Sea of Demons

Blood and Sand #5

by Heidi Stark

This is Book 5 in the dark Blood and Sand romantic suspense series.

This description contains spoilers, so if you haven't read the previous books in the series and gotten to know Devon, Angel, the snakes and the Brixton guys, I recommend starting there!

Devon

I never expected my life to turn out this way. But here I am, with the four men of my dreams. Yet there's a threat that's only getting closer. He almost ended me once.

He doesn't like losing, and now he's coming back with a vengeance.
There's even more on the line this time.

And if we don't hunt him down first, it will mean the end for us.

Angel

My psycho stalker is gone.
But now there's an even bigger threat to our existence.

He's strong. He's deadly. But so are we. And we have one opportunity to take him down.

Sea of Demons is a full-length mafia/gang dark romantic suspense containing potential triggers. Reader discretion is advised. This is the 5th book in the Blood and Sand series. Books 2-4 can also be found combined as Sinners, Rage, and The Brixton Trilogy, if you prefer to read the Brixton story to this point in its entirety.

Genres: Dark

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2023

About the author

Heidi Stark writes contemporary dark romance with a twist of danger, desire, and the occasional sports scandal.

Known for her badass heroines and irresistibly morally grey men, Heidi has captivated readers with 20+ titles, including the gripping Blood and Sand series, the fiery Volcano of Pain, and her highly anticipated new release, Beautiful Terror.

Originally hailing from the lush landscapes of New Zealand, Heidi now calls the U.S. home, where she shares her creative chaos with her feline sidekick, Fang.

When she’s not crafting heart-pounding stories, Heidi is a whirlwind of energy—hitting up barre classes, devouring true crime podcasts, dabbling in roller derby, people-watching, or indulging in her guilty pleasure: reality TV binges. Always on the hunt for inspiration, she’s probably plotting her next book—or her next travel adventure.

Dark, daring, and deliciously addictive—Heidi’s world is one you’ll never want to leave.

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Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sea of Demons is the fifth book in the Reverse Harem series Bood and Sand. I realised when I was about to start this book that there were four more books before this one and it looked like they all followed on from one another. So, I started at the beginning, and I am so glad that I did because they do indeed follow on. Make sure to start at the beginning of the series.
Warning: this book includes graphic violence and sex scenes, and references of abuse/assault that some readers may experience as triggering.
Angel and her men are back in this reverse harem mafia/gang dark romance suspense story. It is full of violence, danger and unexpected developments that had me on the edge of my seat at times.
With the stalker gone they now face a new nemesis and things can only get deadlier.
As with the rest of the series Sea of Demons is an action-packed tale and a few twisty turns. The intensity and the passion of the characters palpable. It is easy to be drawn into the darkness and the world that Heidi has created. This is the best book of the series.
No spoilers here.
If you are looking for something a little darker, a little spicier, a few sexy men then this is your book but check out the warning before you do.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a reverse harem book featuring Devon and her men, Angel and her men. Devon's come to terms with what her father has done, her boyfriends have her back in every way but they are also concerned on how she will handle him being gone. Now the plan is to exact revenge on the man who bought her. Everything does not go according to plans though and they are in more danger than ever.

This story vacillates from the different POV of many of the characters. This is number five in the series and I had not read the previous books. The relationships for Devon and Angel are established already but I felt like there was enough of a recap to get a full idea of what happened before with the two main characters. Dark romance that pulled me in, I will definitely be going back to read the other stories.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Sea of Demons is the fifth book in the Blood and Sand series by Heidi Stark. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Stark- so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her stories. But as dark romance is one of my guilty pleasures, and the darker the better, I couldn’t wait to discover all the suspenseful details.
This promised a dark romantic suspense with mafia, danger, dramatic developments, tension, raw and gritty details, violence, murder, action, chemistry, sizzle, emotion, and intensity. Which I guess it did. But, I just wished I had read the previous four books before diving into this one.
In this series, as far as I can tell, each instalment follows on from the previous book- and as these characters star in previous books- I can’t help but conclude that there are important aspects to the series that I am missing. The blurb isn’t clear on this, only ‘suggesting’ reading the other books if you prefer, giving the impression that this could be read as a standalone…. “Sea of Demons is a full-length mafia/gang dark romantic suspense containing potential triggers. Reader discretion is advised. This is the 5th book in the Blood and Sand series. Books 2-4 can also be found combined as Sinners, Rage, and The Brixton Trilogy, if you prefer to read the Brixton story to this point in its entirety.” But knowing what happened in those four books seems to be more important than that part of the blurb implies….. So, again, I wish I had known that going into this book, because I did feel like I wasn’t privy to important details/developments- and knowing/thinking that made me frustrated and anxious as I kept wondering what I had ‘missed’ in the previous books.
There were more than a few moments where I nearly gave up in order to go and hunt down the previous books to read them before continuing on with this one- but I persevered hoping that it would all ‘fall into place’ at some point. But I never did find ‘my groove’. Lesson learned. So, unfortunately my rating reflects that. But in saying all that, the story and characters have piqued my interest, and I am hoping that by reading their story in its entirety it will help me connect and invest in them all the better. So I have decided to go back and read the previous books, to see if they change my impression- so stay tuned- as they may impact on my review/rating for the better.
Take my advice, read the previous books first before starting on this one. Save yourself the anxiety and frustration that I experienced.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Heidi Stark!

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 5 of the Blood and Sand series. I wasn't aware of this before I started reading so I was a little disappointed, however the author recaps quite well so the story still flows and is understandable. That being said i will be heading back to the beginning and reading the series from the start because I loved this story so much. This book had everything I love from a dark Mafia Romance. It had the hot, protective, dangerous men who will stop at nothing to protect the woman they love, danger around every corner and the constant fight to protect what is theirs.
Once thing I will just say which the author makes you aware of at the start of the story is there are some topics which may trigger some readers and also the fact that some steamy scenes and violence scenes are written in graphic detail. For me personally this wasn't an issue and made me feel more like i was present at the time of these occurrences however for some reader they maybe too graphic or triggering.
This is a reverse harem story around Devon and her men and Angel and her men. With Devon's father taken care of Devon hope she can move on with her life with the support of her men. However that isn't going to be so easy. As they plan to take revenge against the man who brought Devon (full story in pervious books) things don't go the plan and it puts her in more danger than she was before.
Angel and her guys feel they are finally free of the stalker that was a risk to Angel( previous book), but now with joining forced with Devon and her guys they have found themselves with a new enemy.
This story is full of Suspense, danger, emotion, intensity, love and passion. I couldn't put this book down and i fell in love with every character. I can't wait to head to the beginning of this series and get to know every character in a more complete way.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sea of Demons is Book Three in the Blood and Sand Series. This would be the Fifth Book in the series because the Second Book in the series was previously sold separately under three different titles but has since been combined and released under one single title. Sea of Demons is a dark romance with drama, suspense, intrigue, action, danger, murder, mayhem, violence, passion, chemistry, and complicated family dynamics. As the first book that I have read in this series I wish that I had started with the previous books to gain a better understanding of the characters and their backstories. The storyline focuses on the character of Devon who is confronting her abusive father who sold her to pay off debts he had incurred. She was rescued by four brothers who would do anything for her and will go to great lengths to protect her. Each brother is deeply in love with Devon, and she is in a unique relationship with each of the four brothers. After exacting revenge on her father for his atrocities they decide to deal with the man that bought Devon. However, things do not go as planned and their lives are in danger at every turn. This book was action packed and full of twists and turns that kept me hooked until the end. The characters were intriguing, unique, and engaging. Each was smart, tough, brave, and not afraid to confront danger as it came at them. The reverse harem aspect with Devon and the four brothers was unique and it was interesting to read the dynamics between her and each of the brothers. Overall, a great read with some spicy scenes, tense moments, an intriguing storyline.

[Santana · Rating 3 out of 5]

First things first I would like to say that this is the 5th book in the Blood and Sand series and it shows. The synopsis did make it seem like you would be ok to read this as a standalone but I feel like I would have been better informed to what is going on and better introduced to the characters if I had read the previous books. I suggest reading the previous books before you read this one.

The book starts off with Devon confronting her father for how he treated her when she was younger. Now that she is in a loving relationship with her 4 boyfriends, she feels strong enough to be able to do this. Her father sold her like she was nothing.

Now Devon and the crowd have a chance to get revenge on the man her father sold her to, she just had to play it safe and get intel without getting caught. If she is caught, no way would she make it out alive this time.

The book alternates between different characters point of view which made it really difficult for me to follow along since this was the first book in the series which I have read. From what I did read though, I liked the plot. I also liked how even though both sets of groups were a relationship of 5, each had their own personality and their own relationship with the woman. Sometimes it was one on one, sometimes more. The men had depth to them which was nice instead of the same old stock characters a lot of reverse harem books take on. The only thing I did not like though was for a reverse harem, I would have expected more romance and less vulgar talking. To each their own.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a dark enemies to lovers mafia romance which had me gripped throughout. Unfortunately I hadn’t read the previous books in this series, and I wish I had because the storyline appears to continue and I did feel I was missing out on the characters back stories as well. However, I did find this reverse harem dark romance entertaining and engaging, and I quickly got into the story. Devon is now with the four men of her dreams but is aware that the threat is getting closer, and having lost once he will be back with a vengeance, so the plan is to hunt him down first. Angel is glad her psycho stalker is gone but now there is an even bigger threat to their existence, but they have one chance to take him down. This definitely contains potential triggers for some as it is a particularly graphic dark romance. The storyline was full of drama and suspense and plenty of plot twists, whilst the setting and characters were brought to life through the descriptive narrative. I never felt completely immersed in the story but that was due to not having read the previous books in the series, which I would personally recommend doing.

[Beejai Bohls · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not the first book in the series and it does continue on from book to book. I highly suggest reading the first couple books in the series, as it will bring more depth into this book. I didn't read the other books first and I am wishing that I did. I will go back and read them now because I need to understand the character development and the depth of the story line. This is a dark romance and it does not let you down in that genre. It is also reverse harem with many twists and turns. If you haven't read the first couple books, y0u will be able to keep up with this but there are already relationships that have been formed that I feel have been covered with their stories in the previous books. That said, I was not lost reading this book and it was an amazing read. It as quick because I couldn't put it down. There is depth to the plot line that sometimes doesn't happen with reverse harems because the emphasis is put more on the steam. This book has plenty of steam but it isn't the driving factor of this book. Well, it wasn't for me. I highly suggest reading this book and the whole series because if the other books are like this one, I know I won't be disappointed at all.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this book quickly and never looked back. Although I started with this book because I didn’t pay attention to the fact that it was a series, I HIGHLY recommend reading from the beginning. It took me a little while to get into the groove because I didn’t have the proper backstory which is my own fault. I’ve picked up the previous books now and fully intend to read in the correct order. With that mistake aside, this was an absolutely riveting read! It is dark but addicting, and the author put trigger warnings so that readers may go in without walking on eggshells, so to speak. There are also plenty of scenes that are dangerous, intense, and very steamy as it is a spicy reverse harem. I really enjoy that there is a great amount of sultry scenes throughout this book, but the author has created a marvelous storyline that doesn’t rely on the sensuality alone. Reading about Angel, Devon, the snakes, and the Brixton guys will have you at the edge of your seat for a myriad of reasons, so don’t pass this one up!

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first time I'm picking up a book by this author, Heidi Stark. I gotta say even though i was slightly confused with the characters ( because i picked it up on this book not the first ones lol oops 😂 I would definitely follow her warning at the beginning of the synopsis. Where she said that you should read the previous books in the series to get to know Devon, Angel, the snakes and the Brixton guys better to understand this one) but it was still an extremely good read. Having gotten into reading mafia books lately, I found this super intriguing. This book does contain DARK CONTENT( such as graphic violence, sex scenes and references to abuse/assault) which can trigger some readers. The suspense in this book will have you on the edge of your seat. It also has some steamy scenes too 😉.I will be going back and read them now i gotta know how it started 🥰
I really recommend reading this book ( if you like dark romance book)
Ps It is also reverse harem 🥰

[Michelle Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good 4 star read. Reverse harem is a favorite genre of mine and this series definitely fills that bucket for me. This is the 5th book in the series. We get action, hot sexy scenes, violence and so much more. I like the multiple POV so you can see what others are thinking. I really like all the characters, they add a great element to the story. There were many twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was next. The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. You can read as a stand alone but I suggest starting from the beginning. I will warn that there are some things that could be triggers for some. If you are looking for a good dark, reverse harem this is the series for you. I look forward to reading more from this author and series. 1-click and get started today.

[Jules Herbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

First up I have to say that I messed up! This book is later in the series and while I did really enj0y this book, I do feel my reading experience was hampered a little by my silliness of not starting at the very beginning. I will definitely be going back to the very start to read the whole series. Don't make my mistake!
Another reason for being sure to read all that you can of this Mafia dark romance series is the Amazing authors talented writing and ability to draw you into the lives of the people she has created. You will be completely captivated from start to finish! It is filled with action, danger, violence and plenty of twists and turns. Be very sure to read warnings before starting as some readers may be triggered by some content. This author is now on my must read list for sure!!

[Michaela Massie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start out by saying this is book 3, and I highly recommend the 2 previous books as they will make the story much much easier to read because you will have a much deeper understanding of the characters and their backstories. I also want to give a trigger warning to anyone who may need it as this book does contain many dark romance aspects, such as abuse/sex scenes/assault/violence. If that is not an issue for you, I highly highly recommend this book if you enjoy dark steamy mafia romances.
This is an awesome dark reverse harem romance that contains many themes, as well as constant twists and turns. New enemies, new allies, and so very much more. I genuinely don't want to give any spoilers, so all I will say is that this is the very good, very steams story of Devon, Zeke, Skyler, and Rake.

[Melissa Saxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man this author can write one heck of a reverse harem that has you on the edge of your seat and not just because of the steam!
So many reverse harems lose their characters and the plot too busy with sexy time but she balances this so well and it's so engaging.

Two reverse harem relationships go from enemies to Allies while taking out an extremely dark mutual enemy related to Devon.

I don't want to spoil what happens for you but this book will have your heart pounding (for multiple reasons ;)) and you laughing at witty banter and marveling at the way human nature can be shaped and changed so quickly.

Absolute 5 stars and a can't miss! I do reccomend the other books first and PLEASE read the trigger warnings if there are topics you are sensitive about she is quite open about the topics in the book.

[Merilu Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome! An epic game with joint effort against the evil Tane Brown. I absolutely love getting to know the men more deeply: their backgrounds and traumas and how it affects them individually and collectively. Their relationships with Angel and Devon have grown while the love they feel enhances the intimacy among each harem.

Heidi Stark does a remarkable job keeping everyone straight, conveying the intensity of emotions, and building the relationship between the two groups. These men are so strong, so crazy in love, and so protective of their women! Two women who are equally as strong, powerful, and passionate! I really enjoyed the action in this book, the addition of new characters, and the way it ended on a positive note! I can’t wait to see Tane suffer for his evil deeds!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m just loving this cover !

I hadn’t read the previous books and once I realised my mistake , wild horses couldn’t keep me away , I went on a little shopping spree ❣️📚🤣

Good grief if I didn’t understand the term “ facing my demons “ I sure as the sky is blue , do now !

Devon is a lucky girl to have not.1 but 4 men at her beck and call 🔥😉 they’re just loving their good lives and just as they think they’re settling in a threat looms and stakes are a lot higher this time round for my pea …..

There was plenty of steam and darkness so be warned 🔥 I was on the edge of my seat more than I was on it to be honest 🙈🤣

This was an intense read for and there were moments that I held my breath , I kid you not !
It’s dark , tense , violent , cruel,vulnerable, sexy and dangerous.

I need to confess … Tane Brown is so cruel and evil and he gives me the absolute heebie jeebies and I’d give my eye teeth to torture this waste of space !


An absolute brilliant read !

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed reading. I look forward to reading the previous books in this series to help know the characters a little more. There are some triggers in this story but not many and if you can get past them, you will find an entertaining story. This is a well written story that is full of action, romance and suspense. The characters pull you into the story from the beginning. I enjoyed watching their growth and how they brought the story to life. They are connectable, relatable and engaging which made the story easy to read. A story where the twists and turns had me turning pages fast just to find out what happens next. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to seeing more. I highly recommend this book.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sea of Demons (Blood and Sand Book 5) by Heidi Stark. This is the 5th book in the Blood and Sand Book series and I highly recommend reading them in order. I did not and I was a little bit confused. Its a reverse harem with Devon being the female who seems to be living the dream. Devon has a crazy stalker and she knows that he is gone for now but will be back soon. She decides that she will take him down before he gets to her. Will they be able to get to Tane before he gets to her. I enjoyed this book very much but will go back and read the others. Its a fast paced read that will make you not want to put it down. It does have some trigger storylines so beware. This is a mafia/gang story with rough sex, violence and danger.

[Jamie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my favorite book so far of the series. Having all the characters from the Snakes as well as the Brixtons made it very entertaining! Some of the interactions between them are hilarious lol! I liked that it was written from lots of different characters points of few, which gave you a real sense of how everyone was feeling and reacting to what was happening at the time in the story. And the spice definitely ratcheted up a few notches in this one!! I did still have some questions that went unanswered that I was scratching my head about at the end, but I’m hoping those will all be answered in the next book. All in all, I loved it, and I’m super excited for the release of the next book!!

[Kimberly Filer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by Heidi Stark. Warning: this book includes graphic violence and sex scenes, and references of abuse/assault that some readers may experience as triggering.
I do recommend reading the other books prior to this one just to clarify some of the back story line. This is another dark romantic book complete with suspense... with danger, dramatic developments, tension, raw and gritty details, violence, murder, action, chemistry, sexiness, emotion, and intensity. Angel and her gang are back for another suspense story. Once you start it you can't put it down because you need to know how it's going to end, one of the best books I've read in this series so far.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

*TRIGGER WARNING* BOOK CONTAINS DARK CONTENT: references to abuse/assault and graphic violence and sex scenes
Now, if trigger warnings don't concern you, then grad this book RIGHT NOW! But only if you've read the other 4 that come before it. This is not a standalone and you will need to read the other books in the series to fully understand and appreciate the characters and plot line. This is a reverse harem, mafia/gang, dark romance, suspense book. It's action packed (in more ways that one ;)) and will have you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely loved Angel and her men and the dark, twisted situations they get into. Stark has outdone herself with this one!

[Lorralei Hoerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Yes Yes Yes!! Wow.......I had to settle myself down.....the twists and turns, intensity, danger, murder, hot sizzle...this book gave it all to me. Sea of Demons is Book 5 in the Blood and Sand series and you should and I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning as you need to get the entire story from the start...you won't be disappointed. This is a dark romance and please check out the triggers before diving in.

Devon with the "snakes" and Angel and the Brixton's are back...but pure evil and danger are lurking...around every corner....looking for vengeance.....

No spoilers from me....I highly recommend this series. Fantastic RH dark mafia romance.

[Shadel ayerbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sea of Demons (Blood and Sand Book 3) by Heidi Stark is a great dark romance series

This was not how he had anticipated his life to unfold. Yet, he is now surrounded by the four guys of his fantasies. However, there's a menace that is drawing nearer. He'd nearly killed him once. Angel's crazed stalker has vanished. However, their existence is now much more threatened. He's powerful. He is lethal. However, they are also.

Every page had you hanging on every sentence and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. It is a very unique story with even compelling people. The story really transports you into this world. I couldn’t put the book down

[SBee Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

★ ‘ “To +fudgery+ (changed to avoid censoring) afoot,” I say. ’ ★

This follow-on story continues on its exciting course as the snakes and the Brixton men and their two fierce ladies hunker down to strike out at their last common target, the very elusive Tane Brown. Angel and Devon work hard to keep their men on their mark, but there is collective bonding strengthening their resolve and focus. They are all going to need it, though, because that is not the only thing on their plate to clear off. Great steam, suspense, and characters! Now with fourteen strong, looking forward to seeing how they all accomplish their biggest takedown looming on the tropical horizon!

[zthebookwormz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading more about Angel and her men but also getting to know more about Devon and her men!! I absolutely loved this book and I think I may have to read Devon and her guys book soon!!

I loved seeing both Angel and her Guys and Devon and her guys come together with a goal in mind! I will say Brink is definitely still my favourite character with his whiteboard drawings and Rake is a close second 😆!

I also loved seeing Devon and Angels bond grow! Seeing them work together and friendship grow was amazing! I couldn’t stop laughing when they were at the restaurant!!

Definitely recommend this book!!!!!!

[Aranza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sea of Demons (Blood and Sand) by Heidi Stark

4 out of 5 stars

This is the 5th book of the series and after reading it I definitely want to read the first 4 books. The story is a dark romance with lots of action. It will definitely keep you engaged if you are interested in dark romance books. I found that it has a couple of triggers so please read book overview before committing to reading it. I personally enjoyed reading the story and recommend this saga to anybody who will not be affected by the triggers.

[Paloma · Rating 3 out of 5]

An adventurous story about power play within 2 polyamorous relationships. There are the snakes: Dom, Zeke, Skyler,Rake and their girl, Devon; and their former enemies now allies: Aidan, Slade, Brick, Roman and their girl, Angle.

This group of businessmen have come across a mutual enemy Tane Brown, whose power and evil doings must be stopped. He has a large army of demons ready to kill, sell humans, torture and take advantage at the smallest opportunity.

Together they will take his empire from the top, while engaging in espionage, sexy times and fun batter.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't lie that starting this book without reading the previous ones was a bit hard. As you don't know much about Devon or Angel and the other characters. I did find it hard to put down and thrilling. I was looking forward to reading the next one and will be reading the previous ones just so I can learn more about the characters before I finish the series. I definitely recommend to those who love the type of book that keeps you on the edge of your seat and ready for more!

[Genoveva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please check CW and TW before reading this one. OMG OMG OMG. Devon's and Angel's guys together in one book holy wow!! This back story that was interwoven into these books has been so gripping I can't put these books down. That ending though! The way I want to live vicariously through Devon lol. These ladies are one of the best FMC i've read in dark romances I absolutely love them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sami Roeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gahhh all our men in one book, heavennnnnn the you add Aria and her men...omggggg Dom in chapter 3 and Brick in chapter 58 like Yasss🤭. Aria and her boys are soooo baddddd🥵 Gahhh I just love them all sooo much...it makes me want them all together, like a 14 person relationship lmfao. I'm so EXCITED TO READ BOOK 6 NOW!!! Impatiently waiting for June to hurry up and get here.. because I NEED MOREEEEEE.