A Deep Dive into Friendship, First Love, and Healing
Welcome back to Ginger’s Book Corner! Today, we’re stepping into one of the most emotionally charged, beautifully written series I’ve ever read—The Boys of Tommen by Chloe Walsh.
Set in Cork, Ireland, this series blends coming-of-age drama with deep emotional healing, unforgettable friendships, and some of the slowest-burn romances you’ll ever experience. If you’re new to the series or looking to catch up before the next instalment (Releasing 10—we see you, Hughie & Lizzie!), here’s everything you need to know.
Reading Order at a Glance:
- Binding 13 – Shannon & Johnny (Part 1)
- Keeping 13 – Shannon & Johnny (Part 2)
- Saving 6 – Joey’s Backstory
- Redeeming 6 – Joey’s Present-Day Story
- Taming 7 – Gibsie & Claire’s Story
- Releasing 10 – Hughie & Lizzie’s Story (Coming Soon)
Book-By-Book Summary (Spoiler-Free!)
Binding 13
The series begins with Shannon Lynch, a painfully shy and traumatized girl switching schools in search of safety and a fresh start. At Tommen College, she crosses paths with Johnny Kavanagh, the golden boy of Irish schools rugby. What begins as quiet companionship slowly builds into something profound and life-changing.
This is the definition of a slow-burn romance, but the true heart of the story lies in the care, protection, and friendship that develops first. With rich character development, school dynamics, and a heavy focus on internal growth, it’s the perfect introduction to this emotionally gripping series.
Keeping 13
A direct continuation of Shannon and Johnny’s journey, Keeping 13 dials up the intensity. With Shannon beginning to find her voice and Johnny forced to confront the pressures and darkness in his own life, the stakes rise both emotionally and physically.
This book dives even deeper into mental health, family trauma, and learning how to feel safe in love. Their connection is tested on all levels, and their growth — both individually and as a couple — is at the center of it all.
Expect heartbreak, healing, and some of the most moving, gut-wrenching scenes in the series.
Saving 6
This prequel takes us back to Joey Lynch’s teen years — and it’s a heavy, emotionally raw experience. Joey, Shannon’s older brother, has always been the protective, angry, misunderstood presence. Here, we learn why.
We witness the brutal reality of his home life, his love for his siblings, and the unbearable weight of responsibility on his shoulders.
While not a romance at its core, Saving 6 lays bare addiction, neglect, poverty, and trauma in a way that’s unapologetically real.
It’s a heartbreaking but essential read that gives depth to one of the most complex characters in the series.
Redeeming 6
After everything he’s endured, Joey’s story continues in the present — and this time, he gets his chance at redemption.
This book shows us the long, hard road of recovery: learning to forgive yourself, opening up to others, and allowing yourself to love.
There’s a romance arc here that’s tender and redemptive, but the true focus remains on Joey’s internal battle.
One of the most powerful books in the series, Redeeming 6 is about hope, healing, and how love can’t save you — but it can help you save yourself.
Taming 7
If you’ve read the first books, you already know Gibsie — the hilarious, oversized, fiercely loyal best friend who’s always the comic relief. In Taming 7, we finally see behind his mask.
This story follows Gibsie and Claire, a more introverted and guarded character who grounds him in ways he doesn’t expect. Their relationship is filled with sweetness, laughter, tension, and growth.
This book still tackles real issues like grief and insecurity, but it brings a lighter energy to the series and highlights the beauty of slow, unexpected love.
It’s both comforting and emotionally layered — and shows that even the loudest voices can hide the deepest fears.
Releasing 10 (Coming May 27th)
The next chapter in the Boys of Tommen world is almost here — and it’s Hughie and Lizzie’s turn to step into the spotlight.
These two side characters have quietly captured readers’ hearts in earlier books, and now they’re finally getting the depth and attention they deserve.
Early teasers suggest that Releasing 10 will explore themes of guilt, vulnerability, loyalty, and young love pushed to the limit.
If you love characters who hold it all in until they break — then rebuild themselves stronger — you’ll want to have tissues on hand for this one.
Core Themes Across the Series
What ties all these books together is Chloe Walsh’s unapologetic portrayal of real-life struggles. Each character deals with their own battles, and nothing is sugarcoated. Here are some of the themes you’ll see woven throughout:
- Mental health & emotional trauma
- Generational abuse and survival
- Found family & unconditional friendship
- First love & healing relationships
- Masculinity, vulnerability & emotional growth
- Coming of age under pressure
It’s not just romance—it’s recovery, self-worth, and resilience.
Setting That Feels Like Home
The Irish backdrop is more than just scenery—it shapes the story. The slang, the culture, the school setting, the rugby obsession—it all grounds the characters in a world that feels genuine and immersive.
Whether it’s the hallways of Tommen College or the cramped Lynch household, every setting contributes to the emotional atmosphere of the story.
Why Readers Love the Boys of Tommen
Readers return to this series again and again because it’s authentic. The romances aren’t idealized—they’re earned. The friendships feel like lifelines. And the characters make you feel everything from laughter to heartbreak, sometimes on the same page.
There’s growth, pain, hope, and healing in every book—and by the end, these characters feel like people you’ve known your whole life.
Who Should Read This Series?
This series is perfect for fans of:
- Slow-burn romance with depth
- Emotional character-driven storytelling
- Strong friendship dynamics
- Found family and healing arcs
- Books that make you feel
A Note on Content Warnings
Chloe Walsh is careful to include content warnings at the start of each book—and for good reason. These stories cover heavy subjects: abuse, addiction, mental illness, and more. If you’re a sensitive reader, it’s worth checking the warnings before diving in.
That said, these books offer tremendous emotional payoff. They’re about finding light in the darkest places, and they will stay with you.
What’s Next?
We’ve followed Johnny, Shannon, Joey, Claire, Gibsie, and now we’re heading toward Releasing 10, where we’ll get to know Hughie and Lizzie like never before. Expect emotional turmoil, character growth, and (hopefully!) another swoony romance to obsess over.
And beyond that? Readers are eagerly awaiting to see what other books may tie up loose ends and bring even more resolution to this unforgettable cast.
Final Thoughts
The Boys of Tommen isn’t just a romance series—it’s a journey through trauma, trust, and transformation. Every single book has left a lasting impression, and for me, this is a solid 5-star series across the board. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and I’ve fallen head over heels for these beautifully broken characters.
With Releasing 10—Hughie and Lizzie’s highly anticipated story—set to release on May 27th, I honestly cannot wait to dive back into this world. If you haven’t started the series yet, now’s the perfect time to get caught up.
If you have not read The Boys Of Tommen by Chloe Walsh yet. . . Run – Don’t walk!
Which Tommen couple stole your heart — and why? Let me know in the comments!👇
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