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Agent Zero #3
Hunting Zero
In HUNTING ZERO (Book #3), when CIA operative Agent Zero finds out his two teenage girls have been kidnapped and are bound for a trafficking ring in Eastern Europe, he embarks on a high-octane chase across Europe, leaving a trail of devastation is his wake as he breaks all rules, risks his own life, and does everything he can to get his daughters back.
Kent, ordered by the CIA to stand down, refuses. Without the backing of the agency, with moles and assassins on all sides, with a lover he can barely trust, and being targeted himself, Agent Zero must fight multiple foes to get his girls back.
Up against the most deadly trafficking ring in Europe, with political connections reaching all the way to the top, it is an unlikely battle—one man against an army—and one that only Agent Zero can wage.
And yet, his own identity, he realizes, may be the most perilous secret of all.
Kent, ordered by the CIA to stand down, refuses. Without the backing of the agency, with moles and assassins on all sides, with a lover he can barely trust, and being targeted himself, Agent Zero must fight multiple foes to get his girls back.
Up against the most deadly trafficking ring in Europe, with political connections reaching all the way to the top, it is an unlikely battle—one man against an army—and one that only Agent Zero can wage.
And yet, his own identity, he realizes, may be the most perilous secret of all.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2019
557 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Jack Mars
242 books644 followersJack Mars is author of the bestselling LUKE STONE thriller series, which include the suspense thrillers ANY MEANS NECESSARY (book #1), OATH OF OFFICE (book #2) and SITUATION ROOM (book #3).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 18, 2022
A lot of comments were made how this book resembles TAKEN (the 3 movies), and I would have to agree there is a basis of the movie in here BUT, these things happen and we all wish that we were half as good as the heroes to go and rescue our children. This book also is not one you should read without having the background of the other two books. There are so many comments and reflections on past that you'd be a little lost reading this one first. Yes, I enjoyed the book, then why only a 2 star? Well, there were a lot of things that fell off the star list and the first big one was the interaction with the CIA. I will not go into other areas as I am not a book critic, just a reader with a point of view. I will read book 4 if that is any indication but if it is still in the 2 star area...I am off to other interests.
October 30, 2022
Just Wow 😯, on to the next one 😁
July 24, 2019
Another compelling, fast paced thriller in the Agent Zero series. Jack Mars further develops the story lines and characters with brilliant description of scenes and events that make you feel that you are witnessing them first hand!
I liked the way that the reader is given a brief resume of the main storyline in the introduction which soon has Kent Steele (Agent Zero) defying all the odds to pursue and rescue his kidnapped daughters from Rais the Amun Assassin.
This is a real page turner that I didn’t want to put down until the final page! I await it’s sequel with bated breath!
I liked the way that the reader is given a brief resume of the main storyline in the introduction which soon has Kent Steele (Agent Zero) defying all the odds to pursue and rescue his kidnapped daughters from Rais the Amun Assassin.
This is a real page turner that I didn’t want to put down until the final page! I await it’s sequel with bated breath!
February 6, 2025
What a character agent Zero is. He doesn’t get anyone is his way when his two daughters are kidnapped and sold to a human traffic organisation. He gets beaten up, humps in helicopters, falls of high buildings and yet he always stands up to go on.
No matter how unbelievable the book is, it has a high entertainment level and is a quick, relaxed read.
No matter how unbelievable the book is, it has a high entertainment level and is a quick, relaxed read.
December 26, 2020
There are still the unbelievable actions and coincidences that are common in this genre, but the writing is getting better. Still some tweaking is needed in the writing. For example, the hotel bathroom scene that stated the bathroom had been cleaned but the left behind hairs were still on top of the tank makes no sense even in a sleazy, poorly cleaned motel. Or that the porcelain toilet chips when kicked. Overall, though, the story was suspenseful and entertaining. And the topic was timely.
January 22, 2020
What if someone abducted your two precious young teenaged daughters? What would you do? I would do everything in my power to find them and bring them safely home. I bet you would do that too. That is what Reid Lawson, a.k.a Kent Steele, a.k.a. Agent Zero, faced. He leaps into action to find his daughter. He did not trust anyone, but accepted help from wherever he could find it. He is much better equipped than I and probably you too for his task. Even so, he encounters many obstacles - human, equipment, and logistics.This book has lots of action and covers thousands of miles on two continents.
April 27, 2024
Jack Mars' "Hunting Zero" narrated by the talented Edoardo Ballerini, is the third installment in the Agent Zero series, and it arguably elevates the saga to new heights.
**Narration Excellence**
Edoardo Ballerini's narration is nothing short of masterful. His ability to bring characters to life, to infuse each sentence with the right amount of tension, and to keep listeners on the edge of their seats is commendable. Ballerini's voice becomes the perfect vessel for Mars' story, delivering a performance that enhances the text and immerses the listener in the high-stakes world of Agent Zero.
**Engaging Storyline**
"Hunting Zero" follows CIA operative Agent Zero, whose real name is Kent Steele, on a personal and desperate mission. The stakes are higher than ever as his teenage daughters are kidnapped and thrust into a harrowing trafficking ring in Eastern Europe. The plot is a heart-pounding race against time, as Steele must navigate a labyrinth of danger and deception to rescue his daughters.
The story is categorized as espionage but leans heavily into the thriller genre. It's a narrative that's less about the gadgets and spy jargon and more about the human element—the drive of a father to protect his children at all costs. This emotional core is what sets "Hunting Zero" apart from other books in the genre.
**Character Depth**
Mars excels in character development, particularly with Agent Zero. We see layers of his personality peel away as he confronts not only external adversaries but also internal demons. The portrayal of Zero's daughters is equally compelling. They are not mere plot devices but well-crafted characters who endure and overcome, adding depth to the narrative.
**Audiobook Experience**
The audiobook format of "Hunting Zero" offers an experience that the written word alone cannot match. Ballerini's delivery of the suspenseful moments, the dramatic pauses, and the emotional dialogues elevates the tension and drama. The pacing is impeccable, making the nearly 10-hour listening experience feel like a fleeting moment.
**Conclusion**
"Hunting Zero" is a testament to Jack Mars' ability to craft a story that is both action-packed and emotionally resonant. With Edoardo Ballerini's narration, the audiobook becomes a must-listen for fans of the genre. It's a thrilling ride that not only entertains but also reminds us of the enduring power of a parent's love.
**Narration Excellence**
Edoardo Ballerini's narration is nothing short of masterful. His ability to bring characters to life, to infuse each sentence with the right amount of tension, and to keep listeners on the edge of their seats is commendable. Ballerini's voice becomes the perfect vessel for Mars' story, delivering a performance that enhances the text and immerses the listener in the high-stakes world of Agent Zero.
**Engaging Storyline**
"Hunting Zero" follows CIA operative Agent Zero, whose real name is Kent Steele, on a personal and desperate mission. The stakes are higher than ever as his teenage daughters are kidnapped and thrust into a harrowing trafficking ring in Eastern Europe. The plot is a heart-pounding race against time, as Steele must navigate a labyrinth of danger and deception to rescue his daughters.
The story is categorized as espionage but leans heavily into the thriller genre. It's a narrative that's less about the gadgets and spy jargon and more about the human element—the drive of a father to protect his children at all costs. This emotional core is what sets "Hunting Zero" apart from other books in the genre.
**Character Depth**
Mars excels in character development, particularly with Agent Zero. We see layers of his personality peel away as he confronts not only external adversaries but also internal demons. The portrayal of Zero's daughters is equally compelling. They are not mere plot devices but well-crafted characters who endure and overcome, adding depth to the narrative.
**Audiobook Experience**
The audiobook format of "Hunting Zero" offers an experience that the written word alone cannot match. Ballerini's delivery of the suspenseful moments, the dramatic pauses, and the emotional dialogues elevates the tension and drama. The pacing is impeccable, making the nearly 10-hour listening experience feel like a fleeting moment.
**Conclusion**
"Hunting Zero" is a testament to Jack Mars' ability to craft a story that is both action-packed and emotionally resonant. With Edoardo Ballerini's narration, the audiobook becomes a must-listen for fans of the genre. It's a thrilling ride that not only entertains but also reminds us of the enduring power of a parent's love.
April 20, 2022
It was good…I guess. I had a hard time reading it because it was sooo intense. Zero was stretched more than any human being could possibly be. Only thing that was not ‘real’ was every time he got cornered, someone was there to help him out of it. I think I will wait a while before reading the next one.
July 29, 2019
Fun read but very similar to the movie Taken. Zero gets his butt kicked numerous times and by the end of the story he seems to be a shell of himself. Ending was unsatisfactory, to me, as I like a conclusion to a story line not a teaser for the next book. Have now read the first 3 books but will for now pass on book 4.
July 26, 2020
Wild Ride
Oh my, the twists and turns of this story are amazing. Zero and Rais are either one step ahead or one step behind with every chapter. Zero must rescue his daughters from this madman! A bit over the top with some of the steps in the rescue pursuit, but totally absorbing read!
Oh my, the twists and turns of this story are amazing. Zero and Rais are either one step ahead or one step behind with every chapter. Zero must rescue his daughters from this madman! A bit over the top with some of the steps in the rescue pursuit, but totally absorbing read!
January 1, 2021
I am seven volumes into the Agent Zero series. All have kept me thoroughly engaged, but #3 in the series, Hunting Zero has been one of the best for me. Action. Suspense. Drama. Well-crafted characters, especially Zero's daughters, who endure and overcome . . . for now.
January 31, 2021
Excellent
March 8, 2021
Not as good as book 2. Imagine the movie ‘Taken’ and that’s this book.
I will read book 4.
I will read book 4.
July 17, 2022
While Kent Steele is away on an assignment his daughters are kidnapped by a man who he thought he had killed. The heads of the CIA do not believe Kent when he tells them who took his daughters and they tell him they will find them. He is told to stand down and let them do their job.
However, Kent, being the man he is cannot trust anyone to find his daughters but himself. He does track down the kidnapper but finds that his daughter's have been sold to a human trafficking group and are on their way to Poland, Ukraine or Czechoslovakia. As the bodies pile-up the CIA draws closer. It seems to Kent that it more important that they stop him then find his daughters. He becomes more determined than ever to rescue Maya and Sara.
An action packed story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
However, Kent, being the man he is cannot trust anyone to find his daughters but himself. He does track down the kidnapper but finds that his daughter's have been sold to a human trafficking group and are on their way to Poland, Ukraine or Czechoslovakia. As the bodies pile-up the CIA draws closer. It seems to Kent that it more important that they stop him then find his daughters. He becomes more determined than ever to rescue Maya and Sara.
An action packed story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
August 13, 2022
I am surprised it took me this long to get around to reading this one. Luckily, the beginning of the book gently reminds me of what I read in the previous installments. Agent Zero returns from saving the world to find his daughters missing. Of course, the CIA disavowed him as he raced off to rescue them. Will he make it before anything more terrible happens to his girls than being kidnapped?
I have to suspend disbelief to read these books. At one point, I tried to process how big his pockets must be and decided it was just best to go with it, since I was invested in the well-being of some of the characters—obviously not the antagonists.
I have to suspend disbelief to read these books. At one point, I tried to process how big his pockets must be and decided it was just best to go with it, since I was invested in the well-being of some of the characters—obviously not the antagonists.
January 17, 2025
My favourite of the series so far, it's got all the action of the previous books, but the pace picks up and gets even more frantic with Zero pushed to his limits due to the stakes being so much higher and personal to him.
There is a more emotional core to this book than the previous ones that elevate it, really packing a punch and making it even harder to put down. I'm not sure this would work as well in future books though.
I can see the new character of Agent Strickland cropping up again though, and would like to see more of him.
There is a more emotional core to this book than the previous ones that elevate it, really packing a punch and making it even harder to put down. I'm not sure this would work as well in future books though.
I can see the new character of Agent Strickland cropping up again though, and would like to see more of him.
August 1, 2025
Vote: 3,75
Class: L-B1 (FP)
(third book of a series)
Third book of the Agent Zero series it ends what begun in the previous book.
Agent Zero is hunting Reis, his nemesis, and the people who abducted his two daughters, Sara and Maya.
It reminded me of the movie Taken with Lian Nieson and like the movie it was not an original plot but it's very well done and it has some interesting plot twists.
Fast pacing, with itneresting characters, I found it to be a page turner (well, to be honest I listened to it!). Good writing style.
I'll read the sequel sometimes soon.
Class: L-B1 (FP)
(third book of a series)
Third book of the Agent Zero series it ends what begun in the previous book.
Agent Zero is hunting Reis, his nemesis, and the people who abducted his two daughters, Sara and Maya.
It reminded me of the movie Taken with Lian Nieson and like the movie it was not an original plot but it's very well done and it has some interesting plot twists.
Fast pacing, with itneresting characters, I found it to be a page turner (well, to be honest I listened to it!). Good writing style.
I'll read the sequel sometimes soon.
April 20, 2020
He does it again.
You sweat it as Reid goes about his adventures and encounters all the bad guys. Mars has made an unforgettable characters in his stories. The action gets you hooked and you can't put the book down, wanting to see what happens next. Even though you know that Reid will succeed, you can"t wait to see how he does it. Mars is a great writer of intrigue and action.
You sweat it as Reid goes about his adventures and encounters all the bad guys. Mars has made an unforgettable characters in his stories. The action gets you hooked and you can't put the book down, wanting to see what happens next. Even though you know that Reid will succeed, you can"t wait to see how he does it. Mars is a great writer of intrigue and action.
October 28, 2023
Yeah , it had lots of action , and was hard to put down . But, I really struggle with the collateral mental damage inflicted on the family in these books. Despite what we might be lead to believe , agent zero has destroyed his family and his girls mental anguish will not be ever cured . Yet I’ll go on and read the ensuing books where he abandons them again and again to seek
Some truth and get Justice . It ain’t gonna happen ,
Some truth and get Justice . It ain’t gonna happen ,
February 9, 2022
Amazing
I've always loved books like this. The way the author makes you feel like you are there with these characters keeps you turning page after page to find out what happens next. I would recommend this to anyone who likes this genre. Off to read the next installment with agent Kent Steele!
I've always loved books like this. The way the author makes you feel like you are there with these characters keeps you turning page after page to find out what happens next. I would recommend this to anyone who likes this genre. Off to read the next installment with agent Kent Steele!
April 3, 2023
Como siempre una típica historia de espionaje, pero lo que me hizo calificarlo con 5 estrellas es el abordaje del tema de tráfico de niñas para uso en prostitución, ni se si se relata con veracidad la forma en que operan las bandas criminales, pero hay momentos que se hace muy fuerte.
La primera parte del libro con muchos lugares comunes.
La primera parte del libro con muchos lugares comunes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
This is the five-star rating system I use:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
If for whatever reason, I go back and reread a good book, I will change the rating to five-star because I read it again.
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
If for whatever reason, I go back and reread a good book, I will change the rating to five-star because I read it again.
November 4, 2019
It is amazing the whole book occurred within only 3 days - seems unlikely. Lots of violence and graphic. Amazing how much Maya is like Reid aka Kent aka Zero. Seems odd how at peace be is at end. Unlikely he would not have suffered more.Even Sara channels Zero.
November 20, 2019
I felt like Rais’ death was a bit anti climatic but okay. I almost thought he won’t make it to at least one of his kids, but that didn’t happen. The characters of Maya and Sara are also so well etched out.
May 2, 2020
The Best of Agent Zero
There's no love greatest than the love of Agent Zero, who will stop at absolutely nothing to rescue his daughters from ruthless terrorists and traffickers. This is the best Agent Zero thriller yet!
There's no love greatest than the love of Agent Zero, who will stop at absolutely nothing to rescue his daughters from ruthless terrorists and traffickers. This is the best Agent Zero thriller yet!
June 6, 2020
I genuinely did not expect that I would finish this thriller books in tears, but the last few chapters just got to me. I consumed this book over three or four hours (spanning two nights), it is very difficult to put down, even for someone like me who is not usually a thriller fan.
November 1, 2021
The series is going too good.
This is about the tale of the dad going against lots of people to get back his daughters. Though there is some intrigue about his help whenever he requires it, I guess it would be revealed in further books.
This is about the tale of the dad going against lots of people to get back his daughters. Though there is some intrigue about his help whenever he requires it, I guess it would be revealed in further books.
December 24, 2022
Author Jack Mars does a phenomenal job of depicting the nefarious realities of sex trafficking in Hunting Zero. At times it can be arduous to read knowing that these unspeakable crimes occur all the time. But overall the book was absolutely breathtaking, the end of each chapter invigorates your curiosity, leaving you with more questions! It’s a true spy/mystery novel. Ready to read book #4!!
July 11, 2019
Fun summer read but a little over the top with his skills. No one is that good. I guess that’s why it is fiction.
August 10, 2019
Another can't stop reading 'til it's done book. Jack Mars knows how to hook his readers!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews