Pitty by Inken Bermann is an undeniably intense and compelling dive into the darker side of romance, pulling no punches from the very first page. If you're looking for an unapologetically possessive hero and a heroine drawn to the storm, you've found your next read.
Our protagonist, Rose, seems to have a meticulously crafted perfect life ideal best friend, loving family, and a clear career path. However, this perfectly laid world is shattered when Ezekiel, her troublesome high school crush, re-enters her life. His charm and relentless determination are powerful, and we see Rose fall back into his orbit, even as red flags begin to wave frantically. The narrative does an excellent job of showing how easy it is to become blind to what's right in front of you when your heart is involved, especially when a deeply troubled, brutalized dog is added to the emotional equation, ensuring Rose's heart is completely on the line.
Ezekiel is the quintessential anti-hero he lives with his darkness like it's his best friend, using it as a shield for the dogs he rescues and a tool for karma. His perspective is chillingly possessive; he’s convinced Rose is his and has been since the moment he first saw her. The tension between his protective instincts and his controlling tendencies is palpable, driving the story forward with an intoxicating sense of danger.
Now, let's address the elephant in the room or rather, the nickname. The decision to call the main female character "Slutpuppy" is undeniably bold and unconventional. For some, this will be an immediate turn-off, and I admit it initially made me raise an eyebrow, questioning the author's choice. However, within the context of this specific dark romance, and Ezekiel's deeply possessive, slightly unhinged persona, it fits. It's a stark, almost jarring, reminder of the genre's edge and his somewhat objectifying, yet ultimately devoted, controlling nature, challenging the reader and setting a very clear tone for the kind of relationship portrayed. It definitely marks this book as not for the faint of heart, or those who prefer more traditional romance tropes.
While the intensity, the unique blend of darkness with the dog rescue element, and the twisted chemistry kept me thoroughly engaged, that particular nickname is a strong choice that might make this less universally appealing, preventing a full five stars for me personally. It's truly a 'know what you're getting into' element that could be a deal-breaker for some readers, even if it serves the story's overall dark aesthetic.
Ultimately, Pitty is a compelling, high-stakes read for those who enjoy their romance on the darker, more possessive side, with morally grey heroes and heroines willing to dance with danger. Be warned, it doesn't shy away from uncomfortable territory, but if you're up for the challenge, you might just find yourself completely lost to its grip.