The Truth We Never Told

Gripped #1

by Stacy A. Padula

The Gold Winner for "Best Teen Book" in the 2022 Readers' Choice Book Awards—now being adapted for TV by Emmy Award-winning producer Mark Blutman!

One choice. One secret. No way back.

In Montgomery, Massachusetts, everyone’s connected—friends, families, secrets.

Taylor Dunkin had it all: star athlete, hometown legend, future NFL prospect. But one devastating injury changes everything, pulling him into a hidden battle that threatens to destroy him … and everyone around him.

As pills spread through high school parties and close-knit circles, lives unravel. His brother Marc fights to uncover the truth. Cousins and friends like charismatic Chris, brilliant Jason, charming Luke, and anxious Cathy get caught in the web—where one experiment can spiral into disaster.

How far will the damage go before someone breaks?

210 pages, ebook

Published May 21, 2024

About the author

Stacy A. Padula is an award-winning author, educator, and entrepreneur from Massachusetts known for authentic young adult realistic fiction that explores teen life with honesty, heart, and hope.

She grew up in Pembroke, MA and began writing her Montgomery Lake High series as a teenager to fill a gap for realistic YA stories tackling substance abuse, bullying, mental health, faith, family, and redemption. Her Gripped series (a prequel/sequel companion) follows a tight-knit group navigating football, first loves, parties, addiction, and consequences—it's currently in development for television by Emmy-winning producer Mark Blutman.

Stacy is also co-author (with NBA coach Brett Gunning) of the award-winning On the Right Path children’s book series for ages 3–8, endorsed by Joel Osteen, Mike D’Antoni, and Kevin McHale.

Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Realistic Fiction

Start here: The Truth We Never Told (Gripped #1) or the Montgomery Lake High series.

Website: stacyapadula.com | Instagram: @author_stacypadula

Reviews

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The abuse of drugs and alcohol has been a reoccurring theme in America for years, but how often is the narrative of its impact on young teenagers truly illuminated? Although young teenagers are often told about the dangers of drugs by adults, they seldom see how drugs impact people like them. Without seeing examples of the effect of drugs on people their age, it is harder to take the topic seriously. However, what Gripped does is showcase stories about young teens who have fallen victim to drug abuse, therefore opening readers’ minds, shifting their perspectives, and expanding their wisdom.

Gripped: The Truth We Never Told is part one of a young-adult series that tackles the infamous epidemic taking over many young Americans--drugs. This story follows multiple protagonists as they explore all that they believe middle school has to offer. Readers are brought along on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, budding love, and how one poor decision will start a domino effect that leaves the characters trapped in a world of total chaos.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book, Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told, by Stacy Padula is a coming of age story that teaches readers about the consequences of substance abuse. One of the main characters, Taylor Dunkin, becomes addicted to drugs after a major knee injury caused by football. Taylor’s drug abuse becomes more damaging when he starts dealing drugs to teenagers that he knows. Later in the story, Taylor finds himself in a police investigation that involves another drug dealer he knows. The police rely on Taylor’s brother, Marc, to inform Taylor about the investigation. Another main character in the story is a young girl named Cathy Kagelli. Who, in the beginning,struggles with not having many friends and feels very alone. But, when her twin sister, Chantal, starts including her with her friends and invites her to parties, Cathy develops a friend group. One boy in particular, named Jason Davids, catches Cathy’s eye and the two of them begin a romantic relationship. Cathy and her new friends start to hang out at their friend Chris Duncan’s house, where Chris’ cousins, Taylor and Jordan, throw parties, causing them to be exposed to drinking and smoking.
This book is a quick and easy read for high school and middle school aged readers. It teaches lessons about the consequences and dangers of substance abuse and serves as a warning for teenagers who may start experimenting with different substances, to reconsider. I rate this book a 5/5 because it keeps the readers entertained and gives life lessons that will stick with the readers.

[Sarah Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throughout Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told, by Stacy Padula, us readers learn the realities of some high school students that are often underestimated by those indirectly affected by high school traumas. The story starts by introducing Taylor Dunkin’s crushed NFL football career, as a result of the use of harmless painkillers which led to dangerous drug abuse. The readers are only left to wonder where his recovery path will end up and where the future will take him. Meanwhile, Taylor’s supportive family is heartbroken to hear about his devastated dreams and harmful new lifestyle. Taylor's younger brother Marc, a sweet and successful teenager, is the most affected.

Meanwhile, the younger generation of Montgomery Lake High is first experimenting with drinking and partying, and several different storylines play out. The readers learn about Cathy and Jason’s new relationship and Cathy’s twin sister, Chantal’s break up. We learn how drugs and alcohol can easily ruin relationships and tear people apart, even twin sisters who have been attached since birth. Gripped Part 1 begins to unfold the stories of innocent teenagers and we are only left to wonder how drug abuse will affect them going forward. I enjoyed reading this book because I could easily hold my attention. I believe it to be informative and captivating and an important wake-up call to most readers!

[Jack Stanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy A. Padula’s book Gripped: The Truth We Never Told is a modern day depiction of teenage life. With characters, scenes, and themes revolving around drug abuse, Padula utilizes her insight on teenagers to convey an accurate representation of a small town in Massachusetts through her writing. Gripped highlights the story of multiple main characters that all have their own respective traits. Taylor, a recovering drug addict and dealer, lost his ability to play football at Notre Dame due to an injury, leading him through a vicious cycle of abuse. Her work also describes the interconnected effects thay Taylor’s actions have had on other people in his life.
Gripped is the perfect story for a teenager to read, no matter the age. The book reveals countless life lessons that all age groups can learn from, but children likely benefit the most due to their relation to the characters. Witnessing others’ struggles with abuse is something I only imagined seeing in middle school, but high school brings out the worst in people. Seeing friends and classmates struggle with mental illness and abuse is a heartbreaking sight, but making sure that children are aware of these aspects allows them to make smarter choices. I rate this book a 5/5 because of how prevalent the messages are. I cannot express how much I enjoyed reading Gripped and recommend that others should as well.

[Maya Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy Padula’s Gripped: The Truth We Never Told, is a realistic depiction of teens of all ages and their battles with peer pressure and substance abuse. The story brings in many characters of all different ages who all unite through a common friend group and environment. One of the main characters, Taylor Dunkin, a former star football player of Northeastern University goes down the unfortunate path of opioid addiction following a torn ACL. As Taylor goes deeper into his addiction, he begins to become wrapped up in many issues bigger than what he had originally anticipated. The other characters of this book, including Taylor’s siblings Jordan and Marc, as well as his younger cousin, Chris, and his close friends now navigate through the issues that come from teen drama and other substance abuse issues.
This book highlights one of society’s most important and modern issues: drug and alcohol abuse. An important book for anyone to read, especially young adults, Gripped: The Truth We Never Told paints a cautionary tale of the realities of drug abuse and what the real cost often is for many of the people who fall victim to it. This book keeps the reader interested, providing multiple plots and twists and turns throughout as well as complex characters with interesting backgrounds of their own. This book will leave the readers curious and ready to read the next one.

[Olivia Halle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told by Stacy A. Padula artfully depicts the initiation into a world of substance abuse, dealing with the consequences of peer pressure and addiction in an accessible way for young adult readers. The fast-paced first installment of the Gripped series feels like a whirlwind that surely will immerse the reader into the lives of the students of Montgomery, feeling the torment, regret, and hopelessness of substance abuse. This book provides a space for teens to explore their values without the effects and burdens that could arise from making rash decisions.

Following the life of Taylor Dunkin, a star football player who was a top NFL prospect, Gripped Part 1 gives insight into his struggles with substance abuse following a sidelining knee injury and the opioid epidemic. Taylor’s entanglements in the drug culture at Northeastern and his hometown, Montgomery, leaves him to be a prime target of an investigation into a Boston crime ring, even as he is trying to redeem himself and get clean. Yet, the pattern of drug abuse extends back to his family, as his younger brother, Jordan, and cousin, Chris, also become enraptured by drugs. Soon, the Dunkin family and their friends in Montgomery cannot break a relentless cycle of substance abuse affecting their relationships and community. Read Gripped Part 1 to find out if any character can break the cycle of addiction and redeem themselves!

[Jennifer O'Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a story that provides many important lessons on the dangers of substance addiction. Gripped #1 carefully develops a storyline of many characters who the reader is able to connect with and learn to love. Additionally, this story also shows how one decision to use an addictive substance, even if it seems harmless and occasional at the time, can ruin your life. Gripped #1 shows that there are levels in terms of how substances can affect your life, but all of the effects are negative. Additionally, I think that this book showed me more clearly than any other, that the people that often get caught up in these addictions are smart, kind and funny people, who then begin to spiral. Gripped #1 also really showed me how addictions and substance usage can cause people to lie, cheat and go against their morals, so it is important to stay in touch with who you are. I would definitely recommend this book to young adults of any age, because of how realistic and important this message is. Additionally, this book paints this issue in such a convincing way, that I think the message will get across to anyone. The loveable and relatable characters also show that it can be anyone who falls prey to addiction. As a high schooler, I sadly find this book to be extremely accurate and relatable, so I encourage young adults to read this book so that before they make a bad choice, they know what consequences lie ahead.

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has the potential to set many kids on a positive path who may have otherwise turned down a dark road. Highly recommended for adolescents and parents. **Word of caution - this book is the first in a series of 5+ books so there are many unresolved questions at the end. I would not recommend this book to someone looking for a quick read to learn about opiate addiction. I have read the entire series as it stands today and what one can learn about addiction through the series is excellent but not in the first book. The first book introduces you to the characters, where they are now and where they were two years ago, and the rest of the series unfolds their journeys with drug abuse. While I recommend starting with book 1 to understand the characters' backstories, the pacing is slower than the other books in the series and the drama/suspense that fills books 4 and 5 specifically is not felt much in this book aside from a few chapters in the present day story that focuses on Taylor Dunkin. The flashback is very much the backstory of female lead Cathy Kagelli and her fall from grace.

[Georgia Dakoyannis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Gripped series, Gripped: Part 1 by Stacy Padula takes a compelling look into substance abuse in high school and beyond. The story builds off the Montgomery Lake High series, incorporating the same characters. Gripped: Part 1 cleverly uncovers the back-story of several characters, including Jason, Cathy, Chantal, Jon, Alyssa, Marc and Taylor. The teens range in age, further emphasizing that drugs and alcohol can enter teens lives at an early stage. This book easily draws the reader in, using real-life, relatable teen situations to display the dangers of substance abuse.
The book begins with a twist, focusing on Taylor Dunkin, a former student at Montgomery Lake High. Although previously an all-star athlete, an injury has led him to a painkiller addiction which spirals into worse. The story discusses the people who surround Taylor, specifically, his family and friends. The book captures your attention by flashing from past to present, giving the reader a glimpse into the events that shaped these characters. At the story’s center is the negative impact substance abuse can have on teens’ lives and relationships. Although many questions are answered, the story leaves the reader anxious to discover how Taylor’s story turns out. Gripped: Part 1 is provocative start to this next series by Stacy Padula that should not be missed.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** 5 stars

This book provides a very realistic depiction of teen life in current American culture. In the preface the author shares that she works with teenagers everyday and that is clear with the realistic way the teens are portrayed. Unlike other books that have clear villains or antagonists, every character in this book has good and bad traits. I was surprised by how much the story dives into the life of Cathy Kagelli and her twin Chantal because the synopsis did not mention either girl. However, I enjoyed their story and that the book was not solely about one main character. It appears to be setting up the rest of the series with Taylor and Cathy being the main characters. I hope to see their stories entwine more as the series continues. This book is eye opening to how one person's mistake can affect countless people. I believe it can help teens make wise choices.

[Nasin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fast-paced compelling story about substance abuse and how it affects the relationships and future aspirations of young adults. I highly recommend this book to other high school and middle school students since they should easily relate to this story.

Taylor Dunkin was a star athlete in high school with aspirations of becoming an NFL player but now finds himself a person of interest in a police investigation of a notorious crime ring. Taylor became addicted to drugs due to an injury and then became a drug dealer to support his drug habit. Taylor desperately wants to resume his football career and repair his relationship with family and friend. I am excited to read the next book in the series. I will be routing for Taylor!

[GiGi Arcabascio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped # 1 by Stacy Padula is a book of life lessans and real life situations, This book allows us as the readers connect with the characters relationships and emotions. Taylor, the main character, has dealt with addiction since his torn acl, He has struggled to get back on track, since his scholarship for football was taken away. He has drifted from his family and now that his family is present in his life he wants to change. The family now runs into a predicament, and now his brother Marc is involved and trying to get into college.

The book portrays many life lessons that can make or break a persons life. Addiction is a worldwide problem. I believe this book is a accurate representation of what can happen if you let addiction ruin your life. I believe Gripped #1 will connect with you, and you won’t want to put the book down.

[Haley F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an important book for teens and parents of teens & preteens. Gripped follows the lives of several teens starting at age 13. There is a lot of drinking and drug use that goes on and most of the time parents have no idea. It also discusses what all may go on in young relationships. Some parts you may think “isn’t this a little much for this age?” But in reality kids are using and partying earlier and earlier these days. This story not only discusses what teens are doing but how it can ruin their dreams and their lives. I think it would be a great book for parents to read with their kids and have discussions. This is part 1 of a 5 part series.

[Brian Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped is a very interesting story about teenagers who are forced to deal with the consequences and decisions surrounding drug and alcohol use. The story contains many intriguing characters who face their own internal battles in social scenarios. As the novel continues, characters find their path and begin to shape their morals they will believe, entering high school. Gripped also touches on the struggle and divide between family members due to constant substance abuse and illegal activity. I overall rate it a 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend this book to teenagers and young adults. The drama and suspense allows for the book to be a page turner and you will never want to put it down.

[YA Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down, and it left me wanting more! I look forward to reading the rest of the series. The characters are compelling and relatable. This is sure to be a best seller. I read Ms. Padula's other books, but I do not think you need to read them before starting Gripped. For those who have read Montgomery Lake High - It was very interesting to see Cathy's side of the story in this, considering the other books are told mainly from her sister's point of view. It is great getting to know Marc better and to see how Jason is doing after everything in the other series.

[Sophia Coggeshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told, by Stacy Padula tells the captivating story of several high school and college students who become sucked into a life full of dangerous substances. The book reveals how easy it is for innocent, good kids to become drug addicts, and how little time it takes for harmless fun to turn into deadly situations. Once I started reading the book, it was incredibly hard to put down for it is made up of a number of different storylines, ranging from the story of the football star, Taylor Dunkin, who throws his chances of being in the NFL away as he becomes involved in the growing opioid epidemic, to the stories of several different couples who face immense difficulties as they become entangled in drugs and alcohol.
This book is an easy read that is perfect for young adults in Middle School and High School who are most likely experiencing some of the same things that the characters in the book are dealing with. I would also recommend this book to any parent who is interested in better educating themselves on how to deal with teenage drug and alcohol abuse. Overall, I would rate this book a 5/5 for it addresses the consequences that come with addiction--a topic that is necessary for the coming generations to learn as they are growing up in a time where drug usage and overdose is at an all time high.

[BostonLABooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is real, true to life, and what every teen should read before entering high school. Stacy Padula did not censor the content, and that makes it EXCELLENT. I can't wait for the second book in the series to come out. I want to know what happens to Taylor and what causes Cathy to change so much!

[BookLover0703 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect book for anyone who wants to know how opiate addictions can happen and how to recover from one. It also touches on teen drinking and other drugs. Touchy subjects but harsh realities that need to be uncovered. Stacy Padula does an excellent job of presenting it all in a compelling and entertaining way. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the way this book has two storylines: a present day story with some drama and suspense, and a flashback that provides context for the characters in the present day story. The difference between the characters' personalities and morals in the flashback and present day parts is apparent, which left me wanting to read more of the series to see why everyone changed so much.

[eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Gripped: The Truth We Never Told”, by Stacy Padula, is a book that speaks the truth in a time that needs it more than ever. The book presents a multitude of characters, ranging from middle school to college age. The characters are developed exquisitely, through inner thoughts, dialogue, and backstories. By the end of the first book you will feel like you know them personally, and you will be rooting for every one of them to succeed. It is guaranteed that readers will see themselves through at least one situation or character in this book, no matter who they are or what they have been through. That is the beauty of a novel that is real, relatable, and allows readers to truly empathize with the characters. Each character’s story is unique, but they are all tied together by a common theme; substance abuse. Drugs are not romanticized in this book like they are in many others today. Padula tells of the unfiltered truths and horrors of how drugs and alcohol can destroy a young person’s life, including their social life, family life, health, and future. The lessons within the story will really take root within the reader, and will act as a warning to stay away from the situations the characters get themselves into.
This book sets up multiple different plot lines that readers will follow through the series. Because there are so many unanswered questions at the end of this book, it will leave you wanting to read the rest of the series right after you finish. It is fast paced, compelling, and also shines light on prevalent problems that many people don’t want to talk about in detail. In a generation that takes very little seriously, this book is something that every teen should read to understand the realness and seriousness of the issue that is presented.

[LKD1803 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am hooked on the series and cannot wait for book #2! There are a few storylines this book sets up to be explored in the series, and I am very curious to see where they lead.

[Teen Book Blogger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page turner just like Stacy Padula's other books. I recommend it for middle school kids, high school kids, and college kids. It kept me wanting to turn the page. I can't wait for Gripped #2!

[Timmy Weiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book, The Truth We Never Told, by Stacy Padula is a thrilling book that engrosses the reader in the story and teaches extremely valuable life lessons. By exploring different timelines of its characters, it not only gives the reader a closer connection to each character but also shows the impactful effects of drug use. Cathy, an innocent, faithful church girl in seventh grade, is shown as a recovering addict a couple years later in the story. Taylor, a kid looked up to by everyone in Montgomery for his football talent, goes from a hard partier to a drug dealer that nearly overdoses. Countless other normal kids from Montgomery High become addicts as well, showing how easily drugs can seep into our lives.
The book is a short and easy read that is perfect for middle and high school students. Because the book has such a variety of character personalities every reader will relate in some way. The twists and turns in the story will keep every reader on their toes, as some characters don’t always turn out the way you want them to… I rate this book a 5/5 and would highly recommend reading it. I loved this book because it kept me entertained throughout and taught me lessons that are extremely valuable.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped by Stacy Padula is an intriguing book that allows readers to relate to characters in the story and learn from the things they have done. From this story, one can learn about the tragedy of becoming addicted to opioids and how it can affect your future. Taylor, a superstar athlete, was destined to play at a pristine university and make it to the professional level, but a terrible injury turned his life upside down. Now, the hometown hero must get back on track when his brother, Marc, and his father come to visit.
This story also explores a group of students as they embark on their journey through High School. One can learn from the characters and the mistakes that they make as they go to parties and start experimenting with drugs and alcohol. It shows readers what can happen if things are taken too far. Overall I would rate this book 5/5 stars and would say it is a quick read that is perfect for High School students but everyone should read this book. I loved this book and the characters along with it and can’t wait to read the second one.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped: Part 1 by Stacy A. Padula offers an informative and realistic insight into how quickly drugs and alcohol can tear apart a community. Taking place in a small Massachusetts town, Gripped is told from the perspectives of multiple different characters varying in age ranges from teens to twenties who are all struggling in one form or another from the effects of addiction. While the drug and alcohol usage starts out as something that the characters do casually at parties, it quickly becomes something much more severe. Featuring reoccurring themes such as miscommunication and peer pressure, the novel demonstrates how simply trying a drug or having a drink one time can lead to the breakdown of multiple relationships and drastically alter the course of a life for the worse. Although many of the characters attempt to steer those they love back on track, sometimes all the care in the world cannot be enough to save someone from their own mental battles.

The characters in this story are easy to root for, yet sad to read as they continuously make poor choices. Each character is realistic, resembling someone who many readers might be able to relate to. This relation provides a more personal connection to be made between readers and the characters as Padula makes sure to refrain from hiding all the uncomfortable truths that come with addiction, allowing for the characters to fall from grace. While the novel is a piece of fiction, many of the difficult moments featured are people’s real life struggles. Forcing oneself to read through the moments that are uneasy will ultimately reveal just how someone with such potential and drive can end up the target of a drug operation.

Although it might seem as though a novel that revolves around addicts would feature plots geared towards characters that never had a chance of leading a successful life anyways, Gripped provides quite the opposite. Each character has a backstory of such promise, whether that be a star athlete destined for the NFL or a Jesus-loving girl devoted to living an honest and pure life. Through featuring characters such as these, Padula demonstrates that addiction can happen to anybody, no one is immune.

Through themes such as choosing between right and wrong, this young adult novel is perfect for teenagers looking for a true account of what growing up can be like. While there is a discussion going around whether or not certain books should be allowed in the hands of young minds, as the topics can be intense, it is still crucial for young teens to understand the realities of addiction. Each conflict faced within the novel is something that could very realistically happen and teens should be aware of what the consequences of poor decisions could be. Instead of straying away from the novel due to its content matter, readers should embrace it as a learning opportunity.

[Danielle Trenholm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever wanted to read a fun and intriguing book that pulls you in the story from the start, but also educates you on the hardships of growing up as a teen? Well this is the book for you.

This book is a great storyline for any age, whether you are in middle school or a grown adult. This story includes easy to follow perspectives of different groups of kids in the town of Montgomery, including a variety of different ages of students coming from different family backgrounds. This includes Taylor, a former star high school football player with opportunities to play for top colleges but has dealt with drug abuse after a knee injury. Jordan and Marc, his brothers who have been pushed away from Taylor because of drugs becoming a significant part of his life.

Throughout the story it takes him time to realize how much he can impact his younger peers and influence them as he is the one everyone had looked up to. Next we have the Davids, (Luke and Jason) who are kind but experimental when it comes to growing up and being around new things. Then the Kagellis (Chantal and Cathy) who are very reserved, traditional, and embrace their Catholic religion wherever they are, whatever situation they are put in. They may all be different regarding social situations and their morals, but they all are good friends.

What I liked best about this story is it has such a great plot that pulls you right into the story, making you feel you are truly part of the book. The storyline is also very engaging and you get to know each character personally. I loved that there were always a few situations happening at a time, such as Taylors drug problem involving the police, Cathy and Jason's romantic relationship, and Jon and Chantals toxic and complicated relationship. All of these circumstances keep you on your toes while reading.

I would recommend Gripped Part 1 to anyone but particularly middle school students and high school students. This is because the storyline is quite relatable to students, as kids tend to encounter peer pressure, self pressure, and trying new rebellious things. Reading this book will teach young students how to deal with these situations and stay true to themselves when faced with these tough positions. The main message that this book sends to readers is the outcomes that drug addiction can take you into. As well as you need to educate and think before putting yourself in a situation there could be no turning back from. This story also educates readers on the importance of discussing drugs and substances, which is a topic that isn’t taught about as much as it should be. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars.

[Isabelle M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told, fills in some of the storylines left open in the Montgomery Lake High book series. In the beginning of this book we learn more about Taylor Dunkin, former football legend turned drug-dealer, who wants out of the game. Marc Dunkin, his brother, pledges to help police extract his brother from this crime ring he is caught up in. Meanwhile, in Montgomery, Jason Davids begins to unfold the truth about Jon and Chantal’s breakup to Chantal.

I would recommend the first installment in the Gripped book series to teens and their parents. No other young adult books are willing to be so brutally honest about the negative effects of drugs, and alcohol. This book also touches on teen relationships, and how gossip affects them. All of these topics are things which can not become taboo in our culture, because the more we ignore them, the greater these problems will become. Stacy Padula’s Gripped series is candid in its dealing with all of the damaging subjects which other authors glorify.

[Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when MLH fans think they know the characters of their favorite series, Stacy Padula turns everything on its head with her “Gripped” series. With a flashback in time, “Gripped: The Truth We Never Told,” reveals the whole story of what went down in middle school and how a lack of communication and unfortunate assumptions led the Montgomery Lake High gang to the drama they seem to be hopelessly drowning in.
The story opens with a life update on Taylor Dunkin, who seems to have hit rock bottom. His drug use has risen to levels beyond his control, and a visit from Marc results in Mr. Dunkin driving to Boston in a desperate effort to help his oldest son detox and completely cut himself off from the dangerous world of drugs he has been living in. But, Taylor is in far deeper than even he knows, and getting clean and starting over won’t be easy.
Back at Montgomery Lake High, Jason and Cathy are still broken up, but Jason can’t stay away from Cathy any longer as the guilt of “ruining” Cathay Kagelli by introducing her to partying and drugs has left him completely gutted. Jason decides it’s finally time to tell Chantal the full truth about what has happened to Cathy and reveal how lost she has really become from the Cathy they once knew.
Throughout the MLH series, Cathy seemed like the least relatable character, showing no empathy towards those around her and seemingly being completely to blame for the failed relationship between herself and her twin sister, Chantal. But, Padula reminds us that relationships aren’t black and white, especially when drugs are involved.
This book has thrown me completely back into the series. The flashback was incredibly enlightening and gives a whole new perspective on the dynamic of these characters. I am so thrilled to continue the “Gripped” series and see what twists Padula comes up with next.

[Bailey Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped The Truth We Never Told is an engaging, invigorating, realistic, heartbreaking, raw, important, and educational story! This book is the kind of beautiful that gives you hope after breaking your heart. It is the first book in the gripped series recommended for ages 12 to 18. Simply put we desperately need books like this and if you have a teenager in your life please introduce them to this series! Taylor Dunkin is a college athlete set to go to the NFL until he suffers an injury. The pain and depression caused by his injury leads him down the dark path of addiction and eventually drug dealing to keep up with the cost of his addiction. Teaming up with Luke from his hometown to distrubute drugs Taylor's choices start turning the town upside down. What is at first heightening harmless fun turns into epidemic. Just like Taylor many high schoolers begin to loose their self-control, values, and most importantly themselves. This book accurately portrays the progression of addiction, the psychological aspects of addiction, and the physical effects of addiction. Marc Taylor's little brother finds out about Taylor's addiction. He becomes dead set on saving his brother from the world he has become entangled in, but the road ahead of both of them is long and hard. I love that this book weaves a realistic society full of complex characters. Despite Taylor's actions he is not made out to be the sole bad guy, but rather a victim himself. The contrast between Taylor's life before the addiction vs during the addiction is heartbreaking. I cannot wait to pick up the next book in this series!

[Maeve Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

The novel “Gripped Part 1 - The Truth We Never Told”, has a truly captivating plot that leaves readers in suspense while awaiting their read of Part 2. It gives the reader a firsthand glance into the life of an addict, as well as the long-term effect that it holds on the friends and family of that individual. What is unique about Gripped Part 1, is it allows you to see the “beforehand” of addiction, as well as the aftermath. When it all seemed like it was harmless fun, and the worst that could happen was the loss of a football scholarship. Although playing at Notre Dame is certainly a privilege that many would not take for granted, losing that is nothing compared to the mess Taylor Dunkin has tangled himself up in.
Gripped Part 1 is not only moving for those who know somebody who has struggled with addiction or struggled themselves, it also contains many relatable aspects for any curious reader. Middle and high school students have all dealt with crushes, drama, gossip, and more. This book has real-life experiences that will not only enthrall teenagers and young adults, but make this an enjoyable read they will not forget. The storyline concerning the love lives of these kids is heartwarming and genuine, but only for the moment. Stacy A Padula’s novel truly shows us that no relationship is “black and white”, and there is always more than what appears at the surface. Gripped Part 1 offers authentic insight and important life-lessons for any age, while also managing to be a pleasant read.