Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy by Jacqueline Firkins: Book Review

Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy is the latest release from Canadian author Jacqueline Firkins. Expected to be released on September 1, 2026, it introduces readers to a woman trying to find her footing. After a shock on her way to work, Philippa Flynn decides to leave her job and return to her grandmother’s house to figure out what she wants from life. If only her family could understand what she’s dealing with.

I want to thank Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.

Synopsis from Goodreads

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 a 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.

My Opinions

Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy was an easy add to my TBR. I’ve read a few other books by Firkins and knew I wanted to read more of her work. And I’m glad that I did.

Honestly, I struggled to get into the book. I found the pacing slow, which made it hard to keep reading. But I’m glad I permitted myself to stick with it.

So, what kept my interest? I loved how Firkins gave Philippa and Dylan the chance to shine. Both characters are introverts and have anxiety. Firkins explores how it impacts their relationship with each other and those around them, especially Philippa. I also like how Philippa’s mom is finally told off for how she treats Philippa and her siblings.

I also love how Philippa doesn’t have her whole life figured out. She makes changes in her life and realizes her dreams and plans may not be what she wants anymore. I can understand that sentiment. As a middle-aged woman, I have had to adjust my dreams and plans more times than I can count. It’s refreshing to see a character who is in the same situation.

Yes, this is a romance, and as such, there are some intimate moments. Most of these moments are off-page and discussed only after they happen. The one on-page moment isn’t overly detailed, but you know what happened. Before you think the only intimate moments in the book are between Philippa and Dylan, you need to know that a pirate romance is being written, so you know!

Overall, I enjoyed reading Philippa Flynn’s Year of Panic and Piracy. I understand that it may not work for everyone. But if you enjoy reading slow-burn romance, then you should give it a try.

Are you looking for some more books to read? Check out my bookish lists, book reviews, and monthly reading wrap-ups.