Running Close to the Wind a World of LGBT+ Pirates

Running Close to the Wind by Alexandra Rowland is suited for readers who are fans of character-driven stories and are open to an inclusive Fantasy world set in the world of pirates.

Synopsis: Running Close to the Wind by Alexandra Rowland

is an adventurous, high-stakes tale of intrigue, danger, and a dash of romance. Avra Helvaçi, once a field agent for the Arasti Ministry of Intelligence, finds himself on the run after accidentally stealing the world’s most valuable secret. With no safe haven on land, his only escape is to take to the seas in search of someone willing to pay for the information he now possesses.

To pull off such a deal, Avra has no choice but to turn to the one person who might be able to help: his on-again, off-again ex, Captain Teveri az-Haffar, a feared and cunning pirate. Though Teveri is far from thrilled to reunite with Avra, the prospect of an enormous payday is enough to get them both on board with a daring plan. Their goal is to make their way to the Isles of Lost Souls, a pirate republic hidden from the world’s powers, where they can fence the secret for a fortune.

But the journey is fraught with peril. A newly appointed Arasti ambassador is already stationed in the Isles, and he’s keeping close tabs on Avra, suspecting his every move. Among the crew is Brother Julian, a stunning yet enigmatic new recruit with a mysterious past and a vow of celibacy that makes things awkward for Avra. On top of everything else, they must sail directly through treacherous waters during sea serpent breeding season, where survival is anything but guaranteed.

As they brave both external dangers and the tensions within their crew, Avra and Teveri must navigate betrayal, secrets, and the threat of almost certain death. If they succeed, they’ll be richer than they ever dreamed—if they fail, their fates will be sealed beneath the waves.

Review of “Running Close to the Wind“

by Alexandra Rowland is a vibrant and chaotic pirate adventure that blends high seas drama with a heavy dose of character-driven narrative. The novel takes place in a world where a former government agent and a band of pirates possess a secret that allows their ship to sail when all other nations are unable to traverse the ocean. However, at its core, the novel is not just about adventure or intrigue—it’s about the colourful personalities of its characters and their interactions.

Characters and Themes

The heart of the novel lies in its three central characters: Avra, Julian, and Teveri. Avra, a former government agent, is the sort of protagonist who exudes charm and luck, often finding themselves in precarious situations and navigating them with ease. Julian, the monk with an air of mystery and undeniable attractiveness, brings a unique dynamic to the crew with his enigmatic nature. Teveri, the ship’s captain, embodies the charismatic leader archetype, though there’s much more to her beneath the surface. Rowland’s skill in crafting these three distinct personalities is evident, and it’s their chemistry that fuels much of the novel’s momentum.

What sets “Running Close to the Wind” apart from more traditional pirate tales is the sheer boldness of its character portrayals. Nearly every character in the story is LGBT+, and Rowland creates a world where queerness is not only normalized but celebrated. This inclusivity is refreshing, and Rowland’s pirates, brimming with innuendo and flirtation, bring a modern edge to the swashbuckling genre. The characters’ comfort in their identities and their unabashedly flirtatious banter set the tone for much of the novel’s charm.

However, while there is an abundance of flirtation and innuendo, the novel shies away from explicit content, keeping the romantic and sexual tension just beneath the surface. In some ways, this creates a sense of playfulness, with the characters engaging in teasing and suggestive banter, though it may leave some readers wanting more depth in terms of romantic or emotional payoffs.

The Writing Style and Plot

Alexandra Rowland’s writing style can take some getting used to. There’s an almost frenetic energy to the prose, with a pace that can feel disorienting at times. For readers who enjoy smooth, immersive narrative flows, this might present a challenge. However, once you get past the initial 20% of the book, the story starts to settle into a rhythm that allows the characters and their personalities to shine. While Rowland’s style may not be for everyone, it complements the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the pirate lifestyle portrayed in the book.

The plot of “Running Close to the Wind” revolves around the crew’s possession of a secret that gives them a crucial advantage over other ships. Yet, while the premise suggests a high-stakes adventure with espionage and maritime conflict, the plot feels secondary to the characters’ journeys and interactions. The story rarely feels driven by the urgency of its central conflict, and some readers may find that the stakes do not feel as high as they could be. For those looking for a fast-paced, tightly plotted adventure, this might be a drawback.

Instead, the novel shines when it focuses on the personal dynamics between Avra, Julian, Teveri, and the rest of the crew. The action scenes, while well-executed, take a backseat to the dialogue, relationships, and humour that permeate the novel. This makes the book feel more like a character study than a traditional action-driven narrative. For readers who appreciate character-driven stories where relationships and personalities take centre stage, this is where “Running Close to the Wind” excels.

Who Should Read This Book?

“Running Close to the Wind” is best suited for readers who are fans of character-driven stories and are open to a modern, inclusive take on the pirate genre. If you enjoy books that delve into the messy, flirtatious, and sometimes chaotic nature of relationships, especially within a diverse and queered cast of characters, this book will appeal to you. Readers who enjoyed Rowland’s previous work, such as A Choir of Lies, may appreciate the similar tone and emphasis on quirky, engaging characters.

Additionally, those who are looking for a break from traditional heteronormative narratives in fantasy and adventure fiction will find “Running Close to the Wind” refreshing. It’s a novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously, offering a playful, at times campy, romp through a world where pirates can be openly queer and their adventures don’t have to conform to conventional tropes.

Conclusion

“Running Close to the Wind” by Alexandra Rowland is a fun, flirtatious, and character-driven pirate adventure that brings a modern, inclusive twist to the genre. While the plot may not always feel as strong as the character interactions, the novel makes up for it with its vibrant personalities, witty dialogue, and the refreshing normalization of queerness within its world.

For readers who prefer character-driven stories over intricate plots, and who enjoy a bit of humour and innuendo in their swashbuckling adventures, this novel is a delightful journey. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially for those who prefer more plot-centric narratives, “Running Close to the Wind” offers a unique and entertaining escape, led by a crew of unforgettable pirates.

• Facebook
• X
• Threads
• Pinterest
• Pocket

Go Here to see some more Insightful Book Reviews or here to add Running Close to the Wind BY Alexandra Rowland to your GoodReads TBR

Like follow or share if you would want similar content.

Above all Keep Safe and treat people fairly.

Mark.