Running Close to the Wind

Alexandra Rowland has been one of my favorite authors ever since I read A Conspiracy of Truths, and their writing has never lead me astray since. Their most popular novel (A Taste of Gold and Iron) is also their weakest in my opinion, but still quite excellent. So this book was an easy pick for me for this card, and it met pretty much every expectation I had for it.

Running Close to the Wind review (for my 'Published in 2024' Bingo Card) :  r/Fantasy

The Premise
Avra is many things. He’s a recently retired member of the Arasti military, he’s been (allegedly) blessed by the goddess of luck, he always pays his bills promptly, tips well, is a contented slut, and recently stole the most valuable mercantile secret of the richest country in the world (also his former employer). When he finds himself on the pirate ship of his on-again/off-again ex, he’s dragged back to the pirate isles against his will. While at his home away from home, he must contest with sea serpents, a nosy Ambassador, the annual cake decorating contest, and a ridiculously handsome (and criminally celibate) monk.

Read if Looking For: Raucously funny pirates, unhinged monologues, seagulls, cake decorating contests, sexual language (but very little actual sex)

Avoid if Looking For: a book that takes itself seriously

Continue reading “Running Close to the Wind”