A Guide to Boys of Tommen series: Books 1 & 2”

I honestly don’t even know where to begin when it comes to these two books. Binding 13 and Keeping 13 hold such a special place in my heart. It’s been years since I first read them, and I still haven’t been able to move on from Johnny and Shannon’s love story.

These books deal with sensitive topics such as domestic violence, emotional abuse, bullying, depression, and anxiety, so it’s important to keep that in mind before reading.

But the truth is, I will never stop recommending them. Even though they can be heartbreaking at times, they also tell an incredibly beautiful story. Throughout the books, you get to see how the characters begin to heal and overcome their trauma with the help of the people around them.

At its core, the story follows Shannon, a quiet and guarded girl trying to survive both school and a difficult home life, and Johnny, a popular rugby player who seems to have everything together. Their worlds collide in unexpected ways, and what starts as a simple connection slowly grows into something deeper, as they learn to trust, protect, and support each other through everything.

Main characters:

• Johnny Kavanagh — the golden boy everyone admires, but with a softer and more protective side than people expect.

• Shannon Lynch — quiet, resilient, and incredibly strong, even when she doesn’t realize it herself.

Tropes:

• friends to lovers

• protective MMC

• hurt/comfort

• found family

• slow burn

• opposites attract

Why I love this books:

I love how real these books feel. You get both Shannon and Johnny’s POV, which really helps you understand where their actions come from and what they’re thinking. I love how Johnny becomes obsessed with Shannon from the very beginning, and how it turns into such a sweet love story—it’s impossible not to fall in love with them.

They both face very real struggles, and it’s so heartwarming to watch them overcome their issues while also being there for each other.

While the story touches on sensitive subjects, it also has so many funny moments. There’s banter, and a friend group that truly feels like family.

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