Order to Read Chloe Walsh Books

Chloe Walsh has made a name for herself in the modern romance space, with her popular Boys of Tommen book series going viral on Booktok with both romance readers and lovers of contemporary fiction alike.

Based in County Cork, Ireland, and set in the early 2000’s, the Boys of Tommen series is every bit nostalgic, fun, and real, with the author’s ability to write realistic teenage friendships, relationships, and all the emotions that come with growing up. Walsh’s series is written with Irish slang which can be easily followed using the glossary in the beginning of the books.

So, if you’re ready to step through the doors of Tommen College and into the world that Chloe Walsh has written with heart and compassion, read on to know just where to start.

Chloe Walsh Books in Order

If you’re new to Chloe Walsh books, we recommend reading them in order to fully appreciate the development of her characters and overarching storylines. Starting with the first novel, Binding 13,  and moving through the rest of the Boys of Tommen series in order means you get to appreciate the growth and transformations that define the beloved protagonists at Tommen College.

Please be advised that these books come with trigger warnings, including drugs and abuse, and are intended for mature readers.

The Boys of Tommen Series

The popular book series, Boys of Tommen, begins with Binding 13, a tale of young love and heartache set against the backdrop of an elite Irish rugby school. The story continues through Keeping 13, Saving 6, Redeeming 6, and Taming 7, each book delving deeper into the lives of the characters as they navigate love, trauma, and the complexities of growing up. 

Binding 13 (Boys of Tommen #1) (2018)

Why we love it: 

- The characters have so much depth, which is rare for some romance books, making their love story more compelling and creating an emotional connection.
- The gripping portrayal of teenage life and slow-burn romance is captivating and resonates with readers.

The first instalment in the Boys of Tommen series by Chloe Walsh follows Johnny Kavanagh, a star rugby player who has everything going for him, and new girl Shannon, desperate for a fresh start away from bullies. On her first day, she bumps into the infamous Johnny, and is once again the target of some vicious students. As Johnny and Shannon navigate a complex friendship and struggle with their undeniable chemistry, they must confront challenges that put their relationship to the test. With tropes including sports romance, found family, friends to lovers, and grumpy-sunshine, this slow burn romance explores the power friendship can have on healing.

Binding 13 Quotes (Spoiler-Free)

- “I think I need you for keeps.” “I think I need you for keeps, too.”
- “If this is love, then it’s you. You are love”
- “Boys with pretty eyes and big muscles mess everything up for girls”
- “Now, tell me who made you cry and I’ll fix it”

Keeping 13 (Boys of Tommen #2) (2018)

Why we love it: 

- It’s a gripping continuation of Johnny and Shannon’s story.
- The side characters are equally as deep and interesting as the two main characters.

Keeping 13, the explosive sequel to Binding 13, picks up where the first book ended. As their relationship deepens, both Johnny and Shannon have to confront their personal demons as secrets are exposed and their lives are changed. Chloe Walsh’s second book in the Boys of Tommen series is an emotional and intense read that combines romance with serious themes, making it a compelling continuation of Johnny and Shannon’s story. 

Keeping 13 Quotes (Spoiler-Free)

- “I want your trouble, and your complications, and everything else that comes with you.”
- “Every bit of me misses every bit of you.”
- “You show up and all the bad just...goes away for a little while.”
- “That very first time I saw you? You sparked to life something inside of me.”

Saving 6 (Boys of Tommen #3) (2023)

Why we love it:

- A compelling friends to lovers read that offers a blend of familiarity, trust, and the excitement of romance with an already strong emotional connection.
- It has raw and emotional gripping storyline.

Saving 6 is a raw and emotional story following Joey Lynch as he struggles with the burdens of abuse, addiction, and protecting his siblings. Aoife Molloy, who has long harboured feelings for Joey, becomes increasingly involved in his life, determined to help him overcome his inner demons. Set in Ireland before Binding 13 begins (1999-2004), the novel explores themes of love, trauma, and redemption, highlighting the power of resilience and the impact of unconditional support on the path to healing. 

Saving 6 Quotes (Spoiler-Free)

- “Because you might not love yourself, but I do. I love you enough for the both of us”
- “Don’t worry, Peter Pan. I’ll be your Wendy”
 

Redeeming 6 (Boys of Tommen #4) (2023)

Why we love it:

- The compelling character arcs of Joey and Aoife’s growth is well-developed, making their journey both relatable and inspiring.
- It’s filled with romantic tension, making the connection between the two main characters deeply engaging.

Redeeming 6 continues the emotional journey of Joey Lynch as he battles his lingering trauma while trying to protect his loved ones. This book delves into Joey’s struggle to break free from destructive patterns, with the unwavering support of Aoife. As their relationship is tested by the harsh realities of Joey's life, they must navigate the complexities of love, sacrifice, and healing. For readers who loved Saving 6, this sequel provides a satisfying continuation of Joey and Aoife's story, deepening their connection and challenges.
 

Redeeming 6 Quotes (Spoiler-Free)

- “That’s enough for me,” I told him, voice thick with emotion. “You’re enough for me.”
- “All flowers bloom, Joe, even the late ones. And sometimes, it's the late blooming flower that makes the biggest impact.”

Taming 7 (Boys of Tommen #5) (2024)

Why we love it:

- A perfect blend of heartbreaking moments with scenes that are funny and lighthearted.
- Whilst focusing on two different characters, it feels like a reunion with the rest of the Boys of Tommen gang.

Chloe Walsh’s fifth book in the Boys of Tommen series, Taming 7, sees lovable Gibsie as our main character. Despite his trauma, Gibsie is the fun class clown using humour to cope with his past. Claire Biggs, the stereotypical sunshine girl and Gibsie's childhood best friend, has alwasy loved Gibsie, seeing a side to him that no one else does. In Walsh's latest contemporary fiction book, we see a test of friendship mixed with tension and banter between the two love interests. 

Taming 7 Quotes (Spoiler-Free)

- “Because this boy had always been my favourite boy. My favourite friend, person, human, everything.”
- "Moments before the pain in my lungs exploded and everything went dark, I saw it. A halo of light. An orb of pure sunshine. Her. I saw her. And that’s when I knew. That’s when I knew…”

Happy Reading! 

Chloe Walsh's Boys of Tommen series is more than just a collection of romance novels; it's a deeply emotional journey that captures the essence of young love, friendship, and the struggles of growing up. Through the series, Walsh expertly weaves together themes of resilience, trauma, and healing, creating characters that resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

The depth of the relationships and the authenticity of the challenges faced by the characters make this series a standout in the new adult genre. For those new to her work, reading her books in order provides the best experience, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world she has intricately crafted.

For more book inspiration, we have top picks for easy summer reading and the best reads for a staycation that are sure to multiply your 'to-be-read' pile!