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Montgomery Lake High #2
When Darkness Tries to Hide
This is an Alternate Cover Edition for B004NNVJFK 9
As the skies grow darker and darker over Montgomery Lake High, not everyone takes the severe storm warning seriously. A day later, Andy Rosetti—the popular class president—is in a coma, and his classmate Jason Davids feels responsible for the tragedy. As Andy’s friends and family cope with the aftermath of the storm, Jason and his friends set out on a quest to save Andy’s life. Stopping at nothing, Jason begins to see that there are forces stronger than nature at work in Montgomery—and more than one life in need of saving.
As the skies grow darker and darker over Montgomery Lake High, not everyone takes the severe storm warning seriously. A day later, Andy Rosetti—the popular class president—is in a coma, and his classmate Jason Davids feels responsible for the tragedy. As Andy’s friends and family cope with the aftermath of the storm, Jason and his friends set out on a quest to save Andy’s life. Stopping at nothing, Jason begins to see that there are forces stronger than nature at work in Montgomery—and more than one life in need of saving.
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 19, 2011
3 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Stacy A. Padula
16 books42 followersStacy Padula grew up in Pembroke, Massachusetts. She is the founder of Briley & Baxter Publications, the founder of South Shore College Consulting & Tutoring, a co-founder of BLE Pictures, and the author of thirteen books. She began writing her first book series, Montgomery Lake High, when she was a teenager because she saw a need for realistic Y.A. books that address topics such as substance abuse and bullying. Between 2010-2014 all five Montgomery Lake High books were published. In 2017, she began writing her second series, Gripped, which serves as both a prequel and sequel to her first series. Gripped parts 1-5 were published between 2019-2021. She is currently writing part 6. In 2019, she also wrote her first screenplay, an adaptation of her novel The Aftermath, and worked on writing a pilot for Gripped, which caught the attention of Hollywood producers.
In 2020, she began writing a third book series with NBA Coach Brett Gunning. Geared towards children ages three through eight, Stacy and Brett’s On The Right Path book series has been endorsed by Joel Osteen, Mike D’Antoni, and Kevin McHale as a series that belongs in every school, library, and household. Both Stacy’s Gripped series and On the Right Path series are currently being adapted for TV by Emmy award winning producer Mark Blutman.
Stacy has been featured in Marquis Who’s Who in America (2018-Present) for excellence in literature and education, Marquis Who’s Who in the World (2018-Present), and Cambridge Who’s Who for Young Professionals (2009). In 2018, she was awarded the Albert Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP of New York, NY) chose Stacy as its “Top Educational Consultant of the Year.”
In 2020, she was named “Empowered Woman of the Year” by IAOTP and a “Social Impact Hero” by Authority Magazine for her support of animal rescues through her publishing company. She was also chosen to be on the cover of T.I.P. Magazine, an international business publication.
In June of 2021, Stacy was featured on the famous Reuters Building in Times Square as Empowered Woman of the Year. In 2022, she was named “Top Inspirational Author of the Year” and was honored at a gala at the Bellagio in Las Vegas in December. She was also broadcast for her award on the Planet Hollywood Jumbotron overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. Her novel Gripped Part 5: Taylor’s Story won the Silver Award and Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told won the Gold Award for “Best Teen Book” in the 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards.
For 2023, Stacy has been named “Top Global Impact Author of the Year” for her literary work on several continents, and she will be honored at a gala at The Plaza in New York City. In addition, she was chosen to be featured in an international publication titled 50 Fearless Leaders for 2023. She also was asked to serve as a judge for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious contest for creative young adults, sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies, The New York Times, and Scholastic.
In 2020, she began writing a third book series with NBA Coach Brett Gunning. Geared towards children ages three through eight, Stacy and Brett’s On The Right Path book series has been endorsed by Joel Osteen, Mike D’Antoni, and Kevin McHale as a series that belongs in every school, library, and household. Both Stacy’s Gripped series and On the Right Path series are currently being adapted for TV by Emmy award winning producer Mark Blutman.
Stacy has been featured in Marquis Who’s Who in America (2018-Present) for excellence in literature and education, Marquis Who’s Who in the World (2018-Present), and Cambridge Who’s Who for Young Professionals (2009). In 2018, she was awarded the Albert Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP of New York, NY) chose Stacy as its “Top Educational Consultant of the Year.”
In 2020, she was named “Empowered Woman of the Year” by IAOTP and a “Social Impact Hero” by Authority Magazine for her support of animal rescues through her publishing company. She was also chosen to be on the cover of T.I.P. Magazine, an international business publication.
In June of 2021, Stacy was featured on the famous Reuters Building in Times Square as Empowered Woman of the Year. In 2022, she was named “Top Inspirational Author of the Year” and was honored at a gala at the Bellagio in Las Vegas in December. She was also broadcast for her award on the Planet Hollywood Jumbotron overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. Her novel Gripped Part 5: Taylor’s Story won the Silver Award and Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told won the Gold Award for “Best Teen Book” in the 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards.
For 2023, Stacy has been named “Top Global Impact Author of the Year” for her literary work on several continents, and she will be honored at a gala at The Plaza in New York City. In addition, she was chosen to be featured in an international publication titled 50 Fearless Leaders for 2023. She also was asked to serve as a judge for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious contest for creative young adults, sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies, The New York Times, and Scholastic.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 12, 2018
Suspenseful and interesting - I didn't want to put this book down. It makes you excited to read the next book in the series to find out what happens to Andy and Jason.
August 12, 2018
Great teen novel! Awesome series!!
November 30, 2017
The second book in the Montgomery Lake High Series, When Darkness Tries to Hide, continues the journey of the students at MLH as they venture further into the depths of high school. After following the stories of Chris and Courtney in The Right Person, the focus shifts to Chris’s wayward, childhood best-friend of almost a decade: Jason Davids.
When Jason is first introduced, he is dealing with many of the same challenges that Chris once faced. Already addicted to multiple prescription drugs, Jason has fallen in with a dangerous and unsupportive crowd. A tragic accident points Jason onto a new path, and he begins to realize how manipulative and unkind his companions are. All the while, Jason struggles to reconcile his dark past with his desire for a meaningful life. Throughout the novel, the reader gains insight into Jason’s true personality and the potential he has to be not only a good person, but also a faithful one. However, because of the darkness surrounding him, he struggles to see the benefit of leading any other lifestyle than his current, party-filled one.
Jason’s struggles are relatable to any teen or adult who has deviated from their beliefs or has struggled to make the right choices.
When Jason is first introduced, he is dealing with many of the same challenges that Chris once faced. Already addicted to multiple prescription drugs, Jason has fallen in with a dangerous and unsupportive crowd. A tragic accident points Jason onto a new path, and he begins to realize how manipulative and unkind his companions are. All the while, Jason struggles to reconcile his dark past with his desire for a meaningful life. Throughout the novel, the reader gains insight into Jason’s true personality and the potential he has to be not only a good person, but also a faithful one. However, because of the darkness surrounding him, he struggles to see the benefit of leading any other lifestyle than his current, party-filled one.
Jason’s struggles are relatable to any teen or adult who has deviated from their beliefs or has struggled to make the right choices.
December 6, 2017
When tragedy hits a community, people are often left with a choice: they can either allow themselves to sink further into the darkness or find hope and choose light.
In “When Darkness Tries to Hide”,a terrible storm has hit Montgomery Lake and left Andy Rosetti in a coma. Jason Davids is greatly upset by the accident and feels responsible for what has happened. He is presented with a choice to either continue into the the darkness of drugs and alcohol he has surrounded himself with for the past two years, or he can join some old friends and try and bring light into this situation.
I recommend this for people of all ages, especially those who have recently dealt with a traumatic event or have been struggling or know someone struggling to follow a moral path. It reminds us of the gift of God’s forgiveness and how he can bring hope and comfort into the most troubling of times. It also teaches us the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who will be a positive influence on us. Kind words and support from a friend can go a long way as shown through how impacted Jason is by his experience.
In “When Darkness Tries to Hide”,a terrible storm has hit Montgomery Lake and left Andy Rosetti in a coma. Jason Davids is greatly upset by the accident and feels responsible for what has happened. He is presented with a choice to either continue into the the darkness of drugs and alcohol he has surrounded himself with for the past two years, or he can join some old friends and try and bring light into this situation.
I recommend this for people of all ages, especially those who have recently dealt with a traumatic event or have been struggling or know someone struggling to follow a moral path. It reminds us of the gift of God’s forgiveness and how he can bring hope and comfort into the most troubling of times. It also teaches us the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who will be a positive influence on us. Kind words and support from a friend can go a long way as shown through how impacted Jason is by his experience.
May 14, 2018
This book focuses around a young teenager named Chris Dunkin. Chris has recently accepted Christ as His Lord and Savior, and, as a result, his life has changed dramatically. Once the life of any party and with a long history of drug and alcohol use, Chris now faces the trials and struggles of maintaining his new Christian morals while attending high school with new Christian friends and old friends from the past.
After a tragic accident happens to a close friend, Chris finds himself surrounded by all his friends, past and present.
I believe the main purpose of this book is to show the struggles and temptations our young teenagers go through on a daily basis and the need for God in all of our lives.
I see recurring themes like the power of prayer and fellowship in this book.
I enjoyed this book because it brought back memories of things I faced as a teenager and things that I continue to face today.
After a tragic accident happens to a close friend, Chris finds himself surrounded by all his friends, past and present.
I believe the main purpose of this book is to show the struggles and temptations our young teenagers go through on a daily basis and the need for God in all of our lives.
I see recurring themes like the power of prayer and fellowship in this book.
I enjoyed this book because it brought back memories of things I faced as a teenager and things that I continue to face today.
May 22, 2022
Stacy Padula’s second installment of the Montgomery Lake High series “When Darkness Tries to Hide” brings back the beloved characters from book one, while also introducing new characters and new relationships, which only complicate life for the teens of MLH. This book throws the readers completely into the MLH world on a deeper level than ever before and makes for a quick read as you will not be able to put it down!
Some of the same topics of issue, such as drug addiction and social struggles are still relevant in book 2, but we have new characters and personalities navigating these familiar problems. Through this subtle change, Padula is able to maintain the tone and feel of the first book, while also adding a refreshing twist. For example, main character Chris Dunkin has recently discovered a relationship with God that he had been unknowingly searching for, for so long. From this new relationship with God and his church, Chris has become sober and is now acting as a spiritual guide for his best friend Jason, who is just starting the process of overcoming addiction.
Another obstacle Montgomery Lake must overcome is the tragic injury of Andy Rossetti which leaves some heartbroken, some riddled with guilt, and others questioning everything. Padula expertly expresses how earth shattering such events can be for anyone, especially young people who already feel helpless to their circumstances. Rather than leaving Andy’s fate up to chance, Padula offers young readers hope and opportunities to take action when her characters join together and plan a prayer service for their classmate. Even those who barely knew Andy, and those who aren’t part of the church, step up to help in any way they can. By demonstrating the actions that can be taken in trying times, no matter how small, Padula offers some agency to any reader feeling lost as a result of being affected by tragedy.
I am so excited to read book number 3 and feel like I’ve truly entered the MLH world by continuing to read this series!
Some of the same topics of issue, such as drug addiction and social struggles are still relevant in book 2, but we have new characters and personalities navigating these familiar problems. Through this subtle change, Padula is able to maintain the tone and feel of the first book, while also adding a refreshing twist. For example, main character Chris Dunkin has recently discovered a relationship with God that he had been unknowingly searching for, for so long. From this new relationship with God and his church, Chris has become sober and is now acting as a spiritual guide for his best friend Jason, who is just starting the process of overcoming addiction.
Another obstacle Montgomery Lake must overcome is the tragic injury of Andy Rossetti which leaves some heartbroken, some riddled with guilt, and others questioning everything. Padula expertly expresses how earth shattering such events can be for anyone, especially young people who already feel helpless to their circumstances. Rather than leaving Andy’s fate up to chance, Padula offers young readers hope and opportunities to take action when her characters join together and plan a prayer service for their classmate. Even those who barely knew Andy, and those who aren’t part of the church, step up to help in any way they can. By demonstrating the actions that can be taken in trying times, no matter how small, Padula offers some agency to any reader feeling lost as a result of being affected by tragedy.
I am so excited to read book number 3 and feel like I’ve truly entered the MLH world by continuing to read this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2019
The second book in the MLH series, When Darkness Tries to Hide, is a riveting story that continues to follow a group of high school teens through their lives. When a tragedy strikes their group of friends, it causes many of them to take a step back and re-evaluate their recent actions and behaviors. The story demonstrates how impactful our actions, both good and bad can be on others around us.
When Darkness Tries to Hide also reinforces how important faith and friendship can be to teens, especially when they are in a period of personal turmoil. The book displays the importance of persistence in pursuing faith, even when you feel at your lowest. Likewise, taking just a small amount of time to support people you care about can make a life-changing difference as is illustrated through Chris and Jason’s relationship throughout the book.
I would highly recommend When Darkness Tries to Hide to anyone. Although the book’s storyline focuses on the challenges that teens face in high school, its lessons are applicable to anyone struggling with something in their life. The story is also very eye-opening in terms of discussing alcohol and prescription drug addiction. Reading the story of this group of friends shows that these vices are more commonplace than we might realize and can make us more aware of the dangers that they pose. This is definitely a must read!!
When Darkness Tries to Hide also reinforces how important faith and friendship can be to teens, especially when they are in a period of personal turmoil. The book displays the importance of persistence in pursuing faith, even when you feel at your lowest. Likewise, taking just a small amount of time to support people you care about can make a life-changing difference as is illustrated through Chris and Jason’s relationship throughout the book.
I would highly recommend When Darkness Tries to Hide to anyone. Although the book’s storyline focuses on the challenges that teens face in high school, its lessons are applicable to anyone struggling with something in their life. The story is also very eye-opening in terms of discussing alcohol and prescription drug addiction. Reading the story of this group of friends shows that these vices are more commonplace than we might realize and can make us more aware of the dangers that they pose. This is definitely a must read!!
April 3, 2023
“When Darkness Tries to Hide” is the second book in the MLH series. It is a compelling story that depicts the lives of a teenage friend group who are attempting to deal with a major tragedy. The trauma they are faced with forces them to step back and reconsider their actions. The descriptive and page-turning plot shows how impactful the teens' actions are on those around them. The novel also points out how important friendship and support can be to teenagers, especially when they are going through a difficult time period. The characters portray the importance of religion and how it can lift you up from your lowest points. Readers will learn that taking time to be there for those around you is crucial and determines the outcome of many relationships.
I would highly recommend “When Darkness Tries to Hide” to all readers. Although it may appeal to teenagers the most I think every age group could benefit from it. The story is extremely eye-opening about common issues such as alcohol and drug addiction and reading about each teen’s life spreads awareness about these problems in younger generations. I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars; it is definitely a must-read!
I would highly recommend “When Darkness Tries to Hide” to all readers. Although it may appeal to teenagers the most I think every age group could benefit from it. The story is extremely eye-opening about common issues such as alcohol and drug addiction and reading about each teen’s life spreads awareness about these problems in younger generations. I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars; it is definitely a must-read!
November 25, 2018
This novel is a fantastic read for teens who are experiencing any type of obstacle. Specifically, those who are struggling with a tragedy, and are resorting to drugs or other violent tendencies. Many children struggle with challenges such as sick family or friends, death, or divorce. This novel describes how it is possible to see the light in even the most dreadful of situations and turn them into a positive experience. It also emphasizes the importance of not getting caught up in the negatives of something, and focusing on the positives.
It is also a great influence for teens who are struggling with drug or alcohol abuse. It emphasizes the negative effects and challenges of drug abuse and how it can cause something so destructive as fatal injury to you or someone else. The book also describes the possibility of overcoming drug addiction, and how even people who seem so perfect, such as pastors, can struggle with drug abuse. The book emphasizes the message of positivity and seeing the light in a dark situation. It also emphasizes the importance of being proactive and helping others, as well as being a contributive member to your community. Overall, I highly recommend this book for all teens. It provides great insight on appropriate ways to handle difficult times, and the importance of working together through tough situations.
It is also a great influence for teens who are struggling with drug or alcohol abuse. It emphasizes the negative effects and challenges of drug abuse and how it can cause something so destructive as fatal injury to you or someone else. The book also describes the possibility of overcoming drug addiction, and how even people who seem so perfect, such as pastors, can struggle with drug abuse. The book emphasizes the message of positivity and seeing the light in a dark situation. It also emphasizes the importance of being proactive and helping others, as well as being a contributive member to your community. Overall, I highly recommend this book for all teens. It provides great insight on appropriate ways to handle difficult times, and the importance of working together through tough situations.
February 3, 2022
Montgomery Lake High: 2 by Stacy Padula explores how tragedy can bring God into your life. Andy Rosetti, Chantal Kagelli's boyfriend, runs outside during a severe storm to bring in the Kagelli's dog, he falls into a coma. Jason Davids has been dabbling in drugs with his girlfriend Cathy Kagelli for a while. Jason feels responsible for what happened to Andy. He starts to realize that he hasn’t been on the best path. Chris, Jason, and their friends plan to perform a prayer circle with the whole town. As Jason works to complete this mission, he admits he needs help but is unsure how to get it. Will a conversation with a Pastor help him? Jon and Chantal both realize Cathy caused them to break up. Many of their friends are starting to notice just how far Cathy has fallen. Will Cathy’s friends be able to see the truth behind her change in personality, or will she be left to deal with her struggles all alone? In this novel, Stacy Padula shows just how important a personal relationship with God is. Padula uses real struggles teens might face to lead them to a path that can help them grow spiritually and emotionally.
December 1, 2017
This is a book about hope. Hope in the most serious and desperate of circumstances. Hope for healing and hope for deliverance. Hope that is only found in Jesus Christ.
This tale of high school students facing drug/alcohol addiction, peer pressure, the desire for acceptance, and unexpected tragedy hits the mark. Stacy Padula accurately portrays the battles young adults (and even older adults) go through daily. She identifies that “in the” feeling that many try to fill with alcohol, drugs, sex, and other things, and shows the reader the one thing that can fill the void—a relationship with God through Jesus.
Stacy Padula masterfully shares the Gospel of Christ in the pages of this book in a way that really helps the reader to understand. Through the characters of the story, hope, joy, peace and love are evident. But Ms. Padula does not shy away from the struggles that also are a part of the Christian life.
I will recommend her books to teens and adults alike. Well done, Stacy! God is going to use these books mightily.
This tale of high school students facing drug/alcohol addiction, peer pressure, the desire for acceptance, and unexpected tragedy hits the mark. Stacy Padula accurately portrays the battles young adults (and even older adults) go through daily. She identifies that “in the” feeling that many try to fill with alcohol, drugs, sex, and other things, and shows the reader the one thing that can fill the void—a relationship with God through Jesus.
Stacy Padula masterfully shares the Gospel of Christ in the pages of this book in a way that really helps the reader to understand. Through the characters of the story, hope, joy, peace and love are evident. But Ms. Padula does not shy away from the struggles that also are a part of the Christian life.
I will recommend her books to teens and adults alike. Well done, Stacy! God is going to use these books mightily.
February 27, 2019
The book When Darkness Tries to Hide, by Stacy Padula is a page turner that allows for readers to learn from the characters in the story. It shows how there are many layers to people, and not everyone is how they seem. Specifically, Jason is a main character who struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, which portray him in a negative light. Throughout the story Jason and Chris, two former best friends, go through darkness and eventually come back to one another. With the help of God and an accident that highlights the harsh reality of how short life could be, Jason and Chris grow and learn from their mistakes.
This story is a quick and easy read that is perfect for Middle School and High School students. It teaches valuable life lessons that could guide students throughout their education. The book also allows for readers to get in touch with their faith and realize that mistakes can be forgiven. I rate this book a 5/5 and would recommend reading it. I loved this book both because it was captivating and sent a positive message.
This story is a quick and easy read that is perfect for Middle School and High School students. It teaches valuable life lessons that could guide students throughout their education. The book also allows for readers to get in touch with their faith and realize that mistakes can be forgiven. I rate this book a 5/5 and would recommend reading it. I loved this book both because it was captivating and sent a positive message.
September 3, 2018
In the wake of a disaster, it is only natural for communities to come together in an effort to rebuild what was brought down. The residents of Montgomery Lake seemed to take this sentiment to heart in Stacy Padula's second book, “When Darkness Tries to Hide.” After a devastating tornado hits, one of the students at montgomery lake high is put in a coma, and an unlikely group of his classmates set up something for the community in his honor.
This book focuses on Jason, a popular jock and avid party-goer, as he begins to come to a realization that his reputation as the “life of the party” will only give him so much joy. This book acts as a good reminder that people change, and that even just coming to the conclusion that you are not content with the way you treat yourself or others is an imperative step in making a much bigger change in your overall lifestyle.
This book focuses on Jason, a popular jock and avid party-goer, as he begins to come to a realization that his reputation as the “life of the party” will only give him so much joy. This book acts as a good reminder that people change, and that even just coming to the conclusion that you are not content with the way you treat yourself or others is an imperative step in making a much bigger change in your overall lifestyle.
March 28, 2021
In search of fulfillment, Chris Dunkin quickly realized that his void was not going to be closed with drugs, alcohol, and partying. Rather, he was in need of a spiritual uplift, which he found in his relationship and commitment to God. Leaving his partying ways behind, Chris leads a new life, surrounded by those who encourage his revelation. Jason, his childhood best friend, struggles to come to terms with the idea that some boring and superficial relationship with God could ever compare to their life of popularity, partying, and fun, leaving Jason estranged with his own best friend. Soon, all of Chris’s friends, Jon, Bryan, and even Jason will rely on the very relationship they had been apprehensive of. With tragedy comes desperation, and many turn to faith to offer solace.
Andy Rosetti, Montgomery’s golden child, is injured in a tornado, a result of his valiant effort to save his girlfriend's golden retriever Lady. While Andy is in a coma, the city of Montgomery comes together to pray for Andy’s recovery. Sure enough, the whole thing was orchestrated by Jason, who feels responsible for Andy’s state. Jason had chosen the wrong path, and he was quickly being consumed by darkness, just like Chris had. In search of light, Jason was unsure of what he was even looking for to fulfill his darkness. He could recall his darkness was fed by drugs, partying, selfishness, and his cold-hearted girlfriend Cathy. Just like Chris, Jason knew that these components of his life were not bringing him happiness, but soon he would learn that his soul could feel light through God’s guidance. He just didn't think that someone as dark as himself could be forgiven and shown light.
When Darkness Tries To Hide is a valuable lesson for adolescent teens who are vulnerable and susceptible to choosing their own path in life. The light (God’s grace), is perfectly depicted through the experiences and revelations of the characters in the book. In what may seem like a lost cause is the one who needs God’s grace the most, something Chris Dunkin had achieved, and hopefully Jason can as well.
Andy Rosetti, Montgomery’s golden child, is injured in a tornado, a result of his valiant effort to save his girlfriend's golden retriever Lady. While Andy is in a coma, the city of Montgomery comes together to pray for Andy’s recovery. Sure enough, the whole thing was orchestrated by Jason, who feels responsible for Andy’s state. Jason had chosen the wrong path, and he was quickly being consumed by darkness, just like Chris had. In search of light, Jason was unsure of what he was even looking for to fulfill his darkness. He could recall his darkness was fed by drugs, partying, selfishness, and his cold-hearted girlfriend Cathy. Just like Chris, Jason knew that these components of his life were not bringing him happiness, but soon he would learn that his soul could feel light through God’s guidance. He just didn't think that someone as dark as himself could be forgiven and shown light.
When Darkness Tries To Hide is a valuable lesson for adolescent teens who are vulnerable and susceptible to choosing their own path in life. The light (God’s grace), is perfectly depicted through the experiences and revelations of the characters in the book. In what may seem like a lost cause is the one who needs God’s grace the most, something Chris Dunkin had achieved, and hopefully Jason can as well.
July 20, 2023
“Montgomery Lake High Book 2: When Darkness Tries to Hide” is a challenging and intriguing read, introducing more Christ-centered messages about grief and addiction. A tragic accident forces the characters to react, either blaming themselves, blaming others, or helping those who are most affected. We are able to get a better sense of each character’s past and present relationships with each other based on how they come together in the midst of tragedy. It is encouraging to see some of the characters take the right steps to better themselves.
The readers are also given more specific elements of each character’s past. It is interesting to witness certain characters acting cruel and seemingly heartless, only to learn that they were once a different person. I also recommend reading Stacy Padula’s “Gripped” series, as it serves as a prequel to this one. It provides a different perspective on events that occur in this book, as well as helps the readers familiarize themselves with the large cast of characters.
The teenagers depicted in the book are far from perfect. In fact, the book makes a point to show how confusing and upsetting being a teenager can be, especially surrounded by harmful influences. It is realistic in its depiction of relationship fall-outs, showing that even the best person can change for the worst, and the worst person can change for the better. The book ends in the midst of the story, but I’m hopeful that these series will have a happy ending. Right now, most of the characters are in a tough spot with their relationships, health, and faith, so I’m interested to see where the series will take them.
The readers are also given more specific elements of each character’s past. It is interesting to witness certain characters acting cruel and seemingly heartless, only to learn that they were once a different person. I also recommend reading Stacy Padula’s “Gripped” series, as it serves as a prequel to this one. It provides a different perspective on events that occur in this book, as well as helps the readers familiarize themselves with the large cast of characters.
The teenagers depicted in the book are far from perfect. In fact, the book makes a point to show how confusing and upsetting being a teenager can be, especially surrounded by harmful influences. It is realistic in its depiction of relationship fall-outs, showing that even the best person can change for the worst, and the worst person can change for the better. The book ends in the midst of the story, but I’m hopeful that these series will have a happy ending. Right now, most of the characters are in a tough spot with their relationships, health, and faith, so I’m interested to see where the series will take them.
November 4, 2024
What does a town do when faced with a tragedy within their community? In Stacy A. In Padula's “When Darkness Tries to Hide”, the residents of Montgomery Lake show what it truly means to rally together in love and support for a common goal.
The plot of the second book in the Montgomery Lake High series diverges from Chris’s story, bringing focus to the life of his ex-best friend Jason. Just as Chris was in book one, Jason is struggling with his substance abuse throughout his early teenage years. As Jason wrestles with his choice between right and wrong, readers come to understand the misleading appeal of the darkness he lives in. After a terrible accident in the town, Jason finds himself questioning all of his life choices up until that moment, wondering if he could have prevented the events that transpired. He is intrigued by the transformation Chris had undergone, and he is compelled by the peace that exudes off of him during the life altering circumstances that they are all enduring. Jason begins to desire the same fulfilling life that Chris now leads. As he starts seeking the truth in the midst of heartache, it is apparent how hard it is to make the right choices; but as the story progresses, it is also clear how rewarding the process will become.
This novel serves as an inspiration to young readers, acting as a testimony to God’s power by showing how living in the light will bring purpose and joy into the lives of those going through tough times.
The plot of the second book in the Montgomery Lake High series diverges from Chris’s story, bringing focus to the life of his ex-best friend Jason. Just as Chris was in book one, Jason is struggling with his substance abuse throughout his early teenage years. As Jason wrestles with his choice between right and wrong, readers come to understand the misleading appeal of the darkness he lives in. After a terrible accident in the town, Jason finds himself questioning all of his life choices up until that moment, wondering if he could have prevented the events that transpired. He is intrigued by the transformation Chris had undergone, and he is compelled by the peace that exudes off of him during the life altering circumstances that they are all enduring. Jason begins to desire the same fulfilling life that Chris now leads. As he starts seeking the truth in the midst of heartache, it is apparent how hard it is to make the right choices; but as the story progresses, it is also clear how rewarding the process will become.
This novel serves as an inspiration to young readers, acting as a testimony to God’s power by showing how living in the light will bring purpose and joy into the lives of those going through tough times.
September 13, 2020
Darkness is something that a lot of people suffer from at a point in their life, especially high school students. Depression is unfortunately very common in high schoolers and even for older people. Everyone knows the feeling of darkness and wants to find the light at the end of the tunnel. In the first book, “The Right Person”, Chris Dunkin was someone who was in that darkness and he was fortunate enough to find a way out and connect with God, who he realized was his “light.”
Jason Davids is someone who has the whole bad boy attitude and uses drugs/alcohol regularly.
He suffers from darkness but he didn’t realize it until an event took place leaving him feeling guilty. After the event happened, he started talking to pastors and being in church more than he has ever been. This book shows the importance God has on lives and it demonstrates how he can pull people out of a dark place. Jason soon realizes the main cause of his darkness and urges to hold on to the “light” of which he found.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is struggling in life right now. This book really highlights that God can bring light to any situation and make it better. Connecting with him will help whatever you are going through.
Jason Davids is someone who has the whole bad boy attitude and uses drugs/alcohol regularly.
He suffers from darkness but he didn’t realize it until an event took place leaving him feeling guilty. After the event happened, he started talking to pastors and being in church more than he has ever been. This book shows the importance God has on lives and it demonstrates how he can pull people out of a dark place. Jason soon realizes the main cause of his darkness and urges to hold on to the “light” of which he found.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is struggling in life right now. This book really highlights that God can bring light to any situation and make it better. Connecting with him will help whatever you are going through.
February 2, 2024
The novel When Darkness Tries to Hide by Stacy A. Padula is a story of many things; light and darkness, hope and despair, faith and sins. But most of all it is a tale of redemption, a concept that the students at Montgomery Lake High have often struggled to comprehend. As some kids turn to drugs and drinking, others turn to religion and friendship in hopes of bringing back the light into their lives that they lost when they first started doing drugs. Though many believe they are beyond help, others find their views start to shift and lives start to change. But when a terrible tragedy strikes the town, the students will need to band together and put aside their differences to support those they love most or risk losing them for good.
Beautifully written and incredibly relatable, this novel is a must-read for all teens. It shows the pressure and turmoil in the social lives of a high school student caught up in a whirlwind of drugs, fights, and friendships, as well as how to navigate this complex world to find redemption, even when it seems impossible. It’s an inspiring story that motivates all who read it to become the best possible version of themselves and to continue to stay in the light instead of crossing over into the darkness.
Beautifully written and incredibly relatable, this novel is a must-read for all teens. It shows the pressure and turmoil in the social lives of a high school student caught up in a whirlwind of drugs, fights, and friendships, as well as how to navigate this complex world to find redemption, even when it seems impossible. It’s an inspiring story that motivates all who read it to become the best possible version of themselves and to continue to stay in the light instead of crossing over into the darkness.
April 20, 2020
“When Darkness Tries to Hide” was a touching novel. The theme of light and darkness is relevant to everyone. No matter how old or young you are, the struggles of Jason, Chantal, and Chris will be applicable to your life.
Jason Davids craves fulfillment. He looks for it in drugs, his girlfriend, alcohol, and the highschool party scene. Over the course of this book he realizes that those around him who are truly fulfilled have something he doesn’t. A relationship with Christ. Chantal struggles with her boyfriend’s medical emergency, but shows that it is possible to remain steadfast under trial. She also reconciles with an old friend, realizing that she never stopped to hear her friend’s point of the story, and pointing out that gossip is harmful to relationships.
This book was timely for me. I was struggling with a few things in my personal life. It gave me a good outlook on how a Christian should face trials through Chantel’s story. It showed me where true fulfillment lies through Jason’s story. Overall a great read, and definitely one that got me thinking.
Jason Davids craves fulfillment. He looks for it in drugs, his girlfriend, alcohol, and the highschool party scene. Over the course of this book he realizes that those around him who are truly fulfilled have something he doesn’t. A relationship with Christ. Chantal struggles with her boyfriend’s medical emergency, but shows that it is possible to remain steadfast under trial. She also reconciles with an old friend, realizing that she never stopped to hear her friend’s point of the story, and pointing out that gossip is harmful to relationships.
This book was timely for me. I was struggling with a few things in my personal life. It gave me a good outlook on how a Christian should face trials through Chantel’s story. It showed me where true fulfillment lies through Jason’s story. Overall a great read, and definitely one that got me thinking.
September 3, 2018
When Darkness Tries to Hide by Stacy Padula is based around the same group of friends as the first book but this time, with a different struggle in mind. One of their close friends has been injured and the story is about how each one of them cope.
This book touches on the struggle to get out of the darkness and back into the light but also the great feeling of having an amazing support system to help you when in need. It makes you feel grateful for the friends you have and makes you want to help others in their times of need. While struggle with the injury of that friend mentioned before Jason, one of the main characters in this book, has a tough time with just that. But, by the end of the book he realizes just how great of friends he has and starts to follow his faith.
It is an amazing transition from the first novel and overall the book is very relatable. I would again, recommend this to all teenagers whether you are starting or finishing high school. It is a great read to remind you of all the good you have in your life even when darkness strikes.
This book touches on the struggle to get out of the darkness and back into the light but also the great feeling of having an amazing support system to help you when in need. It makes you feel grateful for the friends you have and makes you want to help others in their times of need. While struggle with the injury of that friend mentioned before Jason, one of the main characters in this book, has a tough time with just that. But, by the end of the book he realizes just how great of friends he has and starts to follow his faith.
It is an amazing transition from the first novel and overall the book is very relatable. I would again, recommend this to all teenagers whether you are starting or finishing high school. It is a great read to remind you of all the good you have in your life even when darkness strikes.
April 9, 2025
"When Darkness Tries to Hide” by Stacy Padula continues to follow the stories of Montgomery Lake High students, furthering the intertwining plots of the previous book in the series. Tension builds between Cathy and Jason as they both continue to struggle with drug use, Chris makes strides in his journey with religion, and the plot thickens as newer characters ‘ stories unfold. When an unexpected tragedy occurs, the friends’ true colors are brought to light ,and a few struggling characters must decide what path to choose next.
I would recommend this book to adolescents in middle school and high school who should be made aware of the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Furthermore, this book promotes messages of reaching out and asking for help in times of despair. It emphasizes the idea that there is always a way to turn things around and find people who have a positive influence on you. Teenagers who are struggling with mental health, social drama, or family problems may relate to the characters in the book and be reminded that they are not alone and it is okay to ask for help.
I would recommend this book to adolescents in middle school and high school who should be made aware of the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Furthermore, this book promotes messages of reaching out and asking for help in times of despair. It emphasizes the idea that there is always a way to turn things around and find people who have a positive influence on you. Teenagers who are struggling with mental health, social drama, or family problems may relate to the characters in the book and be reminded that they are not alone and it is okay to ask for help.
January 13, 2020
When Darkness Tries to Hide by Stacy Padula is an incredible story of community and redemption in the wake of a tragedy. Students at Montgomery Lake High think the dark clouds and impending storm will only cause a temporary interruption to their regularly scheduled lives. However, when the storm grows worse and one of their classmate’s lives hangs in the balance, the students of MLH must pull together to support each other and seek help for their friend. As the lines between cliques dissolve, secrets are revealed and hearts are changed.
Stacy Padula’s second installation in the Montgomery Lake High series takes an honest look into the social lives of affluent high school students who are beginning to learn that popularity is not fulfilling their need for happiness. This book is desperately needed for its unapologetic look into the effects of drugs and alcohol in the lives of teenagers, as well as their journeys to escape such a destructive lifestyle.
Stacy Padula’s second installation in the Montgomery Lake High series takes an honest look into the social lives of affluent high school students who are beginning to learn that popularity is not fulfilling their need for happiness. This book is desperately needed for its unapologetic look into the effects of drugs and alcohol in the lives of teenagers, as well as their journeys to escape such a destructive lifestyle.
May 22, 2023
In “When Darkness Tries to Hide,” by Stacy Padula, the students and Montgomery Lake High School face a tragic event on a stormy night. Jason Davids is put into a tough situation and the characters have to come together and avoid cliques and drama. This book contains many important lessons that is important for anyone going through hardships to read.
Jason is a character who is always searching for fulfillment, often resulting in the abuse of drugs. Throughout the series, he tries to better himself and find better outlets for happiness, such as his girlfriend Cathy. In this book and the tragic event, he is able to find a better relationship with religion that we hope to see continue and progress throughout the rest of the series.
Jason is a character who is always searching for fulfillment, often resulting in the abuse of drugs. Throughout the series, he tries to better himself and find better outlets for happiness, such as his girlfriend Cathy. In this book and the tragic event, he is able to find a better relationship with religion that we hope to see continue and progress throughout the rest of the series.
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May 2, 2019I would definitely recommend When Darkness Tries to Hide to teenagers of any age. This book addressed serious problems like addiction and peer pressure, but went about it in a way that was constructive. Throughout the book, I found that when characters faced certain situations and had to think through how to approach them, it felt like I was being given advice from a peer. Addiction is something that many teenagers deal with in secrecy and this book allows people to see that they, or someone they know, is not alone and a solution can be found. Additionally, addiction is often talked about in a way that makes people fear the topic and not want to address it, but this book shows that struggling with an addiction, or helping someone who is struggling, needs to be discussed in order to begin the process of recovery.
When Darkness Tries to Hide portrays realistic situations that high schoolers face and reinforces the idea that surrounding yourself with good people and a positive atmosphere is extremely beneficial. Many teenagers struggle with picking friends not for popularity, but for who will actually have a positive impact on their life. When Darkness Tries to Hide encourages teenagers to pick good friends by showing them that being surrounded by these people improves your life and allows you to achieve your goals. This book also reminded me to look for the positive aspects of every situation. Throughout the story, there was a message that even in bad situations, like when a character suffered an injury and was in a coma, positive things will still emerge; in order to not allow darkness to overwhelm us, we must focus on these positives. As a high schooler who often dreads waking up and going to school every morning, this book reminded me to be thankful for my situation and to rely on faith, friendship and my community when I need it.
When Darkness Tries to Hide portrays realistic situations that high schoolers face and reinforces the idea that surrounding yourself with good people and a positive atmosphere is extremely beneficial. Many teenagers struggle with picking friends not for popularity, but for who will actually have a positive impact on their life. When Darkness Tries to Hide encourages teenagers to pick good friends by showing them that being surrounded by these people improves your life and allows you to achieve your goals. This book also reminded me to look for the positive aspects of every situation. Throughout the story, there was a message that even in bad situations, like when a character suffered an injury and was in a coma, positive things will still emerge; in order to not allow darkness to overwhelm us, we must focus on these positives. As a high schooler who often dreads waking up and going to school every morning, this book reminded me to be thankful for my situation and to rely on faith, friendship and my community when I need it.
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