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Bleeding Sea
When a mysterious organism starts killing off the oceans, can an inexperienced scientist stop the deadly red tide from spreading?
Gulf of Mexico. Diane Nelson has finally achieved her childhood dream. A recent Ph.D. graduate delighting in the chance to work for her hero, the twenty-five-year-old marine biologist is determined to solve why algae are destroying all life in and above the sea. But when a shooting incident in her new lab leaves one man dead, the unnerved woman fears something more sinister could be at play.
Joining her boss and three labmates on an expedition to track down the organism's origin, Diane struggles to know who to trust. But after she defies company orders and uncovers a shocking conspiracy, the naïve researcher’s future could depend on separating friend from foe…
Can she contain the source before her world turns bloodred?
Bleeding Sea is a slick and riveting eco-thriller. If you like complex characters, heart-wrenching drama, and thought-provoking themes, then you’ll love K.A. Kirtland’s powerfully dark tale.
Gulf of Mexico. Diane Nelson has finally achieved her childhood dream. A recent Ph.D. graduate delighting in the chance to work for her hero, the twenty-five-year-old marine biologist is determined to solve why algae are destroying all life in and above the sea. But when a shooting incident in her new lab leaves one man dead, the unnerved woman fears something more sinister could be at play.
Joining her boss and three labmates on an expedition to track down the organism's origin, Diane struggles to know who to trust. But after she defies company orders and uncovers a shocking conspiracy, the naïve researcher’s future could depend on separating friend from foe…
Can she contain the source before her world turns bloodred?
Bleeding Sea is a slick and riveting eco-thriller. If you like complex characters, heart-wrenching drama, and thought-provoking themes, then you’ll love K.A. Kirtland’s powerfully dark tale.
321 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2024
44 people are currently reading
4073 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Kirtland
1 book13 followersK.A. Kirtland is the debut author of Bleeding Sea, an environmental thriller that won the Gold Medal in the 2025 Readers' Favorite International Book Contest. The story was inspired by research expeditions Kirtland participated in across the Gulf of Mexico and the Weddell Sea in the Antarctic. Kirtland’s graduate studies focused on the intricate balance of ecosystems, which heavily influenced the novel’s gripping narrative about a toxic dinoflagellate bloom. She is a public health professional and epidemiologist based in Atlanta, Georgia, where she continues to advocate for environmental sustainability. When she's not writing or working, Kirtland enjoys time with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It has all the things I love in an eco-thriller; the fate of not only humanity but of most of life on earth hanging in the balance, people with hidden agendas, motivations that are all too humans, and a snappy pacing.
The author is a scientist, and it shows, the whole thing had an air of plausibility which I found most enjoyable.
Diane was a great character to follow, she was sometimes almost too good.
4.5 rounded up for Goodreads.
The author is a scientist, and it shows, the whole thing had an air of plausibility which I found most enjoyable.
Diane was a great character to follow, she was sometimes almost too good.
4.5 rounded up for Goodreads.
Read
September 19, 2024I love ecothrillers like Bleeding Sea by K A Kirtland. They scare me, because I believe that is how we will be taken out. By ourselves. How much abuse can mother nature take before she becomes overwhelmed?
Bleeding Sea is an appropriate title, seeing the organism that is killing every living thing, including humans, is turning the sea blood red.
The normal things plague the research Diane is doing, greed, betrayal, lies and deceit.
At times I found myself leaning forward as if I could whisper in her ear, “The danger is right behind you.”
Could you imagine, laying on the ocean floor, knowing the clock is ticking and no one is coming to save you? Take a moment and think about it.
I love when the villain(s) aren’t always obvious, they sneak up on you. Diane, she just kept moving forward, doing what she feels is right and necessary. Sometimes even a good person can make a bad decision.
We have lots of characters and no matter how bad things got, there were still good things happening and good people trying to put things right.
I don’t feel my review did the book justice, but sometimes I just can’t find the words.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Bleeding Sea by K A Kirtland.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
Bleeding Sea is an appropriate title, seeing the organism that is killing every living thing, including humans, is turning the sea blood red.
The normal things plague the research Diane is doing, greed, betrayal, lies and deceit.
At times I found myself leaning forward as if I could whisper in her ear, “The danger is right behind you.”
Could you imagine, laying on the ocean floor, knowing the clock is ticking and no one is coming to save you? Take a moment and think about it.
I love when the villain(s) aren’t always obvious, they sneak up on you. Diane, she just kept moving forward, doing what she feels is right and necessary. Sometimes even a good person can make a bad decision.
We have lots of characters and no matter how bad things got, there were still good things happening and good people trying to put things right.
I don’t feel my review did the book justice, but sometimes I just can’t find the words.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Bleeding Sea by K A Kirtland.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
August 23, 2024
Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review. Bleeding Sea is a harrowing and poignant read that's beautifully relevant in the current world as our planet becomes ever increasingly uninhabitable with the combination of human activity and an aging sun. With the destructive red algae bloom beginning to sweep across the ocean, shattering the delicate life balances in the marine environment and slowing affect humanity along the gulf coast; Diane and her fellow colleagues are in a desperate race against time to ease the decline of life around them. The Bleeding Sea is one of those stories that is deeply riveting because of its focus on the profound cost personally and professionally that comes from the struggle to change what is sure to be a dark outcome and the willingness to fight for something humanity has often failed to appreciate.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
January 19, 2026
This eco-thriller will keep you up at night
If you’re the sort of person who worries a lot, as I am, there’s no end of fodder today for your troubled brain. Climate change. The threat of nuclear war. A new pandemic. The end of democracy. And so many other grim possibilities. But, chances are, you’re not worried about toxic algae. And you may not have a clue what it is. I certainly had none. But as epidemiologist K. A. Kirtland shows in her heart-stopping environmental thriller, Bleeding Sea, the threat is there. And, unchecked, it might lead to the death of the sea. Which would pose as great an existential threat to human life as any nuclear war.
The Gulf of Mexico is turning red
Bleeding Sea opens in Pensacola, Florida. An older man known as Bo and a young boy named Henry are fishing on the coast. An aerial view of the Gulf that lies before them shows “the shoreline covered in bright red slime with sprawling slivers of crimson-colored algae that looked like gnarled, bloody fingers pointing toward the sea.” And a fish Henry hauls out on his hook “had a couple of faint pinkish-red spots and a small bloodred gash.”
Worse, one of two boys fishing near them on the beach is in bad shape, too. His “arms were swollen with red blotches, [and he] looked up, his eyes watery, and choked out, “I can’t breathe.”
A threat of global proportions
The story abruptly shifts from Bo and Henry to the boy’s sister, Dr. Diane Nelson. She’s a post-doc in marine biology who’s going to work for the Ocean Science and Climatology Foundation, or OSCF (pronounced oh-sif). It’s located in Fort Lauderdale, nearly 700 miles by car to the south and east on the Atlantic Coast. Diane is arriving there at a critical time. Because she’s an expert in dinoglagellates, one-celled aquatic organisms which can reproduce rapidly to form red tides that discolor the water and may poison fish and other animals.
In fact, that’s exactly what’s happening off the coast of Florida, as even animals as large as manatees are floating dead on the Gulf. Reports have even surfaced in the news that “toxins in the water system are causing paralysis of the respiratory system. There have been fatalities.” And “over the past few weeks, the bloom had spread into the Atlantic. The number of floating carcasses was doubling each day.” It’s a threat of global proportions.
Two mysteries to solve
The story unfolds in Bleeding Sea as Diane takes her place at OCSF. Apart from members of her family and Diane herself, the tale centers around the founders of OCSF, Dr. Shaun Jenson and Dr. Susan Landry, and Diane’s colleagues there, chiefly a young computer wizard named Brandon, with whom she will fall in love.
But there’s something amiss at the foundation. Diane’s predecessor as a postdoc there, a brilliant chemist named Matthew Toft, had been fired recently. And soon after she arrives he bursts into the lab and begins shooting wildly, destroying his workspace and all that he had been working on. So Diane is now faced with two mysteries to solve: what caused Matt to go berserk, and what is the source of the mutated dinoflagellate that is releasing such abnormally high levels of toxins?
The two mysteries will, of course, converge. But long before Diane manages to connect the dots, she will face one threat to her life after another. The suspense will build . . . and as the story approaches its end, there will be surprises. As thrillers go, Bleeding Sea is a shocker.
Toxic red algae blooms are increasingly common
For a tutorial on the subject underlying this novel, I turned to the website Columbia Riverkeeper. Here’s what it tells us: “Algae are simple, photosynthetic organisms that play an important role in the food web in freshwater systems. Algal blooms are overgrowths of algae or algae-like bacteria in the water. They can be green, red, pink, blue, or brown and can be scummy or slick “spilled paint” looking and may or may not produce a musty, foul, or “rotten-egg” smell.
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are algal blooms that produce dangerous toxins. Not all algal blooms are toxic, but even non-toxic blooms can be problematic. HABs can occur in freshwater, brackish, and saltwater. You may have heard of HABs called red tides, blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria.”
These toxic algal blooms “can produce extremely dangerous toxins that can sicken or even kill people and animals. . . The most common health effects come from drinking contaminated water or ingesting it while swimming or recreating. HABs can also cause problems for drinking water treatment systems.” And if the toxins released in the process can harm or even kill people, think what they can do to marine life. And just imagine what might happen if one such toxic bloom spins totally out of control and spreads far across the oceans.
About the author
K. A. Kirtland‘s bio blurb on Amazon reads in part as follows: “K.A. Kirtland is the debut author of Bleeding Sea, an environmental thriller that won the Gold Medal in the 2025 Readers’ Favorite International Book Contest. The story was inspired by research expeditions she participated in across the Gulf of Mexico and the Weddell Sea in the Antarctic.
“Kirtland’s graduate studies focused on the intricate balance of ecosystems, which heavily influenced the novel’s gripping narrative about a toxic dinoflagellate bloom. She is a public health professional and epidemiologist based in Atlanta, Georgia, where she continues to advocate for environmental sustainability.”
If you’re the sort of person who worries a lot, as I am, there’s no end of fodder today for your troubled brain. Climate change. The threat of nuclear war. A new pandemic. The end of democracy. And so many other grim possibilities. But, chances are, you’re not worried about toxic algae. And you may not have a clue what it is. I certainly had none. But as epidemiologist K. A. Kirtland shows in her heart-stopping environmental thriller, Bleeding Sea, the threat is there. And, unchecked, it might lead to the death of the sea. Which would pose as great an existential threat to human life as any nuclear war.
The Gulf of Mexico is turning red
Bleeding Sea opens in Pensacola, Florida. An older man known as Bo and a young boy named Henry are fishing on the coast. An aerial view of the Gulf that lies before them shows “the shoreline covered in bright red slime with sprawling slivers of crimson-colored algae that looked like gnarled, bloody fingers pointing toward the sea.” And a fish Henry hauls out on his hook “had a couple of faint pinkish-red spots and a small bloodred gash.”
Worse, one of two boys fishing near them on the beach is in bad shape, too. His “arms were swollen with red blotches, [and he] looked up, his eyes watery, and choked out, “I can’t breathe.”
A threat of global proportions
The story abruptly shifts from Bo and Henry to the boy’s sister, Dr. Diane Nelson. She’s a post-doc in marine biology who’s going to work for the Ocean Science and Climatology Foundation, or OSCF (pronounced oh-sif). It’s located in Fort Lauderdale, nearly 700 miles by car to the south and east on the Atlantic Coast. Diane is arriving there at a critical time. Because she’s an expert in dinoglagellates, one-celled aquatic organisms which can reproduce rapidly to form red tides that discolor the water and may poison fish and other animals.
In fact, that’s exactly what’s happening off the coast of Florida, as even animals as large as manatees are floating dead on the Gulf. Reports have even surfaced in the news that “toxins in the water system are causing paralysis of the respiratory system. There have been fatalities.” And “over the past few weeks, the bloom had spread into the Atlantic. The number of floating carcasses was doubling each day.” It’s a threat of global proportions.
Two mysteries to solve
The story unfolds in Bleeding Sea as Diane takes her place at OCSF. Apart from members of her family and Diane herself, the tale centers around the founders of OCSF, Dr. Shaun Jenson and Dr. Susan Landry, and Diane’s colleagues there, chiefly a young computer wizard named Brandon, with whom she will fall in love.
But there’s something amiss at the foundation. Diane’s predecessor as a postdoc there, a brilliant chemist named Matthew Toft, had been fired recently. And soon after she arrives he bursts into the lab and begins shooting wildly, destroying his workspace and all that he had been working on. So Diane is now faced with two mysteries to solve: what caused Matt to go berserk, and what is the source of the mutated dinoflagellate that is releasing such abnormally high levels of toxins?
The two mysteries will, of course, converge. But long before Diane manages to connect the dots, she will face one threat to her life after another. The suspense will build . . . and as the story approaches its end, there will be surprises. As thrillers go, Bleeding Sea is a shocker.
Toxic red algae blooms are increasingly common
For a tutorial on the subject underlying this novel, I turned to the website Columbia Riverkeeper. Here’s what it tells us: “Algae are simple, photosynthetic organisms that play an important role in the food web in freshwater systems. Algal blooms are overgrowths of algae or algae-like bacteria in the water. They can be green, red, pink, blue, or brown and can be scummy or slick “spilled paint” looking and may or may not produce a musty, foul, or “rotten-egg” smell.
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are algal blooms that produce dangerous toxins. Not all algal blooms are toxic, but even non-toxic blooms can be problematic. HABs can occur in freshwater, brackish, and saltwater. You may have heard of HABs called red tides, blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria.”
These toxic algal blooms “can produce extremely dangerous toxins that can sicken or even kill people and animals. . . The most common health effects come from drinking contaminated water or ingesting it while swimming or recreating. HABs can also cause problems for drinking water treatment systems.” And if the toxins released in the process can harm or even kill people, think what they can do to marine life. And just imagine what might happen if one such toxic bloom spins totally out of control and spreads far across the oceans.
About the author
K. A. Kirtland‘s bio blurb on Amazon reads in part as follows: “K.A. Kirtland is the debut author of Bleeding Sea, an environmental thriller that won the Gold Medal in the 2025 Readers’ Favorite International Book Contest. The story was inspired by research expeditions she participated in across the Gulf of Mexico and the Weddell Sea in the Antarctic.
“Kirtland’s graduate studies focused on the intricate balance of ecosystems, which heavily influenced the novel’s gripping narrative about a toxic dinoflagellate bloom. She is a public health professional and epidemiologist based in Atlanta, Georgia, where she continues to advocate for environmental sustainability.”
January 28, 2025
I love when thrillers start off with an enthralling first chapter. These are the books that set themselves apart and let me know that I’m going to be in for a ride right from the start. Bleeding Sea is among those, capturing my attention with its first few pages. Eco-thrillers are fascinating to me, they make the best books and movies. This possesses all the elements that make science fiction thrillers so riveting, and the narration flowed freely; this read like a movie in my head. I was fully engrossed by the characters, terrified for their future and cause of the “Bleeding Sea.” Honestly, its books like these that are the most interesting because, while they are science fiction, there is enough truth within that we could believe something like this could happen in our own lives. This is not just a thriller for the sake of fiction but is thrilling because we can put ourselves in the characters’ shoes as something like the events in this book can’t necessarily be ruled out as a possibility. It is enthralling in its writing and its story. This is one of those thrillers that anyone can pick up, whether they are fans of science fiction or not, and enjoy out of curiosity. This puts itself in the lineup with stories like “The Swarm” (Frank Schätzing, 2004) and “The Mist” (Stephen King, 1980). If you’re looking for a story to keep you up at night, and one that you can’t stop thinking about until you finish it, this is the one for you.
September 22, 2024
is a dinoflagellate?
Apparently it's a form of plankton, and something has gone terribly wrong with one of these. For it has mutated, and is now taking over the ecosystem of the Eastern seabosrd of the States. And its toxins killing not just most sea life, but many people who near the sea.
The young and idealistic wenty-five-year old Diane Nelson is delighted to be offered a job within her field of marine biology,, and to work for some of the best and most revered minds within this field. They can find a solution before this ecological disaster destroys the planet..... can't they?
But a world in which profit all-too often comes before safety may be closer to Nelson than she can ever imagine.,and it soon transpires that her colleagues may not be who they seem to be. Nelson is not sure who really can be trusted,even whist there is still the urgent search for a new predator to the parasite turning the sea red, whilst irrevocably poisoning it.
.
This book has a way of keeping the interest of the reader, as always a clear sign that this is a good novel. The writer is good at painting the sense of tragedy in depicting the destruction of the eco system, and how this affects the people caught up in it. The novel therefore has 'heart.' There is romance for the heroine soon, although this one is more about the painful process of coming of age.
Apparently it's a form of plankton, and something has gone terribly wrong with one of these. For it has mutated, and is now taking over the ecosystem of the Eastern seabosrd of the States. And its toxins killing not just most sea life, but many people who near the sea.
The young and idealistic wenty-five-year old Diane Nelson is delighted to be offered a job within her field of marine biology,, and to work for some of the best and most revered minds within this field. They can find a solution before this ecological disaster destroys the planet..... can't they?
But a world in which profit all-too often comes before safety may be closer to Nelson than she can ever imagine.,and it soon transpires that her colleagues may not be who they seem to be. Nelson is not sure who really can be trusted,even whist there is still the urgent search for a new predator to the parasite turning the sea red, whilst irrevocably poisoning it.
.
This book has a way of keeping the interest of the reader, as always a clear sign that this is a good novel. The writer is good at painting the sense of tragedy in depicting the destruction of the eco system, and how this affects the people caught up in it. The novel therefore has 'heart.' There is romance for the heroine soon, although this one is more about the painful process of coming of age.
August 18, 2024
This is a hard science fiction story. The science is written in a way that makes it mostly understandable to many readers. The science focused on an algae bloom that becomes increasingly toxic, to the point of endangering life on land as well.
The main character is a recent college graduate that is a new employee of the company spearheading the search for a solution to the outbreak. There were several action scenes occurring both above and below the surface. The main character’s focus becomes discovering the source of the outbreak.
While I enjoyed the science aspect, the character development did not keep me as involved. Not that the characters were badly written, but I felt that each was written to primarily check a particular box. The focus was much stronger on the science than the individual characters.
I read this quickly. The short chapters kept the pace moving. The main plot was plausible enough to keep me reading. This is one of an increasing number of stories focused on dangers to our environment. This one was enjoyable while I was reading it, but may have some trouble being memorable to me in an increasingly crowded genre.
I received an advanced copy through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The main character is a recent college graduate that is a new employee of the company spearheading the search for a solution to the outbreak. There were several action scenes occurring both above and below the surface. The main character’s focus becomes discovering the source of the outbreak.
While I enjoyed the science aspect, the character development did not keep me as involved. Not that the characters were badly written, but I felt that each was written to primarily check a particular box. The focus was much stronger on the science than the individual characters.
I read this quickly. The short chapters kept the pace moving. The main plot was plausible enough to keep me reading. This is one of an increasing number of stories focused on dangers to our environment. This one was enjoyable while I was reading it, but may have some trouble being memorable to me in an increasingly crowded genre.
I received an advanced copy through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 10, 2025
This book is an attention grabber right out the gate. With skillful writing, the author sets up a foreboding warning for what is to come. This warning serves not only as a tactful writing device, but also as a wakeup call to the devastating effects of climate change and the perhaps not-so-surprising (or distant) potential end of life as we know it. When scientific fact is presented so well and is woven so seamlessly into fiction, the effects of the story are profound and lasting. This novel is an entertaining page-turner filled with danger, romance, and mystery, and it leaves you thinking twice about the fate of our oceans and of ourselves if we don't wake up and make changes now.
As a lover of the thriller genre, and of ecological science, I was immediately drawn to the description of the book, and I was not disappointed! It is well written and well researched. I love the creativity the of the author; everything from the clever title to the refreshing and original plot are carefully constructed and effective. While original, the themes remain relatable and tangible. The science of the story is presented well, and it is done in a way that can appeal to everyone; you don't have to be a scientist to appreciate and grasp what you're reading. I highly recommend this book!
As a lover of the thriller genre, and of ecological science, I was immediately drawn to the description of the book, and I was not disappointed! It is well written and well researched. I love the creativity the of the author; everything from the clever title to the refreshing and original plot are carefully constructed and effective. While original, the themes remain relatable and tangible. The science of the story is presented well, and it is done in a way that can appeal to everyone; you don't have to be a scientist to appreciate and grasp what you're reading. I highly recommend this book!
January 24, 2025
In “Bleeding Sea”, K.A. Kirtland delivers an electrifying eco-thriller that pulls you deep into the world of marine biology, where science and suspense collide in a race against time. The story follows Diane Nelson, a young marine biologist with big dreams, who quickly finds herself caught in a deadly mystery as an unknown organism devastates the Gulf of Mexico. What starts as a scientific investigation soon spirals into a dark journey filled with betrayal, corruption, and deadly secrets.
Kirtland skillfully weaves together a gripping narrative that blends the tension of a thriller with thought-provoking questions about environmental responsibility and corporate greed. Diane’s personal evolution throughout the book is particularly compelling—her transformation from a hopeful rookie to a determined, resourceful investigator is both believable and engaging. The stakes feel high, with each new twist adding layers of complexity to an already dangerous situation.
With sharp pacing, vivid descriptions, and a well-rounded protagonist, Bleeding Sea keeps readers on edge, questioning the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration. For anyone craving an intense, fast-paced story that makes you rethink humanity’s relationship with nature, this book is a must-read.
Kirtland skillfully weaves together a gripping narrative that blends the tension of a thriller with thought-provoking questions about environmental responsibility and corporate greed. Diane’s personal evolution throughout the book is particularly compelling—her transformation from a hopeful rookie to a determined, resourceful investigator is both believable and engaging. The stakes feel high, with each new twist adding layers of complexity to an already dangerous situation.
With sharp pacing, vivid descriptions, and a well-rounded protagonist, Bleeding Sea keeps readers on edge, questioning the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration. For anyone craving an intense, fast-paced story that makes you rethink humanity’s relationship with nature, this book is a must-read.
January 7, 2025
“Bleeding Sea” is a fantastic eco-thriller because it could really happen, which adds a layer of terrifying authenticity. I always think it’s great when a scientist like K.A. Kirtland takes an expertise and weaves it into realistic fiction. In this case Kirtland introduces us to Diane Nelson, a post-doctoral graduate who is beyond excited to work in the Gulf of Mexico with a revered scientist to determine why killer algae is destroying marine life. As if the algae weren’t threatening enough, Diane uncovers a major corporate and government cover up. A mysterious murder adds further drama and suspense, as the characters rush to save the planet and their own lives. Kirtland is a great storyteller; the novel if fast-paced and the characters are likeable and believable. If you’ve been a fan of Michael Crichton books in the past, this would be right up your alley. You’ll enjoy the scientific aspects of the story and the dramatic plot and tension caused by the race to uncover the mystery. It’s hard to put this one down!
January 9, 2025
Kirtland’s “Bleeding Sea” is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the fragile state of our marine ecosystems. Set against a backdrop of environmental decay and societal indifference, the novel delves into the consequences of human exploitation of the oceans, presenting a chilling narrative where the sea itself becomes a symbol of both life and destruction. The author’s vivid descriptions and evocative prose bring to life the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, highlighting the interconnectedness of ocean life and the profound impact of pollution and overfishing to name just a couple of things. The emotional depth of the story invites readers to reflect on our collective responsibility to protect these vital resources. “Bleeding Sea” serves as a poignant reminder that we all need to read of the oceans' vulnerability and the urgent need for preservation efforts. Through its haunting tale, this novel fosters a deep appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet’s seas. Dive into this book!!
January 27, 2025
Bleeding Sea by K.A. Kirtland absolutely blew me away. From the first page, I was hooked by the raw emotion and the hauntingly beautiful prose. Kirtland has this incredible ability to paint vivid, cinematic imagery while keeping the story deeply personal and grounded. The world-building is stunning—dark, moody, and dripping with atmosphere—but it’s the characters that really steal the show.
The protagonist is complex, flawed, and so easy to root for. Their struggles and choices feel heartbreakingly real, and I found myself completely immersed in their journey. The pacing is perfect, balancing moments of high-stakes tension with quieter, introspective beats that hit just as hard. And that ending? Absolutely gut-wrenching, in the best possible way.
This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of story that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you love dark fantasy with a lot of heart and a touch of poetic brilliance, Bleeding Sea needs to be at the top of your reading list.
The protagonist is complex, flawed, and so easy to root for. Their struggles and choices feel heartbreakingly real, and I found myself completely immersed in their journey. The pacing is perfect, balancing moments of high-stakes tension with quieter, introspective beats that hit just as hard. And that ending? Absolutely gut-wrenching, in the best possible way.
This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of story that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you love dark fantasy with a lot of heart and a touch of poetic brilliance, Bleeding Sea needs to be at the top of your reading list.
August 18, 2024
This book delivers a captivating blend of environmental suspense and human corruption, crafting a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. The author skillfully intertwines details of marine science with the complexities of human relationships, anchoring the tension of an environmental disaster in the characters' connections. A touch of romance adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes plot.
What sets this novel apart is its ability to entertain while shedding light on critical issues surrounding one of our most vital natural resources—water. The author’s expertise shines through, offering profound insights into water contamination and the science behind it, all within a fast-paced, immersive story. This is not just a thrilling read—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of ethics and our most precious ecosystem – the ocean, leaving me both enthralled and inspired.
What sets this novel apart is its ability to entertain while shedding light on critical issues surrounding one of our most vital natural resources—water. The author’s expertise shines through, offering profound insights into water contamination and the science behind it, all within a fast-paced, immersive story. This is not just a thrilling read—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of ethics and our most precious ecosystem – the ocean, leaving me both enthralled and inspired.
January 3, 2025
I found this to be a really captivating story, starting with its title, which holds scientific, symbolic, and emotional meaning. “Bleeding Sea” is my favorite sort of fiction: the type that is thrilling and yet plausible, as evidenced by the author’s own advanced degrees in marine biology and environmental health science.
There is something for everyone to relate to in this story, as it features workplace drama, tragedy, and cover-up, not to mention family involvement and guilt and romance. The dialogue is snappy and the chapters are short, making “Bleeding Sea” a real page-turner. And it’s always great to have a strong female lead as the protagonist.
“Bleeding Sea” helped me better understand some possible scientific consequences within marine ecosystems — in a way that felt real and exciting. I would highly recommend this book to anyone else who can appreciate a thrilling and deeper understanding of our natural resources.
There is something for everyone to relate to in this story, as it features workplace drama, tragedy, and cover-up, not to mention family involvement and guilt and romance. The dialogue is snappy and the chapters are short, making “Bleeding Sea” a real page-turner. And it’s always great to have a strong female lead as the protagonist.
“Bleeding Sea” helped me better understand some possible scientific consequences within marine ecosystems — in a way that felt real and exciting. I would highly recommend this book to anyone else who can appreciate a thrilling and deeper understanding of our natural resources.
January 19, 2025
"Bleeding Sea" is captivating from the first chapter, diving into a world so tangible it feels right in front of your face, or potentially right on the horizon for humanity: "sprawling slivers of crimson-colored algae that looked like gnarled, bloody fingers pointing out to sea." Though describing a terrifying end-of-world scenario, Kirtland's writing feels poetic throughout, beautiful, which I thought added to the moral complexity of the book: though the invasive species is snuffing out the oceans, it is not quite a "villain," just nature being nature. The death that occurs in the lab and drives the plot adds to the "red" motif while standing in direct contrast to the algae's motives, showing that while humans may live on the earth, neither will ever fully understand the other. Overall, I recommend this book to anyone looking for an immersive survival story or a glimpse into a possible dark future.
August 17, 2024
Whenever I get the chance to read a novel about environmental pollution, my interest immediately perks up. When the book is specifically about water pollution, I really get fired up. As a retired water pollution control specialist, this book grabbed me. I could tell that the author had considerable knowledge about water quality issues and the science they involve. She mentioned government programs near and dear to my heart such as TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) and NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System). Those of us in the wastewater treatment industry are well acquainted with the alphabet soup of government environmental regulations.
The scary aspect of this novel is that even though the events depicted are extreme, similar disasters can and have happened. Beach closures and fish kills are much more frequent than we'd like. A further fact is that many of the chemical compounds in use today are too new to allow us to fully understand long range consequences of introducing them to the environment. We simply don't know what the results of long term exposure to these compounds will be.
Environmental science aside, I found the story itself compelling enough to stay up late reading. There was a tad more romance than I liked but it fit into later portions of the book. All in all, A good, solid read.
The scary aspect of this novel is that even though the events depicted are extreme, similar disasters can and have happened. Beach closures and fish kills are much more frequent than we'd like. A further fact is that many of the chemical compounds in use today are too new to allow us to fully understand long range consequences of introducing them to the environment. We simply don't know what the results of long term exposure to these compounds will be.
Environmental science aside, I found the story itself compelling enough to stay up late reading. There was a tad more romance than I liked but it fit into later portions of the book. All in all, A good, solid read.
January 19, 2025
This book sucked me in right away. Kirtland is clearly knowledgeable and uses her background to inform the disaster she creates within the novel, and when an author knows what they are talking about, it always makes the content more believable and enjoyable. I liked how it's science fiction but seems like a real possibility. I suppose that possibility is what makes it a thriller, right?
The dialogue and character building were both well done, bringing the reader on the journey. Kirtland tells the story well, and I don't want to ruin it for you, but there are plenty of twists and surprises for a discerning reader. This is a fast-paced and realistic eco-thriller, one that really made me think about how humanity would handle a disaster like this - and be scared of the answer to that question. I read this really quickly, and would be happy to read more by Kirtland in the future.
The dialogue and character building were both well done, bringing the reader on the journey. Kirtland tells the story well, and I don't want to ruin it for you, but there are plenty of twists and surprises for a discerning reader. This is a fast-paced and realistic eco-thriller, one that really made me think about how humanity would handle a disaster like this - and be scared of the answer to that question. I read this really quickly, and would be happy to read more by Kirtland in the future.
August 20, 2024
Bleeding Sea by K. A. Kirtland
Received as an ARC.
Diane is doing her post doctorate work at an oceanographic laboratory as a major red algae line bacteria is killing the Gulf of Mexico and spreading to the Atlantic. Toxins it gives off killing all sea life and poisoning the air killing humans.
Diane and her fellow researchers are fighting to find away to eliminate this threat.
As Diane digs deeper she stumbles across a corporate and government cover up of hazardous waste escaping a facility. Is she in the crosshairs by them as a former colleague who mysteriously destroyed proof and killed himself?
Fast paced eco-thriller
Received as an ARC.
Diane is doing her post doctorate work at an oceanographic laboratory as a major red algae line bacteria is killing the Gulf of Mexico and spreading to the Atlantic. Toxins it gives off killing all sea life and poisoning the air killing humans.
Diane and her fellow researchers are fighting to find away to eliminate this threat.
As Diane digs deeper she stumbles across a corporate and government cover up of hazardous waste escaping a facility. Is she in the crosshairs by them as a former colleague who mysteriously destroyed proof and killed himself?
Fast paced eco-thriller
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2024
Bleeding Sea is a tale of humans in conflict with each other and the planet. From the very first chapter, the book grips you with its intense atmosphere and powerful imagery. The author combines a whodunit with a scientific mystery.
The characters are well-developed, each with their own struggles and flaws, which add a layer of realism to the story. The pace is balanced, maintaining a sense of urgency without rushing through the crucial moments. The twists and turns keep you on edge—especially when Diane is risking it all. Bleeding Sea is a must-read. It's a well-written tale that pulls you into its dark waters and refuses to let go.
The characters are well-developed, each with their own struggles and flaws, which add a layer of realism to the story. The pace is balanced, maintaining a sense of urgency without rushing through the crucial moments. The twists and turns keep you on edge—especially when Diane is risking it all. Bleeding Sea is a must-read. It's a well-written tale that pulls you into its dark waters and refuses to let go.
December 4, 2025
Disappointed. I’m surprised by the five star reviews. The plot is fine and the pace swift, but not exhilarating. The writing is quite juvenile, not the work of a talented writer. At times I thought I was reading a high school romance novel with the simple language and the lack of depth in the characters. Overall this reminds me of a Clive Custler book where the situation is far-fetched and the protagonist regularly places themselves in harms way yet miraculously escapes death multiple times.
August 3, 2024
As an ARC, this eco-thriller shows promise, effectively delivering on the genre’s core elements. The author's in-depth knowledge of marine biology is evident. While the romance subplot is intriguing, its integration with a specific gaming platform feels out of place and could benefit from a more generic reference. Minor editing errors were present, but these may be corrected by the final publication. Despite these points, the overall plot is engaging and showcases the author’s potential.
August 5, 2024
Bleeding Sea is an eco-thriller that had me hooked on page one. Dr. Diane Nelson, a recent PHD graduate of the University of Miami has landed her dream job – only to discover that she will become involved in a series of tragic events contaminating our Ocean and that will cause her and her immediate family to be threatened and physically assaulted by the contamination. I received an ARC from NetGalley, and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 16, 2024
Really enjoyed this book, which was creepy and informative all at the same time.
The worse thought is that this really could happen and then what…..
The main character was a strong female and interesting with a good back story and some likeable family/friends, most of the characters were well written and you either hated them or sympathised with them.
Technical enough to explain things but not distracting for the science laymen, the plot was easy to read, self explanatory and steady paced.
The worse thought is that this really could happen and then what…..
The main character was a strong female and interesting with a good back story and some likeable family/friends, most of the characters were well written and you either hated them or sympathised with them.
Technical enough to explain things but not distracting for the science laymen, the plot was easy to read, self explanatory and steady paced.
January 1, 2026
A great read that will leave you wondering.
You are taken on a journey where the Gulf of Mexico became a ocean of devastating mess . A young Dr from school wants to figure out why ocean is such a mess from what people did to it , but she ran into problems figuring why there was a problem. The author takes you on journey that will leave you wondering could this really happen to us . The did a great job with the book you can't st reading , job job.
You are taken on a journey where the Gulf of Mexico became a ocean of devastating mess . A young Dr from school wants to figure out why ocean is such a mess from what people did to it , but she ran into problems figuring why there was a problem. The author takes you on journey that will leave you wondering could this really happen to us . The did a great job with the book you can't st reading , job job.
October 3, 2024
An edge of your seat thriller, an ecological disaster is happening and Diane has to race against time to stop the deadly plankton from destroying all life. Though it's an Eco thriller it doesn't preach. Good characterisation and a believable plot. Thanks to Black Rose Writing and Netgalley for this very enjoyable ARC.
September 18, 2024
I won this book on Library Thing
This book is a horror, but not in the traditional writing genre. How to discover and destroy a biological menace in the waters. Had me from page 1...worried me throughout.
This book is a horror, but not in the traditional writing genre. How to discover and destroy a biological menace in the waters. Had me from page 1...worried me throughout.
October 2, 2024
Outstanding
This book was well written. Character development was to the point and kept you guessing. I did figure out a few pieces before they were revealed. Lots of action and suspense, I kept rooting for the hero. Very well done.
This book was well written. Character development was to the point and kept you guessing. I did figure out a few pieces before they were revealed. Lots of action and suspense, I kept rooting for the hero. Very well done.
July 29, 2025
A free book from Voracious Readers. Thank you
A gripping eco thriller that runs through a gamut of emotions in the telling of this tale.
Wonderful characters with plot twists that leave you turning the pages.
So involved and great story telling, I read this in one sitting.
A gripping eco thriller that runs through a gamut of emotions in the telling of this tale.
Wonderful characters with plot twists that leave you turning the pages.
So involved and great story telling, I read this in one sitting.
December 27, 2025
This is what science fiction should be: technically sound, narratively compelling, and genuinely thought-provoking about our oceans vulnerabilities. A rare achievement that respects both the science and the reader's intelligence.
December 31, 2025
3.5 ⭐
My first eco-thriller. Love the scientific backbone of the book! And that it takes place in the Gulf.
A brand new scientist with her first job is saving the ocean from a mutated red tide. A little bit of romance, lots of mystery and drama.
My first eco-thriller. Love the scientific backbone of the book! And that it takes place in the Gulf.
A brand new scientist with her first job is saving the ocean from a mutated red tide. A little bit of romance, lots of mystery and drama.
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