WOW! What a splendid surprise this book turned out to be. Absolutely gorgeous writing and storytelling in so few pages. The cover is artistic brilliance. Which is fitting, as what is between the pages is also. A favorite of this year, possibly forever. ( )

Rónán Hession made his name with his kind and comforting debut Leonard and Hungry Paul that has gone on to growing commercial success and acclaim. His second novel, Panenka (Bluemoose Books), had a hard act to follow as a result, and the Dublin based author has, for me, not only matched it but built additional layers of maturity and complexity in this book full of life lessons, wisdom, and often, kindness. The main character is nicknamed ‘Panenka’ after an avoidable incident of embarrassment on the field that had long lasting implications for the local football club, and also potentially for the town. This is his story many years later and his relationship with several key family and friends. I was drawn in completely and wished for his redemption and closure. It’s a pleasure thinking back after finishing this book and for some reason, the Panenka in my mind’s eye looks like Mark Rylance – roll on the screen or stage adaptation. I hope this novel goes on to great success and I will recommend it to those who ask what to read over the summer. It’s just the right length and a beautifully published package too from the impressive indie Bluemoose Books. ( )