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Corps Justice #15
A Darker Path
The dark from the light...
The truth from the lies...
Which path will our hero take?
An assassin with the skills to take down The Jefferson Group delivers an offer Cal Stokes can't refuse. Down the twisted trail they go, with Cal always wondering whether a bullet will greet him on the next turn, and what his captor's true motive is.
The truth from the lies...
Which path will our hero take?
An assassin with the skills to take down The Jefferson Group delivers an offer Cal Stokes can't refuse. Down the twisted trail they go, with Cal always wondering whether a bullet will greet him on the next turn, and what his captor's true motive is.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2018
2402 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
C.G. Cooper
87 books389 followersC. G. Cooper is the USA TODAY and AMAZON BESTSELLING author of the CORPS JUSTICE novels, several spinoffs and a growing number of stand-alone novels.
One of his novels, CHAIN OF COMMAND, won the 2020 James Webb Award presented by the Marine Heritage Foundation for its portrayal of the United States Marine Corps in fiction. Cooper doesn't chase awards, but this one was special.
Cooper grew up on a steady diet of Dungeons & Dragons and the travels of a Navy family.
Upon graduating from the University of Virginia with a degree in Foreign Affairs, Cooper was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps and went on to serve six years as an infantry officer. C. G. Cooper's final Marine duty station was in Nashville, Tennessee, where he fell in love with the laid-back lifestyle of Music City.
His first published novel, BACK TO WAR, came out of a desire to link back to his time in the Marine Corps. That novel, written as a side project, spawned many follow-on novels, several exciting spinoffs, and catapulted Cooper's career.
Cooper lives just south of Nashville with his wife, three children, and their German shorthaired pointer, Liberty, who's become a popular character in the Corps Justice novels.
One of his novels, CHAIN OF COMMAND, won the 2020 James Webb Award presented by the Marine Heritage Foundation for its portrayal of the United States Marine Corps in fiction. Cooper doesn't chase awards, but this one was special.
Cooper grew up on a steady diet of Dungeons & Dragons and the travels of a Navy family.
Upon graduating from the University of Virginia with a degree in Foreign Affairs, Cooper was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps and went on to serve six years as an infantry officer. C. G. Cooper's final Marine duty station was in Nashville, Tennessee, where he fell in love with the laid-back lifestyle of Music City.
His first published novel, BACK TO WAR, came out of a desire to link back to his time in the Marine Corps. That novel, written as a side project, spawned many follow-on novels, several exciting spinoffs, and catapulted Cooper's career.
Cooper lives just south of Nashville with his wife, three children, and their German shorthaired pointer, Liberty, who's become a popular character in the Corps Justice novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
January 19, 2019
Very good--but
I have read all 15 books in this series and have enjoyed the action and adventure. This one gives more depth to the characters, particularly Cal, but the story needs to be completed. I have sent an email to the author asking if he intends to do that. If he does not, it would be very disappointing and I would not recommend this series.
I have read all 15 books in this series and have enjoyed the action and adventure. This one gives more depth to the characters, particularly Cal, but the story needs to be completed. I have sent an email to the author asking if he intends to do that. If he does not, it would be very disappointing and I would not recommend this series.
June 18, 2018
WOW!!! What a fantastic read! I have waited over a year to find out the answers to the questions I had at the end of Sins of the Father. The wait was well worth it! A Darker Path was full of intrigue, fast paced, gripping, action, and suspense. OMG the suspense!! Being right there in the thick of it with Cal as he questions beliefs and faces uncertainty as to what is happening and where he finds himself was amazing. Incredible writing! Can't wait for the next book!
June 12, 2019
Is a great setup for something new. I hope Mr. Cooper does just that.
Fun book. Really sets up a new series nicely. I thought the sries was getting a bit stale. The ending on the book sets up what is next
Fun book. Really sets up a new series nicely. I thought the sries was getting a bit stale. The ending on the book sets up what is next
September 5, 2019
Truly outstanding book, with the worst ending of any book I've ever read.
Good grief I hate books like this....
Good grief I hate books like this....
June 15, 2021
A Darker Path - Not what you expect
This wasn’t at all what I expected and I think that’s what made it all the more enjoyable. Brilliant plot and storyline with great twists along the way. The biggest of the lot coming at the end. Ho would have seen that coming? Absolutely brilliant. Now onto Book 16.
This wasn’t at all what I expected and I think that’s what made it all the more enjoyable. Brilliant plot and storyline with great twists along the way. The biggest of the lot coming at the end. Ho would have seen that coming? Absolutely brilliant. Now onto Book 16.
June 23, 2018
This is the 15th book in the series. Others have stated this can be read as a standalone, but I disagree. I wouldn't have understood much of what was being referenced if I hadn't read the other books.
In this book, it picks up where number 14 left off with Cal finally getting back to strength. However, since the book, Cal has found he's stronger in almost every aspect than he was prior to be kidnapped in book 14. The guy who took him, must have been following his recovery as well, because its ironic as soon as he gets the ok from all the doctors to go into missions he gets contacted by the said guy. Then starts Cal's next journey - but this time with Liberty. Anyhow, when Cal finally comes face to face with the guy who took him they play verbal ping pong at each turn. Then the guy starts taking Cal with him to do small raids. Then he starts to show Cal about how nothing is as Cal sees it regarding what Cal thought was the right thing. Within this time, the guy who took Cal has been able to get into Cal's head and get Liberty's trust. However things happen and Cal needs his team which come to help him and the other guy out. However, the part where everything isn't like how Cal believes it is shows its head again. Soon Cal and the President are at odds and things change for the entire team.
Cal's character was good as usual but something was "off" with it. I think the author meant it this way to take in how Cal's changed since his kidnapping. However, I felt the book was just there to be written and didn't really go any place other than on a few sidetracks of Cal trying to find himself. It was very disappointing and not what I was hoping for since the last book. I was really looking forward to this one as its been over a year between the books, but, to me, this one was a flop. I hope the author goes back to writing his normal quality stuff.
In this book, it picks up where number 14 left off with Cal finally getting back to strength. However, since the book, Cal has found he's stronger in almost every aspect than he was prior to be kidnapped in book 14. The guy who took him, must have been following his recovery as well, because its ironic as soon as he gets the ok from all the doctors to go into missions he gets contacted by the said guy. Then starts Cal's next journey - but this time with Liberty. Anyhow, when Cal finally comes face to face with the guy who took him they play verbal ping pong at each turn. Then the guy starts taking Cal with him to do small raids. Then he starts to show Cal about how nothing is as Cal sees it regarding what Cal thought was the right thing. Within this time, the guy who took Cal has been able to get into Cal's head and get Liberty's trust. However things happen and Cal needs his team which come to help him and the other guy out. However, the part where everything isn't like how Cal believes it is shows its head again. Soon Cal and the President are at odds and things change for the entire team.
Cal's character was good as usual but something was "off" with it. I think the author meant it this way to take in how Cal's changed since his kidnapping. However, I felt the book was just there to be written and didn't really go any place other than on a few sidetracks of Cal trying to find himself. It was very disappointing and not what I was hoping for since the last book. I was really looking forward to this one as its been over a year between the books, but, to me, this one was a flop. I hope the author goes back to writing his normal quality stuff.
June 23, 2018
A Darker Path turned out to not be what I expected. It began well enough but then took a darker path - as if a different author took over at that point. After what happened to Cal in the last book, I would expect that he would set out to find Wilcox and get his retribution from Wilcox and his near death experience. However, Wilcox contacts Cal and kidnaps him, in a way, leading him on what appeared to be a wild goose chase. When the two finally meet on a beautiful island, Wilcox becomes an accommodable host to Cal with no clear direction - only riddles that perplexed both Cal and Me.
The tests that Wilcox had conducted with Cal and the continuing commentary eventually turns him into an ally of Wilcox where he comes to his aid time and time again. When in SE Asia, Wilcox learns about the priests' murder, and the boy's capture, Wilcox sets out on his own to make things right - only to be captured himself and tortured by a Russian group. Cal makes a call to his team back home and they immediately leave to support Cal who sets out to rescue both the boy and Wilcox. Prior to taking Cal to the Philippines, Wilcox asks Cal if he would be interested in working together in the future. Cal brushes it off...but much later with the ending as Mr. Cooper wrote it, I would guess that the next book would pursue something along those lines.
The ending left me breathless, but with a stabbing wonderment as to why it ended like it did. I feel like I missed something...a coverup by Brandon? what caused the animosity between Cal and the CIA leader? Was Cal brainwashed by Wilcox? How did the head Russian get away? Perhaps we'll get the answers in the next installment.
The tests that Wilcox had conducted with Cal and the continuing commentary eventually turns him into an ally of Wilcox where he comes to his aid time and time again. When in SE Asia, Wilcox learns about the priests' murder, and the boy's capture, Wilcox sets out on his own to make things right - only to be captured himself and tortured by a Russian group. Cal makes a call to his team back home and they immediately leave to support Cal who sets out to rescue both the boy and Wilcox. Prior to taking Cal to the Philippines, Wilcox asks Cal if he would be interested in working together in the future. Cal brushes it off...but much later with the ending as Mr. Cooper wrote it, I would guess that the next book would pursue something along those lines.
The ending left me breathless, but with a stabbing wonderment as to why it ended like it did. I feel like I missed something...a coverup by Brandon? what caused the animosity between Cal and the CIA leader? Was Cal brainwashed by Wilcox? How did the head Russian get away? Perhaps we'll get the answers in the next installment.
June 20, 2018
A Darker Path is the fifteenth book in the Corps Justice series. While it is part of a series, the book can be read as a standalone. Though, since the books build off each other, I highly suggest you read them in order. Events in this storyline tie in with previous books, and A Darker Path will make a lot more sense if you have read the other books first. There is violence. If you like military thrillers, you will love this series and this book. You won't be disappointed.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that all of that info here. In this book, the author did a great job of summarizing the main characters and the entire series of books written so far. As usual in a Corps Justice book, A Darker Path contains many clues, surprises, twists, and turns. It definitely kept me riveted and I could not put it down. Cal spends much of this book without his TJG team. Of course not all is as it appears. This book has a different tone from the previous Corps Justice books.I can't wait to read the next book in the series to see where Cal and Daniel go from here!
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that all of that info here. In this book, the author did a great job of summarizing the main characters and the entire series of books written so far. As usual in a Corps Justice book, A Darker Path contains many clues, surprises, twists, and turns. It definitely kept me riveted and I could not put it down. Cal spends much of this book without his TJG team. Of course not all is as it appears. This book has a different tone from the previous Corps Justice books.I can't wait to read the next book in the series to see where Cal and Daniel go from here!
October 2, 2018
What Have You Done To Our Character?
I have read all 15 books and all the Daniel Briggs books as well. I have loved every one of them! Five stars all but this one. I will go back through and submit my reviews in the next few days but I am so terribly disappointed in the transition of our man Cal Stokes. Mr. Cooper could not have picked a better title. Darker Path indeed. It has been clear from the start of these books that Cal has had more than his fair share of hard luck in his short life. The emotional scars he carries has made for a deeply wounded man. After the trauma that Cal supposedly comes through in book 14, this story I found to be just sad. Sad to think that you are taking this great American patriot and turning him into a law breaking fugitive. A lot of people would look at the missions of SSI and TJG doing as being completely out of the realm of possibility and need. I don't. I will keep an open mind and hope for the best...there will be more books, right?
I have read all 15 books and all the Daniel Briggs books as well. I have loved every one of them! Five stars all but this one. I will go back through and submit my reviews in the next few days but I am so terribly disappointed in the transition of our man Cal Stokes. Mr. Cooper could not have picked a better title. Darker Path indeed. It has been clear from the start of these books that Cal has had more than his fair share of hard luck in his short life. The emotional scars he carries has made for a deeply wounded man. After the trauma that Cal supposedly comes through in book 14, this story I found to be just sad. Sad to think that you are taking this great American patriot and turning him into a law breaking fugitive. A lot of people would look at the missions of SSI and TJG doing as being completely out of the realm of possibility and need. I don't. I will keep an open mind and hope for the best...there will be more books, right?
June 24, 2018
I enjoy reading this series and can hardly wait for the next book. I would recommend this series and author to anyone who likes thrillers. The storie keep you reading until have finished it. Hope to read more of this author's series, he is an excellent writer, keeps you hooked until the very last page.
I enjoyed reading this series and hardly waiting for the next book in this series. I would recommend this author to anyone who likes thrillers.
I enjoyed reading this series and hardly waiting for the next book in this series. I would recommend this author to anyone who likes thrillers.
July 13, 2018
Wow, where do I start? 'A Darker Path' ends up being just that, a darker path. The story line is incredibly insightful and at the same time it raises so many questions. I'm beginning to question everything I thought I knew. This book definitely had a ton of action, suspense, humor, crazy characters and all of my favorite characters. I can't wait for the next book. A definite must read. Recommended.
July 24, 2018
Great Read!
There were a lot of twists and turns on Cals relationships with certain people in this book. There was a lot of action and adventure as well.
I've read all the Corps Justice books and they were all great! I would suggest, if you haven't read any of these books to start with the first book and work your way up. That way you know what's going on by keeping with the story line.
There were a lot of twists and turns on Cals relationships with certain people in this book. There was a lot of action and adventure as well.
I've read all the Corps Justice books and they were all great! I would suggest, if you haven't read any of these books to start with the first book and work your way up. That way you know what's going on by keeping with the story line.
August 3, 2018
A Darker Path
What a great story! It pulled me in right from the very beginning and it wouldn't let go. I really don't know what I can say about this book without giving away anything. It would seem like anything I would say would be a spoiler. So, just know that it is full of contemplation for Cal. Has lots of action. And an ending that will probably be a bit surprising. All, I can say is I like the way things turned out. Bravo, Mr Cooper! Very well done!
What a great story! It pulled me in right from the very beginning and it wouldn't let go. I really don't know what I can say about this book without giving away anything. It would seem like anything I would say would be a spoiler. So, just know that it is full of contemplation for Cal. Has lots of action. And an ending that will probably be a bit surprising. All, I can say is I like the way things turned out. Bravo, Mr Cooper! Very well done!
August 26, 2018
Another awesome novel
A darker path was just that. Sad in a way because I’ve grown to feel for Cal,Daniel , and the rest of the Jefferson group. I’m hoping this isn’t the last chapter because these novels are so good. C.G . Cooper ~~~~you are a fine novelist and we,your staunch group of readers, need more from you. If there are mis-spelled words, I’m writing in the dark and don’t have my glasses on. Don’t want to wake my wife. Thanks Coop !!! Dr. C. 🎉🎊
A darker path was just that. Sad in a way because I’ve grown to feel for Cal,Daniel , and the rest of the Jefferson group. I’m hoping this isn’t the last chapter because these novels are so good. C.G . Cooper ~~~~you are a fine novelist and we,your staunch group of readers, need more from you. If there are mis-spelled words, I’m writing in the dark and don’t have my glasses on. Don’t want to wake my wife. Thanks Coop !!! Dr. C. 🎉🎊
August 30, 2019
Crap!
I wish I could have given this book zero stars! (I'm putting in a request for that option) this book was so boring and insulting to one's intelligence. I painfully finished this book with the hope that the author was going somewhere! Having read all the previous books I had hoped that this book would recover some where midway of the story - nope it was not to happen. This is the end of the series for me. Don't waste your hard earn pennies - leave this one be!
I wish I could have given this book zero stars! (I'm putting in a request for that option) this book was so boring and insulting to one's intelligence. I painfully finished this book with the hope that the author was going somewhere! Having read all the previous books I had hoped that this book would recover some where midway of the story - nope it was not to happen. This is the end of the series for me. Don't waste your hard earn pennies - leave this one be!
July 28, 2020
It's almost as if another author has taken over the series for the last book (Sins of the father) and this book. The fist 14 were page turners for the most part. I found myself wanting to ditch the book because the story kept dragging on. - same with the last one. Now the author seems to be going in an entirely different direction. Anyway, I am starting the next in the series, (Man from Belarus) and am keeping an open mind.
May 16, 2021
Least Favorite
After...14 books, you think you know the rhythm of a series, you know? Well this book completely upset that rhythm and turned this world on its axis.
It’s well written, containing glimpses of characters we know and love. However, it’s a vast departure from the Cal Stokes & Co. we have grown to love over the course of the preceding adventures. Maybe it will be a good thing... I’m not sure. This one was my least favorite and hardest to read in the series.
After...14 books, you think you know the rhythm of a series, you know? Well this book completely upset that rhythm and turned this world on its axis.
It’s well written, containing glimpses of characters we know and love. However, it’s a vast departure from the Cal Stokes & Co. we have grown to love over the course of the preceding adventures. Maybe it will be a good thing... I’m not sure. This one was my least favorite and hardest to read in the series.
June 25, 2018
Maaaaan oh maaaaan!
I’ve been waiting and chomping at the bit for this one to come out!! Oorah Devil Dog! Even old Chesty and Dan Daily would tip their covers to you on this one! I read this in less than three hours! You need to move with a sense of urgency and get the next one available Marine! Rah!
Sgt Reginald E. Parker, Sr USMC
98-08 Parris Island 3rd Bn Mike Co.
I’ve been waiting and chomping at the bit for this one to come out!! Oorah Devil Dog! Even old Chesty and Dan Daily would tip their covers to you on this one! I read this in less than three hours! You need to move with a sense of urgency and get the next one available Marine! Rah!
Sgt Reginald E. Parker, Sr USMC
98-08 Parris Island 3rd Bn Mike Co.
July 4, 2018
One of the best!
Seriously, this story is as good as they get! I downloaded the teaser and became so hooked, I bit the bullet and purchased the book. While this series has a long tradition of excellence it reaches a new peak with this edition... Be forewarned, the books have been set for the next edition!
Seriously, this story is as good as they get! I downloaded the teaser and became so hooked, I bit the bullet and purchased the book. While this series has a long tradition of excellence it reaches a new peak with this edition... Be forewarned, the books have been set for the next edition!
July 8, 2018
A Darker Path. C.G. Cooper
Cal Stokes the leader of a covert group of operators for POTUS. Has he been lead down a path of no return to avenge corrupt politicians? Or has he been deceived? This is a very insightful and fast paced read. Will he take the road to correct injustice? A extremely well written novel. Enjoyed immensely!
Cal Stokes the leader of a covert group of operators for POTUS. Has he been lead down a path of no return to avenge corrupt politicians? Or has he been deceived? This is a very insightful and fast paced read. Will he take the road to correct injustice? A extremely well written novel. Enjoyed immensely!
July 15, 2018
I sincerely hope there are more to come
Fifteen novels and characters are still evolving. Please continue this series so we can see what changes have been wrought.
To you readers these books are about the best you can find. C.G. Cooper has gone into the list of my favorite authors, hands down.
Read, enjoy and immerse yourself in Cal Stokes world.
Fifteen novels and characters are still evolving. Please continue this series so we can see what changes have been wrought.
To you readers these books are about the best you can find. C.G. Cooper has gone into the list of my favorite authors, hands down.
Read, enjoy and immerse yourself in Cal Stokes world.
August 19, 2018
Okay,
I waited til I read all fifteen to write a review. This series is one of the best I have ever read. The twists and turns will keep you guessing turnout. The characters are well developed and most are likable. I love that interplay between the group. Can't wait to see what happens now that Cal and Daniel have taken off on their own.
I waited til I read all fifteen to write a review. This series is one of the best I have ever read. The twists and turns will keep you guessing turnout. The characters are well developed and most are likable. I love that interplay between the group. Can't wait to see what happens now that Cal and Daniel have taken off on their own.
October 8, 2018
Top of the series
I have so enjoyed the Core Justice series and “A Darker Path” is my favorite thus far! Usually able to figure out the ending of a book half the way through, this one kept me going until the last page. The humor was laugh out loud hilarious and the change in our heroes surreal. Excellent read.
I have so enjoyed the Core Justice series and “A Darker Path” is my favorite thus far! Usually able to figure out the ending of a book half the way through, this one kept me going until the last page. The humor was laugh out loud hilarious and the change in our heroes surreal. Excellent read.
November 15, 2018
15 books
This review is on the corps justice series. I obviously like them as I read all in 2_3 weeks. Now I'm recovering from surgery and have time on my hands but I don't read what I don't enjoy. The last book ended on a note I am not satisfied with so I hope you address that. Good series. Thank you!
This review is on the corps justice series. I obviously like them as I read all in 2_3 weeks. Now I'm recovering from surgery and have time on my hands but I don't read what I don't enjoy. The last book ended on a note I am not satisfied with so I hope you address that. Good series. Thank you!
January 22, 2019
2 snaps!!!!!!!
I can NOT tell you how happy I was to reunite with all of my uncles and my two great uncles, and I can’t forget my sweet girl Liberty. I have missed them. Page after page after PAGE. Cal is a changed man, I like it. I won’t talk to much I don’t want to be a spoiler..
The Boys are BaCk!
I can NOT tell you how happy I was to reunite with all of my uncles and my two great uncles, and I can’t forget my sweet girl Liberty. I have missed them. Page after page after PAGE. Cal is a changed man, I like it. I won’t talk to much I don’t want to be a spoiler..
The Boys are BaCk!
May 23, 2019
Wonderful story about justice
Matthew Wilcox teaches Cal Stoke something he has forgotten while in service of the President of the United States. He realizes that while he is working for the President he can't really get to the real bad guys who hide behind politics he would a to go of the grid and let's see what happens. Read on for more details.
Matthew Wilcox teaches Cal Stoke something he has forgotten while in service of the President of the United States. He realizes that while he is working for the President he can't really get to the real bad guys who hide behind politics he would a to go of the grid and let's see what happens. Read on for more details.
August 14, 2019
Outstanding Series (1-15)
I realize that the author would prefer to have reviews submitted after each book,however; I like to see continuity in the authors work work and this series of books certainly did not disappoint me. Each and every book in the series is filled with action and intrigue,as well as a few unexpected twists. 👍Job
I realize that the author would prefer to have reviews submitted after each book,however; I like to see continuity in the authors work work and this series of books certainly did not disappoint me. Each and every book in the series is filled with action and intrigue,as well as a few unexpected twists. 👍Job
September 29, 2019
An interesting story taking Cal out of the Jefferson Group and pitting him with another operative that Cal thinks is his nemesis. As this unfolds Cal sees this guy more in his true light and starts to realize he’s not evil but more like Cal than he thought. In the end we end up with Cal defending Wilcox and standing between him and SSI. Now where do we go. Cooper has all kinds of options.5
October 26, 2020
I've read all in this series...
This one, A Darker Path, ended surprisingly abruptly for me. I didn't feel the closure as with the other books in this series. I love each character but somehow the turn this took felt unfinished and disconnected, or maybe incomplete. I'm still a huge C.G. Cooper fan but now a little wary of the next book!
This one, A Darker Path, ended surprisingly abruptly for me. I didn't feel the closure as with the other books in this series. I love each character but somehow the turn this took felt unfinished and disconnected, or maybe incomplete. I'm still a huge C.G. Cooper fan but now a little wary of the next book!
February 3, 2023
It was a pretty good story
I know that a good thing has to be experimented with all the time. I applaud the author was doing a couple of things differently than it had been for many books in the series. I didn't like this book as well as the others in the series, but it is growth. I will see what direction the series takes. Kudos to Mr. Cooper!
I know that a good thing has to be experimented with all the time. I applaud the author was doing a couple of things differently than it had been for many books in the series. I didn't like this book as well as the others in the series, but it is growth. I will see what direction the series takes. Kudos to Mr. Cooper!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews