Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh is the first book of the Boys of Tommen series. This is the first book I have read, and I have yet to read the second one. To be quite honest, I am not a super huge fan of romance novels, but this book is outside the scope of the concept of a romance novel as it is an emotional, yet humorous story about self discovery, and the formation of two contrasting souls. 

Shannon Lynch is a fragile, deeply scarred girl who transfers to Tommen College after fifteen years of being harassed and  bullied in hopes of a fresh start. She hides every drop of blood, tears and sweat behind silence.

Johnny Kavanagh, on the other hand, is the confident, talented rugby star with a future that looks bright and successful. Love and building relationships never was or is on his radar. He is too busy to think—until Shannon after an awkward, uncomfortable encounter.

 Shannon’s eyes show pain that she refuses to uncover, while Johnny grows a sense of protectiveness and empathy for her, and hopes to heal her wounds. People see her as the broken, fragile girl. Yet, Johnny sees more to her than anyone in the world would know.

Like I said, this book is not just a cheesy romance on a rugby field—it’s about healing, self growth, trust, and learning that living life to the fullest is always worth it when you fill it with compassion. Shannon and Johnny’s slow, hilarious, and messy connection is worth the read.

If you have one too many standards and expectations, Binding 13 will hook you page by page and book by book. Happy Reading!