The Killing Sea

The gripping true WWII story of one of the most harrowing sea battles in history, from historians Seth Paridon and retired US Navy captain, William Toti—cohosts of the hit podcast series, The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War.

The Battle of Guadalcanal is often remembered for the U.S. Marines who stormed the island’s shores. Less well known—but arguably more impactful—was the epic naval battle that unfolded just offshore. In what’s been called a “barroom brawl with the lights out,” American and Japanese ships engaged in one of the most harrowing sea battles in history, often exchanging fire at point-blank range. While the Marines fought bravely, the Navy bore the heavier toll—losing nearly four times as many lives, including two admirals, as the Marines lost on land. Among the dead were the five Sullivan brothers, whose tragic deaths reshaped U.S. deployment policy. The Killing Sea brings this forgotten chapter vividly to life and dispels the long-held belief that the Navy abandoned the Marines during the battle. Paridon and Toti make a compelling case that the naval battle of Guadalcanal—not Midway—was the true turning point in the Pacific War. This gripping, untold story of colossal warships, audacious admirals, Blue Jacket sailors, and astounding bravery is told in four parts—the initial battle, a period of agonizing silence, the climactic re-engagement, and a haunting denouement which features exclusive photos of the sunken ships from the Paul Allen–funded Petrel expedition.