THIS is exactly what I wanted out of Johnny and Shannon in book one. Gone was the awkward dialogue and instead was replaced with meaningful conversations.

One of my biggest issues with the first book was Shannon’s character— her development in this book was superb and believable. The way the whole book played out was raw and real, and definitely brought tears to my eyes a few times.

I also loved seeing more of the side characters this book, specifically Gibsie. His character had me laughing out loud quite a few times. Johnny and Gibsie’s friendship was heartwarming.

I just know Joey’s book is gonna absolutely gut me.

hands down my favorite series. i cried after finishing both of them . johnny and shannon have my heart forever. i could not get over their love story. oh and i also hate her father. i love her brother though. god this tore me up .

This was a great book to wrap up Johnny and Shannons story! If at all possible I loved Johnny even more in this book. Gibsie is my favorite character of all though! Honestly what makes this book so great is how lovable all of the side characters are. Johnnys mom is the best! Claire is such a great friend! Love everything about this series!

If you thought Binding was good…. Wait till you read this. We finally get to see the light at the end of Shannon and Johnny’s story.. In my wildest imagination, I would have never predicted this particular story being such a favorite of mine. And that is largely in part, because I usually do not like high school age romances. I think because this takes place in Ireland, same as binding 13, it doesn’t read like typical high school romance. Also, these characters are so well written, you can’t help but fall in love with no only them, but also the side characters like Gibsie and Claire. Johnnys growth, and the way he cares about Shannon, absolutely melted me. The house scene…. so maybe times I had to pause reading it, allow my heart rate to slow down, and then I could resume. The way that this author writes, I felt like I was inside of that house. This story is long, but if was unpredictable and had me on the edge of my seat, while simultaneously kicking my feet in the air. Chloe Walsh will forever be an instant, immediate pre-order author for me. I cannot wait to read Joey story next.

This second installment was heartbreakingly beautiful. I stayed up until 2 am finishing this and I was on a rollercoaster of emotions. This book showcases a lot of what happens in domestic violence households.

Every time I thought Shannon would catch a break the rug was pulled out of her but in this book you really see her put herself first and standing up. I was constantly cheering her on when she would push back!

There were a lot of funny moments in this book too! I love every character they bring something unique to the mix. Gibsie and Claire's banter had me rolling!

Incredible read!

Keeping 13 is one of the easiest, no-brainer 5 star reads of this year. It’s a continuation of Binding 13 and picks up right from the cliffhanger in a heavy scene involving Shannon’s mother, siblings and abusive father. First, I enjoyed this book even more than I did Binding 13 (which I already really liked). The writing transported me to Cork and Tommen
college and I felt as though I was right there with the characters. Reading this I laughed, cried and covered my eyes in calamitous moments (which there are many - check the warnings in the beginning of the book).

While she starts off at a rough space in the beginning of the book, Shannon’s development from anxious and fearful to more open and relaxed was heartwarming. After reading all that she’s been through, rooting for her and wishing her the best is inevitable. She is one of my favorite fictional characters I’ve read about this year. The found family aspect of this series in general is one of my favorites of all time.

Another great thing that Chloe Walsh achieves in this book is having Johnny be a fleshed out character, even with less of the ‘drama’ in his life. He is a leader and loyal friend to his teammates and is drive. And his most admirable trait (in my opinion) is the sheer love and respect he has for Shannon. While Shannon doesn’t want to be seen, all Johnny can see is Shannon. He really sets the example of boys in his genre.

I’m anticipating the next book in this series.

Thank you SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books and NetGalley for this e-ARC.

Tropes/Themes:
-MF contemporary romance
-High school (17H & 16h)
-Sports romance (hero is a rugby star)
-Popular hero x Bullied/timid heroine
-Friends to lovers
-Hurt/comfort
-Other woman drama
-Slow burn
-Set in Ireland
-Heavy content warnings
-Dual POV
-Book #2 in a duology (must be read in order)

I don’t know what else to say, this was an absolute masterpiece. This installment in particular was super long and super HEAVY, so be mindful to check CWs before diving in. The depictions of abuse and mental illness felt soooo real and tangible here, to the point that this was genuinely difficult to get through at times. It starkly contrasted with the beautiful and sweeping romance between Johnny and Shannon. Their romance was by no means an easy one. They were both faced with so many challenges and hardships (both individually and as a couple), but both came out stronger for it in the end. They truly felt like soul mates, and it was painful watching them go through so much. I absolutely adored the side characters as well and can’t wait to see some of them get their HEAs. Also, I wasn’t expecting for Johnny’s parents John and Edel to become the shining star of the book. They were fantastic.

I can confidently say that this duet will likely be at the top of my favorite reads of 2023.

CWs for child abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, emotional/mental abuse, alcohol abuse, drug use, bullying, and many more. I excluded some specific CWs for the sake of spoilers.

Story: 5/5

“Hi Shannon”
“Hi Johnny”
Ugh my heart. I loved this book so much, especially the second half. These books aren’t my normal go to but I’m so glad I decided to pick them up. This book packs an emotional punch while still having lots of lighthearted funny moments, high school petty drama, and heart swelling pieces. So much happened, it’s actually kinda crazy. This book felt like a big step up from the first while still giving us a lot of the familiarity from book one. It’s the same friends, the same school, the same (but also new) drama that had me hooked. At times, it was repetitive when it didn’t need to be so that drew it out for sure but I still ate it up entirely. Shannon and Johnny are just so freakin sweet and even though they’re still young their love is so special and connected. Let’s be totally honest though, Gibsie is the star of the show and I’m literally counting down the days until his book. Seriously, can I have it right now? This one also got me more excited to read Joey’s book. That man is complicated and damaged and I’m intrigued to get inside his head. But back to this book, thank goodness it’s dual POV, and thank goodness she’s a bit steamy cause I was DYING after the first one. I will say tho, there are some heavy, and I mean HEAVY, topics in this one so I do recommend looking up triggers before diving in. Now I shall twiddle my thumbs until the next Boys of Tommen book releases.

Tropes/themes
-sports romance
-found family
-shy girl/jock boy
-banter
-he falls hard
-dual pov






*triggers*
-bullying, drug use, alcoholism, child and domestic abuse, death

Loved the first book this was no exception. Great read and characters. I fell in love along with them. Must read here

I loved this book!!! I really did. It was an amazing conclusion to Johnny and Shannon's story and leaving a great opening for Joey's story. The story was heartbreaking. I truly felt for the characters, though I often had to remind myself that they were only 16/17/18 at the time so they were also kinda dumb.

I love Joey!!! I want to wrap him up and protect him!!!!

This book read like Wattpad-fic. Now, I am an Elder-Wattpadder, so this was like revisiting the books of my pre-teen/teen years. I can understand why this was not a good fit for some people, but it really didn't bother me too much.

Gibsie better get a book. He HAS to get a book. He's made me laugh out loud more than i think any character has.

Now the less fun stuff:

Some complaints:
- it seriously did not need to be so long. a total of 1600 pages for their story was insane and easily should've been shave down. did i still devour it??? YES
- i never need to hear "Shannon like the river" ever again. it didn't make sense to me at the start and never grew on me.
- i wish Shannon had more character development. In book#1, i was heartbroken for her. But a lot of those traits became annoying in this book because she wasn't growing and changing.

I’m fucking shaking I’m so happy

This was SUCH A GOOD ONE

I say that a lot, but it’s because the books deserve it and boy does this one deserve it.

The GROWTH?!

The FEELS?!

The rawness and vulnerability Shannon and Johnny showed and have with each other. I mean seriously. Johnny wasn’t afraid to be seen crying. He wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable with Shannon and they just encouraged each other. They are THE GOLDEN couple.

This book was fucking raw. I was fighting tears a good portion of the time but MAN THIS BOOK. I LOVED IT. I’m so glad they got their HEA cause I was gonna riot if they didn’t lol.

I would like to formally request a Johnny Kavanagh please and thank you.

𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 13 picks up Johnny and Sharon's tumultuous relationship but behold it's on the happy ever after train this time!

- ~ -

I don't wanna say bye to them!!!
Even though I'm fully aware they'll play supporting characters in the next few books there was something perfectly intimate about getting to know these characters and the way their inner monologues are written <3

It's honestly a great book I'd recommend everyone to read despite it being wayyy too long for my concentration because it is at its heart a story about resilience and courage from just the tiniest of helping hands :)

There are definitely some darker themes but for longer than there has been hate, there has been love and as always that shines through the brightest of all.

3.97 / 5✩

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘶𝘵𝘯𝘢𝘮 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

I really wanted to love these books because they are entertaining but the writing style makes it really difficult for me. The constant reminders of how tiny and fragile Shannon is get very repetitive and grating. I feel like these stories could have been told in half as many pages. I wish there had been more character development in this one. I do think these are great if you go into them knowing that to expect and wanting the experience of sort of a reality show in book form. I don’t regret reading them but I wouldn’t reread them again. I appreciate them for what they are and see the appeal that others see- but it’s just not quite my vibe.

5★

-found family
-emotionally heavy
-shy girl & popular guy
-boy obsessed

okay i want to start this off by saying that these books are HEAVY. their emotional rollercoasters. you’ll be laughing one minute and crying the next. please check triggers before reading, if you have any!

johnny & shannon are quite literally everything
these books are perfection. and i know everyone who’s experienced johnny & shannon know how special their connection is and how special they are as individual characters as well. johnny is popular and funny but also so dedicated to his passion he can’t see anything else. until shy, quiet, little shannon comes along. shannon is the epitome of strong. she has been through it and still perseveres!

not only are johnny & shannon everything but this whole series in general is so beautifully written. it will have you blushing, it will have you crying laughing, and it will make you feel emotionally unwell but these characters are a family. the found family vibes are so strong and you know it’s an amazing universe when people are already rooting and begging for side characters stories!

i don’t want to write to much else because you really should go into these books blind. just know you won’t regret it! if you’re thinking about reading these books, do it!

johnny’s family is a huge part of keeping 13 and i love seeing how his family so openly accepts not only shannon but the rest of the lynch’s as well. seeing shannon truly happy & with friends was absolutely everything. she deserves the whole world and its very clear that johnny will do just about everything in his power to give it to her.

these two are soulmates, twin flames, true loves! the more you read about these characters and their friends the easier it is to fall in love with the boys of tommen world.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Keeping 13" by Chloe Walsh is the gripping continuation of the love story that began in "Binding 13," part of the Boys of Tommen series. This novel, capturing the hearts of its TikTok following, dives deeper into the complex relationship between Johnny Kavanagh and Shannon Lynch, navigating the trials of young love against a backdrop of personal challenges and dark secrets.

Walsh's storytelling is emotionally rich and character-driven. Johnny, grappling with life changes after an injury that sidelines his beloved rugby career, is a relatable and multifaceted character. His journey from a sports star to someone finding his new place in the world is portrayed with sensitivity and depth. Shannon, on the other hand, is a character marked by resilience and secrecy. Her struggle to protect her little brothers and confront the evils she has encountered adds a layer of intensity and realism to the narrative.

The chemistry between Johnny and Shannon is palpable, evolving from a sweet romance to a deeper, more complex bond. Walsh skillfully navigates the ups and downs of their relationship, making their story both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. The dual perspectives offer a complete view of both characters' thoughts and feelings, enhancing the reader's connection to their story.

Set in Ireland, the novel’s backdrop adds an authentic and atmospheric layer to the story. The Irish setting, combined with the sports romance aspect, gives the novel a unique flavor, distinguishing it from other YA/new adult romances.

However, readers who haven't read "Binding 13" may find it challenging to fully grasp the depth of the characters' backstories and the context of their relationship. Additionally, the novel’s handling of heavy themes and the intensity of the characters' struggles may not be suitable for all YA readers.

Content warnings for themes of trauma, family challenges, and intense romantic relationships are appropriate. "Keeping 13" is ideal for readers who enjoy new adult/YA crossover romances, sports themes, and stories that explore the complexities of young love and personal growth.

In conclusion, "Keeping 13" by Chloe Walsh is a compelling and emotionally charged continuation of a beloved love story. Its rich character development, authentic setting, and blend of romance and real-life challenges make it a standout read for fans of the genre.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
This book was great! I can't wait to read more from this author.

5⭐️

This book was absolutely heartbreaking, gut wrenching, tear jerking as so much more. I adored this book with my entire heart and I am also sad that it’s over. Johnny and Sharon are two kindred spirits and their love is so strong and like no other. Johnny will put himself in every situation no matter the cost just to make sure that Shannon and her siblings are okay. The entire Kavanagh family is so sweet. The way that little Sean loved Johnny so much is the cutest thing ever. I cried so much my eyes are in pain but it was worth every tear. You will fall in love with Shannon like the river and you will fall in love with Johnny Kavanagh! This book was a masterpiece and everyone must read it!

Favorite Quote:
"Hi, Shannon. Hi, Johnny."

I love this series so much! This is definitely a series that is a little hard to explain and it’s one that you need to read and experience for yourself to really understand. To go through the journey with these amazing characters. These books are very long but you’ll never be bored with the story and you’ll never want the story to end once you get started! I can’t wait to continue reading the rest of this series. I’m obsessed. I highly recommend this series.

Thank you NetGalley and Bloom Books for the arc of this book.

The first book was good, but this book blew me away. It's a story that played with my heartstrings in the worst and best ways. It was one roller coaster ride full of emotions and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and simply put, I loved this book. I think anyone that enjoy a good high school, sports romance with great characters, friends and family will enjoy this story. This was a wonderful ending to Johnny and Shannon's story and although we got their HEA, I'm looking forward to more of them in the next few books because I just hadn't had enough of them. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and other books from this author.

Walsh has written a marvelous story that follows Johnny and Shannon as they discover themselves and heal over time. Johnny, a sidelined athlete and Shannon who is haunted by her past create an uncommon couple.

I loved the exploration of their individual struggles and how they completed each other. Simply flawed and very relatable.

This novel like the first one was well written with a heartbreaking plot line that flowed like honey. I kept coming back for more every single time.


Thank you to Chloe Walsh and Bloom Books for the eARC!