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The Arsenal #5
Battle Scars
Scars don’t always heal…
Jesse Mason chose duty over love and endured the hell of captivity comforted only with thoughts of the woman he left behind. Though the physical damage has healed, the emotional battle continues now that he’s home. He fakes happy and whole until Ellie is thrust back into his life. She’s everything he ever wanted but can never have. Getting wrapped up in her problems is not an option, but neither is leaving her in danger.
Without her he’d be nothing.
Scars aren’t always visible…
Ellie Travers salvaged her scarred heart and landed headfirst in a horrible marriage. Now divorced, broke, and desperate to care for her ailing mother, she accepts the only job offered—Office Manager at The Arsenal. Working for the man who broke her heart should be simple compared to escaping a hellacious marriage. But only she can help Jesse win the final war for his soul, and she’ll do anything to save him—even at the risk of losing herself.
The battle lines have been drawn. Together they must navigate the minefields of love and sacrifice because failure is not an option.
Jesse Mason chose duty over love and endured the hell of captivity comforted only with thoughts of the woman he left behind. Though the physical damage has healed, the emotional battle continues now that he’s home. He fakes happy and whole until Ellie is thrust back into his life. She’s everything he ever wanted but can never have. Getting wrapped up in her problems is not an option, but neither is leaving her in danger.
Without her he’d be nothing.
Scars aren’t always visible…
Ellie Travers salvaged her scarred heart and landed headfirst in a horrible marriage. Now divorced, broke, and desperate to care for her ailing mother, she accepts the only job offered—Office Manager at The Arsenal. Working for the man who broke her heart should be simple compared to escaping a hellacious marriage. But only she can help Jesse win the final war for his soul, and she’ll do anything to save him—even at the risk of losing herself.
The battle lines have been drawn. Together they must navigate the minefields of love and sacrifice because failure is not an option.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2019
233 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Cara Carnes
67 books384 followersBorn in small-town Texas, Cara Carnes was a princess, a pirate, fashion model, actress, rock star and Jon Bon Jovi’s wife all before the age of 13.
In reality, her fascination for enthralling worlds took seed somewhere amidst a somewhat dull day job and a wonderful life filled with family and friends. When she’s not cemented to her chair, Cara loves travelling, photography and reading.
More information about Cara can be found at www.caracarnes.com.
In reality, her fascination for enthralling worlds took seed somewhere amidst a somewhat dull day job and a wonderful life filled with family and friends. When she’s not cemented to her chair, Cara loves travelling, photography and reading.
More information about Cara can be found at www.caracarnes.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
August 15, 2019
Jesse Mason suffers from PTSD from his days in the military. Sporting physical and emotional scars that are a daily reminder of what he survived in captivity, Jesse's sole reason to continue living is to work with his brothers at the Arsenal.
Ellie Travers believed she and Jesse would have the fairy tale HEA life Jesse promised her in their childhood. Together through thick and thin, they planned to be married after graduation and start filling their dream home with kids until Jesse enlisted in the military and Ellie chose her mother over him.
Reunited when Ellie is hired to work for the Aresenal, Jesse purposely keeps his distance as any sort of future between the two is impossible. Impossible as Jesse isn't the man Ellie once knew and never can be.
* * * *
Totally ate this story up. If two people were ever meant to have a HEA, it's these two. Premised in secondary roles in previous installments of the series, their time to shine has come.
First off. Not so much a trigger warning, more a cautionary concern is the fact the author has included a history of physical and mental abuse situations. Both characters carry baggage issues that a reader could find disturbing if sensitive to those sorts of things. Left me grabbing a tissue or two but definitely not dark content applicable.
This story wrung me out emotionally. Wounded warriors are real and I have to commend the author for not sugar coating the reality. I further appreciated that it's usually a family affair in that the overall family plays a part in these sorts of situations. Luckily, the Mason family were strong enough to be there for Jesse though not without pitfalls and mistakes along the way. That too was appreciated as recovery should not be a perfect process that idealizes that in a perfect world the rainbow, sunshine, and chocolates are plentiful. People are going to make mistakes but no one should ever give up when that happens.
OK. Enough of the preaching, back to the story review. I am a big fan of this story as it's different and unique. Honestly, each story in the series fits that thought. Raw, emotional, and suspenseful, I loved the application of high tech geekery fused with military brawn & strength support to create a suspenseful story. The romance aspects is just the frosting on the cake.
Totally a fan of series and author, the only reason I four starred instead of five starred my rating is that events leading up to the climatic ending scenes were rushed, superficial, and wrapped up in a way that was anticlimatic. I wanted the importance of the action/adventure climatic scenes (not to be confused with the end romance wrap up scenes) to have made the journey to get there worth it.
Ellie Travers believed she and Jesse would have the fairy tale HEA life Jesse promised her in their childhood. Together through thick and thin, they planned to be married after graduation and start filling their dream home with kids until Jesse enlisted in the military and Ellie chose her mother over him.
Reunited when Ellie is hired to work for the Aresenal, Jesse purposely keeps his distance as any sort of future between the two is impossible. Impossible as Jesse isn't the man Ellie once knew and never can be.
* * * *
Totally ate this story up. If two people were ever meant to have a HEA, it's these two. Premised in secondary roles in previous installments of the series, their time to shine has come.
First off. Not so much a trigger warning, more a cautionary concern is the fact the author has included a history of physical and mental abuse situations. Both characters carry baggage issues that a reader could find disturbing if sensitive to those sorts of things. Left me grabbing a tissue or two but definitely not dark content applicable.
This story wrung me out emotionally. Wounded warriors are real and I have to commend the author for not sugar coating the reality. I further appreciated that it's usually a family affair in that the overall family plays a part in these sorts of situations. Luckily, the Mason family were strong enough to be there for Jesse though not without pitfalls and mistakes along the way. That too was appreciated as recovery should not be a perfect process that idealizes that in a perfect world the rainbow, sunshine, and chocolates are plentiful. People are going to make mistakes but no one should ever give up when that happens.
OK. Enough of the preaching, back to the story review. I am a big fan of this story as it's different and unique. Honestly, each story in the series fits that thought. Raw, emotional, and suspenseful, I loved the application of high tech geekery fused with military brawn & strength support to create a suspenseful story. The romance aspects is just the frosting on the cake.
Totally a fan of series and author, the only reason I four starred instead of five starred my rating is that events leading up to the climatic ending scenes were rushed, superficial, and wrapped up in a way that was anticlimatic. I wanted the importance of the action/adventure climatic scenes (not to be confused with the end romance wrap up scenes) to have made the journey to get there worth it.
February 20, 2021
WOW! I’ve been waiting for Jesse’s story and it was everything I could have hoped for. This story will have you glimpsing the bowels of hell. Jesse isn’t the only one who has spent time there but it has cost him in scars, PTSD and the woman he loves. In this story we see him crawl from the dregs back into the light and it is a heck of a trip. Keep the tissues handy.
August 21, 2019
Jesse and Ellie.
This series just gets grittier. Jesse Mason was Delta Force. Captured by insurgents he was tortured for six months before being rescued, alive but maimed and psychologically damaged. Ellie was his childhood sweetheart, his first, his last, his everything until she refused to come with him overseas and married another man.
Since he returned to The Arsenal Jesse has given Ellie the cold shoulder, and so have the rest of the Mason brothers but he soon comes to realise that Ellie is selflessly working to support The Arsenal and the Mason family. Slowly, especially after the car crash at the end of the previous book, Jesse starts to forgive Ellie. But with the trauma of his incarceration and torture affecting him physically and mentally can he ever be a husband to the woman he never stopped loving?
Earlier today I was reviewing book blurbs and rolling my eyes at the formulaic angst-angst-angst man with trauma yadda-yadda plots. Whilst Cara Carnes might do high intensity angst she does it with panache. Gritty and real, yet with real heart, high intensity drama, family tensions, lots of cookies, cartels, PTSD and a tight-knit community.
I just love this series, its high-octane romantic drama and I just can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley n return for an honest review.
This series just gets grittier. Jesse Mason was Delta Force. Captured by insurgents he was tortured for six months before being rescued, alive but maimed and psychologically damaged. Ellie was his childhood sweetheart, his first, his last, his everything until she refused to come with him overseas and married another man.
Since he returned to The Arsenal Jesse has given Ellie the cold shoulder, and so have the rest of the Mason brothers but he soon comes to realise that Ellie is selflessly working to support The Arsenal and the Mason family. Slowly, especially after the car crash at the end of the previous book, Jesse starts to forgive Ellie. But with the trauma of his incarceration and torture affecting him physically and mentally can he ever be a husband to the woman he never stopped loving?
Earlier today I was reviewing book blurbs and rolling my eyes at the formulaic angst-angst-angst man with trauma yadda-yadda plots. Whilst Cara Carnes might do high intensity angst she does it with panache. Gritty and real, yet with real heart, high intensity drama, family tensions, lots of cookies, cartels, PTSD and a tight-knit community.
I just love this series, its high-octane romantic drama and I just can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley n return for an honest review.
November 16, 2020
Each entry in this series gets deeper into the dark world of nasty people. They also delve deeper into the individual traumas that befall our heroes, and the impact they have on daily life. This story involves a wounded fighter and one of the important women on the team, each battling their internal wars. This story also wraps up one of the lingering arcs from the past 2 books, and leaves plenty more to support the next book(s).
This author has built a complex and integrated series, involving many players. Each story focuses on a new pairing, but the rest of the "family" is not shunted aside, but is heavily involved.
There is romance and sex, but they are somewhat secondary to the challenges and ugliness they encounter around the world.
My only disappointment is that the structure of these stories are starting to repeat a bit. And there is one repeating element that I could do without.
But these are tense and exciting stories, and I will keep reading them.
This author has built a complex and integrated series, involving many players. Each story focuses on a new pairing, but the rest of the "family" is not shunted aside, but is heavily involved.
There is romance and sex, but they are somewhat secondary to the challenges and ugliness they encounter around the world.
My only disappointment is that the structure of these stories are starting to repeat a bit. And there is one repeating element that I could do without.
But these are tense and exciting stories, and I will keep reading them.
October 8, 2024
Oh... oh... oh... I am so teary & happy. Oh my. Cara Carnes writes a damn fine read... I think that 'The Arsenal' series is definitely in my top ten reads... when I found 'Jagged Edge' I was drawn into a world that I was a little wary of entering into... but, from the first sentence, I was all in. Reading Ellie & Jesse's story was beautifully heart-breaking and so heart-mending too.
The Mason's ever expanding family feel so familiar to me, to see that there is a new story to be told makes me all shiver-y.
Completely recommend this and ALL of the others for a completely immersive read.
( July... )
Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh... just got the first three chapters... thank you!!! I am soooo looking forward to the rest. 💕💞 Jesse. Now, I just need to wait for the rest... eeeep.
20/08/21 Currently listening to the Audible version... another continuity error to add to the Rebecca/Amanda Sinclair, Marville/Devil Dogs... now we have Ricardo changed to Raul .
21/08/21 Another editing error found... Cara Carnes... you need a better proof-reader... this... in the kindle & Audible... 25/08/24: Bought a physical copy of this ( what can I say? I love it! ) - same error there. Cannot get why it wasn't caught. Page 133 - the error is so clear to see.
'Riley cleared this room and all the others before she took position to watch over Riley and her mom.'
Something else... Ellie's mum says that Ellie used to change Riley's 'diaper's'. I am so lost with all of their ages. There are 7 Mason siblings. I think age order is Marshall, Nolan, Dylan, Jesse, Dallas, Cord then Riley. So... let's say Jesse is early 30's? Riley late 20's? Ellie would've been 3 or 4 maybe 5 when changing nappies? Really? The thing is... I truly do love these tales... but the flow gets flawed when I start thinking about things... ( don't even get me started on Dallas and the whole Collective thing... wish I could make sense of that... )
That should've been 'Ellie' instead of the second Riley. Cannot believe that it got through... I mean, it isn't even as is they are in different sentences, let alone paragraphs ( cannot understand how the narrator didn't pick up on it either )... just bad when you pay £££ for a book. Won't stop me loving the series... just a little disappointed in the editor/proof-reader.
26/08/21 Finished listening to this last night. Another continuity error. Either Brooklyn is 2 people or she moves really fast. She was both at Natalie's house and with the rest of her team at Herman's at the same time...
I think that this shows that although I take everything in when I read... I obviously hear more when I listen. And I re-iterate... Cara Carnes needs to talk to her editor... or maybe she already has...
16/03/22 . BUT... I love 'The Arsenal' series... I think part of the reason that I am nit-picking is that I really do love it and it is frustrating when things don't appear to make sense. I am hoping that CC is doing well and that we can look forward to 'Shock Tactics' soon... but, no real pressure. Totally get it.
Something else that I would love to see on CC's web-site is a 'family' tree ( with ages ) of 'The Arsenal' characters...
The Mason's ever expanding family feel so familiar to me, to see that there is a new story to be told makes me all shiver-y.
Completely recommend this and ALL of the others for a completely immersive read.
( July... )
Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh... just got the first three chapters... thank you!!! I am soooo looking forward to the rest. 💕💞 Jesse. Now, I just need to wait for the rest... eeeep.
20/08/21 Currently listening to the Audible version... another continuity error to add to the Rebecca/Amanda Sinclair, Marville/Devil Dogs... now we have Ricardo changed to Raul .
21/08/21 Another editing error found... Cara Carnes... you need a better proof-reader... this... in the kindle & Audible... 25/08/24: Bought a physical copy of this ( what can I say? I love it! ) - same error there. Cannot get why it wasn't caught. Page 133 - the error is so clear to see.
'Riley cleared this room and all the others before she took position to watch over Riley and her mom.'
Something else... Ellie's mum says that Ellie used to change Riley's 'diaper's'. I am so lost with all of their ages. There are 7 Mason siblings. I think age order is Marshall, Nolan, Dylan, Jesse, Dallas, Cord then Riley. So... let's say Jesse is early 30's? Riley late 20's? Ellie would've been 3 or 4 maybe 5 when changing nappies? Really? The thing is... I truly do love these tales... but the flow gets flawed when I start thinking about things... ( don't even get me started on Dallas and the whole Collective thing... wish I could make sense of that... )
That should've been 'Ellie' instead of the second Riley. Cannot believe that it got through... I mean, it isn't even as is they are in different sentences, let alone paragraphs ( cannot understand how the narrator didn't pick up on it either )... just bad when you pay £££ for a book. Won't stop me loving the series... just a little disappointed in the editor/proof-reader.
26/08/21 Finished listening to this last night. Another continuity error. Either Brooklyn is 2 people or she moves really fast. She was both at Natalie's house and with the rest of her team at Herman's at the same time...
I think that this shows that although I take everything in when I read... I obviously hear more when I listen. And I re-iterate... Cara Carnes needs to talk to her editor... or maybe she already has...
16/03/22 . BUT... I love 'The Arsenal' series... I think part of the reason that I am nit-picking is that I really do love it and it is frustrating when things don't appear to make sense. I am hoping that CC is doing well and that we can look forward to 'Shock Tactics' soon... but, no real pressure. Totally get it.
Something else that I would love to see on CC's web-site is a 'family' tree ( with ages ) of 'The Arsenal' characters...
February 17, 2020
I have been waiting with bated breath for this book so when I received an advanced copy I (did a mini thank you book gods dance) dived straight in without hesitation... and was promptly swept along on the most amazing journey. It's the story of how best friends and soul mates, Ellie and Jesse, find their way back to one another against a horrible backstory where the reader finally finds out just what happened to Dani to make her personality change overnight and for her to hate the Masons. As the plot unravels, some characters really come into their own (Levi) and new ones are introduced while Carnes starts sowing the seeds of a possible upcoming romance between another two characters (no spoilers). Basically, this book had me hook, line and sinker and I'm already going back for seconds. Carnes' style of writing, plot development, character arcs, depth of feeling and humour all shine through Battle Scars to make this book a total knock out, in my opinion. If you love the Arsenal books, then you will love this one and will be cheering Ellie on in her war on Jessie's demons.
August 1, 2019
This book is insanely good. Battle Scars is Book 5 in The Arsenal series and just when I thought I've read them all, Ms Carnes went a bit further this time. What a difficult subject to write and honestly, I think this might be the first that I've read in this genre. I couldn't get into what specifically that core of the subject matter is but just know that going into this book, you have to be prepared for some really raw emotions.
Second chances trope is one of my favourite to read and Ms Carnes wrote it so well in this book. I think Jesse is one of the best hero that Ms Carnes as ever written. He's a strong Alpha but with such an underlining vulnerability and reading his backstory, you couldn't help but be aghast by what he had endured. Can I also say that Ellie is my favourite heroine in this series thus far. She is perfect for Jesse and I am so happy when they finally had overdue HEA.
If you haven't read this series, I would urge you to pick it up. Do start from Book 1 of this series as you'll understand and appreciate the world that Ms Carnes is building. Highly recommend!
Second chances trope is one of my favourite to read and Ms Carnes wrote it so well in this book. I think Jesse is one of the best hero that Ms Carnes as ever written. He's a strong Alpha but with such an underlining vulnerability and reading his backstory, you couldn't help but be aghast by what he had endured. Can I also say that Ellie is my favourite heroine in this series thus far. She is perfect for Jesse and I am so happy when they finally had overdue HEA.
If you haven't read this series, I would urge you to pick it up. Do start from Book 1 of this series as you'll understand and appreciate the world that Ms Carnes is building. Highly recommend!
October 11, 2021
FWIW Brooklyn cannot be in 2 places - house across from the school and house of the bad guy - at the same time.
Read
November 26, 2022Thoroughly enjoyed!
A well written story that I thoroughly enjoyed! I highly recommend it to those who enjoy romantic suspense. NOTE: the story might evoke triggers for those who have been mentally and physically abused.
Overall, it was a good read!
A well written story that I thoroughly enjoyed! I highly recommend it to those who enjoy romantic suspense. NOTE: the story might evoke triggers for those who have been mentally and physically abused.
Overall, it was a good read!
January 20, 2020
Loved Elle and Jesse's story. A very emotional second chance romance,
Elle Travers and Jesse Mason became best friends when she was 7, and she clocked Nolan with her back pack on the first day of school defending him. In high school they were planning a future together. When Jesse joined the army and wanted Elle to go with him, she couldn't and had no explanation, breaking both their hearts.
13 years later. Elle is working for Jesse and his brothers as the Arsenal office manager. Divorced and caring for her mother. At first hostile, Jesse and his brothers now tolerate her. The ladies have befriended her. She has quietly become the heart of the Arsenal, through all the baked goods she leave for all the operatives. Knowing what they like. She is happy just to be near the man she never stopped loving.
Jesse has slowly moved away from the anger he has held for the women he never stopped loving. Memories of his peanut, are what got him through the 6 months of torture he endured as a prisoner of war. He sees what she quietly does for him and his brothers, the operatives and what she did for his mother. Maybe they can get back the friendship they once shared.
When Elle is shot at and then harassed by her ex over a CD she took my mistake, Jesse sees this as the opportunity to repay her. He learns what she has been going through over the years they were apart.
Whats on the CD, shines light on what has been going on in Marville and it has been going on much longer than anyone imagined. They learn why Dani hates all things Mason, and have a chance to right the wrongs against Dom. Even learn what happened to Raul.
Cord has seen how Jesse is around Elle. He sees her as the key to bring his big brother all the way home. Elle loves Jesse and is willing to do anything to help him. He isn't the only one. Levi, the man who lead the team that rescued Jesse, and who has been by is side since, sees it to. Jesse himself begins to believe that maybe he and Elle have a second chance at a happily ever after.
The Mason family is growing.
Loved Elle and Jesse's story. Fast paced, a little steamy and very emotional. There may be some triggers for some, no graphic depictions. The story deals with human trafficking, rape, torture, and night terrors. Follows Jesse as he struggles with body image, the nightmares of the torture he endured, the sexual dysfunction directly related to it, and the real possibility of never having a child of his own.
I love this series, it's an automatic buy for me. This is not a stand alone, it does need to be read in order. I was lucky to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Elle Travers and Jesse Mason became best friends when she was 7, and she clocked Nolan with her back pack on the first day of school defending him. In high school they were planning a future together. When Jesse joined the army and wanted Elle to go with him, she couldn't and had no explanation, breaking both their hearts.
13 years later. Elle is working for Jesse and his brothers as the Arsenal office manager. Divorced and caring for her mother. At first hostile, Jesse and his brothers now tolerate her. The ladies have befriended her. She has quietly become the heart of the Arsenal, through all the baked goods she leave for all the operatives. Knowing what they like. She is happy just to be near the man she never stopped loving.
Jesse has slowly moved away from the anger he has held for the women he never stopped loving. Memories of his peanut, are what got him through the 6 months of torture he endured as a prisoner of war. He sees what she quietly does for him and his brothers, the operatives and what she did for his mother. Maybe they can get back the friendship they once shared.
When Elle is shot at and then harassed by her ex over a CD she took my mistake, Jesse sees this as the opportunity to repay her. He learns what she has been going through over the years they were apart.
Whats on the CD, shines light on what has been going on in Marville and it has been going on much longer than anyone imagined. They learn why Dani hates all things Mason, and have a chance to right the wrongs against Dom. Even learn what happened to Raul.
Cord has seen how Jesse is around Elle. He sees her as the key to bring his big brother all the way home. Elle loves Jesse and is willing to do anything to help him. He isn't the only one. Levi, the man who lead the team that rescued Jesse, and who has been by is side since, sees it to. Jesse himself begins to believe that maybe he and Elle have a second chance at a happily ever after.
The Mason family is growing.
Loved Elle and Jesse's story. Fast paced, a little steamy and very emotional. There may be some triggers for some, no graphic depictions. The story deals with human trafficking, rape, torture, and night terrors. Follows Jesse as he struggles with body image, the nightmares of the torture he endured, the sexual dysfunction directly related to it, and the real possibility of never having a child of his own.
I love this series, it's an automatic buy for me. This is not a stand alone, it does need to be read in order. I was lucky to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
August 15, 2019
Battle Scars Cara Carnes
Reviewed by SFF Dragon*
Wow! Jesse and Ellie's story is finally here, and Oh Boy, what a story.....
If, like me, you've been avidly reading The Arsenal, Cara Carnes' seriously gritty and action packed romance series, then you've read bits and pieces in every book so far alluding to what happened to Jesse Mason and that there was a past relationship between him and Ellie Travers, The Arsenal's new Office Manager. Well now, you're gonna get all the details and I'll warn you before you begin, 'Battle Scars', the fifth book in the series, is a very hard hitter with lots of triggers and I cried more than I laughed reading this emotionally charged and totally heart-rending story, but there is a happily ever after. That made me cry too, but for completely different reasons. I was totally absorbed and emotionally engaged before I'd finished the first couple of pages and nothing was going to make me put it down before I got to the end. I absolutely loved it!
It's so hard to tell you anything much about the story without giving spoilers, so I'll give you the basics..... Jesse and Ellie once had a very serious relationship, but Jesse left to join up and Ellie was left behind, having been forced into making the difficult and heart-breaking choice to stay where she was. The reasons become painfully, crystally clear as you read the book. That was years ago, and now they have to deal with everything that's happened since, and believe me, there's plenty, most of it painful....., the fall-out is wide spread and encompasses so much more than you can imagine. Whoops, I almost started to give spoilers there, so I won't go any further with that.
I will tell you that this story both broke and mended my heart as I read it. Like it's predecessors, it trawls the depths of man's depravity, taking out the trash as it goes, and can be read as a stand alone, although I think you'd get more out of it if you read the others in the series first. It covers a multitude of serious and difficult topics including PTSD, torture, drug and people trafficking, which includes children, some of them very young, and can be quite graphic in places, sexual and domestic abuse, rape, and the big C, cancer. My emotions ran the gamut as I read from heartbreak and sorrow, anger, white-hot fury, and an overwhelming need for justice, although I think vengeance might be more productive given that the legal systems of most countries, mine included, barely have a nodding acquaintance with actual justice, happiness, and outright joy, although that also came with tears. I cried buckets over this story and could probably have kept a decent sized tissue making plant in business for a week, but I came away from it with a soppy smile on my face and a feeling that there was hope for the world because I know there are people out there, mostly nameless and faceless, who are working to make it a better place, just as The Arsenal are....
I love Cara Carnes' books and she's one of my all-time favourite authors, but her exceptional story telling skills are front and centre on this one, and I rather imagine, since it made for somewhat harrowing reading, that it caused a lot of anguish, grief and sleepless nights as she was researching and writing it. It's exceptionally good and I really think the five stars I've given it don't do justice to just how good it really is. Give it a read and see what you think..... As for me, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, soon.... I hope.
Reviewed by SFF Dragon*
Wow! Jesse and Ellie's story is finally here, and Oh Boy, what a story.....
If, like me, you've been avidly reading The Arsenal, Cara Carnes' seriously gritty and action packed romance series, then you've read bits and pieces in every book so far alluding to what happened to Jesse Mason and that there was a past relationship between him and Ellie Travers, The Arsenal's new Office Manager. Well now, you're gonna get all the details and I'll warn you before you begin, 'Battle Scars', the fifth book in the series, is a very hard hitter with lots of triggers and I cried more than I laughed reading this emotionally charged and totally heart-rending story, but there is a happily ever after. That made me cry too, but for completely different reasons. I was totally absorbed and emotionally engaged before I'd finished the first couple of pages and nothing was going to make me put it down before I got to the end. I absolutely loved it!
It's so hard to tell you anything much about the story without giving spoilers, so I'll give you the basics..... Jesse and Ellie once had a very serious relationship, but Jesse left to join up and Ellie was left behind, having been forced into making the difficult and heart-breaking choice to stay where she was. The reasons become painfully, crystally clear as you read the book. That was years ago, and now they have to deal with everything that's happened since, and believe me, there's plenty, most of it painful....., the fall-out is wide spread and encompasses so much more than you can imagine. Whoops, I almost started to give spoilers there, so I won't go any further with that.
I will tell you that this story both broke and mended my heart as I read it. Like it's predecessors, it trawls the depths of man's depravity, taking out the trash as it goes, and can be read as a stand alone, although I think you'd get more out of it if you read the others in the series first. It covers a multitude of serious and difficult topics including PTSD, torture, drug and people trafficking, which includes children, some of them very young, and can be quite graphic in places, sexual and domestic abuse, rape, and the big C, cancer. My emotions ran the gamut as I read from heartbreak and sorrow, anger, white-hot fury, and an overwhelming need for justice, although I think vengeance might be more productive given that the legal systems of most countries, mine included, barely have a nodding acquaintance with actual justice, happiness, and outright joy, although that also came with tears. I cried buckets over this story and could probably have kept a decent sized tissue making plant in business for a week, but I came away from it with a soppy smile on my face and a feeling that there was hope for the world because I know there are people out there, mostly nameless and faceless, who are working to make it a better place, just as The Arsenal are....
I love Cara Carnes' books and she's one of my all-time favourite authors, but her exceptional story telling skills are front and centre on this one, and I rather imagine, since it made for somewhat harrowing reading, that it caused a lot of anguish, grief and sleepless nights as she was researching and writing it. It's exceptionally good and I really think the five stars I've given it don't do justice to just how good it really is. Give it a read and see what you think..... As for me, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, soon.... I hope.
August 2, 2019
Jesse Mason chose duty over love and endured the hell of captivity comforted only with thoughts of the woman he left behind. Though the physical damage has healed, the emotional battle continues now that he’s home. He fakes happy and whole until Ellie is thrust back into his life. She’s everything he ever wanted but can never have. Getting wrapped up in her problems is not an option, but neither is leaving her in danger.
Without her he’d be nothing.
Scars aren’t always visible…
Ellie Travers salvaged her scarred heart and landed headfirst in a horrible marriage. Now divorced, broke, and desperate to care for her ailing mother, she accepts the only job offered—Office Manager at The Arsenal. Working for the man who broke her heart should be simple compared to escaping a hellacious marriage. But only she can help Jesse win the final war for his soul, and she’ll do anything to save him—even at the risk of losing herself.
The battle lines have been drawn. Together they must navigate the minefields of love and sacrifice because failure is not an option.
Every time i read one of the Arsenal books i say that this was my favorite....then the next one comes and that becomes my favorite and so on...
Well....this one is my new favorite.
Ellie and Jesse and of course the whole gang !!!
Cara Carnes has the way and the style and her stories are amazing!
Action,drama,scars,love,hate,passion .....all up mixed up into an amazing rollercoaster that will take you for one hell of a wild ride!
You can't go wrong with this series and it has everything!
Cara Carnes has done it again with an amazing book!!!
Without her he’d be nothing.
Scars aren’t always visible…
Ellie Travers salvaged her scarred heart and landed headfirst in a horrible marriage. Now divorced, broke, and desperate to care for her ailing mother, she accepts the only job offered—Office Manager at The Arsenal. Working for the man who broke her heart should be simple compared to escaping a hellacious marriage. But only she can help Jesse win the final war for his soul, and she’ll do anything to save him—even at the risk of losing herself.
The battle lines have been drawn. Together they must navigate the minefields of love and sacrifice because failure is not an option.
Every time i read one of the Arsenal books i say that this was my favorite....then the next one comes and that becomes my favorite and so on...
Well....this one is my new favorite.
Ellie and Jesse and of course the whole gang !!!
Cara Carnes has the way and the style and her stories are amazing!
Action,drama,scars,love,hate,passion .....all up mixed up into an amazing rollercoaster that will take you for one hell of a wild ride!
You can't go wrong with this series and it has everything!
Cara Carnes has done it again with an amazing book!!!
December 1, 2020
Wow
Just wow. This was one of the hardest ones to read and of course packed to the gills with craziness. Poor Jesse. Good god I wanted to slay his dragons. And Ellie has had dragons of her own she had hidden away. This book had corruption, drug rings, gangs, cartels, framed murder mysteries solved, years of rape/pain unearthed, undercover operatives and old friends, new surprises. Then we find out about a new evil unit like the collective and ties to Rhea and Brees past and possible stories. Abuse on both sides of Ellie and jesses past. He survived over 6 months of torture and other horrid things no human should have to endure at the hands of monsters and those who should have had his back. Honestly thought we would get more clued into the why behind he weird post to train the locals, alone and cut off from others. It seemed hinky and like we were going to get another version of what gage endured set up at the hands of the collective. But we didn’t get that. God I loved their relationship. That was held up over years of road blocks that finally paved the way for them. They deserved the happiness. And thank god certain things were resolved semi resolved. And omg Sara. Honestly after the undercover work Marcus was doing I thought he would end up with Dani but I’m wondering now if after the things have been fixed some would say that she would end up with Nolan. Since they obvi had a past before it was used against her. That ending was beautiful and had me in tears. But the ending also left questions as usual. Can’t wait for next book.
Just wow. This was one of the hardest ones to read and of course packed to the gills with craziness. Poor Jesse. Good god I wanted to slay his dragons. And Ellie has had dragons of her own she had hidden away. This book had corruption, drug rings, gangs, cartels, framed murder mysteries solved, years of rape/pain unearthed, undercover operatives and old friends, new surprises. Then we find out about a new evil unit like the collective and ties to Rhea and Brees past and possible stories. Abuse on both sides of Ellie and jesses past. He survived over 6 months of torture and other horrid things no human should have to endure at the hands of monsters and those who should have had his back. Honestly thought we would get more clued into the why behind he weird post to train the locals, alone and cut off from others. It seemed hinky and like we were going to get another version of what gage endured set up at the hands of the collective. But we didn’t get that. God I loved their relationship. That was held up over years of road blocks that finally paved the way for them. They deserved the happiness. And thank god certain things were resolved semi resolved. And omg Sara. Honestly after the undercover work Marcus was doing I thought he would end up with Dani but I’m wondering now if after the things have been fixed some would say that she would end up with Nolan. Since they obvi had a past before it was used against her. That ending was beautiful and had me in tears. But the ending also left questions as usual. Can’t wait for next book.
July 23, 2019
Since the very first book, Jesse has been my favorite Mason brother, and though I have been anxiously awaiting his story, the anticipation was mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism about whether I would love the story because I wasn't convinced Ellie would be good enough for him. Pfft. You'd think that by this many books in, I'd have learned to trust Ms. Carnes' ability to get it perfect. Because she does. Every single time. She must have sold her soul to a crossroads demon (I've been watching too much Supernatural) because I don't see how anyone can have the level of storytelling talent that she does otherwise. She once again weaves a riveting, suspenseful story that ties up some loose ends from the previous books but also introduces some new strands to follow. Ms. Carnes has such an amazing talent at creating wonderful characters and bringing them to life in a realistic, gritty world, and it is the grittiest of worlds that both Jesse and Ellie have endured leading up to them finding their way back to each other in this book. The only thing typical about the plot of this one is that it's not typical at all, in true Cara Carnes style. This book--heck, this whole series--is intense. It's well worth the time, money, and emotional investment.
A sincere thank you to the author for generously providing an ARC for review.
A sincere thank you to the author for generously providing an ARC for review.
July 29, 2019
Cara Carnes has done it again, this book tells us about Jesse's capture and confinement. The unspeakable things done to him and how the thoughts of Ellie and home kept him alive when mostly he wanted to die.
We also get to understand a bit more about Levi, the man who has Jesse's back 24/7. He's there when the nightmares take Jesse back into the hole.
Ellie's got more than one problem, the biggest is her ex-husband, the man who stole everything from her and her Mom. The man holds threats over her and is abusive even now.
I adore the Arsenal crew, they pull together for their own and nothing is considered to be unimportant if it affects one of them. The first thing they have to do is get Ellie and her Mom safe, then they can take care of her ex.
There is a big can of worms the CD Ellie has opens. Far more reaching and dangerous than Ellie could ever imagine. The unimaginable from the past that extends to the present. All leading to the take down of more than just Ellie's ex.
More about Dani, her brothers, and so many more. Something to grab you on every page.
A lot of emotion as the Arsenal crew sorts through everything. Jesse and Ellie begin to understand more about the people they have become as they deal with both their pasts.
I had to stop reading a few times to let my eyes clear of the tears that filled them. Love, family, friendship and simmer to sizzle heat.
We also get to understand a bit more about Levi, the man who has Jesse's back 24/7. He's there when the nightmares take Jesse back into the hole.
Ellie's got more than one problem, the biggest is her ex-husband, the man who stole everything from her and her Mom. The man holds threats over her and is abusive even now.
I adore the Arsenal crew, they pull together for their own and nothing is considered to be unimportant if it affects one of them. The first thing they have to do is get Ellie and her Mom safe, then they can take care of her ex.
There is a big can of worms the CD Ellie has opens. Far more reaching and dangerous than Ellie could ever imagine. The unimaginable from the past that extends to the present. All leading to the take down of more than just Ellie's ex.
More about Dani, her brothers, and so many more. Something to grab you on every page.
A lot of emotion as the Arsenal crew sorts through everything. Jesse and Ellie begin to understand more about the people they have become as they deal with both their pasts.
I had to stop reading a few times to let my eyes clear of the tears that filled them. Love, family, friendship and simmer to sizzle heat.
August 11, 2019
This series just goes from strength to strength starting with "Jagged Edge" and as the series is all about the characters, the business and more importantly the family, it is important that they be read in order.
This latest story of Jesse and Ellie, two strong characters who never stopped loving each other, and although they took separate roads in life, it was ultimately through each other their healing started. What I loved about this story and the series is that not everything is fixed within the space of the individual books, as Jesse and Ellie still have a long way to go, which makes the anticipation for the next story in the series even more of an agonising wait.
Above all, this story is about the scars we all carry, both internal and external, and through it all, its about the friendship, family and love that sustains us.
Ms Carnes, huge kudo's to you....it is not often I give a book 5 stars - but this is now one of my favorite stories of all times.
Please keep the wonderful story of the Mason brothers, the Arsenal and all its people coming - I cannot wait for book 6.
This latest story of Jesse and Ellie, two strong characters who never stopped loving each other, and although they took separate roads in life, it was ultimately through each other their healing started. What I loved about this story and the series is that not everything is fixed within the space of the individual books, as Jesse and Ellie still have a long way to go, which makes the anticipation for the next story in the series even more of an agonising wait.
Above all, this story is about the scars we all carry, both internal and external, and through it all, its about the friendship, family and love that sustains us.
Ms Carnes, huge kudo's to you....it is not often I give a book 5 stars - but this is now one of my favorite stories of all times.
Please keep the wonderful story of the Mason brothers, the Arsenal and all its people coming - I cannot wait for book 6.
August 6, 2019
Get ready for this one it will be one that will give it all it has and then some. I adore this series with the characters reaching into a reader deep, while just wondering when the next one, then it comes.
Ellie is no stranger with neither is Jesse if you have read the ones before this but now is their time to shine. Jesse will capture your heart with Ellie being the cement. Their story is one that gives you their detail and scars but also danger and drama will find its way in with everyone getting on board.
They will become exposed in this one with all their secrets out but at the same time putting each other back together again.
You will be tugged on and twisted with at times bits of anger at what was done but surprise it will also cause leakage of the eyes. One minute you will be reading and the next your checks will be wet. This author went beyond good to superb with it being well worth the wait.
Ellie is no stranger with neither is Jesse if you have read the ones before this but now is their time to shine. Jesse will capture your heart with Ellie being the cement. Their story is one that gives you their detail and scars but also danger and drama will find its way in with everyone getting on board.
They will become exposed in this one with all their secrets out but at the same time putting each other back together again.
You will be tugged on and twisted with at times bits of anger at what was done but surprise it will also cause leakage of the eyes. One minute you will be reading and the next your checks will be wet. This author went beyond good to superb with it being well worth the wait.
March 28, 2021
Battle Scars
Battle Scars took me on an emotional rollercoaster. This is a story about PTSD, second chances, facing demons, gaining strength from family and friends..taking each day at a time. Jesse Mason is the male lead, he is an amazing character who has been to hell and back, he deserves his happy. Ellie is the female lead she also been though hell. Their story is a second chance romance filled with angst, truths, heartache and happiness. So much is happening in this story, The Arsenal series in my opinion needs to be read in order. Things that started in book one continue into the next book. The characters this author has created our amazing. Carnes pulls you into her world of commandos and the geek squad, she keep you wanting more. I dont want to give too much away because this book needs to be read but it has triggers. Overall it's a great story and I personally can't wait to see what happens next. Happy Reading!!
Battle Scars took me on an emotional rollercoaster. This is a story about PTSD, second chances, facing demons, gaining strength from family and friends..taking each day at a time. Jesse Mason is the male lead, he is an amazing character who has been to hell and back, he deserves his happy. Ellie is the female lead she also been though hell. Their story is a second chance romance filled with angst, truths, heartache and happiness. So much is happening in this story, The Arsenal series in my opinion needs to be read in order. Things that started in book one continue into the next book. The characters this author has created our amazing. Carnes pulls you into her world of commandos and the geek squad, she keep you wanting more. I dont want to give too much away because this book needs to be read but it has triggers. Overall it's a great story and I personally can't wait to see what happens next. Happy Reading!!
December 18, 2021
Emotionally wrecked!
Wow! I thought Zoey and Gage's book was emotional, but this one left me totally emotionally exhausted...and very, very happy for them.
We all know the Mason's pack a punch but Jesse is not only gorgeous he has also come home in pieces, he is a shell of the man he once was, struggling to hold himself together enough to function in daily life, until he lets his Peanut in again, she goes to war and slowly begins stitching him back together as she gives him the strength to ask for help, to accept what his brothers so freely offer and to embrace the future....their future.
The Mason's may be 'professional meddlers' but even they have stumbled on how to help Jesse until Peanut lights the way! I also have to say that Levi totally stole my heart in this book, he is a true warrior and I look forward to him getting his girl at some point in the future.
Wow! I thought Zoey and Gage's book was emotional, but this one left me totally emotionally exhausted...and very, very happy for them.
We all know the Mason's pack a punch but Jesse is not only gorgeous he has also come home in pieces, he is a shell of the man he once was, struggling to hold himself together enough to function in daily life, until he lets his Peanut in again, she goes to war and slowly begins stitching him back together as she gives him the strength to ask for help, to accept what his brothers so freely offer and to embrace the future....their future.
The Mason's may be 'professional meddlers' but even they have stumbled on how to help Jesse until Peanut lights the way! I also have to say that Levi totally stole my heart in this book, he is a true warrior and I look forward to him getting his girl at some point in the future.
August 6, 2019
Jesse Mason is a master at camouflaging his PTSD. Fooling his family has been easy – fooling Levi, his Arsenal second-in-command, has been pretty much impossible. Given Levi’s history with Jesse, that’s to be expected. When Jesse’s childhood sweetheart Ellie is suddenly inserted into his daily routine, it’s more than he can bear. Can Ellie’s patience along with their deep connection be the key to easing Jesse’s suffering? The story, while at times gut-wrenching, is very well written and extremely emotional. There’s the action, intrigue, suspense and humour we’ve come to expect, plus some interesting twists and the unravelling of a long-standing mystery.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2021
I went into this one thinking I was going to love it, I have a weakness for second chance romances, but it fell flat for me. That's not to say the book was bad, the author handled Jesse so well, his parts of the book were my favorites, but Ellie just seemed so... generic. While she stands out from the other heroines in this series, she kind of fell into a cliche category for me and now that I'm on the 5th book I'm kind of over the fact that the nearly all of the heroines are victims needing saving. I get it, I really do, but it'd be nice if for once the heroine was the one saving the day. I feel like the author kind of tried to do that with Ellie in terms of how she helps Jesse, but it didn't come off quite right.
December 6, 2022
Jessie and Ellie story is touching and inspiring. When Jessie chose duty over matters of the heart, it was his love for Ellie that kept him sane during captivity. Ellie was devastated with their going separate ways that had her ending up in a bad marriage. Now she is divorced with a mother she has to take care of and no financial means to do it. Taking a job with Arsenal was her only option. Now she and Jessie are back in each others lives. Will she be able to help his tormented soul and doing so have a second chance for happiness together? I voluntarily agreed to receive an ARC of tis book for an honest review.
September 12, 2019
Jesse! He is intense as is what he went through. This book is definitely not light on the issues of war and the evil that some humans can go to. What Jesse had to survive, we’ve been given hints in prior Arsenal stories, but Battle Scars hits it hard! And sweet Ellie – the things that she has had to hide, afraid of what everyone will find out. My heart bled for both of them. All of the Arsenal family was strong and present in Battle Scars. This was an outstanding read where even when you carry the scars, you can win against the dark.
January 8, 2020
All the feels!
This story is both heart wrenching and uplifting. The author does a great job of making the story feel gritty and real without giving too many gory details to the hero’s backstory. Although this story happens in a series, the story and central characters’ journey is unique and fresh. I really like the way characters from previous books reappear in this one, but she gives you enough details that you’re not lost if you haven’t read the other books recently. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series!
This story is both heart wrenching and uplifting. The author does a great job of making the story feel gritty and real without giving too many gory details to the hero’s backstory. Although this story happens in a series, the story and central characters’ journey is unique and fresh. I really like the way characters from previous books reappear in this one, but she gives you enough details that you’re not lost if you haven’t read the other books recently. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series!
January 25, 2020
Every time I get to read about the Masons And Arsenal, I shutter. 5he Masons are protective, Alpha men. They love their family, women, and anyone who is loyal to them. Ellie always was loyal to Jesse. Their childhood friendship became much more. He left to serve his country. His biggest mistake was leaving her. He was brutally tortured on tour and is still trying to return to his former self. Ellie now worked with his family. He needed and loved her, his past torture effected his future love. Amazing read. The whole series is.
April 26, 2020
The emotion is so raw it really digs deep, hits hard and then the happiness lifts you up like nothing else. Through the hard times the Masons are all there to support each other but seeing that growing, extending to their brilliant women, children, friends and other adopted people along the way really cements the fact that you don’t have to be blood to be family and waging a war for someone you love for their mental health, to help pull them from the battle going on inside their heads. Jesse and Ellie are the perfect team its all about there connection, love and family unit. ❤️
October 16, 2020
Marvile unraveled
Warning. This might be a tough read for some. There are multiple triggers in this book, abuse, torture and others.
That said, it you can read it, do. Jesse is fighting is battles and Riley is sick of how the rest of the brothers treat Ellie. There's two snarled balls of yarn there, two painful stories two be worked through.
In addition, Zoey's network has unearthed some scary alphabet soup things. Some involve Marvile, some don't.
A very deep, emotional book with some very big highs two book with some bigger lows.
Warning. This might be a tough read for some. There are multiple triggers in this book, abuse, torture and others.
That said, it you can read it, do. Jesse is fighting is battles and Riley is sick of how the rest of the brothers treat Ellie. There's two snarled balls of yarn there, two painful stories two be worked through.
In addition, Zoey's network has unearthed some scary alphabet soup things. Some involve Marvile, some don't.
A very deep, emotional book with some very big highs two book with some bigger lows.
August 7, 2019
Super great series
I stumbled across this series about one year ago. Simply, the entire series is incredible. One book I was angry and wanted my own justice. The next I was laughing so hard I cried. The next it’s an adrenaline rush. Overall, while having a military type storyline, the entire series is written with a lot of heart. The series will grab you and drag you into the story. Very much looking forward to many more!
I stumbled across this series about one year ago. Simply, the entire series is incredible. One book I was angry and wanted my own justice. The next I was laughing so hard I cried. The next it’s an adrenaline rush. Overall, while having a military type storyline, the entire series is written with a lot of heart. The series will grab you and drag you into the story. Very much looking forward to many more!
August 12, 2019
Cara has done it again with this new extension to "The Arsenal Series". Once you start reading the book its simple you cannot put it down until you have finished it. The Novel is well written, easy to follow and you get attach to the characters. Ellie and Jesse are dealing with their own trauma in their life, however we see them grow throughout the story. This novel is filled with suspense, love and action. It was a joy to read and I cannot wait to see what more is coming. A must read!
August 19, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I started reading Cara Carnes’ books just a few days ago, and I haven’t been able to put them down long enough to even give them reviews. From Jagged Edge to Battle Scars, 5 books and 4 short stories, in 5 days! I love these books and will definitely be buying the next books in the series as soon as they become available. Cara Carnes is absolutely on my favorite author list.
I started reading Cara Carnes’ books just a few days ago, and I haven’t been able to put them down long enough to even give them reviews. From Jagged Edge to Battle Scars, 5 books and 4 short stories, in 5 days! I love these books and will definitely be buying the next books in the series as soon as they become available. Cara Carnes is absolutely on my favorite author list.
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