BINDING / keeping 13 (BOYS OF TOMMEN #1 & 2)
I have read the first book three times, and the second one twice. I have never reread a series this much and loved every page each time. This book (and entire series) is easily one of my top three books of all time. The story revolves around a traumatized young girl named Shannon (like the river), and a rugby athlete named Johnny. Their journey together renders the reader completely enraptured and desperate for the next page. The found-family aspect of the novel is so heart-warming! All of the characters (almost) are so lovable, and there are so many moments where you can’t help but grin like a fool. This book (and the next ones) gave me ALL the emotions. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that the writing was immaculate by any means, but the story manages to captivate you all the same.
This series contains and addresses many sensitive subjects, so please be sure to read the trigger warnings before reading. That being said, while some of the parts are difficult to read, the characters’ growth and strength will astound you. The close relationship between the main characters is carefully cultivated over the course of the two novels is absolutely spellbinding. All of the characters contribute to the overall feeling of love and trust. Each time I’ve read the books I have felt so grateful to be able to experience the story again and again.
I love love. I have always been a hopeless romantic, a lover girl, a love enthusiast. These books just hit different. My cheeks would actually hurt from smiling so much! Of course there were tears shed too. You can’t help but be emotionally intertwined with the characters, feeling their joy and pain as if it’s your own. The unconditional love between not only Johnny and Shannon, but all of their friend group and families is so touching. It provides the support needed to make it through the difficult stages of the books. I will recommend this series until the day I die.
I want to be clear that I understand that this book/series is not for everyone. Just because I loved it doesn’t mean everyone will. But I had to include it in my list since it lives in my head rent free 24/7. I fell in love with all of the characters so quickly, and I hate to be finished them again to be honest. Each book is around 600ish pages, and for some people that might seem long but I loved it so much I wish I could have MORE. Of course, there are six books out right now and you do get to continue to experience the true friendship and family between the characters, just with the spotlight on different characters at a time.