Article by Jennifer O’Sullivan, Dover, Massachusetts
In Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told, by Stacy A. Padula, Taylor Dunkin plays a major role. In the novel, I found the storyline about him and the Boston police department to be the most interesting. To me, Taylor seemed like a really nice, smart, athletic, and caring guy, similar to someone whom I would want to be friends with. Soon, this all changed after a grueling injury led to a painkiller addiction. To support his habit, Taylor began selling drugs at his college as part of a crime ring, and that is when things became serious.
I love books and TV shows about mysteries and investigations, so I was immediately drawn to this part of the story. When the police targeted Taylor as the “weak link” and sought after his cooperation, I found it so interesting that a star athlete from a small town could have such a serious involvement in something like this. I really enjoyed reading about this, because as a reader I could learn about how Taylor viewed this situation and how he was remorseful, yet I could also see it from the perspective of the police, who were ready to take this ring down.
At one point in Gripped Part 1, the police mention that it will be extremely hard for Taylor to make it out of this scenario unscathed. The leader, or other members of the ring, will come for him or his family, and this scares me. I am curious to see how the police will handle this so that Taylor can get out safely. I am excited to read about their tactics in handling this situation and to read about Taylor’s reaction to the investigation. Additionally, Taylor’s younger brother Marc Dunkin is a character that I really love, as he cares a lot about Taylor but is frustrated by his brother’s behavior. Due to this fact, I am really excited to see how Marc will be involved in the investigation and I am curious to discover how Taylor and Marc’s relationship will change after this event.
About Jennifer O’Sullivan
Jennifer O’Sullivan, a rising senior at Dover Sherborn High School, enjoys reading, playing the piano, spending time with friends and doing volunteer work. Jennifer leads her school’s community service club, runs on her school’s cross country and track teams and loves to travel, especially to Ireland where she spends time with friends and family.
More Articles by Jennifer:
Why “The Right Person” is a Perfect Book for Teens
“The Right Person” by Stacy Padula Shows How Faith Can Benefit Teenagers
Jennifer O’Sullivan of Dover-Sherborn High School on “When Darkness Tries to Hide” by Stacy Padula
Jennifer O’Sullivan: There’s an Important Message for Teens in “When Darkness Tries to Hide”
A YA Book for Teens in Need of Inspiration
“The Battle for Innocence” is a Must-read for Christian Teens
Jennifer O’Sullivan on Jason Davids, Protagonist of The Aftermath
Books by Stacy A. Padula 
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