Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh

Binding 13 is a young adult romance novel, written by Chloe Walsh. This was my first read by Chloe and one of those elusive and magical novels where I read it once and immediately dove back in for a second taste. 

First, this novel is heavy, and you’ve been warned. This brings up uncomfortable topics, shitty situations. Not everyone is able to be saved at the book’s end. That being said, I have reread it multiple times since my first reading earlier this year. The depth of the character building is AMAZING. I was totally surprised when I read it the first time. Once in a blue moon a book will hit you in all the right places and this one is a total win for me. I even added it to my Favorites of All Time, not an easy feat. 

There are two main characters and several supporting characters that are really important to the story. The novel’s main focus is on Shannon and Johnny. These two have a meet-cute that stirs something for Johnny that he is unfamiliar and uncomfortable with. Shannon, on the other hand, has been brutally bullied for her schooling career and on her first day at a private school meets Johnny. Shannon, due to the bullying and other reasons, is naïve to Johnny’s queues and romance is not on her radar. 

That is the romantic basis for the story but there is so much more to it. Domestic violence, absent parents, gentle parenting styles, sports, slow burn romance, suspense, drug use, adoption, family services, bullying – there is a lot to unpack. I don’t think I could possibly hit every single plot line but there are several. Walsh’s writing style puts you right in the thick of the situations. I really felt close to the characters. It was a wild ride, I was there every step of the way. 

This is one of those books that I can gush about. It really rooted itself in me and carved it’s own little spot where I don’t see it leaving for some time. There is a second novel, Keeping 13 and a new one set to be released any day. I did fly right into Keeping 13 after I did a few rereads of Binding 13. It wraps up Johnny and Shannon’s story nicely. I like the second novel but I feel like the first is where all the raw feelings hit home for me. 

This is not a light read. Shannon’s life has not been kind to her and that trauma bleeds into all aspects of her life. Isn’t that how it really is though? Binding 13 is a gripping and well thought out novel. I will also note that this is set in Ireland. As we know, I love words and I love hearing and experiencing other languages – the Irish brogue was just icing on the cake. 

 It is my first work by Chloe Walsh, I did read a few others after reading Binding 13 but they didn’t measure quite like Binding 13 did. I am excited to read the next novel in the series as it focuses on one of the supporting characters. However, from what I have read the author had some unexpected bundles, yes two – kudos to her cause it is not walk in the park, so she has understandably taken time to focus on her new babes.

This is an easy five stars for me, very slightly steamy.

To purchase click here.

For more from Chloe Walsh, click here.