A review by virginiaferri
Panenka by Rónán Hession

5.0

This is a stunning novel about a man, nicknamed Panenka, trying to make up for the seemingly insignificant mistakes of his past, but which have cost him everything. The reader is pulled into the story, as we are told something about Panenka that no one else knows — we are tied, invested in this character, but at the same time burdened with knowledge. As our frustration for the main character grows, so does our sympathy as he tries his best to reform relationships, and reconnect with love. Hession moves seamlessly between different perspectives, narrating the novel from the outside mind of different characters, but still keeping a safe distance from all of them, not allowing them to get too close to each other. Hession’s philosophical yet simple writing is mesmerizing and will draw you into this book — strongly recommend if you’re looking for a short read!