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

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

REEEEEE! Friends I absolutely LOVED This book, so so so soooo much. It was pure chaos but in absolutely the best way. We have a magnificent, incandescent non-binary MC who is just trying to be the most terrifying pirate captain they can be, a supernaturally lucky pansexual (just everything-sexual really) who is just careening his way through life being annoying and pitiful but also wonderful, and a strong, sexy bisexual monk who has taken a vow of celibacy after banging fifty-two people in one evening. 

Avra (the lucky pansexual) always has everything going his way - even when things seem to be going to shit, he always lands on his feet. I just loved him and everything he does - he’s an absolute mess of a human being, pathetic, annoying, weird-as-hell but my god do you fall in love with him. His on-again-off-again lover is Teveri (incandescent NB pirate captain) and both of them together is just so so funny; it’s a real love/hate relationship. They are perfect together but also flawed, and adding Julian into the mix (bisexual monk, excellent biceps) just added to the hilarity and sexual tension. 

Avra has accidentally stolen the most expensive secret in the world - a way for ships to cross the ocean during sea serpent breeding season. Unsure what to do with it, he takes it to Teveri to get their advice on how to sell it and to Julian, who is able to read the alchemical formula. Of course, the path to riches doesn’t run smooth and we are treated to many chaotic capers including, but not limited to, befriending glowing blue dogs, a song entitled ‘The Wettest Pussy In The World (Meow Meow Meow)’, causing chaos on top of wardrobes, a deadly (for seagulls) cake competition. 

This book is hard to explain or summarise but I would absolutely recommend a read. I adored it and it was just the lighthearted yet immersive read I needed! 

Read Running Close to the Wind for: 
✨ Non-binary, pansexual and bisexual MCs 
✨ Pirates, poets and monks causing chaos
✨ Stealing from the rich to make yourself rich 
✨ Supernaturally lucky MC (even though he doesn’t believe in it) 
✨ Always paying your tab with courtesans 
✨ Avoiding the horny sea serpents 
✨ Weaponised flirting as a love language 
✨ 400 pages of being edged by the three most wonderful literary characters of our lifetimes 

Go and read this book. I promise you it’s worth it 🏴‍☠️✨