A review by bookishlychar
Keeping 13 by Chloe Walsh

challenging dark emotional hopeful sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This book picks up immediately after the end of Binding 13. We continue to follow Johnny and Shannon's lives and the repercussions of what happened in the first book. Johnny's recovery from his injury is long and hard, but he is determined to discover what is happening with Shannon. He remembers something she said but isn't sure what it meant. Pain and secrets are exposed and these two must decide if their love can handle it. 

This book was so good. Johnny and Shannon have been through so much in their young lives and watching them learn and grow from this was amazing. They, especially Shannon, have overcome so much. I couldn't believe the book was heavier than the first one and everything it tackles. The way Chloe Walsh writes the pain and trauma of these characters is so heartfelt and true to life. She doesn't write about perfect people, she writes people with flaws that you love and care for. 

Seeing Johnny and Shannon's love blossom was glorious. There were so many times that you didn't know if they would end up together, but it does pay off. I did find both to be immature at times, but then I reminded myself that we were reading about a 16 and 18-year-old. 

There are so many side characters in this book that I loved continuing to get to know as well. We have a friendship group that was there for both Johnny and Shannon when they needed it. I also thought that Johnny's parents were so caring and supportive. I loved getting to know more about Shannon's siblings in this book and loved how close and protective of each other they were. 

I loved this book. I loved Johnny and Shannon. Be aware that this book tackles a lot of difficult topics, take care to be gentle with yourself when reading it. If you want a heartfelt story about the messiness of growing up, this would be a perfect book for you.