The Fallout

Gripped #3

by Stacy A. Padula

After a near-death experience, Chris Dunkin begins surrounding himself with positive influences and putting his efforts towards living a clean lifestyle. However, the night before school starts, his best friend Jason convinces him to host a party that shows Chris more about himself than he actually wants to know.

Meanwhile, Marc Dunkin has received word from a detective that his oldest brother Taylor is a person of interest in a highly confidential case headed by the Boston Police Department. They know Taylor's clean; they know he wants out of the game; and they want to help make that happen. However, their "help" will come at a cost-one that may put Taylor and his entire family in grave danger. Taylor is trying to get his life back in order after an opiate addiction wreaked havoc on his once promising athletic future. Getting clean was a difficult feat, but breaking free from the Bilotti crime ring will present an even greater challenge.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published November 5, 2019

About the author

Stacy 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.

Reviews

[Michael Farinacci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped part 3 is yet another great addition to the Gripped Series. The book tackles many complex issues including substance abuse, relationships, and the difficult time that is high school and middle school. The story follows many different story lines, which not only makes the book an interesting read, but also allows for multiple different perspectives. Gripped Part 3 is especially effective at representing the root of substance abuse. Nearly everybody can recognize an addiction, however, this book focuses specifically on the root of these issues, which is rarely discussed with kids in the middle to high school age range.
This story is perfect for all teens and their parents. The book offers unique perspectives on complex and relevant issues to teens today. Teens, and parents alike can learn from the book, and prepare for situations in which they – or their children – may be put in. Overall, Gripped Part 3 is an interesting read, that very effectively continues on the series, and sets up part 4. I would easily give this book a 5/5 and encourage all teens and their parents to pick up any book in the Gripped series. - Michael Farinacci St. Sebastian's class of 2020

[LKD1803 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most fast-paced Gripped book yet, as something important seems to happen on almost every page. As is typical with the rest of the series, the ending leaves you hanging and wanting to uncover more about Taylor, Jason, and Cathy. Jordan Dunkin becomes an intriguing character by the end of this book, as we start to see a different side of him. Looking forward book 4!

[Nasin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Book Series is a Must Read!

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout and the entire book series is a must-read for teenagers and adults. The book examines the struggles of teenagers with substance abuse and their relationships with other teenagers and families. Adults and teenagers can learn from this book how teenagers can become involved with substance abuse very early.

Throughout the book series, we follow a cast of characters affected by substance abuse. These books examine in a realistic way how teenagers get involved with substance abuse and how it affects their relationships and aspirations. Some characters try to sober up and avoid bad influences, while others continue to spin out of control due to substance abuse.

[YA Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner by Stacy Padula. The entire Gripped series is a must read for all teens, parents, and teachers. Make sure you read books 1 and 2 before reading "The Fallout" because a lot happens in this book and it will be hard to follow without the necessary background information. I recommend schools start incorporating this book series into their curriculum as the lesson are of uber importance in today's society.

[Mackenzie Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 by Stacy Padula is a story about the search for redemption. Chris Dunkin has had his eyes opened to the impact his choices are making on his friends and his own life. Despite his desire to turn his life around, Chris realizes that he is deeply entrenched in his own mistakes. He realizes that making changes may cost him friendships, relationships, and more.
This novel is filled to the brim with teenage decisions which play out on a grand scale. An easy, but important, read for young adults, this book has many important messages between its pages. This book addresses issues which are relevant to today’s teenagers in a way which actually connects with the target audience. A five star read, this novel is a positive choice for young adults to learn the crippling effects of drugs.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped: Part 3 highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with good role models who will have a positive impact on one’s life. This series’ third book continues to carry the reader through the highs and lows of Chris Dunkin’s journey to sobriety, while simultaneously depicting how the other protagonists, and their decisions, carry a significant amount of weight. The focus of the last two books was primarily centered around the effect that drug abuse had on the characters. While book three continues to explore the dangers of drugs (in hopes of educating readers on the subject), it also takes a deep dive into relevant topics that concern this generation such as relationships, responsibility, and mental illness. The life of a teenager in this day in age holds many responsibilities and, therefore, has many possibilities. It is crucial for young adults to be exposed to these reoccurring themes because exposure is thought-provoking, not just alarming. Learning about “taboo” topics may feel uncomfortable, but it breaks down the stigmas preventing teenagers from gaining knowledge and an awareness that allows them to make the best decisions for themselves.
This series succeeds in teaching readers a lesson within the text. We’ve seen with Chris that it is important to surround yourself with the right people because being with people who use drugs to cope with their struggles will only make the use of drugs appear more attractive and be easier to accept from others. By showing that the personal journey to sobriety is not impossible, this book is successful in teaching its readers that it is never too late to make it up to yourself by becoming healthy once again, even if it was you who put yourself in a position of needed recovery.

[Sophia Coggeshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout is the third book in Stacy Padula’s Gripped series and is equally important as the first two books for today’s generation of teens and young adults to read. This addition to the captivating series continues the various storylines of characters in Montgomery Lake who have become entangled in a dangerous web of substance abuse. Gripped Part 3 specifically zeroes in on the jeopardization of certain relationships, such as that of Cathy Kagelli and Jason Davids, due to involvement in drugs, as well as the journey of characters, namely Chris and Taylor Dunkin, aimed at transitioning onto a better path after making a series of questionable choices.
Gripped Part 3: The Fallout is a must-read for any middle or high school student in order to better educate themselves on the dangers that come as a result of experimenting with seemingly harmless substances. This third book of the series is especially important for it highlights how and why teens get involved in alcohol and drug usage, something that all adolescents must be aware of as they enter into the chapter of their lives that is full of peer pressure. I would highly recommend this book and give it a five star rating for it not only spreads awareness about such a relevant topic, but it is also a page turner that constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat!

[Michaella Barcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped: Part 3 by Stacy Padula continues to show readers the effect that drugs have on kids and the struggle of Taylor Dunkin. The first two books of the series focus on the impact drugs have on family relationships. Gripped: Part 3 focuses on the effect of drugs on friendships and romantic relationships. Chris is working extremely hard to fix his life and live cleanly but finds it hard when his best friend, Jason, enables his drug use. Cathy and Jason are starting to experience the detrimental effects their drug use is having on their relationship. The people they fell in love with are disappearing in front of them. Marc and Taylor finally talk about Marc's meeting with Detective Roth.

Gripped: Part 3 shows why friends Jason, Chris, Cathy, Jon, Alyssa fell apart and explains why they are in different places in the future. People are beginning to learn that Cathy isn’t the coldhearted person her old friends think she is. Marc finally has hope that Taylor will find his way out of his dangerous life of drugs. Will Taylor be willing to take the risk of reaching out to the detectives in the Boston Police Department? Gripped: Part 3 keeps you on the edge of your seat as more pieces of the puzzle begin to come together.

[Maya Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy Padula’s Gripped Part 3: The Fallout is a captivating story following the plot of teens on their journeys to sobriety or falling deeper into drug use. This story continues with the main characters of the past two books, now coming up on their freshman year at Montgomery Lake High, all while they struggle with drug use, drama, and moral conflicts. The combination of some characters beginning to see the flaws with their drug entangled lives. moving towards sobriety, while others uncontrollably spiral down the path of drug use, it makes for another page-turning book in this series.
Along with being an alluring story, Gripped Part 3 is also a very important story, as it deals with the issues that drugs bring into many people's lives. This story is an important one for both teens and adults to pick up, teaching lessons on the impacts of drug use from the perspectives of many very different people, showing how drugs can influence the lives of anyone. This story is both a fascinating, page-turner, while also being another informative and important story, making for a great addition to the already exceptional series!

[Jenna Finnerty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book Gripped Part 3 by Stacy Padula, shows readers how the characters got really involved in drugs and alcohol. Gripped Part 3 allows readers to understand that some characters may not choose to do drugs for no reason, but sometimes characters make those decisions because they think it will help themselves. Part 3 also emphasizes how much drugs can affect someone’s personality. Even if a drug, like adderall or xanax, is used to help someone, it can still change how they act and can affect relationships. This book also shows how difficult it is for someone to get clean. It is easy for someone struggling with addiction to be tempted again, and therefore it makes sense to surround themselves with different people. Gripped Part 3 can show teens the different ways people can get addicted to drugs and how sometimes people do it because they think it will benefit themselves. This book can teach a valuable lesson to anyone struggling with addiction, and how sometimes it is necessary to take breaks from certain people who may influence them poorly.

[Laurie L · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book, Gripped Part 3, by Stacy Padula, is an amazing continuation of her thrilling series. As we continue to learn about the multiple stories that continue to develop with individuals’ drug use. We see characters change their personalities, morals, and relationships, some are unaware of the power of drugs and alcohol, while others recognize it and attempt to change for the better. Gripped Part 3 makes kids aware of longer-term effects as the series continues.
We see how easily people can become willing to try hard drugs and things they would have never considered. Characters go from never considering even drinking or smoking, are now doing those and worse with very little hesitation. This book especially touches on peer pressure, from friends, boyfriends, and popularity in general. By reading, teens can learn how to deal with these potentially devastating decisions by reading about how they affect the characters who parallel people they know in their own lives.

[GiGi Arcabascio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped 3 is a great example of substance abuse. From the very beginning of the series Chris has made some immature choices as every teen does. Throughout the book series he has made many mistakes, but what we didn’t realize till now is that he is actually learning from them. Following Chris’s journey could help inspire kids that things can get better if you do what’s best for you even if that means making some tough decisions. Gripped 3 also gives us more insight about Taylor. We learn more about him and more about the situation that he is in. Another good thing about Gripped 3 is it helps to understand a child’s perspective. Sometimes I think parents forget that kids' minds think differently and aren’t mature enough yet to know how to make the right decision. It will also bring awareness to parents on what to look out for as their teens are entering High school.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout written by Stacy Padula is the third of a five book series about a group of teenage, high school students and their experiences with substance abuse. Gripped Part 3: The Fallout describes dramatic events which happen due to some of the bad choices made by some of the main characters. For instance, Chris Dunkin breaks his sobriety streak when his close friend, Jason, convinces him to take acid at a party. Chris regrets his actions and in an effort to stay on the right path he decides to permanently cut Jason out of his life. In addition, Cathy Kagelli, Jason’s girlfriend, also has a substance problem. Due to her anxiety, she becomes addicted to Xanax. One night before attending a party she secretly takes some Xanax. Unaware of Cathy’s bad decision, Jason encourages her to drink that night. She gets extremely drunk and ends up having sex with Jason. This is devastating for Cathy because she wanted to save herself for marriage.
Gripped Part 3: The Fallout teaches its readers how drugs can cause people to make very bad and sometimes dangerous decisions that can have negative and irreversible outcomes for their future and for others whom they love. Gripped Part 3: The Fallout teaches readers these lessons while also keeping people entertained. I rate this book a 5/5 because it teaches readers valuable lessons and makes readers want more with each page they turn.

[Bailey Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout is a realistic, important, relatable, needed, engaging, and raw story! This is the third book in the gripped series which is written for 12 to 18 year olds. However, I recommend all individuals over the age of 12 read this incredible series that shows the progression and reality of addiction. It is important to read this series in order to truly connect with the characters and see their progression. This book shows Taylor a college student the main character from the first book triumph over his addiction and live a fully clean life. However, his past choices of drug using and drug dealing still linger. The police ask Taylor to make a choice that could put his entire family in jeopardy, but the alternative is fully suffering the consequences of his dealing. Chris a high school student has also got his life back on track after a life threatening overdose. After one night to loosen up a little with friends he finds himself slipping right back into the cycle of addiction. Jason, Marc, and Lisa all have their own perspectives again as well. My favorite perspective from this book was Cathy's perspective. Cathy has always been a faithfilled person, but now social pressures, her romantic relationship, and friendships have turned her to substance use. She started using in book two, but in book three she begins to realize how deeply her life has been affected by substances. This series is truly phenomenal and I highly recommend it!!

[Nicole Kroon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout, was an intriguing novel about the tough journey back from substance abuse in a small town full of interconnected friends and challenges. As the kids of Montgomery Lake High start to realize that their drug use is getting out of hand, some of them decide to try and change their lives for the better. But, it proves to be more complicated than simply becoming sober. Friendships are challenged, hearts are broken, and secrets come bubbling to the surface as the kids sort out their difficult past and try to work for a better future. The fascinating story of the Dunkins, Jason and Luke Davids, and Cathy Kagelli will hook you into the complex world of Montgomery Lake and leave you itching to read the next book.
Throughout this novel, the harsh realities of alcohol and drug abuse are explored, and readers are exposed to the dangerous consequences of what happens when people aren’t careful. The lessons taught in this book about the perils of substance abuse are incredibly necessary for tweens and teens around the world, now more than ever; as more kids become addicted to drugs, it’s important that these messages are spread to prevent further drug usage and overdoses. That’s why I would recommend this book to all tweens and young adults across the globe.

[Bella Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped, Part 3 The Fallout continues the stories of teenagers at Montgomery Lake High School. The plot twists keep the reader looking forward to the additional novels hoping that each character’s story will be told. One thing I really liked about this novel was the way each chapter switched to a new character’s perspective. It really makes the reader understand how each teen is feeling and what they are thinking. This gives insight into what choices they make, both good and bad. This novel shows what happens when people give into peer pressure and take risks. One of the most interesting things to me in this book was how many characters start out wanting to make good decisions but then make one small bad choice that lets them spiral out of control. So many of the characters are willing to use one drug and then they still don’t feel right so they use another. They keep repeating this cycle because they never truly feel good inside.
I recommend this book to any high school student, teacher or parent of teenagers who wants to see how small decisions can greatly alter lives. Many characters in this novel are in constant conflict that is never resolved. Drug use can change and destroy families, friendships and romantic relationships.

[Olivia Halle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 by Stacy Padula confronts the struggles of recovering from substance abuse and the attempts that Chris Dunkin makes to stay clean. Chris begins his journey of recovery by surrounding himself with positive influences such as Courtney, Bryan’s ex-girlfriend, yet Chris is quickly swept back into the paralyzing cycle of substance abuse when he hosts a party on the last night of summer. Padula masterfully explores the relentlessness of addiction and the burdening strain that it exacts on relationships, which will surely make the reader feel that they are in the whirlwind of the book themself.
Part 3 also navigates the toxicity of relationships and codependency, which serves as an accessible warning to young adults to beware of the signs so that they can learn from the mistakes of the characters in the Gripped series. Part 3 is perfect for all ages as it provides an informative and humanizing storyline that allows its readers to prepare themselves for the brutal world of substances and ensure that they will make decisions that uphold their personal values. This fast-paced and invigorating novel is one that can be read in one sitting and will definitely leave you ready to uncover more of the Bilotti crime ring in Part 4.

[Sarah Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3: The Fallout by Stacy Padula is a page-turner that will allow teens and adults to understand the harmful effects of drug addiction. The story follows many different high school relationships and how drug addiction can ruin relationships of all types. The readers learn more about Taylor Dublin’s struggle to get back on the football field and transfer to a school where he will excel academically and athletically. Meanwhile, Chris and Jason, two high school friends, decide to experiment with drugs the night before the first day of high school while sneaking out. Chris’s prior experiences with drugs make this a problem for him, his new and his old relationships.

Meanwhile, we learn that Cathy works to repair her relationship with her sister and lets her back into her life. However, this was a result of Cathy’s trip to the police station with Chantal’s ex-boyfriend's new girl, Alyssa. However, beforehand they dramatically and unexpectedly broke up. This tangled web of connections leaves the readers to wonder where these relationships will end up in the future and how drugs will play a part to damage them. Read Gripped Part 4 to find out!

[ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 is the next book in the compelling and informative series by author Stacy A. Padula. It continues to follow the journeys of the teens of Montgomery High and their relationships with drugs, mental health, and each other. It dives deeper into their relationships, specifically concentrating on the line between knowing when to support someone and knowing when to give them the space they need to recover. Padula does a phenomenal job at showcasing the warring storylines of characters on a path to sobriety versus characters developing stronger addictions, and how these characters impact one another.
The novel highlights the importance of unconditional support and patience for those struggling with addictions and just how prevalent the drug problem with teens in America is becoming. Stacy Padula demonstrates the misconception most people have that they will not get addicted to drugs if they try them once or twice, instead showing how easy it can be. Gripped Part 3: The Fallout is a 5 star read and a necessity for readers all across America to comprehend the drug epidemic taking over the country.

[Angelina M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 is an intense and compelling continuation of Stacy Padula’s powerful series. This specific part dives even deeper into the emotional struggles, fractured relationships, and dangerous pressures surrounding teen substance use. The characters feel incredibly real, flawed, hopeful, scared, and determined all at once. Chris’s ongoing journey, Taylor’s high-stakes situation, and the tensions building among friends and siblings kept me completely absorbed. Padula captures the rawness of addiction and the complexity of recovery in a way that is honest and impactful.
What makes this book truly stand out is its ability to educate while still delivering a gripping, fast-paced story. The overlapping plotlines create constant momentum, and every chapter adds depth to the choices young people face today. Gripped Part 3 doesn’t just tell a story, but it opens readers’ eyes to the challenges teens encounter and emphasizes the importance of support, awareness, and honest conversation. This is a must-read for teens, parents, and educators alike, and it left me eager to pick up the next installment in the series.

[kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy Padula’s “Gripped Part 3: The Fallout” is a gripping continuation that deepens the emotional and thematic weight of the series. While more concise than earlier books, it feels anything but limited, weaving together multiple storylines that explore the realities of teenage life with honesty and urgency. The novel shows how characters from unique backgrounds can all be pulled into substance abuse through very different choices, but led to similar consequences. What stands out most is how real the characters feel; their struggles with friendship, relationships, and identity are portrayed in a way that makes their experiences resonate long after you’ve turned the page.

What truly sets this book apart is its ability to educate without preaching. Unlike many other reads, Padula does not soften the realities of addiction, peer pressure, or mental health challenges, and instead presents them as they often appear in real life—messy, painful, and deeply impactful. I truly recommend this book to any teens, tweens, and adults because it has lessons that people of all ages can learn from.

[Paul Vian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped part 3 was a phenomenal read and a great continuation to the already great series. In this novel I really enjoyed the development of many characters. Some of the notable ones include Chris, Jordan, and Taylor. Each one of these respective characters' journeys with substances such as alcohol and drugs has been so interesting to follow. For example, both Chris and Taylor’s battle to try and fix their old habits has been very interesting.
I believe these books to be very informational and informative to the readers. Its messages on such heavy topics make it a great read for teens and young adults who should understand more about the topics. For instance, it's dive into the subject of drug abuse in highschool/ college kids is not only interesting but also a great lesson for the younger age group as it can teach them about the effects on their lives on the respective characters from this series. To summarize, I believe this book was a great read that can benefit many and teach valuable lessons about the danger of drugs on the lives of young adults.

[Jared Abramson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Gripped Part 3: The Fallout” is an eye-opening read that shares the significance of the struggles young adults go through. The intriguing sequel to the first two books in the “Gripped” series discusses incredibly important topics while diving into the social scene of Montgomery Lake High, ultimately demonstrating the book’s incredibly important underlying message that substance abuse can happen to anyone. The story shows a collective of students fall into the dangers of substance abuse through extremely diverse paths that all lead them to the same place. Despite this, Gripped 3 highlights recognition by many of the characters of their struggles and attempts to change for the better.

This book carries extremely important social messages about the nature of substance abuse, peer pressure, and mental health struggles while engaging readers in a captivating story. I couldn’t put this book down and finished it in just three days as a result. I 100% recommend it to young adult and adult readers!

[Ramsey Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Gripped Part 3: The Fallout,” by Stacy A. Padula is a captivating and engaging continuation of the Gripped series that is difficult to put down. As each book does, Gripped Part 3 deeply touches upon the dangers of drug use for teenagers and teaches readers about the risks that come with it through each character’s unique storyline. It is beneficial for teenagers to read this book as it shines a light on the various reasons why young people begin experimenting with drugs.

As the series continues, we dig deeper into each character's past and present relationships while new secrets are revealed. Taylor’s predicament with the police, Chris’s path to staying sober, and Cathy and Chantal’s tumultuous relationship continue to unfold. I would highly recommend reading Gripped Part 3 to anyone looking for an intriguing read that also highlights the dangers of drug and alcohol use.

[Gwen Jakubowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 explores complex relationships and mental health issues in young teens that lead to substance abuse. This novel demonstrates the ease of falling into drugs as a remedy for deep issues and struggles. Teens can benefit from this novel by seeing firsthand the true negative effects drugs have on young people especially, while parents can understand how to best support their teens and warn them against the dangers of drugs.
I thought that Gripped Part 3 truly allowed the reader to empathize with characters going through serious struggles, from anxiety to break ups to changing friendships. I can see how easily it was for the characters to fall into drugs as a remedy for their issues, and this novel clearly demonstrates that drugs are not the answer. I am excited to read more about how the characters will mend themselves, their relationships, and achieve sobriety.

[Grace G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripped Part 3 is an Incredible Book within the series. It makes connections from different storylines that were set up but not completed in previous books. It also reveals many key details about certain characters and why they are the way they are. It allows the reader to get a fuller picture of the truth happening within the characters' lives.

Such as previous books in the series Gripped Part 3 explains the dangers of drug use and abuse. The book touches on specific drugs not mentioned before in the series, and uses real-life examples to show the horrors of them. The book also wonderfully shows how and why people, especially teens, begin to use drugs. Gripped Part 3 is an amazing addition to the series and sets up for more books to follow.

[Nichole Conran · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this third book of the Gripped series, the characters really captivated me. The various storylines and the relationships between the characters are engaging and refreshing to read. The author captures the emotions behind the characters in a powerful way. Readers will find themselves rooting for characters to overcome certain struggles and obstacles.

The conflict and tension will keep a reader turning the pages, wanting to find out more. The dialogue between the characters is entertaining to read and shows the depth of their friendship. The storyline between the group of friends is woven together nicely. I can’t wait to read the 4th book in the series now!

[Jessica Rhode · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hard to put down as so much happens in each chapter. I can't wait to find out what happens to Taylor in Part 4!