Captivated by the Ice: A Journey with Penn by Sawyer Bennett
From the moment I laid eyes on Penn, the latest entry in the Pittsburgh Titans series by Sawyer Bennett, I felt an irresistible tug. I began my journey with this series just a book prior, when I dove into North, and I couldn’t shake the anticipation of uncovering the depths of Penn’s character. After all, who wouldn’t be intrigued by a hockey star known for his brooding presence and hidden pain?
In Penn, we meet the enigmatic Penn, the best player in the league, though you’d never know it from the walls he’s built around himself. Angry and guarded, he keeps everyone at arm’s length, imbued with a mystery that begs to be unraveled. It’s clear from the start that there’s a heavy past weighing on him, one that his teammates respect but never push to uncover. The re-entry of Mila, a figure from his past, throws his carefully constructed world into chaos, reinstating old fears and igniting fierce emotions.
What struck me the most as I delved into Penn’s life was the evolution of his character. His emotional walls, which are initially impenetrable, gradually show cracks as Mila’s arrival forces him to confront his haunted past. Watching Penn let someone in—seeing his protective instincts kick in as he takes Mila under his wing—was both heartbreaking and beautiful. This narrative transformation felt real and relatable, reminding us all that healing often comes from the most unexpected connections.
The dual narration by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers was the icing on the cake. Their performances brought an extra layer of emotion to the story, embodying the characters with an authenticity that was palpable. Each intonation and delivery seemed perfectly crafted to enhance the reader’s experience, pulling me deeper into the world Sawyer Bennett creates so vividly.
As a romantic suspense fan, I revel in the balance of tension and tenderness that Penn offers. Sawyer has woven a tale that explores the darker nuances of love and the shadows that often accompany it. There’s just enough suspense to keep you on edge, especially when Penn finally faces the looming threat that has haunted him, adding depth without overshadowing the romance.
Penn, for me, is not just a book about hockey or romance; it’s a exploration of resilience and the significance of community. I appreciated the underlying themes of friendship, especially how Penn learns to lean on his teammates—something he had never done before. If you’re a reader who’s followed the Pittsburgh Titans from the beginning, this installment promises to be even more rewarding as it fills in the gaps of Penn’s backstory and relationships.
In summary, I wholeheartedly give Penn a glowing 5 stars. It speaks to anyone who enjoys multifaceted characters with rich backstories, vivid emotional arcs, and a dash of suspense. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, Sawyer Bennett’s storytelling will resonate with you long after you turn the last page. For those who appreciate a tale that combines darkness and light, wrestling with inner demons while finding love, this is a must-read. In the words of Penn: "Sometimes you need to confront the shadows to find your light." And oh, how beautifully this book illustrates that journey.
Discover more about Penn (Pittsburgh Titans, #17) on GoodReads >>