Picture an American storyteller who brings the raw, heart-pounding chaos of World War II to life with every page—meet Chris Glatte! With a knack for crafting gritty military historical fiction, Glatte has won over readers with series like Tark’s Ticks and A Time to Serve. His tales of courage, sacrifice, and survival don’t just entertain—they honor the veterans who lived through history’s darkest moments.
From his home in Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley, Glatte spins stories that feel like a front-row seat to the Pacific Theater. But what makes this author tick? Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of a writer who’s as passionate about nature and family as he is about history.
The Making of Chris Glatte
Chris Glatte’s journey to becoming a celebrated author wasn’t exactly a straight line. Armed with a BA in English Literature from the University of Oregon, he spent a decade as a river guide and kayak instructor, navigating the wild waters of the Pacific Northwest. Later, he trained as an echocardiographer, working in the medical field for over 20 years. But his love for storytelling never faded. Inspired by the gritty, often overlooked battles of World War II, Glatte found his calling in writing novels that capture the brutal realities of war with unflinching honesty.
A lifelong fan of war stories, Glatte was drawn to the human side of conflict—the soldiers’ fears, triumphs, and bonds. His transition to full-time writing allowed him to channel this passion into vivid narratives that resonate with readers and pay tribute to veterans. Living with his wife, two sons, and a trusty Labrador named Hoover, Glatte balances his craft with outdoor adventures, often drawing inspiration from the rugged landscapes around him.
Chris Glatte’s Unforgettable Stories
Glatte’s novels are a masterclass in military historical fiction, blending meticulous research with pulse-pounding action. His 164th Regiment series, starting with The Long Patrol (2016), follows the U.S. Army’s 164th Regiment as they battle Japanese forces in the Pacific. Readers are thrown into the jungles of Guadalcanal and Bougainville, where every page drips with tension and authenticity.
The Tark’s Ticks series, beginning with Tark’s Ticks (2019), is another standout, focusing on Sergeant Tarkington’s squad during the fall of the Philippines in 1942. This series shines a light on lesser-known chapters of WWII, like the brutal months leading up to the Bataan Death March. With seven books, including Gauntlet and Kanga Raid, it’s a gripping saga of survival and guerrilla warfare. Glatte’s A Time to Serve series, launched in 2022, takes a more personal approach, tracing the Cooper family’s trials across the home front and battlefields. Titles like The Gathering Storm and The Scars of Battle weave emotional depth into the chaos of war.
Glatte’s style is defined by its raw intensity and attention to detail. He doesn’t shy away from the brutality of combat, yet his characters—soldiers, families, and resistance fighters—brim with humanity. Fans of Jeff Shaara and Ken Follett will find Glatte’s work equally immersive, with narratives that balance historical accuracy and emotional heft.
Why Chris Glatte Matters
Chris Glatte’s impact lies in his ability to breathe life into forgotten corners of history. By spotlighting battles like Bougainville and the Philippines’ fall, he ensures the sacrifices of WWII soldiers aren’t overlooked. His novels don’t just entertain—they educate, offering readers a visceral connection to the past. With thousands of Goodreads ratings and glowing reviews praising his “superb literary style” and “page-turning action,” Glatte has built a loyal following.
Beyond his books, Glatte’s commitment to honoring veterans resonates deeply. His stories remind us of the resilience of the human spirit, making him a vital voice in military historical fiction. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual reader, Glatte’s work offers a thrilling, thought-provoking escape.
- Key Works: The Long Patrol, Tark’s Ticks, A Time to Serve
- Genre: Military Historical Fiction
- Home: Southern Oregon
Ready for a thrilling dive into WWII? Snag A Time to Serve and lose yourself in Chris Glatte’s gritty, gripping world!