Okay friends, this is a two for one special. From other reviews I’ve read, you can either hate these books, or love them. If you ask me, Binding & Keeping 13 were two of my favorite reads this year!
Johnny Kavanagh and Shannon Lynch ABSO-FREAKING-LUTELY have my heart!
Tropes: Sports romance, found family and high school.
I loved these characters so much that I just don’t think I’ll ever get over their relationship. It’s obvious that Shannon definitely has some major trauma she has to work through and I understand why some people may think she’s weak and her behavior is repetitive, but I honestly think that is intentional.
I love that their relationship is very slow building because I feel as though that makes it more realistic and relatable.
It’s funny, because the way these two meet is so unconventional and completely unexpected.
The great thing about these books is that Shannon and Johnny start off as friends developing an unspoken trust between one another that eventually grows into something more.
I’m sure most of us like Shannon, can relate to feeling like an outcast at times or have even felt vulnerable and alone. Fortunately, all it takes is for our own personal Johnny to make us feel seen. 🙂
I love how mature Johnny is for his age and how he helps Shannon build confidence in the areas she hates about herself.
On a side note, we can’t leave out our lovebirds group of friends! Out of the bunch, Gerard Gibson is definitely my favorite.
Gibsie is absolutely hilarious and the things he says will have you stupidly laughing out loud! Also the way he calls his love interest Claire “Claire Bear” is just adorable.
To get to the not so fun parts, I just want to say that Shannon’s dad is straight up a horrible person and her poor brother Joey, I feel so awful for him! *tears*
I have a legitimate dislike for Shannon’s mother even though I eventually feel sorry for her.
Johnny’s parents on the other hand are *chefs kiss* couple goals! They are funny, caring and understanding parents who only want what’s best for their son. Not to mention they are so selfless and just good people.
Lastly we can’t leave out the fact the Johnny is destined to be the next big rugby star. If you didn’t know about or like rugby before , you’re definitely going to be interested now!
If you’re looking for spice, this isn’t a book for you. Level: 1.5/5
overall rating: 5/5
If you end up reading these, I would love to know what your thoughts were! Did you love it? Hate it? Let me know and comment below!
where to buy:
available on kindle unlimited
or
links to purchase below! 🙂
Binding 13 : https://amzn.to/3Yk3sK6
Keeping 13: https://amzn.to/3BQs2tf
