Joanna Dakoyannis Reviews “When Darkness Tries to Hide” by Stacy Padula

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!!

  Montgomery Lake High #2: When Darkness Tries To Hide

A powerful supercell is spawning above Montgomery Lake High School, while a separate storm is brewing in its halls. The question is–which one should Cathy Kagelli, Jason Davids, and their friends fear the most?

About Joanna Dakoyannis

Joanna Dakoyannis is a junior at Dover-Sherborn High School. She enjoys creative writing, traveling, going to the gym, running track for her high school team and loves cheering on the team at school sporting events. She plans to be a science major in college and hopes to eventually attend dental school.

Articles by Joanna:

An Exceptional Book I Recommend to Teens & Preteens

Q&A with Joanna Dakoyannis on “The Right Person” by Stacy Padula