Charles A. Stewart Shares His Journey From Battlefield To Bestseller
PHOTO: Charles A. Stewart, decorated U.S. Army veteran and acclaimed author, blends military expertise with emotional candour in his gripping novels.
A Decorated Veteran Turned Acclaimed Military Thriller Author
Charles A. Stewart, a decorated Special Operations veteran, discusses his authentic storytelling, dynamic characters, and emotional depth in military thrillers like Cry of the Eagle and Sky Thunder.
Charles A. Stewart, a decorated U.S. Army veteran and acclaimed author, has emerged as a master of military thrillers, captivating readers with his authentic storytelling and emotional resonance. With a remarkable 26-year career in Special Operations, Stewart channels his lived experiences into his novels, crafting intense narratives that bridge the realities of war with the complexities of human emotion. His journey from soldier to writer has created a unique voice in the thriller genre, offering readers stories that pulse with both tactical precision and heartfelt candor.
Charles A. Stewart writes unflinching, superbly layered thrillers with authenticity and emotional gravity that resonate deeply with readers.
Stewart’s novels, such as Cry of the Eagle and Sky Thunder, highlight his ability to weave intricate plots grounded in geopolitics and covert operations while exploring profound emotional themes. Central to his stories is Colt Hawkins, a Delta Force operator with ties to the CIA, whose evolution over the series mirrors the challenges of balancing duty, personal relationships, and the scars of combat. The character of Colt Hawkins, according to Stewart, is inspired by a blend of real-world warriors he has worked alongside—infused with pieces of himself to add authenticity and relatability.
In Cry of the Eagle, readers are drawn into a perilous mission involving the retrieval of a crashed NASA satellite in Turkmenistan. The novel not only tackles the merging of geopolitics and space-age technology but also introduces Hawkins’s personal struggles and budding relationship with Dr. Liberty Starr, a NASA scientist. As their bond deepens in Sky Thunder, Hawkins begins contemplating life beyond the battlefield, making decisions influenced not just by his team but by Liberty’s insight into global threats that intertwine their worlds.
Stewart’s storytelling is distinguished by its unflinching realism and layered emotional depth. His ability to depict the psychological impacts of combat, the dynamics within military units, and the interplay of personal and professional relationships gives his books a unique authenticity. Known for balancing intense action with emotional arcs, Stewart acknowledges the influence of authors like W.E.B. Griffin, who inspired his approach to character development. Additionally, he relies on feedback from female beta readers to ensure the romantic aspects of his books resonate with audiences.
The villains in Stewart’s novels, be they Russian mercenaries or Iranian-trained terrorists, are equally nuanced—a testament to his commitment to crafting complex antagonists. Inspired by guidance from storytelling experts like Robert McKee, Stewart humanizes these adversaries by exploring their motivations and experiences, creating dynamic characters that elevate the stakes of his narratives.
As a rising author, Stewart has embraced opportunities to engage with fans and adapt his series based on their input. He is currently developing a “Team Room” on his website, offering character bios and interactive features for readers to dive deeper into Task Force 24, the CIA Special Activities Division team featured in his novels. Positive fan and critical responses have motivated Stewart to include stronger female characters and delve further into character development as he continues the Colt Hawkins series with Rogue Vengeance.
Stewart’s advice for aspiring military thriller writers draws directly from his approach: “Keep it real and remember your readers. Simplify where needed, build gradually, and craft your own voice to ensure authenticity.” His dedication to realism and storytelling finesse has not only earned him a loyal readership but also positioned him as a fresh and compelling voice in military fiction.
Source: Reader’s House Magazine
