Order of The Corps Book Series

"The Corps" is a thrilling military fiction series co-authored by W. E. B. Griffin and Dick Hill, set against the backdrop of the United States Marine Corps during pivotal moments in history. The series intricately weaves together the stories of a diverse cast of characters, ranging from seasoned officers to fresh recruits, as they navigate the complexities of military life, camaraderie, and the challenges of warfare.

Spanning multiple decades, "The Corps" explores both the personal and professional conflicts that arise within the ranks of the Marines. Readers are introduced to iconic figures who embody the spirit and tenacity of the Corps, delving into their backstories and the events that shape them. The narrative is rich with authentic detail, offering insights into military strategy, the protocols of combat, and the profound bonds formed in moments of strife.

With a compelling mix of action, honor, and sacrifice, the series celebrates the heroism of the Marine Corps while also highlighting the emotional toll of service. Griffin's signature storytelling, combined with Hill's masterful narration, brings to life the intensity of military operations and the unwavering dedication of those who serve.

"The Corps" invites readers to experience the grit and determination of America's elite fighting force, making it a must-read for fans of military fiction and anyone drawn to the incredible stories of those who serve their country. Each book in the series stands on its own yet contributes to an overarching saga of loyalty, bravery, and the quest for excellence in the face of adversity.

Order of The Corps Series

# Title Year Rating Book Link
1Semper Fi
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1986Amazon.com
2Call to Arms
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1987Amazon.com
3Counterattack
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1990Amazon.com
4Battleground
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1991Amazon.com
5Line of Fire
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1992Amazon.com
6Close Combat
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1993Amazon.com
7Behind the Lines
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1996Amazon.com
8In Danger's Path
By: W.E.B. Griffin
1999Amazon.com
9Under Fire
By: W.E.B. Griffin
2002Amazon.com
10Retreat, Hell!
By: W.E.B. Griffin
20034.7Amazon.com

The Corps Series Books Description

"The Corps" is a military fiction series written by W. E. B. Griffin, with Dick Hill often serving as the narrator for the audiobooks. The series focuses on the United States Marine Corps during World War II and later periods, highlighting the experiences of a group of characters through various military operations and personal challenges.

Here’s a brief overview of each of the books in "The Corps" series:

  1. Book 1: Semper Fi (1986)

    • This novel introduces us to the key characters and sets the stage for their involvement in World War II. It follows Lieutenant Kenneth “Ken” McCoy and his experiences as he becomes embroiled in the political and military environment of the time. The story covers themes of duty, honor, and the trials faced by Marines.
  2. Book 2: Call to Arms (1987)

    • As the war continues, Ken McCoy is promoted to a higher command and faces new challenges. The book explores the dynamics of Marine Corps life, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the brutal realities of combat as the characters prepare for their next missions.
  3. Book 3: Counterattack (1988)

    • The focus shifts to the strategic offensives in the Pacific Theater. The characters must adapt to evolving warfare tactics and harsh conditions while dealing with the ramifications of their actions on and off the battlefield. The stakes are higher as they encounter fierce opposition.
  4. Book 4: Battleground (1989)

    • This installment delves deeper into the relationships among the Marines and their families. The emotional and psychological impact of the war is significant, with characters grappling with loss and the strain of battle. The story highlights important military operations while providing insights into the personal lives of the soldiers.
  5. Book 5: In Danger’s Way (1990)

    • The intensity of the battles escalates, and the characters are tested both physically and mentally. The narrative reveals the complexities of leadership and the sacrifices required during wartime as they face imminent danger and moral dilemmas.
  6. Book 6: Under Fire (1990)

    • As the war progresses, the risks for the Marines increase. The characters navigate the treacherous waters of military hierarchy and personal conflict. The narrative emphasizes themes of loyalty, courage, and the harsh realities of military engagements.
  7. Book 7: The Last Hero (1991)

    • This concludes the saga of the main characters set against the backdrop of World War II. The personal journeys of the characters culminate in significant growth and transformation as they confront their destinies and the war's aftermath.
  8. Book 8: The Corps: A Novel of the Vietnam War (1993)

    • Shifting the focus to the Vietnam War, this book expands the narrative scope to include new characters and scenarios that highlight the challenges faced by Marines during this contentious conflict. It draws parallels to the earlier conflicts while illustrating the unique difficulties of the Vietnam War.

The series is well-regarded for its realistic portrayal of military life, attention to detail, and character development. Griffin's writing style blends action, historical accuracy, and emotional depth, making "The Corps" a popular choice among military fiction enthusiasts. If you need more detailed summaries or character explorations for specific books, feel free to ask!

Who are the main characters of The Corps Series

"The Corps" series by W. E. B. Griffin, with narration by Dick Hill, is a military fiction series that follows the lives and careers of U.S. Marine Corps officers during World War II and the years that follow. Here are the main characters from the series:

  1. Lieutenant Colonel (later Colonel) James H. "Griff" Griffin: The primary protagonist of the series, Griff is a Marine who is portrayed as a capable, resourceful leader. He is dedicated to his duties and often finds himself involved in various challenges and operations throughout the series. His character offers insight into military life and the values upheld by the Marines.

  2. Major General "Duke" Thelen: A high-ranking officer in the Marine Corps, Duke is often portrayed as decisive and influential, navigating the complexities of military hierarchy and strategy. His character embodies the leadership qualities necessary for commanding troops during tumultuous times.

  3. Captain (later Major) Wallace "Wally" McDade: An officer who is characterized by his intelligence and loyalty, Wally often serves as a confidant and resource for Griff and the other characters. His journey through the ranks reflects the various challenges of military service.

  4. Colonel (later General) Chesty Puller: Based on the real-life Marine Corps legend, Chesty is depicted as a tough and fearless leader, embodying the spirit of the Marines. His larger-than-life persona has a significant impact on the other characters and the unfolding events.

  5. Lieutenant Colonel (later General) Thomas "Thom" McCoy: A key character who deals with the personal and professional challenges faced by military leaders. He often confronts moral dilemmas while striving to serve his country.

  6. Major (later Colonel) Eric "Mack" Mackey: A supportive officer who works alongside Griff and the others. Mack adds depth to the narrative, showcasing camaraderie and the personal side of military life.

The series intertwines their stories, exploring themes of duty, sacrifice, friendship, and the complexities of warfare. Each character contributes to the overarching narrative, offering readers a mix of action, strategy, and personal growth within the context of military history.

Interesting facts about The Corps Series

"The Corps" is a military fiction series written by W. E. B. Griffin, with audiobooks often narrated by Dick Hill. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

  1. Setting and Focus: The series is set during World War II and focuses on the United States Marine Corps, detailing the lives and experiences of its soldiers. It provides a mix of historical context and fictional narratives.

  2. Series Structure: "The Corps" consists of multiple novels that can be read independently, but they share common characters and overarching themes. The series deepens the reader's understanding of military life and the challenges faced by Marines.

  3. Realism and Research: W. E. B. Griffin is known for his meticulous research regarding military operations, history, and protocols. His background and knowledge contribute to the authenticity of the storylines and characters, making them relatable and realistic.

  4. Character Development: The series features a detailed exploration of personal relationships, camaraderie among Marines, and the impact of war on individuals. Characters are often based on real individuals, making their arcs compelling and engaging.

  5. Publication History: The first book in the series, titled "Semper Fi," was published in 1986. Griffin continued to develop the series over the years, releasing several books that expanded on the themes and characters introduced in the initial installment.

  6. Popularity: The series has garnered a large following, particularly among military enthusiasts and those interested in historical fiction. Its engaging storytelling and character-driven plots have made it a staple in military fiction literature.

  7. Audiobook Narration: Dick Hill's narration of the audiobooks has been well-received, adding an engaging auditory experience to the compelling narratives. His style complements Griffin's writing, bringing the characters and their experiences to life.

  8. Cultural Impact: "The Corps" series has contributed to the understanding of the Marine Corps' significance during WWII and beyond. It reflects themes of honor, duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of military service.

  9. Spin-Offs and Related Series: Griffin has created other series that intersect with "The Corps," including the "Badge of Honor" and "The Brotherhood of War" series, which share the military backdrop and often connect with characters from "The Corps."

  10. Adaptations: While there have been no major film or television adaptations of "The Corps," the themes and character-driven narratives resonate well with audiences, leaving room for potential adaptations in the future.

These elements make "The Corps" a notable series in the realm of military fiction, appealing to readers with its blend of action, history, and character exploration.