Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh

“Binding 13” is the first book in the “Boys of Tommen” series and follows the intertwined lives of Johnny Kavanagh and Shannon Lynch. Johnny is a talented rugby player at Tommen College, admired and respected by his peers. Shannon, on the other hand, is a new student who carries the weight of a traumatic past and an abusive home life. When Shannon starts at Tommen, she hopes to keep a low profile, but her path crosses with Johnny’s, and he becomes drawn to her quiet strength and vulnerability. As their friendship grows, Johnny becomes a source of support and protection for Shannon, who slowly begins to open up and trust him. The novel explores themes of resilience, trust, and the healing power of love as Johnny and Shannon navigate the challenges of adolescence, personal trauma, and their deepening connection.