My Thoughts: Philippa Flynn's Year of Panic and Piracy by Jacqueline Firkins

*I received an advance reader copy of this book from Firefly Books Ltd in exchange for an honest review.

Philippa Flynn's Year of Panic and Piracy

by Jacqueline Firkins

September 1, 2026

Goodreads Summary:

An introverted history professor and a former romance cover model collaborate on a life-changing endeavor in a witty and swoonworthy novel about new beginnings in unexpected waters.

When a sinkhole nearly swallows her whole, burned-out history professor Philippa Flynn takes it as a wake-up call. Leaving her carefully planned but unfulfilling life behind, she moves into an old seaside house she inherited from her grandmother, a bestselling author of swashbuckling romances. Philippa expects the clutter, disrepair, proximity to the family she deliberately moved away from, and reclusive writer she’ll be sharing the house with. She doesn’t expect that writer to also be the cover model who personified Iris Flynn’s bare-chested, cavalier-booted pirate king.

While navigating their awkward cohabitation and searching for creative inspiration, the pair discovers the outlines for six more novels they could work on together. But Philippa’s used to facts, Dylan has writer’s block, and neither can craft a love scene while real sparks are flying.

To write the story on the page, Philippa will have to embrace the one she’s living, even if it means swapping tenure for treasure maps and plans for pirate kings.

Review

Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy is such a wonderful addition to the Jacqueline Firkin books I’ve read and loved~ The story was surprisingly relatable and I found the characters’ quiet strength to be especially inspiring.

Philippa was super cool to step out of her comfort zone. Despite an unknown future and push backs from her parents, she quit her job like she wanted to. Yes, she struggled but she also created a new lifestyle that worked for her (and Dylan). Philippa’s hesitancy to return to something she once loved (teaching) but may not anymore called to me. “And it is one of the great ironies of life that sometimes the smallest distances are the hardest to cross.” (arc, p. 80) Life does not stay static and while changes are hard, they are not impossible.

The romance in Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy was a quiet one, just like its love interest. Dylan was closed off at first but Philippa chipped away at him with her unique charms. As the awkwardness faded, they formed an easy rapport. Whether it was working on her grandmother’s house or fulfilling her last wishes, Philippa and Dylan made a good team/writing duo. I was all smiles when something more developed between them ;)

Philippa’s relationship with her parents was so real. They love their daughter and want what (they think) is best for her but their passive aggressive attitude was actually quite harmful. It’s a very genuine look at a parent/child dynamic. Sometimes those who love us can still (unknowingly) hurt us. On a more positive note, Philippa’s siblings were amazing. They were full of gossip and such enablers but gave their unwavering support when they could.

Sentimental and thought-provoking, Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy was such a great read. I adored the characters and wish their story didn’t have to end!

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.