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The Arsenal #4

Zero Trace

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Don’t get noticed.

Zoey “Zero D” Danson thought it was an easy rule to follow. For years she toiled in cubicle 12A of the NSA’s data farm compiling security briefings and Intelligence reports. But she put her neck on the line and burned a dirty government operation to keep a covert ops team alive.

Now she’s “one of them.” She’s not a nameless, faceless civilian anymore. She’s part of The Arsenal—and in way, way over her head.

Trust no one.

Gage Sanderson recognizes a threat when he sees it, and the newest geek in The Arsenal’s back office is trouble. She’s smart, secretive, sexy, and everything he shouldn’t want. They risked their necks to keep her safe, but she’s hiding something and it’s up to him to figure out what.

He’s sworn to never trust another crew at his back, but his team is worth the risk. He won’t make the same mistake twice—even if it means killing the only woman who’s ever made her way past his defenses.

388 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 13, 2018

255 people are currently reading
105 people want to read

About the author

Cara Carnes

67 books384 followers
Born 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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Laz the Sailor.
1,804 reviews80 followers
April 28, 2020
I am really enjoying this series. There are dozens of characters to keep track of, with more added all the time, but I haven't become confused yet. The tactics and tension are strong, while there is limited mystery in this installment. The simpler plot leaves more time for character development, which I appreciated. Zoey is a soft-toned sprite with a titanium heart. Anyone under her umbrella gets protected. Of course, she falls for the tall silent guy. Their romance is explored in a bit more depth than the previous stories.

Lots more couples to explore, and there will always be bad guys to take down.
Profile Image for Alison.
3,692 reviews145 followers
August 20, 2019
Zoey the ex-CIA computer geek and Gage the super-ninja commando.

I've got to say I really think this series has hit its stride. The issues are gritty - this book focuses on Zoey's secret underground network which rescues women and children from abusive situations and gives them new identities. She has rescued the daughter of a senator who was being abused and now the senator is making threats.

The sex is smoking hot, the men are ripped and the women are so clever they make my brain hurt.

Loved it.

Profile Image for Vicky.
2,144 reviews30 followers
October 4, 2024
Each time I get to know a new couple better, they become my favourite ( don't worry Jud... I don't think anyone will replace you... apart from Chace Keaton... or Mitch Lawson... ).

I love Gage & Zoey... they are a perfect balance for each other. Gage knew that there was something that Zoey was hiding, he just didn't realise how important it was. How much Zoey had done to help those who really needed it.

Teeny eeny thing... they were the Marville Dogs... not the Devil Dogs... continuity or me? Mmm, another irksome detail. When Gage goes to Zoey's apartment Vi tells him over the com that his growl doesn't scare her. That her man growls better. Gage agreed and mulled over how much of an asset Jud had become to The Arsenal. Now... Gage was sent to help Zoey whilst he was on a mission to get Jian... this was merely days after Jud had arrived. Gage hadn't even seen what Jud had done with all of the Collective scum... and I really don't think that Vi would've been calling Jud 'her man' that openly that quickly... even if Jud had set his sight line on her. Sighs... a lot.


The only part of this that leaves me unsettled is the whole Addy/Kristof/Stacia thing... perhaps it is because I am writing this review on a re-re-re-read... and I have read future stories. The plot line that was put into place doesn't gel with the future story for me. But I guess I will see how I feel when I get to that particular book!!

But, I love love love the Arsenal. Love the whole extended blood and not-blood related lot of them!!

09/04/21 Still feel the same about the whole Kristof/Addy/Stacia thing... even having read all of them several times... that plot-line just has a certain wrongness about it. Even tho we get some of Addy's viewpoint about what happened when they were at the auction... Kristof's actions and words don't marry up to his behaviour in the future... or even who he was in this book.

Another teen-eeny weeny thing... both Momma Mason and Dr. Sinclair have the first name 'Rebecca'? Or at least they do in this one. One more... I think that Zoey would've known about the notebooks that a lot of the Arsenal team ( inc. Mary ) use... just another sticking out nail that interrupts a smooth for me... just double-checked... Dr. Sinclair gave her name as 'Amanda' to Viviana in 'Sight Lines...

03/04/22 Just finished listening to the Audible again. I love Gage... so much. Zoey is great, if a little over-enthusiastic! I still a yearning for closure with a lot of the strands in this story. What was the upshot with Cherling et al. I know what happened in the moment... but what about after? What happened to Ian? How did Sarah feel? These really aren't negative comments... it just shows how much I am into this series! That I care!!
Profile Image for Ingrid Stephanie Jordan.
1,862 reviews24 followers
November 27, 2018
Title: Zero Trace   
Series: The Arsenal Series
Release Date: #AlreadyReleased
Author: Cara Carnes
Reviewer: Ingrid Stephanie Jordan 
Serial: Standalone, No Cliffhanger  
#Military #Women  #MITgenius #Suspense
#5Stars🌟⭐🌟🌟🌟
••••••••••••••
💢Wow this is #$%##@ the best book so far. On the edge of my seat doesn't even explain because I fell on the floor many times. This book has everything that you could possibly want. Action Packed spiderman too. Definitely a Must Read!

🔷️Zoey Dansworth is a genius when going into the black web, she fits right in with Vi and Mary at The Arsenal. Her old boss Ian Schmidt from NSA, was keeping Ghost operations under the radar. Zoey blew it all up so she ran with Dobby to The Arsenal. Zoey secret second job was probably blown now, will Vi, Mary and Mason brother help?

🔷️Gage Sanderson is a good operative, You want him to be your friend or lights out. Gage is a hard ass who trust no one, he has his reasons. He was watching Zoey closely he knew she had secrets, what is the secret she's hiding? He didn't trust her at all but he craved her.
Profile Image for Sally.
419 reviews4 followers
March 21, 2021
These books just get better and better, I love how the heroines are strong independent kickass warriors, and if you’ve read this series then you already know the guys at The Arsenal are so protective of their friends, family and anybody who is in need of a helping hand.
I adored Zoey and Gage together, the romance was just right, the suspense kept me turning the pages.
The author writes in a way it’s difficult to put down. Great read!
Profile Image for Annie.
1,883 reviews13 followers
October 26, 2018
Love this series, it keeps getting better and better. Zero Trace picks up not long after Blood Vows ends. Not a stand alone story.

Zoey has proved a valuable asset to the Arsenal, but Gage knows little bit is hiding something. He is determined to find out what it is. The Arsenal is his family, just as much as his mom and sisters are, and he is determined to protect them. No matter how attracted he is to the tiny purple haired tornado, if she proves to be a threat he will eliminate her.

Zoey has learned so much over the last few months working at the Arsenal. She has been pulled into the family, making true friends and is finding a home. It is getting harder and harder to keep her secret, from them. Helping people escape abusive situations, and erasing their existence if needed, is her passion. Secrecy is what keeps every one safe. Her networks is getting to big for her and her boots on the ground operative Jade to handle. Jade wants her to come clean to the Arsenal, confident that they will help. Zoey does trust the Arsenal. She doesn't want to bring trouble to them. She is losing the lines between Zoey and her alter ego Zero.

Zoey's hand is forced, before she was burned at the NSA rescuing Fallon's team, she put in hiding the daughter and granddaughter of a Congressman. Now her dirty former boss has brought the Congressman to the Arsenal's gates. He is demanding Zoey, and that she gives up the location of his daughter and granddaughter. When Zoey sees the level they will go through to protect her, she makes a decision to trust the Arsenal. She confronts the Congressman and sends him running. Gage is now all in with his little bit and protecting her Network after seeing her in action.

The Arsenal leaders are blown away by what Zoey has been doing as Zero, and how her Network works. They are hurt, but understanding, of why she didn't trust them. They jump right in learning her Network and helping her cover her "Dots". Moving the Congressman's daughter and granddaughter are their priority. The Arsenal compound under the care of mamma Mason, and their medical staff is where she needs to be.

The Congressman is not giving up easily. They find that Zoey's dirty boss has ties to the Collective and in a confrontation, Gage's demons are revealed. He is ready to face them. He has his Arsenal family and his little bit back him up. He is ready to step back in the roll as a Team Lead.

Jade goes missing. The Network is in danger and the orphan operatives step up to protect them. Jud's friend Kristof wants Zoey's help finding someone in exchange for helping rescue Jade, and putting them in a position to remove the threat of her former boss and the Congressman. Addy willingly pays the price. Then Zoey is taken. Mamma Mason is hurt in the process. Gage finds a team in the "Triple Threat". They are ready to help Loverboy find his little bit.

Zoey is home. A very large and very cathartic group therapy session, pulls the Arsenal operatives closer together. Mamma Mason is on the mend and Ellie steps up and gets her home ready for her recovery.

Zoey, with the help of Gage, the Triple Threat, Addy's team and Fallon, organizes an explosive pay back to Kristof on Addy's behalf.

Loved Gage and Zoey's story. A fast paced and steamy romantic paramilitary suspense. Loved meeting Addy's team. Cant's wait till she finds her other half. Loved meeting the Triple Threat. Maybe Bree has found someone in Ram. Can't wait for Jesse and Ellie's story.

I love Cara's books. They are an automatic buy for me. I know I will get a great story. I had already preordered this book and was lucky to receive an advanced copy.
Profile Image for Trish R. Ali.
710 reviews18 followers
November 12, 2018
Can I please just professed my undying love for Cara Carnes and her brilliant author's mind. There is so much YES to this latest addition in "The Arsenal" series. Before going any further, please be caution that you're best to read the book in succession, meaning from Book 1 otherwise, you cannot appreciate this awesome world of badass alpha and kickass heroines that Ms Carnes created.

Zero Trace delved straight after Book 3 (Blood Vows) and the couple highlighted in this story is Zoey “Zero D” Danson and the very sexilicious Gage Sanderson. Zoey has a secret and Gage being the astute sexy alpha that he is, knows that Zoey is hiding something. However, this doesn't stop him from being very attracted to Zoey. When I read Gage backstory and why he is very reluctant to lead his own team, my heart just breaks for him. I understood why he's very skeptical, he doesn't trust easily. The chemistry between both the H/h was believable and just sizzles across the page. I love their banter, especially Gage growly frustrations at Zoey. I also adore the humorous scenes between Gage and Zoey's cat "Doby". It is so satisfying to see Gage coming out of his lonewolf status to become leader of his own pack. I love Zoey as she is so geeky and when she finally trust Gage and The Arsenal team with her secret, I heaved a huge sigh of relief! This story is more than just sexy times, it is about trust, loyalty and family.

I was given an ARC by the author but my thoughts about this book are of my own.
Profile Image for iliana G.
1,699 reviews27 followers
November 19, 2018
Don’t get noticed.

Zoey “Zero D” Danson thought it was an easy rule to follow. For years she toiled in cubicle 12A of the NSA’s data farm compiling security briefings and Intelligence reports. But she put her neck on the line and burned a dirty government operation to keep a covert ops team alive.

Now she’s “one of them.” She’s not a nameless, faceless civilian anymore. She’s part of The Arsenal—and in way, way over her head.

Trust no one.

Gage Sanderson recognizes a threat when he sees it, and the newest geek in The Arsenal’s back office is trouble. She’s smart, secretive, sexy, and everything he shouldn’t want. They risked their necks to keep her safe, but she’s hiding something and it’s up to him to figure out what.

He’s sworn to never trust another crew at his back, but his team is worth the risk. He won’t make the same mistake twice—even if it means killing the only woman who’s ever made her way past his defenses.


I love this series!!!!!
Absolutely love it!!!!
It just keeps getting better and better.
This is another winner for Cara Carnes.
The book starts a little bit after where Blood Vows left us and its a rollercoaster of emotions and happenings.
Filled with action this book is an amazing addition to the series!!!!
Profile Image for Karen Roma.
2,762 reviews33 followers
May 6, 2022
I'll start this review by saying that Cara Carnes is an extremely talented author who writes stories with grit and edgy plots that are filled with heartache, tragedy, emotional turmoil, sensitive and confronting subjects such as PTSD, abuse and trafficking, and will grab you right out of the gate and hold you in their grip till the last page is turn. But it doesn't end there, as you will then be on the edge of your seat, anxiously anticipating the next thrilling and enthralling story as your addiction to the series grows.

So, all this said, why only a 4 Star review? Once again a found myself struggling with the repeated errors and poor editing that impeded my focus from the exceptional writing. Authors who pay editors should have confidence that the finished product has been fine tuned and is ready for the reading public, however, books with characters referred to by incorrect names, characters surnames that constantly change for no apparent reason, incorrect words (i.e. wage instead of rage and hear instead of near are just some) and words missing altogether seriously detract from the reading experience.

A series of this caliber deserves to be near on perfect on paper, and yes, I have all these books in print, so my disappointment is for the injustice done to Ms Carnes by her editor's lack of attention to detail by missing these type errors.
Profile Image for Becca McClintock.
50 reviews
November 12, 2018
Hot,hot,hot Amazing series,another kick a as story

When Zoey (zero) secret is revealed the arsenal is ready to have her back but Gage will make sure she is protected body,mind and soul ,

Gage has found it hard to trust anybody since the men that were meant to have his back in war betrayed him,He had an instant attraction to Zoey but new she had a secret therefore he watched her and made sure she wouldn't hurt those at arsonal as well as fighting his feelings for her

Zoe's secret comes out and Gage a long with everyone at the arsenal are ready protect her ,as he's feelings become stronger for Zoey will he's demons stand in his way


I loved this book ,the story was exciting,the banter between the two characters was fun as well as emotional as they battled with their demons and attraction, Zoey has been a favourite of mine thru out the series so far and I loved reading her story

Another amazing book by Cara carnes

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book for an honest review
Profile Image for Carol 27.
1,093 reviews
November 10, 2018
This is another thrilling entry in the paramilitary world of The Arsenal. I loved Zoey’s character along with her alter ego – Zero D, the mastermind behind a secretive underground network. As a self-taught computer geek with some serious hacking skills, her capabilities are both awesome and frightening. Gage is yet another of The Arsenal’s over the top protective alpha males that we all love so much. He too has some serious skills – silent and deadly ones that come from being the best trained operative in the unit. He also has great instincts and despite his attraction to Zoey, he knows she’s hiding something. I enjoyed this couple’s slow dance to romance, their banter, and their struggles with acceptance and worth. The story is very well written and at times quite emotional, with plenty of action, intrigue, suspense, humour, and witty banter along with some steamy scenes. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stacey Goble.
183 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2019
I loved Zoey. She is quirky, sassy, super geeky and speaks before she filters. She is also strong, passionate in what she believes in and has a never give up attitude. Gage is hot. Like super uber hot. His alpha maleness comes across in this book and its hot! Gage knows Zoey is hiding something and is determined to uncover what it is. What he uncovers however is beyond everyones comprehension. Gage wants Zoey, Zoey wants Gage. I loved how this book conveys all this while spinning a web that just draws you in. I love the line said by Gage "I don't have to trust you to want to f*&K you." This sums up the dance they have in the beginning.
Their romance is hot and passionate and just totally adds to all that is going on in this book. This series has become one of my favourites. Cara is an amazing writer. I just love her books!
Profile Image for Kim.
1,134 reviews9 followers
November 13, 2018
I was totally unprepared for what Zoey had in store. I knew a bit about what her background was supposed to be. But she was totally bad arsed and burning the candle at the ends and in the middle. Zero Trace was perfect story and title for Zoey. It really showed her that she was not alone and that the Arsenal was there for their family of choice. I was on the edge the entire time. I can’t wait to see the true repercussions of what happened when Zoey went all out for her family. Because there is no way this story is the end of it.

This was a stand alone. However, I much enjoyed knowing more about the Arsenal and all of the Masons along with their serious alphaness by reading the others in the series.
Profile Image for Denise.
4,119 reviews12 followers
November 14, 2018
Once again this author achieved the ability to pull me into this world being devoured by the characters. The Arsenal is one that is so interesting and keeps on being intriguing. The growth in this is one that captures you right away when you step into the world with the characters with this one being "Little Bits" and Gage. These two are a hoot and a excellent team. Going with them every step of the way gets you engaged and slowly growing warm with the chemistry they emit. The drama is deep with what comes out that Zero did and does with it unraveling you are pulled to the edge countless times. With the mix of the other ones you know well they continue to grow also. I am always sadden though when I reach the end but satisfied to the extreme. This is one series I do hope has many more.
Profile Image for Jackie.
1,630 reviews7 followers
November 30, 2020
Wow

So much craziness. I feel like that’s every book but it get better and better. Loved Gage and we get to really know him in this book and all he suffered at the hand of the collective. Wow. Then we learn about all the people Zoey has been saving and helping. That’s incredible. They fit together. With their weird quirks and adorable banter. She is a powerhouse of emotion and I loved watching all the times she stood up and defended the weak and helpless. It was amazing. Especially when it was one of their own. Can’t wait to hear more about Ellie. Loved seeing all the previous book characters and the kids. So awesome. And so excited for next generation of quillery edge!! So excited for jesses book.
710 reviews6 followers
January 26, 2019
Should be read in order,this is book four. As with the other books I was drawn in from the first page. Trust issues from both main characters .Picks up from last book. Zoey is a new member with The Arsenal,helping the team out on missions from behind the scenes as well as keeping her own work going that is to help save children and women from abuse. Gage is also a member of the Arsenal with his own secrets so he knows when someone is lying. Keeping her secrets could get her killed, along with the people she cares about. Fast paced,steamy,funny,emotional with just the right amount of twist and turns.
Profile Image for Imogen Dior.
933 reviews7 followers
April 25, 2020
AHH-mazing, words can’t describe how much i adore the arsenal series. Zoey and Gage make me so happy! Zoeys so weird but in such ana amazing way. I also can never get over how Cara comes up with consistently amazing plots that both inspire and make you want to a kickass female whether that comes from physical or with your mind when you go into any of Cara’s books you can be sure to get strength and vulnerability within the pages. Every single person has their own identities, strengths and weaknesses and its what makes the arsenal series one of my favourites yet! So if you haven’t read it? GET ON IT!! 🔥🔥❤️
2,472 reviews32 followers
March 27, 2021
Yes to Zero Trace

Absolutely loved Zero Trace. Zoey aka Zero is an amazing character with quiet strength and great humor. Gage is the male lead aka Ninja Level 1 in for effect in Zero Trace. This series keeps getting better, some series lose their umph around book 4 or 5 but not The Arsenal. Cara Carnes has a writing style that will pull you in and keep you hanging on for the next action or love scene. The female characters she has created are strong, beautiful, have a will of superwoman and girl power. The male characters are all alpha commandos who can give the sweet and deliver justice swiftly. I simply can't wait to read what happens next. Happy Reading!!
665 reviews2 followers
December 4, 2020
A great series!

Love the series, i read counterstrike first and then. Ir led back to this one. The only issues i have, as with all my reviews, i find several lazy typos that should have gotten fixed by the editor/ publisher. Not in all books but enough that the author looks bad. This book left People hanging. What happened to him? What happened to Weathers? You cant have two men as a big focal point in a story then leave them hanging. Lose them out. So what happened to them???
Profile Image for Dawn Gee.
2,991 reviews13 followers
February 15, 2021
Continuing good series

I keep reading this series because its exciting and the characters are great. The writing is very good. Zoey is working at The Arsenal and hiding a big secret. Her secret is exposed in a big way. Zoey is doing some really good work to save abused women and children. Gage is a badass paramilitary member. He's known for his interrogation abilities. He can be very sweet and shows that to Zoey. Zoey is not my favorite female character though. A lot happens to Zoey in this book and she becomes stronger by surviving.
8 reviews
July 15, 2021
You cannot go wrong with Cara Carnes! I couldn't wait for Zoey's story. I love her intelligence and quirkiness. Gage is her perfect match. He always knew that there was something she was keeping some secrets but know one was prepared for when they were revealed. No one could have guessed just how many people Zoey was trying to protect outside the Arsenal. Gage is the perfect counter part for Zoey with his alpha protectiveness and attentiveness for Zoey. Zoe also learns the secret Gage has been keeping about himself and why he has always held himself apart from the teams.
Profile Image for Julie.
896 reviews8 followers
November 16, 2018
SuperFun with lots of action, intrigue, family and good stuff!

How many times can you say “Excellent”? Engaging characters, a plot that moves along with the right amount of romancing and sex AND support for all the trauma all the adventures inevitably create (which I rarely see tackled like this in Carne’s series).

I highly recommend this series (but watch out, there are possible triggers along the way - these books are “dark” but there are heavy things going on).
148 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2020
Zero Trace (The Arsenal Book 4)

Loved this book ....love the series ...the author twists emotions so you are angry one moment and loving the the characters in her stories the next. You just cannot predict what will happen next! The alpha hunky men, the average looking brainiac females who attract the alpha guys with their courage, savvy and extreme intelligence and their kooky ways just makes each book such a great read!
Profile Image for Sue.
4,354 reviews5 followers
October 19, 2021
This book was intense and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved Zoey's character, and once she gets involved, she's there 100%. Gage has lived thru his own hell and he needs Zoey for balance. What she does for the lost is amazing and when it fires back on her they have her back. Some parts brought tears to my eyes, it was so heart felt and heartbroken. The Mason brothers have to come together for their mother. Excellent story. HEA.
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.3k reviews155 followers
December 6, 2022
When push comes to shove, she's there in a heartbeat to give it her all. Now she has become a target from blow back of a recent job. Gage is definitely attracted to Zoey and together they are a force to be reckoned with. This book is filled with drama and suspense, a real rollercoaster of emotions that will hold you captivated until the last page! I voluntarily agreed to receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Donna.
4,134 reviews57 followers
November 1, 2018
This book will tear you up! I LOVED IT! Zoey “Zero D” Danson is my kind of heroine; smart, nerdy with a good heart and a great sense of humor. Life has not been kind to Arsenal agent Gage Sanderson but that is about to change. This story teaches them each a different definition of family. Zero Trace is a terrific addition to the series.
6 reviews
November 16, 2018
Great read, great series!

Another great book in the Arsenal series. I can express how much I appreciate the amazing women in this series. Their intelligence, wit, and acceptance of each person in the group inspires me to step out of the box and be myself more - regardless of what societal norms deem acceptable! Bravo!
3 reviews
December 9, 2018
This series just keeps getting better !

This series is sure to be one of my favorites. For Susan Stoker, Lani Lynn Vale, and Lynn Raye Harris fans, I'm thinking you'll be interested in this series , too. It's all about team, family, comrades , fighting the good fight, and finding "the one" for these men and women. Cara Carnes can't write this series fast enough for me!!
22 reviews
January 12, 2019
Wow, this series just gets gooder and gooder!

The story line, the plot twist and turns kept me glued. I especially love the vunerability and transparency of the characters and the love that shows thru. And last, the bread crumbs of more to come. Can’t wait to read Elle and Jesse’s story. Thanks.
Profile Image for Vicky.
121 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2019
Yet again Cara knocked this out of the ball park - focusing on Zoey and Gage while continuing to give us the characters and couples we've previously fallen in love with. I loved the interaction between Gage and Zoey and the introduction of Triple Threat and how Addy's team utterly adore and protect the woman. I wish I could give it more than five stars.
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