is fire and it was very difficult for me to put down. I kept wanting to know where the next secret would lead or who the next betrayal might come from. Overall, a wonderfully suspenseful and passionate new series from Maggie Cole.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jacqueline Ellison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting storyline that has danger, suspense, drug cartels, kidnappings and lies. Naomi Salazar is an investigative journalist who for two and a half years has collected proof the Belize politicians are corrupt and have been using taxpayers money to fund the drug cartels. She is kidnapped and held in a pit in the jungle along with other prominent women including her sister by Santiago Gomez. Andre Lopez was in the marines and is now on another rescue mission in the jungle of Belize for Interpol. He is to transport Naomi to a secure location for the United States to take her. From start to finish the storyline kept me so engrossed, I could not put it down. Well written storyline and characters that were plotted out perfectly.

[Brandy Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a way to start a series! This action-packed romance has it all with mystery, suspense, danger and STEAM! This book pulled me in right from start to the very end. Andre and Naomi were an excellent team as they worked together to get away from the danger that surrounded them. This book is a definite must read and I can't wait to read the rest of this riveting series!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap this book was amazing! I was hooked from the Prologue. The non-stop action, romance and suspense. Page after page the action and suspense kept getting better and better. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series brings.

[Missy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, didn’t want to put it down!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hang on to your hats because this is one wild ride! Depths of Destruction is book one in the six book collection of Behind Closed Doors. This book grabs you from the first chapter and takes you through the ups and downs and twists and turns of an Interpol agent and his target. There is mystery, intrigue, romance and something happening around every corner. Andre Lopez is an alpha male of the best kind! Big, brawny, tattooed agent who will stop at nothing to protect his target, sexy reporter Naomi Salazar. Together they try to reach safety from the clenches of a drug cartel. This is a true can't-put-down page turner! The worst part? Waiting for the next book in the series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.