# Running Close to the Wind

By Alexandra Rowland

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/running-close-to-the-wind-705f7645/

Avra has stolen secrets worth a great deal to the right buyer. The former intelligence agent asks his pirate ex, Teveri, to help sell them. Getting paid requires a voyage through dangerous waters as sea-serpent season approaches.

## What makes it funny?

Avra prepares his apologies carefully, but the crew's response to finding him aboard is repeated dismay. His cheerful approach to people who would prefer him elsewhere gives their short, exasperated replies plenty to work against.

### The comedy at work

Close narration follows Avra's nervous, optimistic reasoning, letting him elaborate plans that his companions can puncture in a few words. Escalating trouble gives this relentlessly talkative man more people to irritate.

### Try this if…

Queer pirates, sexual jokes and a tiresome but determined troublemaker drive the farce. Readers who enjoy long comic exchanges may appreciate how much time Avra spends explaining himself.

### Good to know

This is a standalone fantasy with profanity and sexual humor. Publishers Weekly found the opening densely detailed and slow to get moving.

## What to expect

- Genre: Adventure · Fantasy
- On the shelf: Pirates & the high seas
- Kind of humor: Banter · Farce
- Format: Novel
- Length: 448 pages
- Published: 2024

## A few distinguishing details

- Stolen intelligence aboard a pirate ship
- An unwelcome passenger with elaborate apologies

## Sources & further reading

- Publisher: [Running Close to the Wind by Alexandra Rowland - Pan Macmillan](https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/alexandra-rowland/running-close-to-the-wind/9781529099706)
- Review: [Publishers Weekly review](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9781250802538)
- Review: [Kirkus review](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/alexandra-rowland/running-close-to-the-wind)
- Reading sample: [Official opening excerpt](https://reactormag.com/excerpts-running-close-to-the-wind-by-alexandra-rowland)
- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/alexandra-rowland/running-close-to-the-wind/9781529099706)