Niamh McAnally
The Writer On The Water
Niamh McAnally
The Writer On The Water
"A terrific read and a great adventure. An inspirational story for all ages and pockets"
Jeremy Irons
"A truly brave, enriching memoir that will take you on a global adventure."
Liam Neeson
Flares Up
Editorial Reviews
Following Sunshine
Editorial Reviews
All Sports Book Review
The Irish Times Review
Caribbean Compass Magazine Review
FLARES UP
IS THE PROUD RECIPIENT OF
5-Star Reviews
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers’ Favorite
In Flares Up, Niamh McAnally tracks the expedition of two middle-aged men who bravely undertake an impressive (but physically stressful) journey. Paul Hopkins (a firefighter) and Phil Pugh (a businessman) had to overcome severe emotional, mental, physical, interpersonal, and professional difficulties in rowing for thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean to complete the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. They tested the limits of their physical and cognitive endurance. Their friendship was not the only thing tested during their arduous journey. Their relationships back at home hung in the balance, as well. This book is a testimony to man's resilient spirit and the ability to confront hardships without losing oneself in the fray.
Flares Up will take readers on an emotional voyage through the lives of two incredible but ordinary men. Paul and Phil’s journey will touch the hearts of many readers. Get ready to laugh, cry, and grow. This tale explores many topics within the human experience--like marriage, family, motivation, courage, self-discovery, and living a fulfilling life despite having health challenges. You will become completely wrapped up in the story from beginning to end. This book is candid, profound, and relatable. Niamh McAnally reminds us that we should always embrace a life well-lived. Above all, our life challenges can provide opportunities for us to outgrow our comfort zones. Paul and Phil are two unforgettable characters. Thank you for sharing their story with the rest of the world, Niamh. I recommend Flares Up to fans of non-fiction adventure books.Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite
Flares Up: A Story Bigger Than the Atlantic by Niamh McAnally is a non-fiction adventure that chronicles the incredible journey of firefighter Paul Hopkins, 55, and entrepreneur Phil Pugh, 65, as they row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. Motivated by personal challenges like Paul's unbelievable survival of a brain hemorrhage and Phil's beautiful dedication to his disabled son, the two men face years of delays, financial obstacles, and marital strain. Battling violent storms and extreme exhaustion, their journey tests not only their physical endurance but also their emotional resilience, leaving both men profoundly transformed by the experience.
Author Niamh McAnally combines a brilliant talent for biographical writing with a vibrant narrative charm that is reminiscent of great adventure novel writing, portraying Paul and Phil’s journey with a sense of spirit and deep emotional insight. Readers can feel every high and low of their daunting challenge through dynamic speech and explanations, keeping the pace steady as the next inevitable challenge waits over the ever-changing horizon. I felt it was an excellent choice to include the exploration of their personal motivations, relationship strains, and adversity around the task itself, as this humanizes these men beyond adventure-seekers and shows us what they have to gain and lose by their journey, enriching the book all the more. McAnally’s descriptions of the Atlantic’s storms and the men’s physical struggles vividly bring to life the ferocity of the ocean, making the dangers they face palpable and intense as if we’re right there with them through every crash of the waves. Overall, Flares Up balances adventure with heartfelt introspection, and it will suit readers who enjoy biographical tales of personal growth, sacrifice, and the transformative power of overcoming extreme obstacles.Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers’ Favorite
Niamh McAnally’s Flares Up is a riveting chronicle of human perseverance and adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book dives into the extraordinary journey of Paul Hopkins, a 55-year-old firefighter who, after surviving a life-threatening brain hemorrhage, embarks on an ambitious quest to row across the Atlantic Ocean. Joining him is Phil Pugh, a 65-year-old entrepreneur with a penchant for extreme challenges, driven by his desire to honor his disabled son. The narrative is an inspiring testament to the lengths people will go to test their limits. Hopkins and Pugh face numerous hurdles, from financial woes and strained relationships to violent storms and equipment failures.
Niamh McAnally skillfully balances the physical and emotional trials of the voyage, offering an emotional look into the personal and relational costs of such a monumental challenge. The account of their 70-day, 3000-mile journey from the Canary Islands to their destination is gripping. The details and intimate look into their lives make Flares Up a powerful read. The final moments, as the men near the finish line, are both exhilarating and poignant, leaving readers to reflect on the transformations that can happen when confronting the extremes of human experience. McAnally has crafted a narrative that is both heart-stopping and deeply reflective. She has a way of pulling readers into the story so they feel a part of it. The story will linger long after the last page is turned and is an excellent read for young adults and adults who want to experience an adventure of the human spirit.Reader Reviews
~David Evans
Australian Landscape Photographer of the Year
"it's as if fate placed Niamh in the precise place and time to capture this important cover image that tells a thousand words. What a photo, but what a story behind the it. I couldn't put it down."
~Hilary Fanin
Irish Times Columnist of the Year and author of The Weight of Love and Hopscotch
"A compelling read from an author whose intimate knowledge of the sea and seafaring infuses every page.
A story of extraordinary courage and endurance shot through with the enduring power of ordinary love."
~Mark Knopfler
Dire Straits
"Paul and Phil's Atlantic challenge is a sea voyage, but it's about more than grit and determination. Their story reminds us how generosity, consideration and the desire to make a contribution are the most precious gifts on the journey of life, no matter what it throws at us."
~Robert Massey
Editor, Florida Weekly
“Flares Up” is engaging, exciting, and empathetic to read — you’ll laugh aloud one minute and feel your heart break the next. One of the most difficult stories for a writer to tell is one based on a real-life incident in which you already know the ending. Ms. McAnally is able to take such a tale and still keep you on the edge of your seat.
This is one of those books that I hated to see come to an end. It’s so well written, the subject itself didn’t matter; I was enthralled and caught up in the tale. HIGHLY recommended."
~Retired Sailor
"Inspirational and jaw-dropping. I have sailed all of my life and appreciated all of the detail included in the telling of this true story of 70 days of devotion, emotion, and salvation. Only when I was almost finished did I learn the author currently lives in my same town which gave it even more credibility. (IYKYK) Beautifully written in depth and clarity, and I loved meeting Paul and Phil and their families, by extension! I couldn't put it down."
~D. Griggs
"My reading preference is usually mysteries and best selling fiction. I am in a wonderful book club which recommends us reading different genres and it has certainly broadened my horizons! We read FLARES UP! and I loved it...Niamh McAnally wrote telling the whole process of two middle aged men, without much money ,who take on the challenge of rowing a 20 ft. boat for 70 days from the north of England to Antigua. This book helps you to understand the sacrifices of these men's families, their motivations for this challenge, the community support they receive and how they grow as better human beings by the end of the race. I highly recommend this book, especially to all of my fellow fiction readers out there!!!!!"
~DK
"A beautifully told story by a wonderful storyteller."
~Rickjamo
"I read a great deal of non-fiction and all too often conclude that I’m being subjected to a hyper-inflated magazine article. Not so with Flares-Up … . Ms. McAnally brings this poignant saga to life with succinctness. Her reconstructed dialogue is crisp, her descriptions are compelling, and the heroic strength of Paul and Phil are developed vividly. McAnally’s readers become engaged, but frightened stowaways in the tiny Didi. Welcome aboard!."
~Evelyn Lester
"From the first page right up to the last, I was totally engaged in this amazing story of two men who, each for their own reasons, choose to row the Atlantic in a wooden boat. It is a story of grit, determination, passion, friendship, and - probably most importantly - finding oneself. I couldn’t put it down."
F0LLOWING SUNSHINE
IS THE PROUD RECIPIENT OF
5-Star Reviews
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers’ Favorite
Niamh McAnally’s Following Sunshine is a unique memoir that skillfully weaves the elements of adventure, self-discovery, and love, creating a refreshing narrative. In this honest and uplifting account, McAnally takes readers on a life-changing journey that starts in uncertainty and culminates in a profoundly satisfying sense of fulfillment. At the age of fifty, with no job, no home, and reeling from a divorce, McAnally embarks on a global quest that leads her to some of the world's most remote and beautiful places. From Belize to Vanuatu and even Tonga, her story immerses readers in vibrant cultures, marine conservation projects, and personal growth.
Niamh McAnally’s narrative is authentic and unfiltered, making it easy to connect with her vulnerability as she navigates new physical and emotional landscapes. One of the most remarkable aspects of Following Sunshine is how McAnally’s external voyages parallel her internal exploration. Each destination unlocks a piece of her evolution as she discovers the importance of protecting the environment and how to protect and nurture her spirit. What is most enjoyable about this memoir is the way it’s told. McAnally writes with such emotion and conviction that readers should be prepared to be wholly swept into the story. Whether you’re an armchair traveler or someone looking for inspiration to leap into an adventure, this memoir will leave you reflecting on the power of following your heart wherever it may lead. Following Sunshine is an excellent read for fans of travel, personal growth, and those who believe it’s never too late to reinvent your life.Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite
Following Sunshine by Niamh McAnally is a memoir that chronicles the author's transformative journey from personal hardships like unemployment, homelessness, and divorce in her fifties to discovering a new sense of purpose through global travel and volunteer work. McAnally shares her experiences of working on marine conservation projects across exotic locales like Belize, Vanuatu, and Tonga, while also finding unexpected love when crewing for a solo sailor in the Bahamas. This inspiring memoir is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of giving back, offering readers hope, adventure, and a heartwarming love story.
Author Niamh McAnally’s ability to transport readers to remote islands and beautiful locales is impressive, blending captivating travel details with heartfelt emotional experiences. Amidst this setting, a truly heartfelt memoir comes to the fore with some really unexpected additions and brilliant life lessons born from struggle and personal soul-searching. Her raw and honest narrative style is deeply engaging and candid, making her story highly relatable for readers seeking their own paths to fulfillment, and easy to read whether they’ve been in her situation or not. The memoir also offers a powerful message about second chances and personal reinvention, demonstrating that life can hold unexpected opportunities for love and purpose, no matter the age, which is a beautiful reminder of the freedom to change at any time. Overall, I’d certainly recommend Following Sunshine as both an exciting travelogue memoir and a profound reflection on self-discovery and personal growth that is sure to touch the heart of any reader.Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers’ Favorite
Niamh McAnally’s memoir, Following Sunshine, centers on the author's journey of personal transformation following the sudden death of her father, actor Ray McAnally. Struggling with grief and the burden of public mourning, McAnally sets out on a global quest to find herself and redefine her life. Her travels take her from the intensity of Tony Robbins’ seminars in Fiji to diverse volunteer roles in places like Vanuatu and Kenya. McAnally talks about reverse culture shock, personal setbacks, and ethical dilemmas while she sought a meaningful existence. Through various roles—like hospitality in the Channel Islands and marine conservation in Palau—McAnally confronts the issues that continue to haunt her, with experiences that lead her to a deeper understanding of self-worth and purpose, and, ultimately, to love.
Following Sunshine by Niamh McAnally shares a uniquely intimate look into her life, and does so with a straightforward and conversational writing style that makes her voice distinct, and almost immediately relatable. The most interesting part to me is when McAnally talks about "voluntourism," which I found to be particularly insightful, especially since I just watched a documentary that scrutinized this organized travel practice as potentially exploitative. McAnally walks away and, instead of engaging, chooses to give back in more authentic and responsible ways. I loved that. Overall, this book will resonate with readers who are interested in the everyday experiences of a worldwide traveler.Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers’ Favorite
Niamh McAnally shares her heart and soul in her amazing and inspirational memoir, Following Sunshine. As one of four children born and raised in Ireland with both parents as actors, Niamh was raised with a wonderful “Anything is Possible” mindset. In this memoir, she shares with us her personal growth while traveling around the mind, the world, and the heart. Living a life of simplicity that fits into one bag, Niamh shows us that we don’t need much to find joy and adventure. From childhood trauma to dealing with crazy weather, Niamh gives us a peek into a life filled with beauty and wonder if we only dare to open ourselves to it. Join her as she opens your eyes to the world and her life.
Author Niamh McAnally daringly braves the stormy seas of vulnerability by giving us a glimpse of her mind, heart, and soul. Throughout this memoir, I was reminded that not everyone’s journey is the same, and that’s okay. I was still able to learn from her and enjoy her unique perspective. There is a little treasure in here for everyone. This book is filled with sensory stimulation from tantalizing tastes to exotic sights. In a wonderful array of gorgeous destinations, I was amazed by what she did and where she traveled. I loved being reminded that it is never too late to find happiness and beauty in this world and to keep chasing our dreams. Following Sunshine is suitable for all readers and will open your eyes to a galaxy of possibilities.Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers’ Favorite
Following Sunshine by Niamh McAnally is for travelers ready to expand their horizons. This memoir is about an incredible journey around the world that the author accomplished to make her dreams come true and live a simple yet meaningful life in conditions many of us will call challenging. Niamh narrates about her childhood traumas, coping with grief after losing her father, a famous Irish actor, a disappointing marriage, and the decisions she made to reshape herself and her life completely. After years in the TV and hospitality industries, Niamh participates in volunteer projects that allow her to see the world and meet amazing people. She helps to protect endangered turtles in Vanuatu, chases the Northern Lights in Lapland, teaches children in Tonga, visits Bora Bora, Guam, and Thailand, and takes a fateful trip from Florida to the Bahamas.
Niamh McAnally's Following Sunshine reads like a riveting adventure with a touch of romance. It has many twists and keeps us engaged until the end. Niamh is a wonderful storyteller, and her humor is irresistible. "Back outside, my polar boots left such enormous prints a Yeti might think he’d found his eccentric aunt," writes Niamh, recollecting her fascinating experience in Lapland. The author offers us an excursion into the Tongan language, altering our perception of grammar rules and giving us a glimpse of a different way of life. I appreciate the author's reminder to never put off adventures until later. Niamh speaks to her readers straightforwardly. Her story gently urges us to look deeper into ourselves and face our fears and challenges. I highly recommend this compelling book to lovers of memoirs, travel, and motivational literature.
By Caitlin Richards
Summer is a time for sitting back and taking it easy, often with a book in hand. Whether you prefer to kick back on a beach, a boat, or in a hammock on a cool veranda, you’ll want a stack of books by your side. Here’s a selection of Caribbean themed books that has something for everyone. And you know something that’s great about books? When you finish reading yours you can swap with your friend. You might not even need to get out of your deck chair to do it.
Compass contributor Niamh McAnally has a new book, Following Sunshine, due out in September. By turns introspective, funny, and heartbreaking, Following Sunshine is a brave and honest memoir that asks for neither sympathy nor pity. McAnally tells her story — from a young girl who suffers abuse, to a young woman suffering depression, to a woman searching for herself — with humor, empathy and intelligence. For those who fight with depression, McAnally’s is a strong voice that shows for every day spent with the door locked and the curtains drawn, there can be a day in the sunshine. Read it: because it’s more than a “I dropped out and bought a boat” story, and McAnally is a tremendous and honest writer.
Following Sunshine: A Voyage Around the Mind, Around the World, Around the Heart. Niamh McAnally, Black Rose Writing, Texas, 2024.
"In Following Sunshine, Niamh McAnally takes readers on an enthralling journey across diverse landscapes, from the lush jungles of Fiji to the serene beaches of Vanuatu. Through her travels—which span Nairobi, Vietnam, Saint Barthélemy, Fiji, Palau, and beyond—McAnally weaves a narrative rich in cultural insights and natural beauty. She vividly describes moments of connection with the world around her, such as participating in turtle conservation in Vanuatu or reflecting on local customs.
The memoir is more than a mere travelogue; it’s an introspective look at McAnally’s personal growth amid life’s challenges, including dealing with loss, divorce, and financial struggles. Her expressive language enhances the narrative, painting scenes with phrases that capture the transition of seasons and emotions, like “As spring gave way to summer, daffodils and white-blossomed garlic were replaced by the bluebells of May.” McAnally also delves into profound personal topics, such as child abuse and the uncertainty of the future, integrating these themes into her travel experiences. This blend of personal history with adventure provides a compelling backdrop for reflections on broader themes such as love, loss, and the human impact on ecosystems.
Following Sunshine resonates with those who have a zest for adventure and nature and readers interested in the introspective aspects of travel. McAnally’s narrative invites us to explore a world of vibrant landscapes and rich textures, all while engaging with her contemplations on life and culture. This book is an invitation to experience the world through the eyes of a thoughtful and resilient explorer."
