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Penn Navarro is the best player in the league—unstoppable on the ice, untouchable off it. But the moment the game ends, so do the celebrations. Because no amount of goals, no number of wins, can silence the demons that haunt him.
Hockey is my life. It’s what I was born to do. That’s not ego talking, just fact—I’ve spent years honing my skills, earning my place among the elite. But talent doesn’t erase my mistakes, and no amount of success will make me forget the damage I’ve done. It’s why I keep my distance from my teammates, because if you never let anyone in, you’ll never get hurt. Or those are the lies that I tell myself.
Mila Brennan represents the darkest parts of my history. She’s a ghost I’ve tried to bury, the reminder of everything I’ve lost. When she shows up in Pittsburgh looking for me, I know nothing good will come of it, because our sins don’t stay forgotten. They fester, waiting for the perfect moment to strike, and Mila’s arrival means my time is up.
The past isn’t just knocking at my door—it’s kicking it down, crumbling all the walls I’ve built around myself in the process. And when the danger comes for us both, I’m forced to do the one thing I swore I never would. Let her in.
Hockey is my life. It’s what I was born to do. That’s not ego talking, just fact—I’ve spent years honing my skills, earning my place among the elite. But talent doesn’t erase my mistakes, and no amount of success will make me forget the damage I’ve done. It’s why I keep my distance from my teammates, because if you never let anyone in, you’ll never get hurt. Or those are the lies that I tell myself.
Mila Brennan represents the darkest parts of my history. She’s a ghost I’ve tried to bury, the reminder of everything I’ve lost. When she shows up in Pittsburgh looking for me, I know nothing good will come of it, because our sins don’t stay forgotten. They fester, waiting for the perfect moment to strike, and Mila’s arrival means my time is up.
The past isn’t just knocking at my door—it’s kicking it down, crumbling all the walls I’ve built around myself in the process. And when the danger comes for us both, I’m forced to do the one thing I swore I never would. Let her in.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2025
210 people are currently reading
617 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
164 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
July 2, 2025
THIS STORY!
This story is a lot. It's big. It's a lot. Did I say that already? It's worth repeating again and again. It's extraordinary. It's outrageous. It's emotional. It's not "light" but I did laugh. It's expertly unfolded and it's unbelievably emotional. SO MUCH EMOTION. I'm crying again so exiting stage left.
But also, I am so fucking proud of Sawyer for this story.
k,later.
This story is a lot. It's big. It's a lot. Did I say that already? It's worth repeating again and again. It's extraordinary. It's outrageous. It's emotional. It's not "light" but I did laugh. It's expertly unfolded and it's unbelievably emotional. SO MUCH EMOTION. I'm crying again so exiting stage left.
But also, I am so fucking proud of Sawyer for this story.
k,later.
August 27, 2025
Okay, wow… Penn did NOT disappoint. 🥵 I’ve been waiting for his book forever and let me just say... the wait was SO worth it. Even though it’s book 17 in the Pittsburgh Titans series (yep, SEVENTEEN 👀), you can totally read it as a standalone. But if you do decide to binge the whole series, just know you’ll get fully attached to every single Titan.
From chapter one, I was hooked. Penn starts off all guarded, broody and closed off, but the second he lets his walls down? Whew. Complete 180. He turned into the most protective, generous, and low-key swoony guy ever and I was eating it up. Who knew he had all that in him?! Like sir, where was this energy before??
And then there’s Mila. She’s exactly what he needed and brings so much life to him. She's thoughtful, grounding, and just perfect for him. Their dynamic is chef’s kiss. The romance is hot, but also sweet, with a little mystery and tension sprinkled in. Honestly, such a good balance.
Penn has officially joined my list of fave Titans. Sawyer Bennett just keeps delivering, and at this point, I kinda don’t want this series to ever end.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Tortured Hero
❤️🔥 Romantic Suspense
❤️🔥 Friends to Lovers
🚨🚨 TW: Bullying
From chapter one, I was hooked. Penn starts off all guarded, broody and closed off, but the second he lets his walls down? Whew. Complete 180. He turned into the most protective, generous, and low-key swoony guy ever and I was eating it up. Who knew he had all that in him?! Like sir, where was this energy before??
And then there’s Mila. She’s exactly what he needed and brings so much life to him. She's thoughtful, grounding, and just perfect for him. Their dynamic is chef’s kiss. The romance is hot, but also sweet, with a little mystery and tension sprinkled in. Honestly, such a good balance.
Penn has officially joined my list of fave Titans. Sawyer Bennett just keeps delivering, and at this point, I kinda don’t want this series to ever end.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Tortured Hero
❤️🔥 Romantic Suspense
❤️🔥 Friends to Lovers
🚨🚨 TW: Bullying
August 13, 2025
3.25*
As teenagers, Penn and Mila were the only two willing to come forward and report a fatal hazing incident, ensuring that justice was served. Ten years later, Mila is receiving threats and promises of retribution for her actions, spurring her to turn to Penn for help. Despite his initial distance and cold demeanor, Penn quickly finds himself drawn to Mila as they band together to end the threats and finally put the past behind them.
While I was truly intrigued by the premise of this latest entry in the long-running Titans series, the execution left me wanting. Penn and Mila’s choice a decade ago to report what they knew, and the consequences they faced, felt so realistic. Mila’s parents turned their back on her, and Penn was shunned by his teammates. That aspect really worked for me. But the speed at which their relationship developed – that didn’t work at all. I say developed, but that’s a stretch because there was no development to their relationship. Within a couple days of Mila’s arrival at Penn’s doorstep (well, his highly secure security gate), they were together and Penn’s whole personality did a 180. There was no gradual shift, it was like a switch flipped and he was a changed man, dropped his walls and his standoffish ways, and suddenly opened up to his teammates. It gave me whiplash. With both the relationship and the man, I missed seeing gradual change and growth, because it just wasn’t there.
This is the third Titans novel in a row that has left me feeling like the series has hit a bumpy patch. So many entries in the series have given me characters that I loved, relationships that warmed my heart, and plots that gave me all the feels and brought on the tears on more than a few occasions. Here’s hoping that Lucky’s book is a return to all the things that I’ve loved about this series.
As teenagers, Penn and Mila were the only two willing to come forward and report a fatal hazing incident, ensuring that justice was served. Ten years later, Mila is receiving threats and promises of retribution for her actions, spurring her to turn to Penn for help. Despite his initial distance and cold demeanor, Penn quickly finds himself drawn to Mila as they band together to end the threats and finally put the past behind them.
While I was truly intrigued by the premise of this latest entry in the long-running Titans series, the execution left me wanting. Penn and Mila’s choice a decade ago to report what they knew, and the consequences they faced, felt so realistic. Mila’s parents turned their back on her, and Penn was shunned by his teammates. That aspect really worked for me. But the speed at which their relationship developed – that didn’t work at all. I say developed, but that’s a stretch because there was no development to their relationship. Within a couple days of Mila’s arrival at Penn’s doorstep (well, his highly secure security gate), they were together and Penn’s whole personality did a 180. There was no gradual shift, it was like a switch flipped and he was a changed man, dropped his walls and his standoffish ways, and suddenly opened up to his teammates. It gave me whiplash. With both the relationship and the man, I missed seeing gradual change and growth, because it just wasn’t there.
This is the third Titans novel in a row that has left me feeling like the series has hit a bumpy patch. So many entries in the series have given me characters that I loved, relationships that warmed my heart, and plots that gave me all the feels and brought on the tears on more than a few occasions. Here’s hoping that Lucky’s book is a return to all the things that I’ve loved about this series.
July 30, 2025
OK - first off, why did none of my friends tell me that Sawyer had a hockey series out?! I read this book not realizing there were 16 previous ones til I started my review!!
Anyway, I digress. As you can tell by that first sentence, this book can absolutely and easily be read as a standalone. I was not once confused by any of hockey family members that popped up in this book - they actually added to this story.
I will say this book was absolutely amazing and I loved every bit of it. I really enjoyed the backstory of Penn and Mila and how these two knew one another. These two stayed strong for one another through all the ups and downs and that just made their relationship stronger.
I really enjoyed the suspense aspects of this story as it allowed readers to see how a relationship can build even in the toughest situations. It was great element in the story and just added more depth to the plot and helped the characters grow.
I want to say so much but don't want to give anything away. For a sports romance, Penn (the book, but truly the guy, too) is so much more and that is why I love it.
Definitely a recommended read. And now I need to go back and read the others because I am a huge hockey sports romance nut.
Anyway, I digress. As you can tell by that first sentence, this book can absolutely and easily be read as a standalone. I was not once confused by any of hockey family members that popped up in this book - they actually added to this story.
I will say this book was absolutely amazing and I loved every bit of it. I really enjoyed the backstory of Penn and Mila and how these two knew one another. These two stayed strong for one another through all the ups and downs and that just made their relationship stronger.
I really enjoyed the suspense aspects of this story as it allowed readers to see how a relationship can build even in the toughest situations. It was great element in the story and just added more depth to the plot and helped the characters grow.
I want to say so much but don't want to give anything away. For a sports romance, Penn (the book, but truly the guy, too) is so much more and that is why I love it.
Definitely a recommended read. And now I need to go back and read the others because I am a huge hockey sports romance nut.
July 19, 2025
This book was so good! It’s emotional and the suspense was so good! Oh Penn, He was brooding and grumpy and holding on to so much pain and guilt from his past. I really loved Mila - she was so strong and scared and when she approached Penn I just wanted to give her a hug.
I was very excited for the audio when I saw who the narrators were - I am a fan of Lucy and Sean and they did an AMAZING job!!!
Sean kicks off chapter one with a perfect growly, brooding voice to set the tone for Penn…maybe there is more to him than we expect!!!
Lucy really brought this great mix of strength and vulnerability to Mila. She was so scared and had been dealing with so much in her personal life. They both brought so much emotion to Penn and Mila and the secondary characters too.
I highly recommend this entire series!!
✨What To Expect:
🏒Hockey Romance
🥀Romantic Suspense
🚫Forbidden Romance
💔Tragic Past
💛Forced Proximity
💋She’s In Peril
❤️🩹Tortured Hero
🔥Slow Burn
❤️🔥Friends to Lovers
I was very excited for the audio when I saw who the narrators were - I am a fan of Lucy and Sean and they did an AMAZING job!!!
Sean kicks off chapter one with a perfect growly, brooding voice to set the tone for Penn…maybe there is more to him than we expect!!!
Lucy really brought this great mix of strength and vulnerability to Mila. She was so scared and had been dealing with so much in her personal life. They both brought so much emotion to Penn and Mila and the secondary characters too.
I highly recommend this entire series!!
✨What To Expect:
🏒Hockey Romance
🥀Romantic Suspense
🚫Forbidden Romance
💔Tragic Past
💛Forced Proximity
💋She’s In Peril
❤️🩹Tortured Hero
🔥Slow Burn
❤️🔥Friends to Lovers
July 15, 2025
This one’s a mix of spice, suspense, and a broody hockey player who’s impossible not to like. The story moves fast and has just enough danger to keep things interesting without getting too heavy.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, steamy romantic suspense with lovable characters, Penn delivers.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re in the mood for a quick, steamy romantic suspense with lovable characters, Penn delivers.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 8, 2025
She’s the ghost he buried. Now she’s back—and so is everything he tried to forget. 🥶🏒❤️🔥
Read if you like:
✨ emotional second chances
✨ hockey romance with heart
✨ protective hero with a dark past
✨ forced proximity
✨ trauma, healing & redemption
✨ dual POV with stunning audiobook narration
📚 Penn gives us the emotionally loaded story fans of the Pittsburgh Titans series have been waiting for. Penn Navarro is all sharp edges and silence—on the ice, he’s unstoppable; off it, he’s unreachable. But when Mila Brennan walks back into his life, she brings more than just memories. She brings danger, buried guilt, and the chance at something he never thought he’d deserve: forgiveness.
👨👧 Penn is a man ruled by the mistakes of his past. He’s built his identity around isolation and punishment—but beneath that armor is someone capable of deep love and loyalty. Mila is brave, kind, and desperate when she shows up asking for help. Their history is painful, raw, and unshakable. Watching them navigate it together is as cathartic as it is romantic.
💞 This isn’t a flirty, lighthearted love story. It’s a slow-burn emotional reckoning between two people bound by trauma and driven by truth. But when the dam breaks? Their connection is deep, powerful, and earned. It’s the kind of chemistry that simmers under the surface until it explodes—and when it does, it’s soul-healing.
👧 While the spotlight stays on Penn and Mila, the emotional undertones of found family through the Titans team are quietly powerful. Even as Penn keeps his distance, you feel the pull of belonging.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett’s writing here balances angst, suspense, and warmth with precision. If you’re listening on audio, Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers are phenomenal—his performance brings Penn’s protectiveness and pain to life, while hers captures Mila’s vulnerability and courage with grace.
🌟 Penn is an unforgettable story of redemption, love, and facing the past head-on. If you want a sports romance that goes deeper—one with layered characters, emotional payoff, and a truly swoony, scarred hero—this one hits the net and your heart.
📲 QOTD: Do you believe some people are worth a second chance—even when the past is painful?
📲 ALT QOTD: Which sport makes for the best romance stories—hockey, football, or something else? 👇
#BookReview #PennBySawyerBennett #SawyerBennett #PittsburghTitans #HockeyRomance #EmotionalRomance #SecondChanceLove #AudiobookReview #RomanceWithDepth #ProtectiveHero #SlowBurnRomance #TraumaHealingLove #RomanceBooks #BookstagramRomance #SportsRomance
Read if you like:
✨ emotional second chances
✨ hockey romance with heart
✨ protective hero with a dark past
✨ forced proximity
✨ trauma, healing & redemption
✨ dual POV with stunning audiobook narration
📚 Penn gives us the emotionally loaded story fans of the Pittsburgh Titans series have been waiting for. Penn Navarro is all sharp edges and silence—on the ice, he’s unstoppable; off it, he’s unreachable. But when Mila Brennan walks back into his life, she brings more than just memories. She brings danger, buried guilt, and the chance at something he never thought he’d deserve: forgiveness.
👨👧 Penn is a man ruled by the mistakes of his past. He’s built his identity around isolation and punishment—but beneath that armor is someone capable of deep love and loyalty. Mila is brave, kind, and desperate when she shows up asking for help. Their history is painful, raw, and unshakable. Watching them navigate it together is as cathartic as it is romantic.
💞 This isn’t a flirty, lighthearted love story. It’s a slow-burn emotional reckoning between two people bound by trauma and driven by truth. But when the dam breaks? Their connection is deep, powerful, and earned. It’s the kind of chemistry that simmers under the surface until it explodes—and when it does, it’s soul-healing.
👧 While the spotlight stays on Penn and Mila, the emotional undertones of found family through the Titans team are quietly powerful. Even as Penn keeps his distance, you feel the pull of belonging.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett’s writing here balances angst, suspense, and warmth with precision. If you’re listening on audio, Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers are phenomenal—his performance brings Penn’s protectiveness and pain to life, while hers captures Mila’s vulnerability and courage with grace.
🌟 Penn is an unforgettable story of redemption, love, and facing the past head-on. If you want a sports romance that goes deeper—one with layered characters, emotional payoff, and a truly swoony, scarred hero—this one hits the net and your heart.
📲 QOTD: Do you believe some people are worth a second chance—even when the past is painful?
📲 ALT QOTD: Which sport makes for the best romance stories—hockey, football, or something else? 👇
#BookReview #PennBySawyerBennett #SawyerBennett #PittsburghTitans #HockeyRomance #EmotionalRomance #SecondChanceLove #AudiobookReview #RomanceWithDepth #ProtectiveHero #SlowBurnRomance #TraumaHealingLove #RomanceBooks #BookstagramRomance #SportsRomance
July 16, 2025
I loved Penn and Mila’s story. I was so drawn to the story after reading the blurb that I didn’t mind jumping into the series at #17. This story jumps right into the suspense/action. The audio narrators were fantastic. I loved Miss Bennett’s COLD FURY series and now I am even more ready to go back to the beginning and fall for all the PITTSBURGH TITANS.
July 10, 2025
***5 Stars***
Some truths:
1) I feel like I have been waiting FOREVER for Penn’s book. FOR. EVER.
2) I was a bit wary starting the book, as much as I giddy with anticipation because…what if I didn’t end up loving the man the way I wanted to?? (Yeah, I know, it’s not ALL about me, but still) because I already have a thing for the grumpy ones with walls a country mile wide and high and well…Penn just ticked all of my boxes…so yeah, a bit wary.
3) I knew better than to start the book whilst at work…because I freakin’ DEVOURED this baby. I did put it down…but when one’s desk is not visible to anyone…well, the Kindle came out a few times…
Ok, so now that’s out of the way…Penn and Mila. Penn, finally finding out what happened to make him become this insanely solitary figure ~ except when on the ice ~ explained a lot and man and had me wanting to give the grump a huge hug (and hurt some peoples) but mostly a hug. Mila is one strong woman. As with Penn, I wanted to give her a huge hug (and hurt some peoples ~ this feeling was more intense for her than Penn). She has gumption. Period.
The journey to their HEA was a bit rocky, but it was totally understandable considering what their shared past was and the situation they find themselves in. What I loved was watching the man who Penn could have been this whole time start to come out and play. It wasn’t a 180 whiplash kind of change ~ he still has his moments and honestly, I’m really happy that he still has things to work on and some things may just stick. But, in the end, I just really enjoyed them together and am happy that they are getting a shot at an HEA.
The build up to this book was awesome. I wanted and needed to know all about Penn and the author did not disappoint. You get all the feels and then some, because some of the issues that come up were a wee difficult to sort through, but while this is fiction, things like this happen in RL. And I do hope that we get a bit more on the aftermath because there is part of the story that I really, really want more of…But on a happier note, the Titan’s ~ from the team to their partners ~ were all I could have asked for. They all showed what it means to be a family and it was awesome to watch them rally around Penn and Mila. And now we have Lucky up next. He may have been the newbie, but he definitely got himself seen and I cannot wait to get my hands on his book!
~ Copy provided by TAA & voluntarily reviewed ~
Some truths:
1) I feel like I have been waiting FOREVER for Penn’s book. FOR. EVER.
2) I was a bit wary starting the book, as much as I giddy with anticipation because…what if I didn’t end up loving the man the way I wanted to?? (Yeah, I know, it’s not ALL about me, but still) because I already have a thing for the grumpy ones with walls a country mile wide and high and well…Penn just ticked all of my boxes…so yeah, a bit wary.
3) I knew better than to start the book whilst at work…because I freakin’ DEVOURED this baby. I did put it down…but when one’s desk is not visible to anyone…well, the Kindle came out a few times…
Ok, so now that’s out of the way…Penn and Mila. Penn, finally finding out what happened to make him become this insanely solitary figure ~ except when on the ice ~ explained a lot and man and had me wanting to give the grump a huge hug (and hurt some peoples) but mostly a hug. Mila is one strong woman. As with Penn, I wanted to give her a huge hug (and hurt some peoples ~ this feeling was more intense for her than Penn). She has gumption. Period.
The journey to their HEA was a bit rocky, but it was totally understandable considering what their shared past was and the situation they find themselves in. What I loved was watching the man who Penn could have been this whole time start to come out and play. It wasn’t a 180 whiplash kind of change ~ he still has his moments and honestly, I’m really happy that he still has things to work on and some things may just stick. But, in the end, I just really enjoyed them together and am happy that they are getting a shot at an HEA.
The build up to this book was awesome. I wanted and needed to know all about Penn and the author did not disappoint. You get all the feels and then some, because some of the issues that come up were a wee difficult to sort through, but while this is fiction, things like this happen in RL. And I do hope that we get a bit more on the aftermath because there is part of the story that I really, really want more of…But on a happier note, the Titan’s ~ from the team to their partners ~ were all I could have asked for. They all showed what it means to be a family and it was awesome to watch them rally around Penn and Mila. And now we have Lucky up next. He may have been the newbie, but he definitely got himself seen and I cannot wait to get my hands on his book!
~ Copy provided by TAA & voluntarily reviewed ~
July 3, 2025
There is a reason Penn Navarro is the best player in the league, because it’s all he ever does, he eats sleeps and lives for hockey. Any interaction he’s had with his teammates has been purely professional, only ever hockey related. He has been burnt before with his junior team and now he trusts absolutely no one. So when a blast from his past comes knocking, literally, he turns Mila Brennan away as she too can not be trusted. It’s only when she explains her predicament of how she is in grave danger for what happened back when they were kids, and he sees how scared she is for her safety that he invites her in. She’s not only worried for herself but Penn too.
They seek help in finding out who is threatening Mila, and I loved they went to Jameson Force Security. If you haven’t read that series, this book will give you an insight as to what they do over there. It was a treat to catch up with the team and see them in action again.
This is a fast moving book, things happen within a few weeks of Mila arriving and the situation handled. Within a month, Penn has gone from a total recluse to a super swoony hero. And I wasn’t sure to be honest, but in his own words, Penn has layers, he can pivot which to me is admirable and adorable.
Whenever possible I’ll grab the audio to listen along with as I read and I felt the narrators were great in depicting their own characters. Looking at the cover and then hearing Sean Masters’ deep and mesmerizing voice was exactly what I imaged. Lucy Rivers was perfect for Mila as well. I do struggle though when it’s not a duet style production. Listening to Penn’s chapters kept me captivated but hearing Lucy try and do Penn’s lines was weird, because this strong and powerful man sounded so different.
Next up is Matteo “Lucky” Branson, the newest member of the Titans. I get the feeling that he is going to be a hoot to read about.
They seek help in finding out who is threatening Mila, and I loved they went to Jameson Force Security. If you haven’t read that series, this book will give you an insight as to what they do over there. It was a treat to catch up with the team and see them in action again.
This is a fast moving book, things happen within a few weeks of Mila arriving and the situation handled. Within a month, Penn has gone from a total recluse to a super swoony hero. And I wasn’t sure to be honest, but in his own words, Penn has layers, he can pivot which to me is admirable and adorable.
Whenever possible I’ll grab the audio to listen along with as I read and I felt the narrators were great in depicting their own characters. Looking at the cover and then hearing Sean Masters’ deep and mesmerizing voice was exactly what I imaged. Lucy Rivers was perfect for Mila as well. I do struggle though when it’s not a duet style production. Listening to Penn’s chapters kept me captivated but hearing Lucy try and do Penn’s lines was weird, because this strong and powerful man sounded so different.
Next up is Matteo “Lucky” Branson, the newest member of the Titans. I get the feeling that he is going to be a hoot to read about.
July 9, 2025
5 Star Review Penn (Pittsburgh Titans #17) by Sawyer Bennett
Audio/eBook:
Penn was a wonderful addition to the Pittsburgh Titans series. It is Penn Navarro and Mila Brennan’s story and what a wonderful story it was.
Penn is a heartwarming, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. In fact this is my favourite book in the series.
These two have history and as we delved into Penn’s past to see what has caused him to withdraw from the world, I was on the edge of my seat.
I freely admit to tears while reading; this story really got to me on numerous levels.
When Mila seeks out Penn for help, his initial response is to ignore her. However, once he hears what’s happening, he steps up in a big way.
Turning to Jameson Force Security to investigate the danger for Mila and Penn it was wonderful to see some familiar faces.
One of the most heartwarming things about this series is the “found” family aspect. The friendship and camaraderie between the players and their partners adds an additional layer to the story.
The narration by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers was entertaining and they did a fantastic job. Not only did they bring all the romance, humour and passion of the story to life but they did justice to this emotional story with voices that are easy to listen to.
Penn is a well written, fast paced story that will quickly have you hooked.
Audio/eBook:
Penn was a wonderful addition to the Pittsburgh Titans series. It is Penn Navarro and Mila Brennan’s story and what a wonderful story it was.
Penn is a heartwarming, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. In fact this is my favourite book in the series.
These two have history and as we delved into Penn’s past to see what has caused him to withdraw from the world, I was on the edge of my seat.
I freely admit to tears while reading; this story really got to me on numerous levels.
When Mila seeks out Penn for help, his initial response is to ignore her. However, once he hears what’s happening, he steps up in a big way.
Turning to Jameson Force Security to investigate the danger for Mila and Penn it was wonderful to see some familiar faces.
One of the most heartwarming things about this series is the “found” family aspect. The friendship and camaraderie between the players and their partners adds an additional layer to the story.
The narration by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers was entertaining and they did a fantastic job. Not only did they bring all the romance, humour and passion of the story to life but they did justice to this emotional story with voices that are easy to listen to.
Penn is a well written, fast paced story that will quickly have you hooked.
July 10, 2025
Both narrators do awesome! Enjoyed both their voice performances! Quality recording too! Definitely a good listening experience!
Really liked this one!! Love the setup; we have been getting hints at what happened in Penn’s past that has made him standoffish in some of the previous books, so I’ve been anticipating his story! An interesting backstory for him and Mila; they knew each other when they were younger and something tragic happened in the past, but they haven’t seen each other in years when Mila seeks him out. Mila is receiving threats that she thinks could be related to something in the past that has a connection to Penn as well. Mila goes to Penn for help since she’s really scared; he doesn’t make it easy at first, but he begins to open up to Mila again. Enjoyed the mystery, and it was awesome we get some cameos from some characters from Jameson Force Security series! Such fun! Penn was great! Liked his bit of gruffness! Great to see his dynamic with his hockey teammates too. Mila’s mostly likable; she did a few idiot things; especially what she does towards the end (very off putting for her character; I didn’t like how that whole situation was handled), but she’s mostly likable. Together they have a great dynamic, and some good fire! I was hoping for a bit more to the ending, but overall, loved the story! Good stuff!
Really liked this one!! Love the setup; we have been getting hints at what happened in Penn’s past that has made him standoffish in some of the previous books, so I’ve been anticipating his story! An interesting backstory for him and Mila; they knew each other when they were younger and something tragic happened in the past, but they haven’t seen each other in years when Mila seeks him out. Mila is receiving threats that she thinks could be related to something in the past that has a connection to Penn as well. Mila goes to Penn for help since she’s really scared; he doesn’t make it easy at first, but he begins to open up to Mila again. Enjoyed the mystery, and it was awesome we get some cameos from some characters from Jameson Force Security series! Such fun! Penn was great! Liked his bit of gruffness! Great to see his dynamic with his hockey teammates too. Mila’s mostly likable; she did a few idiot things; especially what she does towards the end (very off putting for her character; I didn’t like how that whole situation was handled), but she’s mostly likable. Together they have a great dynamic, and some good fire! I was hoping for a bit more to the ending, but overall, loved the story! Good stuff!
July 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
If you love hockey romance and you’ve never read Sawyer Bennett, I highly recommend that you fix that fast. Penn is a fast-paced, suspenseful, emotional book with a broody, tortured MMC and scared but strong FMC. Penn and Mila have known each other since their were teenagers, but a tragic and traumatic event changes their lives forever. Their past brings them back together after ten years apart. I loved seeing Penn open himself up, allowing not just Mila but his hockey teammates in. The vulnerability both MCs display is really beautiful and makes this story feel relatable and realistic. And Mila is just amazing FMC because she feels so real. A woman who is scared and lonely but still has hope and a quiet strength. I loved them as a believable couple, I only wish the book contained an epilogue because I would have loved to have seen them in the future.
Tropes include:
Hockey superstar
Tortured loner
Second chance
Danger/stalking
*I received a free ARC of this book for an honest review of this book.
🌶️🌶️
If you love hockey romance and you’ve never read Sawyer Bennett, I highly recommend that you fix that fast. Penn is a fast-paced, suspenseful, emotional book with a broody, tortured MMC and scared but strong FMC. Penn and Mila have known each other since their were teenagers, but a tragic and traumatic event changes their lives forever. Their past brings them back together after ten years apart. I loved seeing Penn open himself up, allowing not just Mila but his hockey teammates in. The vulnerability both MCs display is really beautiful and makes this story feel relatable and realistic. And Mila is just amazing FMC because she feels so real. A woman who is scared and lonely but still has hope and a quiet strength. I loved them as a believable couple, I only wish the book contained an epilogue because I would have loved to have seen them in the future.
Tropes include:
Hockey superstar
Tortured loner
Second chance
Danger/stalking
*I received a free ARC of this book for an honest review of this book.
July 8, 2025
A Powerful Love Story Wrapped in Hockey and Healing
I went into this for the Pittsburgh setting but I stayed for the heartbreak, the healing, and the kind of love that tears walls down.
Set against the gritty charm of Pittsburgh’s hockey world, this story gave us a male main character who was shut off from everyone, emotionally barricaded, carrying the weight of childhood trauma. But she saw him. Not just saw, but reached him in a way no one else ever had. The heroine didn’t just love him; she cracked him open.
Their bond was like soulmates who found safety in each other’s brokenness. The emotional depth here was real. If you’ve ever loved a story where love is the thing that saves, this is that book.
Highly recommend for readers who love:
💔 Emotionally guarded MMCs
🏒 Sports romance (yes, hockey fans, you’re covered!)
💞 Slow, deep, healing love
🖌️ Creative heroines (graphic designer!)
🖤 Trauma recovery done with care
I went into this for the Pittsburgh setting but I stayed for the heartbreak, the healing, and the kind of love that tears walls down.
Set against the gritty charm of Pittsburgh’s hockey world, this story gave us a male main character who was shut off from everyone, emotionally barricaded, carrying the weight of childhood trauma. But she saw him. Not just saw, but reached him in a way no one else ever had. The heroine didn’t just love him; she cracked him open.
Their bond was like soulmates who found safety in each other’s brokenness. The emotional depth here was real. If you’ve ever loved a story where love is the thing that saves, this is that book.
Highly recommend for readers who love:
💔 Emotionally guarded MMCs
🏒 Sports romance (yes, hockey fans, you’re covered!)
💞 Slow, deep, healing love
🖌️ Creative heroines (graphic designer!)
🖤 Trauma recovery done with care
July 12, 2025
This book was AMAZING! I have wanted this story for a while and it did not disappoint. The events in your life impact the rest of your life. You take it through your life, regardless of the therapy you do or don’t do. The backstory for Penn really shaped who he became. The impacts of his Jr hockey career truly shaped the man he became until he was faced with the events as they began unfolding in front of him. Mila was fantastic. She was strong and tell it like it is girl. A true force for Penn. once she walked back into his life the world changed for him.
The support of this team, and Mila changed the way he looked at life and decided to deal with the past.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
The support of this team, and Mila changed the way he looked at life and decided to deal with the past.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
July 16, 2025
This is the 17th book in this phenomenal series, and this is Penn and Mila’s story.
Penn has a past filled with trauma, and he is now the best player in the league, where hockey is his life. Mila was his partner in crime, and she represents the darkest parts of his past. Mila is on the run from a stalker, who is after them both.
This is a well written raw, gritty, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with teammates, suspense, danger, intrigue, friends / lovers, forced proximity, forbidden romance, sacrifices, redemption, healing, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Penn has a past filled with trauma, and he is now the best player in the league, where hockey is his life. Mila was his partner in crime, and she represents the darkest parts of his past. Mila is on the run from a stalker, who is after them both.
This is a well written raw, gritty, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with teammates, suspense, danger, intrigue, friends / lovers, forced proximity, forbidden romance, sacrifices, redemption, healing, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
July 17, 2025
With this book we get to learn why Penn is the way he is, a closed off loaner. When you hear the past and what happens, it makes sense why he keeps his teammates at arms length and is a bit snarly all the time.
Mila is part of that past and Penn does his damnedest to keep her away, but she finally gets him to listen to her and he very reluctantly lets her in and does what he can to help her with her problem, which is also his problem.
It was interesting to see Penn start to tell everyone what happened in the past, how they all reacted was just what Penn needed. The interview with the paper where Penn laid it all out, along with the dare was so great.
Hiring out security was a good move too. Let people that deal with this stuff do the hard part. And while things got a bit squirrely towards the end, it really was the best way to deal with the threat once and for all. I'm glad that Penn didn't stay mad at Mila for long, instead moved to talking about their future.
Mila is part of that past and Penn does his damnedest to keep her away, but she finally gets him to listen to her and he very reluctantly lets her in and does what he can to help her with her problem, which is also his problem.
It was interesting to see Penn start to tell everyone what happened in the past, how they all reacted was just what Penn needed. The interview with the paper where Penn laid it all out, along with the dare was so great.
Hiring out security was a good move too. Let people that deal with this stuff do the hard part. And while things got a bit squirrely towards the end, it really was the best way to deal with the threat once and for all. I'm glad that Penn didn't stay mad at Mila for long, instead moved to talking about their future.
July 2, 2025
Both Penn and Mila experienced a tough situation as teenagers. Instead of staying silent, they both did the right thing and went to the police. There were people who hated them for their choices.
Penn’s life was changed. He distances himself from his team because of what happened.
Mila is shunned by her family for telling the truth. She stays strong and moves on with her life.
Years later someone is threatening them. These two haven’t talked in years, but come together to help each other out. Through this they grow closer to one another.
I like how both characters stay strong together. These two go through a lot of emotions. This story has mystery, an emotional journey, and a second chance at enjoying life.
I can’t believe this is the 17th book in the series! Sawyer continues to do amazing things with the Pittsburgh Titans!
Penn’s life was changed. He distances himself from his team because of what happened.
Mila is shunned by her family for telling the truth. She stays strong and moves on with her life.
Years later someone is threatening them. These two haven’t talked in years, but come together to help each other out. Through this they grow closer to one another.
I like how both characters stay strong together. These two go through a lot of emotions. This story has mystery, an emotional journey, and a second chance at enjoying life.
I can’t believe this is the 17th book in the series! Sawyer continues to do amazing things with the Pittsburgh Titans!
July 7, 2025
Penn’s story is much anticipated by all & I felt his story was told well. Sawyer Bennett is known for her character growth & Mila Brennan helps Penn grow into a man who trusts again. After all these years.
When Mila comes to the last person she wants to for help, Penn is not real keen on helping. He’s closed himself off so much that he struggles to see how much Mila needs him.
But Mila being back in his life opens old wounds & makes both of them face their past.
Does Penn come around? Can Mila do the unthinkable and get Penn to leave the past in the past? Read this one to find out! As always this story left me with the perfect palette cleanser & book hangover.
When Mila comes to the last person she wants to for help, Penn is not real keen on helping. He’s closed himself off so much that he struggles to see how much Mila needs him.
But Mila being back in his life opens old wounds & makes both of them face their past.
Does Penn come around? Can Mila do the unthinkable and get Penn to leave the past in the past? Read this one to find out! As always this story left me with the perfect palette cleanser & book hangover.
July 2, 2025
I don’t think that there is enough words or a correct phrase that I could use to describe how much I loved Penn! I literally devoured this book! It had an intense vibe of the unknown. The suspense kept my anxiety up, which had me rapidly turning the pages! And the chemistry, my goodness! Camaraderie brought a smile to my face, recounting all the players and new ones that joined the gang! Looking forward to more! Incredible story!
July 6, 2025
4.5☆
I had forgotten how much mystery there was around Penn and how much I wanted to learn more about him. His past and how Mila fit into it made for such a great story. Both still carry marks from what it has done to them and shaped who they are. I was so invested in what was going to happen and loved the direction it took, especially with some other characters making an appearance. This was a really good listen!!!
I had forgotten how much mystery there was around Penn and how much I wanted to learn more about him. His past and how Mila fit into it made for such a great story. Both still carry marks from what it has done to them and shaped who they are. I was so invested in what was going to happen and loved the direction it took, especially with some other characters making an appearance. This was a really good listen!!!
July 15, 2025
Audio review 🎧
Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers, this has been such a good story. Both narrators capture their characters, Penn and Mila, and are so sure and expressive in the storytelling. Penn and Mila have a past that has woven deep thorns in their hearts and minds. This has made Mila so vulnerable and Penn remote as he stores his feelings and anxieties away from the light.
They have such a rocky path to follow as they navigate the new issues they have to face, while also finding love and solace. I loved the scenes with Penn's teammates and loved that Mila started to have friends around her. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers, this has been such a good story. Both narrators capture their characters, Penn and Mila, and are so sure and expressive in the storytelling. Penn and Mila have a past that has woven deep thorns in their hearts and minds. This has made Mila so vulnerable and Penn remote as he stores his feelings and anxieties away from the light.
They have such a rocky path to follow as they navigate the new issues they have to face, while also finding love and solace. I loved the scenes with Penn's teammates and loved that Mila started to have friends around her. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
Read
August 3, 2025DNF.
This was enjoyable, but it's all on me for dropping because the two MCs who never met in 10 years while bonded by a dreadful past come back to haunt them....were strangers and suddenly they're lovers? That insta-attraction part that turned too insta-love had me walking out.
This was enjoyable, but it's all on me for dropping because the two MCs who never met in 10 years while bonded by a dreadful past come back to haunt them....were strangers and suddenly they're lovers? That insta-attraction part that turned too insta-love had me walking out.
July 25, 2025
3,75 ⭐️
August 14, 2025
Loved it from start to finish and the audio was a chefs kiss..
September 19, 2025
Finally got to see why Penn was so closed off. Really liked the suspense in this one.
November 12, 2025
3.5 stars. a bit too much instalove and not a ton of connection between the mfc and mmc other than history. nice solid addition to the series. lined up Lucky well for his book.
July 9, 2025
5 Star Review Penn (Pittsburgh Titans #17) by Sawyer Bennett
Audio/eBook:
Penn was a wonderful addition to the Pittsburgh Titans series. It is Penn Navarro and Mila Brennan’s story and what a wonderful story it was.
Penn is a heartwarming, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. In fact this is my favourite book in the series.
These two have history and as we delved into Penn’s past to see what has caused him to withdraw from the world, I was on the edge of my seat.
I freely admit to tears while reading; this story really got to me on numerous levels.
When Mila seeks out Penn for help, his initial response is to ignore her. However, once he hears what’s happening, he steps up in a big way.
Turning to Jameson Force Security to investigate the danger for Mila and Penn it was wonderful to see some familiar faces.
One of the most heartwarming things about this series is the “found” family aspect. The friendship and camaraderie between the players and their partners adds an additional layer to the story.
The narration by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers was entertaining and they did a fantastic job. Not only did they bring all the romance, humour and passion of the story to life but they did justice to this emotional story with voices that are easy to listen to.
Penn is a well written, fast paced story that will quickly have you hooked.
Audio/eBook:
Penn was a wonderful addition to the Pittsburgh Titans series. It is Penn Navarro and Mila Brennan’s story and what a wonderful story it was.
Penn is a heartwarming, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. In fact this is my favourite book in the series.
These two have history and as we delved into Penn’s past to see what has caused him to withdraw from the world, I was on the edge of my seat.
I freely admit to tears while reading; this story really got to me on numerous levels.
When Mila seeks out Penn for help, his initial response is to ignore her. However, once he hears what’s happening, he steps up in a big way.
Turning to Jameson Force Security to investigate the danger for Mila and Penn it was wonderful to see some familiar faces.
One of the most heartwarming things about this series is the “found” family aspect. The friendship and camaraderie between the players and their partners adds an additional layer to the story.
The narration by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers was entertaining and they did a fantastic job. Not only did they bring all the romance, humour and passion of the story to life but they did justice to this emotional story with voices that are easy to listen to.
Penn is a well written, fast paced story that will quickly have you hooked.
July 26, 2025
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed Penn by Sawyer Bennett.
I found the storyline entertaining from start to end, the characters are likeable and relatable and watching their relationship unfold kept me turning the pages.
Another very entertaining read by Sawyer Bennett.
If you enjoy reading sports romances, especially around Hockey then I highly recommend you read the Pittsburgh Titans series.
I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I really enjoyed Penn by Sawyer Bennett.
I found the storyline entertaining from start to end, the characters are likeable and relatable and watching their relationship unfold kept me turning the pages.
Another very entertaining read by Sawyer Bennett.
If you enjoy reading sports romances, especially around Hockey then I highly recommend you read the Pittsburgh Titans series.
I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
August 3, 2025
Penn by Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers
17th in a series but can stand alone
Gifted copy. Affiliate links.
I’m Sawyer’s PA, so I fully admit this review might be a little biased—but I can promise you this: if I didn’t absolutely love the book, I wouldn’t be reviewing it at all. I started the Pittsburgh Titans series with North (book 16), and while I really enjoyed his story, it was Penn who intrigued me the most. After North, I couldn’t wait to get Penn in my hands.
Let me tell you, Penn completely lived up to—and even surpassed—my expectations. I can only imagine how much more satisfying this book would be for someone who’s been following the series from the beginning.
Penn is the best player in the league, but you wouldn’t know it from his demeanor. He’s angry, guarded, and keeps everyone at arm’s length. His teammates know there’s a story behind the walls he’s built, but he never opens up. Still, they respect him—and when the past comes knocking, they show up for him.
That “knock” is Mila, a woman from Penn’s past who approaches the team after a game, desperate to get in touch. The guys call Penn, but he makes it crystal clear he wants nothing to do with her. That doesn’t stop North from intentionally leaving his contact info open on his phone, giving Mila just enough access to find Penn on her own. (If you’ve read North, you’ll remember this moment—it’s recapped here too.)
At first, Penn sends her away. She’s a painful reminder of a past he’s tried to forget. But when he realizes Mila is receiving the same kind of anonymous threats that have been haunting him, his protective instincts kick in. He brings her into his home—his gated, alarmed, fortress of a home—to keep her safe.
Watching Penn’s emotional walls come down was my favorite part of the book. Penn is broody, closed-off, and hiding a past that finally catches up to him—and watching him let someone in for the first time is everything I hoped it would be. He even asks his teammates for help, something he’s never done before. If you’re a fan of the Jameson Force Security series, you’ll love the crossover as the elite protection team steps in to assist.
As a big romantic suspense fan, this hockey romance checked all the right boxes for me. It’s got just enough darkness to add depth, but what really stuck with me was the emotional payoff—seeing both Penn and Mila find light again after so many years living in the shadows. And even though I haven’t read all of the Pittsburgh Titans books, the team dynamic still pulled me in. If you have been following the series and waiting to unravel the mystery of Penn, I think his book will be even more rewarding for you.
The Narration: Chef’s kiss. Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers were absolutely perfect for these roles. They brought the characters to life in a way that added so much emotion to the story. I truly think the narration made the book even better.
I usually avoid reading other reviews before writing my own, but since I work for Sawyer, I’ve read quite a few for quote-pulling purposes—and I can say with confidence, readers are loving Penn. That said, I want to be transparent that there could be a little unconscious bias here. Still, this book hit me in all the right places, and I’m giving it 5 enthusiastic stars.
Rating: 5 Stars, 2.5 Heat, 4.5 Narration
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