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Flares Up: A Story Bigger than the Atlantic
★★★★★ "An incredible story of courage and adventure!" - Reader review
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Flares Up is the true story of adventure, tenacity and the capacity of the human spirit to triumph over adversity!
Firefighter Paul Hopkins, 55, survives a brain hemorrhage. The experience motivates him to undertake the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge - to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic.
He teams up with entrepreneur Phil Pugh, who is aged 65 but renowned for undertaking extreme physical challenges in honor of his disabled son.
They encounter major financial and physical setbacks, which cause years of delays and put a strain on both their marriages.
Finally, on December 12, 2019, in a fourth-hand 20ft wooden boat, they set off from the Canary Islands.
Violent storms, 30ft waves and equipment failure leave both men seasick, dehydrated and sleep-deprived.
Alone on the ocean, they are forced to examine their lives.
Was the decision to undertake this challenge brave, selfish or foolish?
After 70 days, nine hours and 11 minutes at sea, they cross the finish line, two changed men. Will either of their wives be there to greet them? Order your copy to find out!
With foreword by Jeremy Irons.
___
Flares Up is the true story of adventure, tenacity and the capacity of the human spirit to triumph over adversity!
Firefighter Paul Hopkins, 55, survives a brain hemorrhage. The experience motivates him to undertake the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge - to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic.
He teams up with entrepreneur Phil Pugh, who is aged 65 but renowned for undertaking extreme physical challenges in honor of his disabled son.
They encounter major financial and physical setbacks, which cause years of delays and put a strain on both their marriages.
Finally, on December 12, 2019, in a fourth-hand 20ft wooden boat, they set off from the Canary Islands.
Violent storms, 30ft waves and equipment failure leave both men seasick, dehydrated and sleep-deprived.
Alone on the ocean, they are forced to examine their lives.
Was the decision to undertake this challenge brave, selfish or foolish?
After 70 days, nine hours and 11 minutes at sea, they cross the finish line, two changed men. Will either of their wives be there to greet them? Order your copy to find out!
With foreword by Jeremy Irons.
408 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2023
11 people are currently reading
2306 people want to read
About the author
Niamh McAnally
5 books55 followersNiamh McAnally, known as The Writer On The Water, is an Irish-born Award-Winning author, keynote & corporate speaker and former TV director. An avid explorer with a penchant for volunteerism, many of her stories are inspired by her world travels on land and at sea.
Her first book Flares Up: A Story Bigger Than The Atlantic, foreword written by Jeremy Irons, was nominated for The Sunday Times Vikki Orvice Award and is a favorite among book clubs. It tells the inspiring story of why two middle-aged men rowed a 20ft wooden boat 3,000 nautical miles across The Atlantic Ocean, how it affected their families and how the experience changed them as human beings.
Following Sunshine: A Voyage Around the Mind, Around the World, Around the Heart is Niamh's personal story about growing up in a famous theatrical family in Ireland, her travels to remote islands and exotic locations as a volunteer, and the profound love story she embarked on at the end of the ocean. This memoir will be released in September 2024.
Liam Neeson said, "Gripping and heartfelt, Niamh's beautifully written memoir unfolds with warmth, courage and a touch of cinematic magic...A MUST-READ for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper connection to the world."
Niamh has been interviewed on national television and radio. She is published in various newspapers and magazines and offers behind-the-scenes presentations to book clubs who choose to read her work. Niamh is a guest speaker on Celebrity Cruises in the Beyond The Podium series.
Niamh loves to encourage other writers on their journey and teaches Writers Workshops in person and online. She is also the founder of an international writer's group and has curated an anthology of their short stories due out in May 2025.
Her first book Flares Up: A Story Bigger Than The Atlantic, foreword written by Jeremy Irons, was nominated for The Sunday Times Vikki Orvice Award and is a favorite among book clubs. It tells the inspiring story of why two middle-aged men rowed a 20ft wooden boat 3,000 nautical miles across The Atlantic Ocean, how it affected their families and how the experience changed them as human beings.
Following Sunshine: A Voyage Around the Mind, Around the World, Around the Heart is Niamh's personal story about growing up in a famous theatrical family in Ireland, her travels to remote islands and exotic locations as a volunteer, and the profound love story she embarked on at the end of the ocean. This memoir will be released in September 2024.
Liam Neeson said, "Gripping and heartfelt, Niamh's beautifully written memoir unfolds with warmth, courage and a touch of cinematic magic...A MUST-READ for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper connection to the world."
Niamh has been interviewed on national television and radio. She is published in various newspapers and magazines and offers behind-the-scenes presentations to book clubs who choose to read her work. Niamh is a guest speaker on Celebrity Cruises in the Beyond The Podium series.
Niamh loves to encourage other writers on their journey and teaches Writers Workshops in person and online. She is also the founder of an international writer's group and has curated an anthology of their short stories due out in May 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 5, 2024
I have challenged myself to read more nonfiction books this year and this book did not disappoint. The storyline is compelling, heartfelt, and inspiring and the author did a fantastic job of compiling Paul and Phil's amazing story into a book so we could all experience the journey. One of my favorite notes from the author perfectly captures the message of the book: "Life offers us millions of moments. From the mundane to the extraordinary, the familiar to the exotic. Many of them pass us by, so wrapped up are we in blinkered routine. But if you keep your eyes open and listen with your soul, you will be ready to witness one of those magical moments. A moment that will forever be seared on your retina and engraved on your heart." What a magical moment this book was. I felt the triumphs and the setbacks right alongside Paul and Phil and am inspired by their tenacity and willingness to share their story with the world. I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
April 3, 2024
Massive thanks to the author for a reader's copy. Below are my honest opinions.
Flares Up is the true, adventurous story of Paul Hopkins and Phil Pugh, as they undertake the Talksker Whisky Atlantic Challenge - rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic
Paul, 55, survives a brain hemorrhage, and the experience leads him to spearhead this journey. Phil, 65, loves extreme physical challenges and does them to help raise funds in honor of his son and his physical disabilities. Phil joins Paul in his quest, and an epic journey begins.
They encounter major financial and physical setbacks, which cause years of delays and put a strain on both their marriages. But before they know it, they set off from the Canary Islands.
Violent storms, 30-foot waves, and equipment failure leave both men seasick, dehydrated, and sleep-deprived. Alone on the ocean, they are forced to examine their lives. And question whether this quest is foolish or brave one? And if they manage to cross the finish line, will anyone be waiting for them?
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Inspiring. Captivating. Funny. This novel covers it all. I thoroughly enjoyed how the author took the time to cover the lead up to the challenge, breathing life into the characters. By the time the duo set off on D.D., you know them well-enough to be hoping for their success, as well. A fair warning, the author made sure to include ALL of their hardships on the sea, including the physical ones. I thought it was a great addition to the story, but other readers might be taken aback. The story flows really well, and I appreciated that it didn't just end when they crossed the finish line. Highly recommend for readers that enjoy non-fiction reads about overcoming many different obstacles, reflection of one's self and circumstances, and ultimately the growth of friendship.
Flares Up is the true, adventurous story of Paul Hopkins and Phil Pugh, as they undertake the Talksker Whisky Atlantic Challenge - rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic
Paul, 55, survives a brain hemorrhage, and the experience leads him to spearhead this journey. Phil, 65, loves extreme physical challenges and does them to help raise funds in honor of his son and his physical disabilities. Phil joins Paul in his quest, and an epic journey begins.
They encounter major financial and physical setbacks, which cause years of delays and put a strain on both their marriages. But before they know it, they set off from the Canary Islands.
Violent storms, 30-foot waves, and equipment failure leave both men seasick, dehydrated, and sleep-deprived. Alone on the ocean, they are forced to examine their lives. And question whether this quest is foolish or brave one? And if they manage to cross the finish line, will anyone be waiting for them?
-----
Inspiring. Captivating. Funny. This novel covers it all. I thoroughly enjoyed how the author took the time to cover the lead up to the challenge, breathing life into the characters. By the time the duo set off on D.D., you know them well-enough to be hoping for their success, as well. A fair warning, the author made sure to include ALL of their hardships on the sea, including the physical ones. I thought it was a great addition to the story, but other readers might be taken aback. The story flows really well, and I appreciated that it didn't just end when they crossed the finish line. Highly recommend for readers that enjoy non-fiction reads about overcoming many different obstacles, reflection of one's self and circumstances, and ultimately the growth of friendship.
August 5, 2024
Niamh McAnally's "Flares Up" proves there are myriads of stories about unsung heroes whose resilience and determination can inspire us all--if only someone can tell them. Thanks, Niamh, for sharing this one.
In "Flares Up" the author follows two men who embark on the grueling Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge after overcoming personal and professional hardships. Firefighter Paul Hopkins and entrepreneur Phil Pugh overcome intense physical and emotional trials as they row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic, pushing the limits of their endurance and testing their relationships--not just with each other, but with the loved ones they leave behind. McAnally's riveting tale captures the essence of the human spirit and the inevitable introspection after facing adversity head-on.
In "Flares Up" the author follows two men who embark on the grueling Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge after overcoming personal and professional hardships. Firefighter Paul Hopkins and entrepreneur Phil Pugh overcome intense physical and emotional trials as they row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic, pushing the limits of their endurance and testing their relationships--not just with each other, but with the loved ones they leave behind. McAnally's riveting tale captures the essence of the human spirit and the inevitable introspection after facing adversity head-on.
July 2, 2024
Flares Up is a page turner. This book reads like a novel despite it being non-fiction. The story is captivating and chronicles the tenacity, challenges and effects Paul Hopkins, a 55 year old firefighter and 65 year old Phil Pugh, an entrepreneur known for undertaking extreme challenges in honor of his disabled son, have on their wives, children and colleagues while single mindedly pursuing their dream. It took 4 years for the men to get to the start of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge with setback after setback along the way. When they finally set off on the voyage, they are plagued with violent storms, 30 foot seas and equipment failure. They must decide if it's reasonable to continue. This is a truly inspiring story, masterfully told, that follows the changes in the characters as they go through the experience. It's a must read story that will encourage you to press beyond your own imagined limitations and rise to be your highest and best self. I highly recommend this book!
December 19, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is not just about an adventure across the Atlantic. Niamh gives such insight into the characters and the effect their dreams and determination had on the rest of their family and friends. Though you know from the beginning that they make it across, I was still completely hooked on how they would do it…you almost forget that you know they get there and start worrying that it might not happen! That’s truly a gift for a writer to create that effect and anticipation.
February 23, 2024
Great read
I loved this book! Niamh and Gary really did a great job in all the details with this book, from pictures to getting getting to know them as people not just rowers. Taking the time after Phil and Paul finished the race to actually show them that they were not alone! This is one of the most inspirational stories I have read. This story just goes to actually show you what putting your mind and heart to something can make you do in life. It also shows how strong you can be when you need to push yourself. Thank you to all for such an awesome story!
I loved this book! Niamh and Gary really did a great job in all the details with this book, from pictures to getting getting to know them as people not just rowers. Taking the time after Phil and Paul finished the race to actually show them that they were not alone! This is one of the most inspirational stories I have read. This story just goes to actually show you what putting your mind and heart to something can make you do in life. It also shows how strong you can be when you need to push yourself. Thank you to all for such an awesome story!
March 3, 2023
Niamh McAnally, a delightful speaker, is an even better writer. In Flares Up, she tells a story of heart and soul, salt and sweat, making the four-year backstory to the 70-day row across the Atlantic as compelling as the feat. Phil and Paul, two extraordinary ordinary blokes, come alive in her telling of their tale. It’s a wonderful story beautifully told, and McAnally makes good on the promise of her subtitle: she wrote “A Story Bigger than the Atlantic.”
February 27, 2023
This book is about persistence and courage. I could not put it down. I highly recommend you read this true story of two men that just would not give up!
July 28, 2024
Flares Up
Niamh McAnally sets out on her own journey to recollect the true story of two unlikely heroes who team up to tackle the daunting Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. They form a bond before they even get their feet wet, as they prepare to take on the nearly impossible task of rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic. The two set off from The Canary Islands and head for the Caribbean. If they make it, they will be celebrated for their heroism, but not without consequences. If they don’t make it, those consequences will most likely have lesser significance.
McAnally tells her account as if she was there, a credit to her storytelling. The account here is almost better than the truth. It has a flare that keeps its real but gives a reader a chance to delve into the story and characters beyond just any old recounting. The lives of these two men are full of life and that is not lost in the way Niamh articulates her narrative. She does not come in and flatten their world. She adds air to an already blown-up world.
You do not have to be inspired yourself after reading Flares Up. It wasn’t written for you to climb your own Mt. Everest. However, it would be hard to completely avoid the mental stimulation this story delivers. I’m not going to risk my life and task some daredevilish stunt after reading Flares Up, but I will be inspired to bring a little more zest into my life. Well done.
Niamh McAnally sets out on her own journey to recollect the true story of two unlikely heroes who team up to tackle the daunting Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. They form a bond before they even get their feet wet, as they prepare to take on the nearly impossible task of rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic. The two set off from The Canary Islands and head for the Caribbean. If they make it, they will be celebrated for their heroism, but not without consequences. If they don’t make it, those consequences will most likely have lesser significance.
McAnally tells her account as if she was there, a credit to her storytelling. The account here is almost better than the truth. It has a flare that keeps its real but gives a reader a chance to delve into the story and characters beyond just any old recounting. The lives of these two men are full of life and that is not lost in the way Niamh articulates her narrative. She does not come in and flatten their world. She adds air to an already blown-up world.
You do not have to be inspired yourself after reading Flares Up. It wasn’t written for you to climb your own Mt. Everest. However, it would be hard to completely avoid the mental stimulation this story delivers. I’m not going to risk my life and task some daredevilish stunt after reading Flares Up, but I will be inspired to bring a little more zest into my life. Well done.
May 3, 2024
When I told my son I was reading the true story of two middle-aged men rowing a wooden boat across the Atlantic, he said, "What are they, CRAZY??" Yeah, Paul and Phil probably WERE a tad bit crazy to undertake such a daunting challenge at their age, but boy, were they ever determined and fearless! I'll admit I don't quite comprehend that extreme level of drive and tenacity, but reading these fellows' story was an absolute blast. Each time I set the book aside to get on with some mundane task in my own comparatively uneventful life, I could hardly wait to get back to Niamh's hugely entertaining adventure story. Her writing transported me onboard Didi for the arduous 70-day crossing. I swayed with the rolling waves and the seasickness, cowered beneath the ominous storm clouds and lashing rain, felt the aching muscles and pangs of homesickness. But woven throughout the vivid descriptions of the physical challenges were those unique moments where the author got inside the two men's heads as they came to realize the life-altering nature of their shared experience. Adventure and emotional journey all in one fabulous book!
April 2, 2024
📚Book review 📚
#bookloungereviewteam
Niamh McNally
Flares up
445 pages
Genre.. Sports Biography
5🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶
After many failed years of planning, the time had come to set sail for a challenge of a lifetime. From sea sickness to dead batteries and over 2,900 miles to go... could it get worse? Can you imagine spending Christmas day in the middle of the ocean in a row boat?? I can't. Join in on the tales of Phil and Paul... listen to their story's and embrace the race. This is a wonderful book.
When Paul stated he looked forward to losing sight of the land and rowing in the dark.. I wondered if he would regret those words.
Where do tough chickens come from ??... hard boiled eggs. Loved this little joke.
#bookloungereviewteam
Niamh McNally
Flares up
445 pages
Genre.. Sports Biography
5🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶
After many failed years of planning, the time had come to set sail for a challenge of a lifetime. From sea sickness to dead batteries and over 2,900 miles to go... could it get worse? Can you imagine spending Christmas day in the middle of the ocean in a row boat?? I can't. Join in on the tales of Phil and Paul... listen to their story's and embrace the race. This is a wonderful book.
When Paul stated he looked forward to losing sight of the land and rowing in the dark.. I wondered if he would regret those words.
Where do tough chickens come from ??... hard boiled eggs. Loved this little joke.
June 23, 2024
When a couple guys named Paul and Phil with limited resources and experience decide to row across the Atlantic in a twenty foot wooden boat, it sounds like the start of a disaster movie, but Flares Up is just the opposite. It’s an incredible tale of drama and the writing puts you inside the boat with them for the whole journey. You feel the roll of the waves, the fury of the storms, and the laughter of Paul and Phil as they experience it. McAnally’s writing casts the reader as the third passenger in the boat with Paul and Phil, and you get to experience the highs and lows of the adventure from the comfort of your couch. Set aside some time to go on a boating adventure you will never forget.
March 2, 2026
For me this book was a real treat … initially it felt like a typical adventure story with the logistics and challenges of partaking in such a mission … but slowly it begins to reveal much much more.
it’s not just an account of two gutsy guys rowing across the mighty Atlantic. What’s really going on is the back story behind the adventure. This element of their home lives just drew me in in so completely that I was truly rooting for so many more people than just Phil & Paul along the way and indeed after their successful arrival in Antigua… Niamh McNally delves skilfully into the tricky question of ‘Why’ behind any great venture and the ripple effect these things can cause.
I highly recommend you treat yourself to a great armchair adventure.
it’s not just an account of two gutsy guys rowing across the mighty Atlantic. What’s really going on is the back story behind the adventure. This element of their home lives just drew me in in so completely that I was truly rooting for so many more people than just Phil & Paul along the way and indeed after their successful arrival in Antigua… Niamh McNally delves skilfully into the tricky question of ‘Why’ behind any great venture and the ripple effect these things can cause.
I highly recommend you treat yourself to a great armchair adventure.
September 5, 2022
The incredible story of Phil and Paul's journey across the Atlantic comes to life through Niamh's captivating writing. She doesn't just tell a tale, she truly immerses you in the story and lives of these extraordinary men. This book will inspire you to push your own limits, seek adventure and wonder what you'd discover about yourself in the face of an extreme challenge. Thank you, Niamh, this story will stick with me and I can't wait to read your next book!
January 7, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end as I always wanted to know what was going to happen to Phil and Paul next. It’s also great to see how there friendship grew as time went on and that friendship will now last their lifetime. So easy to pick up and put down as u want to. Well done Niamh 👏👏
March 31, 2026
Yes you can!
Inspirational or crazy? Two people in their early 60s rowing a 20 foot wooden boat from the Canary Islands across the Atlantic to Antigua.
Perseverance won
Inspirational or crazy? Two people in their early 60s rowing a 20 foot wooden boat from the Canary Islands across the Atlantic to Antigua.
Perseverance won
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews