A review by pagingmrsvarnum
Running Close to the Wind by Alexandra Rowland

adventurous funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Imagine reading a Shakespeare comedy about pirates in modern language. Now imagine that the Fool in the play is actually the main character and that the entire story is told from his point of view. Now imagine that the Fool is pansexual, mysteriously lucky, and an accidental traitor to the crown. And then you have the basis for what was an unexpectedly hilarious and heartwarming story about science, luck, accidental treason, and cakes. 

 

I did NOT expect to fall in love with this book! In fact, I made a note a few chapters in that said, “this is funny, but will the tone get tiresome?” In actuality, as the chapters went by, I actually think it got funnier. I love a good comedy, but it needs to have heart and adventure, and this book definitely has each of those elements. What put it over the top for me was the anger underneath everything - the idea of upsetting the system, reclaiming your identity, and righting the wrongs that society has instituted over time. 

 

This is one of those books that makes me so badly wish I could picture characters in my brain (especially Tev who was my favorite)! I have no problem imagining settings, but the best I can do with characters is have a body type and hair color but no discernable facial features. I love these characters so much and want to know them more! 

 

My love for this book was summed up best by the author’s words in their acknowledgements: “The best comedy comes from a place of deep, righteous anger - and as long as you can laugh, there’s still a part of you that’s free.” Speaks right to my angry justice-seeking heart! My next-favorite quote was, “Behind everybody’s sanity mask is someone who is unalloyed batshit in one way or another.” Did I mention that I LOVED this book?!