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Agent Zero #2

Target Zero: A Kent Steele Thriller

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In this follow up to book Agent Zero in the Kent Steele spy series, Target Zero takes us on another wild, action-packed ride across Europe as elite CIA agent Kent Steele is summoned to stop a biological weapon before it devastates the world - all while grappling with his own memory loss.

Life returns only fleetingly back to normal for Kent before he finds himself summoned by the CIA to hunt down terrorists and stop another international crisis - this one even more potentially devastating than the last. Yet with an assassin hunting him down, a conspiracy within, moles all around him and with a lover he can barely trust, Kent is set up to fail. 

Yet his memory is quickly returning, and with it, flashes into the secrets of who he was, what he'd discovered - and why they are after him. His own identity, he realizes, may be the most perilous secret of all.

Audio CD

First published June 28, 2019

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About the author

Jack Mars

337 books656 followers
Jack 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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5 stars
1,322 (49%)
4 stars
966 (36%)
3 stars
334 (12%)
2 stars
38 (1%)
1 star
18 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Pierre Tassé (Enjoying Books).
591 reviews89 followers
June 7, 2022
It's a fun read but some things are just a little out of sorts that left it on the low side of 3 stars. I also am not a fan of books that seem to carry on into the next one and so forth. That is why I am now reading book 3. Well, I guess it worked.
Profile Image for Donna.
4,523 reviews156 followers
August 20, 2025
This is book #2 in the Agent Zero series. I read book #1 yesterday and thought I'd tackle this one today. In hindsight, I think these books are best enjoyed with a little breathing room between them. A short break might have given me time to reset and just maybe I would've responded more positively to this one.

While the rising body count isn't an issue for me, I did struggle with how violence toward children was portrayed. Everyone has limits, and for me, the line felt it was crossed here. It wasn't just implied, it was more graphic than I like to see. This is clearly a "me, not you" kind of reaction.

I also found myself growing a bit weary of the villains, who are starting to feel a bit too similar in thier motiviations. Some variation would have added more depth and/or unpredictability. Either would have been appreciated.

Now I will add that the author does a lot of things really well. The pacing is a whirlwind, the action keeps the momentum going, and there's just enough tension to keep me in...(sort of, with this one.)

This installment wasn't quite for me. Sadly, I started the third one today because that is all I had with me at work, and the violence with the little girls is even doubled. I may have to table that one tomorrow.
Profile Image for Hunnapuh Xbal.
Author 4 books33 followers
July 22, 2021
Luego de haber salvado al mundo nuestro amigo, Kent Steele, alias "Agente cero", vive nuevamente una tranquila vida de profesor universitario con sus hijas, pero nuevamente es llamado a resolver una crisis que pondrá en peligro al planeta, pues un grupo terrorista está por liberar un virus mortal que se propaga en forma casi mágica y que mata a su huesped en el curso de unas pocas horas.
Nuestro super agente se ve envuelto en una trama de búsqueda contra el tiempo para evitar la destrucción mundal de parte de los "terribles", "fanáticos" y "desquiciados" terroristas.
Sin embargo, Kent está recuperando su memoria poco a poco, en medio de sus propios conflictos personales, el asesino con fijación en su persona sigue "milagrosamente" vivo y más obsesionado que nunca con nuestro héroe.
Su relación con María se encuentra entre la duda, el temor y el deseo, sumiendolo en una paradoja en la que no sabe ni entiende sus propios sentimientos.
Una novelita totalmente predecible y que cumple el cometido de entretener con aventuras a lo James Bond y Jason Bourne, nada especial y muy recomendable si les gustan las aventuras de agentes secretos, casi indestructibles y atormentados por un pasado que no lo deja tranquilo, pero que no conoce plenamente.



Como dije la novela cumple lo que promete, entretenimiento de agentes secretos y nada mas. Disfrútenla si les gusta el género.
Profile Image for Rubi.
1,937 reviews72 followers
April 29, 2021
El tipico cliche Americano, el agente indestructible contra los terroristas de oriente medio; este binomio raya un poquito en el racismo.
Dejando esto de lado, es una historia entretenida y va de los esfuerzos por contener un virus letal; sin duda muy ad hoc el tema a los tiempos que estamos viviendo.
The typical American cliche, the indestructible agent against the terrorists of the Middle East; This binomial borders a little on racism.
All that aside, it's an entertaining story, and it's about efforts to contain a deadly virus; without a doubt the theme is very ad hoc to the times we are living in.
11 reviews1 follower
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July 18, 2019
Superb follow up to the initial Agent Zero in which Kent Steele continues to regain his memory but remains unsure of who he can trust. The book moves at a fast pace as Agent Zero is called upon to thwart a sinister terrorist plot that takes him around much of Europe. This happens against a background of being hunted by Rais an Amun assassin determined to kill him! The final twist at the end leaves one awaiting its sequel with an intense curiosity! Essentially a book that you won’t want to put down until the very last page.
4 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2019
Excellent read

I realize a one star and the heading excellent book do not go together. The book was a great read but the ending MAKES you buy the next in the series. I am not a fan of this kind of trick thus the low rating.
Profile Image for Garry Thompson.
781 reviews
January 3, 2022
Since the storyline moves from one book in the series to the next, it's best to read them in order.

The second book in the series has several plots and not all of them are solved in this book. If this were a standalone novel, I would have given it a higher rating.
Profile Image for Steve.
630 reviews24 followers
April 21, 2024
In the world of espionage thrillers, Jack Mars' "Target Zero" stands out as a gripping narrative that combines the intricacies of spy tactics with the personal struggles of memory and identity. The book, which is a sequel to "Agent Zero," follows the protagonist Kent Steele, an elite CIA agent, as he races against time to thwart a catastrophic biological weapon threat. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable throughout the story, making it a compelling listen for fans of the genre.

The audiobook version of "Target Zero" is brought to life by the talented Edoardo Ballerini, whose narration style adds depth and nuance to the already thrilling plot. Ballerini, a seasoned narrator with a plethora of accolades to his name, including multiple Audie Awards and recognition as a Golden Voice by AudioFile Magazine, delivers a performance that is both commanding and intimate.

Ballerini's voice carries a certain gravitas that is essential for a story of such magnitude. His ability to switch between accents and tones seamlessly is a testament to his skill as a narrator. This is particularly evident in the way he portrays Kent Steele, giving the character a robust and determined voice that reflects his unwavering commitment to his mission. Ballerini's pacing is impeccable, knowing exactly when to slow down for dramatic effect and when to pick up speed during the action-packed sequences.

The story itself is a rollercoaster of emotions and adrenaline. Mars has crafted a narrative that is not only about the external conflict of stopping a global threat but also about the internal conflict of a man trying to piece together his past. Kent Steele's memory loss adds a layer of complexity to the character, making him more relatable and human. As the plot unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey across Europe, with vivid descriptions that paint a cinematic picture in the mind's eye.

One of the strengths of "Target Zero" is its attention to detail. Mars' research into the workings of the CIA and biological weapons is evident, lending authenticity to the story. The plot is well-constructed, with twists and turns that keep the listener guessing. The supporting characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that enrich the main narrative.

However, no story is without its flaws. At times, the plot can feel a bit formulaic, following the typical beats of a spy thriller. Some of the twists, while surprising, may come off as convenient rather than organic. Additionally, the romantic subplot, though it adds a personal dimension to Steele's character, can sometimes feel forced and detracts from the main storyline.

Despite these minor criticisms, "Target Zero" is a solid addition to the spy thriller genre. It is a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, asking the listener to consider the cost of security and the sacrifices made by those who work in the shadows to protect us.

In conclusion, "Target Zero" is an audiobook that delivers on multiple fronts. Jack Mars' storytelling is engaging and well-paced, while Edoardo Ballerini's narration elevates the experience to new heights. For those who enjoy a good spy story with a human touch, "Target Zero" is a mission worth embarking on. The combination of Mars' writing and Ballerini's narration makes for an explosive and memorable listen that will resonate with listeners long after the final chapter.
Profile Image for Jonnie.
806 reviews
December 12, 2020
The main plot is based on terrorists trying to release a mutated form of smallpox. Although published in 2019, it was interesting to read this book during the 2020 pandemic. For me the premise of the book was 4 stars, but the writing was 3 stars. I found some actions and sequence of events were illogical, especially related to Reed's family. For example, when he can't reach his oldest daughter after coming back from his mission, he doesn't try to call his other daughter or Thompson, the man watching them. Or he leaves on a moments notice with no backup arrangements for his kids except the retired agent next door. I couldn't remember why I didn't read the second book immediately after the first, but I now realize the way the main character's two lives intertwine didn't work for me in the first book. And it still doesn't work for me now.

The most frustrating part of the book, though, was the ending. I like for books to stand on their own and have a conclusion. This book does not. Two subplots are left hanging and I presume they will be resolved in book 3. I hadn't planned on reading book 3 any time soon but now I feel compelled to read it just to get a resolution to these subplots. I'm so annoyed with the ending, though, that it almost makes me want to quit the series.
Profile Image for Balthazar Lawson.
761 reviews8 followers
August 25, 2023
Set only a few weeks after the the original book in the series, and Kent Steele is trying to decide if he wants to go back to the CIA or continue life as a college professor. But things are taken out of his hand when there is a terrorist attack in Barcelona and he is the right man for the job.

It's the beginning of a journey of discovering all the things he has forgotten and why he forgot them. But he also has to deal with the assassin from the first book who is not dead and is out for revenge, not that Kent knows this.

And here is where I am very annoyed with the set up. Rais, the assassin, really has nothing to do with the terrorist attack and is a completely separate story line which doesn't have any place in this book. If this line was not in the book at all, it would have been a better story. But this is just a ploy to get people to buy the books. It's like a TV series where all 13 episodes make up a single story. I don't really like that with my reading.

Without the extra story line this was an enjoyable book.
1,088 reviews5 followers
January 3, 2025
‘Target Zero’ was fascinating. Its thrilling plot was filled with suspense, action, terrorism, revenge, intrigue, espionage, living a double life, and twists and turns. Moreover, Agent Zero (AKA Reid and Kent Steele), ran against the clock trying to foil the terrorists' methods of unleashing biometric vials of smallpox into a highly populated city in the name of a religious zealot while he was trying to keep his daughters safe from a man who sought revenge and while trying to remain safe from his colleagues in the CIA from intimations throughout the book.
In addition, I liked the author’s vivid descriptions and the nerve-wracking word choices that created a tension-filled tone. Although a few pages interchanged Reid’s daughter’s name with his possible suitor’s name, that was minor in the scheme of things. Ending as a cliffhanger was another matter. Overall, however, I liked the riveting narrative.
Profile Image for Lisa.
536 reviews
March 10, 2024
I enjoy Jack Mars books. So much, I don't bother reading the book synopsis before I buy or download a book of his. With this book, I'm glad I don't read the synopsis of his books any more. I would have missed another fast paced, nonstop action filled, engrossing book by Mr. Mars.

Target Zero is #2 in a series. I haven't read Agent Zero, book 1 of the series. However, Target Zero is practically a stand-alone. This book does allude to two happenings from book 1, but what happened is easily discerned and understood in Book 2. No need to worry if you haven't read Book 1 ... yet!

A man-manipulated deadly virus is set loose in Barcelona and the rush is on to find the creator of it before it makes it's way to the U.S. The CIA, Interpol & WHO are involved (some with a hidden agenda) involved trying to stop this virus from spreading. No, the virus is *not* covid; it's a much older virus.
Profile Image for Natelle.
664 reviews3 followers
April 30, 2022
Agent Zero’s memories haven’t come rushing back but as another international incident looms, he accepts a call to action. Torn between protecting his daughters and protecting the world, he realizes he must do the latter. He teams up with familiar faces to chase terrorists across Europe. Soon the loyalty of these terrorists to their cause brings up questions of who can be trusted.
Definitely a good idea to read these books in order as they build on each other. Jack Mars weaves details in from the previous missions so you know what we s going on, but recapping every detail would make the novel tedious to read.
Profile Image for D.S. Wall.
Author 6 books5 followers
October 17, 2023
Exciting Thriller, but I’m Annoyed

I get leaving a thread untied at the end of the story to entice the reader to read the next book, but Jack Mars left two major subplots hanging. The book ended abruptly leaving too much unresolved. Having said that, Mars sends his main character, Agent Zero, aka Kent Steele, on a wild chase across Europe to stop a terrorist from unleashing an unstoppable, deadly virus on the U.S. There is lots of action and unexpected twists, and it is highly entertaining. You’ll want the keep reading the next book in the series. The too-abrupt ending and some disappointingly obvious errors account for the missing fifth star.
Profile Image for Tommy Kiedis.
416 reviews14 followers
December 31, 2020
Kent Steele is aptly named. In page-turner number two, Agent Zero is simultaneously battling an international terrorist plot, his own memory loss, and moles in the government all while being tracked by an assassin himself. It sounds too far fetched, but it certainly doesn't read that way. Jack Mars has a way of keeping one riveted to the page. Read Target Zero, I think you will find a hero who is, frustratingly at times, simultaneously bold, brilliant, brash, and a man in search of himself.
1,475 reviews19 followers
April 25, 2021
Agent Zero is sent on a mission to find out where it started and stop the escape of a deadly virus. As he and his team work to track down the person who caused this problem he does not know that his daughters are in danger. His boss tells him he can't send anyone to keep an eye on them.

There seems to be a mole in the CIA as Zero discovers when a member of his team turns on him. And, a man whom he helped put away has escaped and will do anything to exact revenge.

Edge of your seat reading with twists and turns galore.

Love Jack Mars!



Profile Image for Don.
1,017 reviews5 followers
July 17, 2021
This was a good read but there were disappointments in it. Mars writes a good story, but he has a tendency to leave reality in pursuit of his storyline. Like Zero is a CIA agent and he gives his phone to Doctor Barnard to take pictures of computer screens, but then he forgets it? Really? Just one of a number of actions that don’t tract true. Overall he does a good job, maybe he doesn’t have a great team helping him turn out a top notched book. Then the story goes on at the end, buy the next book if you want to know? Poor
Profile Image for Dan Smith.
1,795 reviews17 followers
June 21, 2024
Life returns only fleetingly back to normal for Kent before he finds himself summoned by the CIA to hunt down terrorists and stop another international crisis - this one even more potentially devastating than the last. Yet with an assassin hunting him down, a conspiracy within, moles all around him and with a lover he can barely trust, Kent is set up to fail.

Yet his memory is quickly returning, and with it, flashes into the secrets of who he was, what he'd discovered - and why they are after him. His own identity, he realizes, may be the most perilous secret of all.
Profile Image for Francesco.
1,115 reviews41 followers
July 30, 2025
Vote: 3,75
Class: L-B1 (FP)

(second book of a series)

Second book of the Agent Zero series it ends in a cliff-hanger (!).
A possible apocalipse is about to happen if nobody stops it. Agent Zero is the only one who can do something...
Not an original plot but very well done and with interesting plot twists.
Fast pacing, with the highest possibile stakes and 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 asap.
157 reviews3 followers
July 25, 2019
Memories! Reid has some, but not all. As they come back piece-by-piece he has devastating headaches. Does he really want to remember everything? Is he going to rejoin CIA or remain a quiet college professor? What about the safety of his two daughters. He has a lot on his mind when he gets a call from the CIA that catapults him into another mission. Who can he trust in this mission that has twists and turns and misdirection? Jack Mars is an ace when it comes to writing adventure stories.
Profile Image for Darlene.
502 reviews26 followers
October 22, 2019
Between action scenarios this book was a nail biter. Jack Mars had three different plot twists going at the same time; The biological attack, the escaped assassin, and Kent's re-emerging memory and all that entails.

Poor Kent/Reid still doesn't know who to completely trust. He thinks he can trust Maria but he is still having some deep down doubts. He's feeling quite lonely.

The story was an entertaining quick read filled with action and a few surprises. I can't wait to read book 3.
29 reviews
April 15, 2020
Edge of your seat excitement

Mars does it again. He writes a story that grabs you and won't let you go. The action doesn't stop and the intrigue holds you captive. You turn page after page and can't wait to see what happens next. This author is skilled at catching you and getting you involved with the action and characters. The become old friends and hated enemies. I highly recommend Mars as a great writer of espionage and thriller actikn



103 reviews1 follower
April 16, 2020
I was happy to have this on the shelf. I need something simple that didn’t take much thought, and was still entertaining enough.

I read other reviews saying this ended on a cliffhanger that makes you want to read the next book. Sorry, technically it’s a cliffhanger but it was obvious that storyline wasn’t going to be resolved in this book.

I bought this book for $.99 I’m not sure if the next one is worth $4.99
191 reviews
April 21, 2020
Great book and I will definitely be getting the next one to see what happens next!

Edit: My the way, I really liked the Agent Zero Book 1 Summary contained in the Kindle edition (don't know if it was in the paper edition), as I don't always remember all of the main plot points when I pick up the next book in the series. Of course, here I immediately read this book after Book 1, so it was just a nice recap before diving in (which I also appreciated!)
Profile Image for Emily Linacre.
363 reviews17 followers
December 29, 2020
a super fast, super fast paced second in the series! is it the best writing ever? nah. entirely accurate? well, i wouldn't know 😂 but there's a shitload of action jammed into 250 pages. this one's got all the great buzzwords of a spy thriller: submachine guns, panic rooms, waterboarding, burner phones, kidnapping, biological warfare, a worldwide pandemic (okay, some parts were a little TOO real)...
don't think too hard about it; just picture a mix of jason bourne and liam neeson, and enjoy the ride...until that cliffhanger ending!
Profile Image for Ze Walderico Assunção.
152 reviews3 followers
May 4, 2023
O livro é bom, tem momentos que você sabe que vai da m… porque ele fala muito de certos personagens, de forma geral ele nos apresentou duas tramas bem poderosas que poderiam ser mais bem explorados nos quesitos: conspiração, reviravoltas, estrutura narrativa e personagens. O livro, por mais que seja focado no personagem do agente Zero poderia ampliar mais outros pontos de vista como o do terrorista, entres outros personagens que foram pouco ou mal explorados.
274 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2019
Action packed

Just finished TARGET zero and it is the first Jack Mars book that has disappointed me. The action was there and the plot closed well but the infighting is a bit much.
I would love to ask mr. Mars one question about a character that has me stumped. I may or may not buy book number three. Have to decide when I get over the key down.
Profile Image for Neha.
107 reviews8 followers
November 20, 2019
I just want him to remember the events before the memory suppression chip happened to him. I am turning the pages of the books so fast to get to the point where he remember everything and now I am wondering if that would actually even happen or not. Went ahead and bought books 4,5 and 6 as well. This series is too good!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews

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