Exploring Honour, Sacrifice, and Justice in the Corps Justice Series
C. G. Cooper discusses his bestselling Corps Justice series, the influence of his military background, writing process, award-winning novel Chain of Command, and the possibility of adapting his books into films.
C. G. Cooper is a name that resonates with readers who crave heart-pounding action, compelling characters, and thought-provoking narratives. A USA TODAY and Amazon bestselling author, Cooper has carved out his own distinct territory in the world of military and political thrillers—an electrifying space where honour, sacrifice, and justice collide. With his Corps Justice series, along with several gripping stand-alone novels, he has built a literary empire that blends pulse-pounding suspense with the raw authenticity of lived experience.
Few writers manage to infuse high-stakes action with deep emotional truth quite like Cooper. His stories are not just about the battles fought on the field but the wars waged within the human heart. Drawing from his background as a Marine infantry officer, he crafts narratives that feel real, where duty and brotherhood hold as much weight as the bullets flying across the page. His award-winning novel Chain of Command—which earned him the prestigious James Webb Award—demonstrates his ability to merge military realism with unforgettable storytelling, while Greco delves into the complexities of family struggles and the burdens we inherit.
With more than two million books downloaded and a fiercely loyal readership, Cooper’s work stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of heroism in all its forms. His novels aren’t just stories; they are immersive experiences, inviting readers into a world where courage is tested, alliances are forged, and justice is pursued at any cost.
In this exclusive interview with Reader’s House, C. G. Cooper takes us behind the scenes of his writing process, shares insights into his characters, and reflects on the impact of his work. From the origins of Corps Justice to the possibilities of an on-screen adaptation, Cooper offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a storyteller who continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
C. G. Cooper masterfully blends action, depth, and authenticity, crafting gripping military thrillers that capture the resilience of the human spirit.
What inspired you to create the Corps Justice series, and how much of your military background influenced its development?
The idea of Cal Stokes, my main character, came first. I saw him walking through downtown Nashville with his fiance, who would be killed in Chapter 1. Then I imagined what he would do to get even. The rest of the story and its characters materialized as I kept writing. And yes, I brought in a fair amount of my military experiences, mostly in the actions and charisma of each character.
Your novels often explore themes of honour, sacrifice, and justice. How do you balance these themes with fast-paced action and suspense?
At this point, I don’t really think about it anymore. My goal is to keep the pages turning. If a reader has to stop, I didn’t do my job. The themes seep into the story because of what I believe in. I never try to force it because my readers are smart. They’ll figure out whether I’m preaching from a pulpit. Spoiler: I’m not a preacher.
In Greco, you delve into family struggles and inherited burdens. What drew you to this storyline, and how does it differ from your other works?
The story is loosely based on a friend’s life. And yes, his name is Michael Greco. I took his story and put my own spin on it, enjoying when I could include little tidbits that only he would understand. It was basically a story I wrote for a friend that somehow ended up being picked up by Amazon’s Lake Union imprint.
With 24 books in the Corps Justice series, how do you keep the storylines fresh and engaging for both new and returning readers?
As I get deeper into the series, I treat the books more and more like television shows. I want each novel to stand on its own. That means I get to bring in fresh characters (supported by my recurring cast) each time I start a new work. I have my good friend, and author, Robert J. Crane to thank for nudging me down that path.
What was your reaction to winning the James Webb Award, and how has it impacted your approach to writing?
I don’t inherently believe in awards. I think creatives want them because they believe it will legitimize their work. In my experience, the only thing that legitimizes what I do is whether or not readers keep reading my work. That being said, it was an honor to win that award. I am still very much a Marine at heart, and to be given the opportunity to represent the Marine Corps was very humbling.
If you could see any of your books adapted into a film or TV series, which one would you choose, and who would you cast as Cal Stokes?
I think I’d start with book one, Corps Justice. Then we’d have all of them made into shows and life would be heaven. Seriously though, I’m not sure who I’d want as Cal Stokes. I used to want Chris Pratt, but Jack Carr snatched him for the fantastic Tom Reece novels. Who knows. Maybe a budding actor will read this and ask to be cast. Stranger things have happened…
