Withdrawing an article out for review when another journal posts a call for papers for a special issue that is right on topic? I've recently sent out an article for review. I've been in email contact with the editor from journal #1 from the start, and was quite up-front that I wasn't sure whether or not my article would be a good match for their journal (in methodology, yes; in century and author focus, not so much). Today, I found a special issues CFP in journal#2 where my article would be extremely relevant. Their deadline is end of January. 

I'm considering contacting journal #1 to see if they've started the review process, explain that I've found what may be a much better match for my article, and ask about withdrawing my submission if the review process has not begun.

Is this frowned upon? 

Of course, I feel like I'm playing with fire here. What if I withdraw, resubmit to journal #2, article does not get accepted, then... go back to journal #1 with tail between legs.

Any advice?
I would suggest the following steps:


Ask journal #1 if the review process has started. 
If it has not yet started, ask if it can be kept on hold for a few days. 
Meanwhile send a pre-submission inquiry to journal #2.
If journal #2 seems positive about your paper, send a request to withdraw the paper from journal #1. 
Be honest about your reason for withdrawal, and add a word of appreciation for the editor's cooperation and understanding.
Submit to journal #2 once the withdrawal is confirmed.


If the review process has started, it would be advisable to let things be and not withdraw from journal #1. If your paper is rejected from journal #2, you could consider submitting it to another journal rather than going back to journal #1.