Delaney’s Book Nook

Delaney is a junior at Marshfield High School, graduating in 2026. She is a member of Student Council and DECA business club where she recently competed in the district competition and qualified for the state competition. She competes in the hurdles for winter and spring track. She enjoys volunteering for the Special Olympics each winter sports season and will begin helping kids through the Coastal SNAP program this spring. In her spare time, she enjoys visiting new places with family and friends.  

Book Reviews

This novel is a page turner that captures the essence of teenage turmoil and the complexities of growing up. The characters are well developed, each with their own compelling backstory that intertwines with the others. The plot is a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me intrigued the whole time. Themes of friendship and love are explored impactfully leaving you deeply invested in the characters’ journeys. The novel perfectly mirrors the difficulties young adults face in highschool with peer pressure, new friends, and the desire to fit in.

Additionally, the book’s ability to address serious issues such as substance abuse and peer pressure gives it depth. Not only is it an amusing read but an important one. It has meaningful commentary that teaches the importance of understanding the consequences of one’s actions. It also acts as a reminder that support and compassion can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Ultimately, “Gripped Part 1” is an addicting read that realistically represents the young adult experience.

Gripped Part 2 takes a deeper dive into the pasts of the characters introduced in part 1. We see characters take a turn for the worse and for the better. It is an intriguing novel that leaves you anticipating the next part. The book allows you to grow a deeper connection with the characters and become fully invested in their lives.

Along with the character arcs, the novel addresses the dangers of drug abuse especially at a young age. Many of the characters have turned to drugs to combat their personal issues. However, they have endured drastic personality changes because of it. It shows the dangers of peer pressure and accurately represents teenage struggles.

Stacy Padula’s “Gripped Part 3: The Fallout” maintains the series’ momentum with a powerful narrative that delves deeper into the lives of its teenage protagonists. The book excels in portraying the complexities of young adulthood, tackling the themes of addiction, friendship, and the consequences of our choices with sensitivity and insight. The characters are relatable and their journeys are rendered with a realism that speaks to the heart of the reader. The dialogue is authentic, and the plot twists keep the pages turning rapidly.

The third book in the Gripped series stands out for its educational value as much as for its entertainment. It is a rare find that manages to be both a fun read and a profound conversation starter about the issues of drug abuse and peer pressure. “Gripped Part 3″ is a must-read, continuing to build on the strong foundation laid by the previous books, and it earns a well-deserved five stars for its impactful storytelling.

“Gripped Part 4” by Stacy Padula continues to delve into the intricate lives of high school students as they navigate adolescence, peer pressure, and substance abuse. It is a page turner, providing a raw and realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by today’s youth. The narrative makes it easy for readers to empathize with the characters’ struggles and triumphs. The book maintains a steady pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged from start to finish.

One of the standout aspects of “Gripped Part 4” is its ability to balance the darker themes of addiction and peer pressure with moments of hope and redemption. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique backstories and motivations that add depth to the overall narrative. Overall, “Gripped Part 4” is a compelling read that not only entertains but also encourages important conversations about the issues facing today’s youth.

“Gripped Part 5: Taylor’s Story” continues to delve deep into the complex lives of young adults grappling with the challenges of addiction, peer pressure, and personal growth. Taylor is the main focus, providing a raw and unfiltered look into his struggles and triumphs. It provides Taylor’s backstory making it easy for readers to connect with Taylor and understand the gravity of his situation.

What stands out in “Gripped Part 5” is the author’s ability to weave together multiple storylines seamlessly. The themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are explored, offering readers a perspective on the impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones. Overall, “Gripped Part 5” is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the series.

https://www.amazon.com/Right-Person-Montgomery-Lake-High-ebook/dp/B004GKMHWO?ref_=ast_author_dp&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9gozeyQ_huR_BnXoSDEwakIqW1BJCR12501mFrx1VA-qZV7t16vn9xiLgn5nt-nqfmlVHrhUtl6YGbfq8VtAoTzRGUs0Jm1gyw0OYbjL8ExwTEzCMtc93dg7AoYIrjEJCnzgnLW6jSVNBx–wbtjQpL9MfVXGbI-oLsqQxKwIn3UQZHyo4i-qiJk1TW9imfbHu2HYY13fwD705FB32dHXY99MwNUyE1D08rGSd0ly0g.UFE3nQnP0btyZU-MINR5FX_a0Ufg7D6sn1ph-EqjNhc&dib_tag=AUTHOR

The Right Person, by Stacy Padula, offers a compelling look into the lives of high school students navigating change. The themes of peer pressure, upholding your morals, and the search for identity are very relevant to today’s society. This story shows the importance of staying true to yourself and maintaining a relationship with God throughout the complexities of high school. 

  The main character is Chris, the life of the party, who recently decides that is no longer the lifestyle he wants. He hopes his new girlfriend Courney, the mayor’s daughter who has always stayed true to her faith, will be a positive influence on him. However, Courtney’s mindset has also shifted and she is tempted by the party scene. The novel provides multiple perspectives, providing a deeper understanding of each character’s motivations and emotional struggles. The Right Person is a compelling story, showcasing realistic examples of high school struggles.

“When Darkness Tries to Hide” by Stacy Padula dives deeper into the darker and more challenging aspects of teenage life. The story picks up with familiar characters who are now facing even more intense battles, from mental health struggles to confronting external pressures. The novel draws readers into the emotional and psychological struggles of the characters. It is suspenseful with unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat.

What sets this book apart is its profound exploration of themes such as redemption, faith, and resilience. Jason’s journey is marked by moments of despair and hope, making his growth and transformations deeply moving. It covers difficult topics like addiction, depression, and the quest for meaning, which adds a layer of depth and realism to the narrative. “When Darkness Tries to Hide” is not just a story of survival but also of finding light in the darkest of times, making it a powerful and inspiring read for young adults.

The Aftermath by Stacy Padula is a compelling sequel that delves deeply into the complexities of teenage life and the consequences of past actions. The story continues to follow the lives of the characters as they navigate the turbulent waters of high school. The emotional and psychological struggles of teenagers are accurately portrayed, making the narrative both relatable and enticing. The story captures the essence of adolescent angst and the impact of peer pressure.

One of the standout elements of The Aftermath is its exploration of redemption and personal growth. The characters are well-developed, each grappling with their own issues and striving to overcome their past mistakes. The themes of forgiveness and self-discovery are woven into the plot, providing readers with valuable life lessons. The writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, making The Aftermath a must-read for anyone interested in young adult fiction that tackles real-life issues with sensitivity and insight.

Interviews with Delaney

March 2024: Gripped Part 1

1. Who would you recommend Gripped Part 1 to and why?

I would recommend Gripped Part 1 to teenagers, specifically ages 14-19, who enjoy realistic fiction. Since the book follows the formative years of the characters, it is a good fit for teens who are going through similar experiences. The book also deals with heavier topics and can teach teenagers valuable lessons. 

2. How do you as a young adult relate to the story?

As a young adult, I can relate to the story in many different ways and see myself in multiple characters. The characters experience common difficulties when navigating high school such as making new friends, peer pressure, and upholding their beliefs while also trying to fit in. These are all issues many young adults, including myself, have dealt with and will continue to deal with. 

3. What did you like best about the story?

My favorite part about the story was seeing the tight bonds many of the characters formed even though it eventually unraveled. The dynamics between the characters were compelling because they were a source of support and motivation for each other but also tension and conflict. One I particularly enjoyed was Lisa and Cathy because the bond they formed reminded me of my best friend and I. Although, all of the relationships were the best part because they’re the heart of the characters’ development and the story’s progression.

4. What message does this book send to readers?

The book sends several messages, one of the most prominent being the importance of understanding the consequences of one’s actions. A decision made in a moment of pressure, desire for acceptance, or even curiosity can unravel in ways that can affect your future opportunities. It teaches readers to think through their decisions as they do not know how it will affect them in the long run. 

5. There are a few different storylines running through Gripped Part 1 because it is setting up the rest of the series. What storyline do you find the most interesting and why? (For example: Taylor and the police, Cathy and Jason, Cathy and Chantal, etc.)

I found the storyline of Cathy and Jason to be the most interesting. The build up before their first encounter made it even more intriguing. Also, it is evident that their relationship is not going to end well despite the instant connection they formed and the love they both still share for each other. I am very interested to see how their relationship unfolds as I can not see how it could go wrong from where the book left off.

6. Gripped Part 1 sets up the rest of the series but leaves a lot of things “hanging.” What are you most curious to uncover by reading Gripped Part 2?

I am most curious to uncover how Chantal handles the newfound information she received at the end of Part 1. I hope that she and Cathy rekindle their relationship as they had such an admirable sibling bond and confided in each other at the beginning of the story. However, I don’t know if they can ever get that back as they have both grown into very different people and have broken each other’s trust. 

7. About the characters…
   1. Who do you feel bad for and why?

I feel bad for Chantal because throughout the book she seemed very isolated from the rest of the group due to her struggles with Jon. She lost her best friend and her boyfriend through their break up and never got true closure on why Jon went into a downward spiral. She was treated very unfairly by Jon and experienced immense amounts of heartbreak in Part 1.

2. Who frustrates you and why? 

Jon frustrates me the most due to his lack of communication skills and how he handles social situations. Him drinking in spite of Chantal was very immature and I believe he could have handled that situation with a lot more grace. I do not think Jon is a bad person, I just believe he struggles with conveying his feelings which frustrated me because honesty could have put him in a much better place. 

3. Who do you most relate to and why?

I most relate to Cathy because she is responsible but is also easily influenced by those around her. The way she handled many situations was similar to how I would. For example, when Lisa made her sleepover Chris’s house she was reluctant but ultimately agreed because she did not want to cause conflict. I would have felt the same way as I am a people pleaser and find it difficult to say no.  

4. Who do you like and why? 

I like Lisa because she is very empathetic and genuine. She gives her honest opinion and always wants what is best for her friends. Her authenticity is admirable because she speaks her mind even if she might come across as negative to some people. 

5. Who do you dislike and why?

I dislike Jordan because he puts many of the kids in very uncomfortable situations and allows his cousin Chris to jeopardize his future. Chris has been exposed to many substances because of Jordan’s irresponsibility. Jordan does not take Chris’s age into account and does not enforce the discipline that Chris’s parents are not present to give. 

April 2024: Gripped Part 2

1. The drug use and sexual content in this book will surely get it banned from schools, but the topics are too relevant in teenage culture to be ignored. Why do you think this book should be read by kids in middle school and high school?

The novel can provide a safe way to explore and understand complex issues, including the realities and consequences of drug use and sexual content. They can open up important discussions and offer different perspectives, which is crucial during the formative high school years. When middle school and high school students read about characters facing these issues, it can help them understand the gravity of the decisions they might encounter in real life. It equips them with the knowledge to make informed choices and understand the world around them.

2. What can kids learn from reading this book?

 This novel educates middle and high schoolers about relevant concepts in teenage life that can be difficult to address. These topics include substance abuse, relationship issues, and maintaining your morals. It also shows the consequences of giving into peer pressure as many of the characters have got into drugs due to the pressure of their friends.

3. How has your opinion of Taylor changed from the beginning of the series until the end of book 2?

My opinion of Taylor has not changed much from the first book to the second. I think that Taylor is a good person who made bad decisions but in my opinion, he hasn’t taken many steps to better his life. I think Taylor needs to mend his relationship with family as they could help him through this rough time. He seems like he has lost all hope, but with the help of his friends and family I believe he can get back on track.

4. How has your opinion of Chris changed since the beginning of the series?

My opinion of Chris drastically changed over the course of book 2. Chris matured a lot throughout this book and finally took accountability for his actions. The lengths he went to in order to work on his sobriety such as breaking up with Lisa and distancing himself with his friends who did drugs show his dedication. Book 2 made me gain a lot of respect for Chris and I hope his character arc continues.

5. After reading books 1 & 2, are you rooting for Cathy to end up with Jason or Marc?

After reading books 1 & 2 I would much rather Cathy ends up with Jason. Although they endured many struggles throughout their relationship, the love they shared for each other was always apparent. Cathy and Marc do not share that chemistry and I think they would be better off as friends. Jason and Cathy grew up together, building a bond that Marc can not compare to.

6. What are your honest thoughts on Chris and Lisa’s relationship?

Although I enjoy Chris and Lisa as individual characters and it is undeniable that they love each other, I do not think they are good for each other. Chris and Lisa are both party people and appear to be easily persuaded. I think they need someone more tame in order to balance their overbearing personalities.

7. Who are your two favorite characters so far in the series and why?

My two favorite characters in the series are Chris and Jason. Chris is a caring person who always prioritizes his friends and I think his maturity in book 2 made me grow even more fond of him. Jason is also a very caring person and is respectful of others values. He respects Cathy’s virginity pact and does not heckle others to drink or use drugs. I also really enjoy Chris and Jason’s friendship as they have always been their for each other throughout the drama in their friend group.

May 2024: Gripped Part 3

1. This book touches upon the use of Adderall, acid, marijuana, alcohol, and Xanax. For that reason, parents may not want their children to read the novel. However, the author feels there is much to be learned. What do you think tweens and teens could learn from reading Gripped Part 3 that would be beneficial for them?

Gripped Part 3 covers a lot of heavy topics that can be seen as controversial but I think they teach a valuable lesson on not giving in to peer pressure. Addiction is a very serious issue and a lot of times teens will give into peer pressure and try different substances because they believe “one time won’t hurt them” and they won’t get addicted. However, addiction can happen to anyone and as we have seen with Cathy, who started trying substances to control her anxiety, she now relies on them.

2. Why could adults benefit from reading Gripped Part 3?

Gripped Part 3 is a powerful tool for adults in understanding the complexities of teenage life. Particularly, the challenges that adolescents face with regards to peer pressure, substance abuse, and the struggle to maintain one’s identity and values in the face of societal expectations. 

3. What storylines were most intriguing in Gripped Part 3? What kept you wanting to turn the page?

The storyline that was most intriguing to me in Gripped Part 3 was Chris attempting to become sober. Over the past three parts of the series, I have grown very fond of Chris and I find it remarkable that he took accountability for his actions and is now putting in the work to right his wrongs. He made some very difficult but reasonable decisions in this book like choosing to distance himself from his best friend. I also enjoyed the beginning of Chris and Courtney’s relationship and was sad to see it derail towards the end of the book.

4. As drug use abounds in the series, some characters are trying their best to sober up, while others are getting deeper and deeper into substance abuse. How do you think readers can benefit from reading about Chris’s journey from the beginning of the series until now?

I think readers can learn from Chris’s journey because even though it appeared like there was no hope of him turning his life around, he proved everyone wrong. He chose to put his mental and physical health first which is something everyone should follow. He has shown that everyone has the ability to fix the aspects of their life that they are not proud of and to never give up.

5. At this point in the series, what character intrigues you the most and why?

At this point in the series, Chris is the character that intrigues me most. I am rooting for him to get sober after all of the hard choices he’s made in an effort to do so. I also am interested to see if him and Jason can eventually mend their friendship because they have a brotherly love for each other that I hope does not get thrown away because of this.

6. What does this book teach readers about why people begin using drugs?

I think this book teaches readers that people often begin using drugs to combat other issues in their life. Whether that is depression, anxiety, or anger, they often think that drugs will benefit these issues and that they won’t get addicted. However, drugs are a temporary fix to a permanent problem if you do not seek the help you need.

7. Chris loves Jordan, but Marc hates Jordan. He has slowly been introduced to the reader in the first three books and will play a more significant role later in the series. At this point in the series what are your honest thoughts on Jordan?

At this point in the series I don’t think I have enough information on Jordan to form a valid opinion. I have been very conflicted with my stance on Jordan throughout the series because of Chris and Marc’s opposing views on him. Chris and Marc are both trustworthy characters so I find it hard to side with one or the other. Although, I am very interested to see more of Jordan later in the series and learn more about him. 

June 2024: Gripped Part 4

1. Who would you recommend this book to and why?

I would recommend this book to young adults, ages 13-20, because it educates them on real issues they will most likely be exposed to. They will be able to relate to the characters the most as the main characters are also young adults. However, this book can also be beneficial to parents because it gives them insight into situations their kids may go through and how to handle it. 

2. Why do you feel the topics covered in the book are relevant for teenagers?

The topics covered in the book are very relevant for teenagers because it covers substance abuse and issues with family and friends. These are very relevant issues during the teenage years because high school tends to cause disagreements among friends and family due to the big changes that are occurring. It also educates teenagers on the dangers of getting involved with substances. 

3. Why should parents read this book?

This book would be very beneficial for parents because it shows them the experiences their kids are exposed to that they may not share with their parents. I think it is important that parents are aware of these situations and know what signs to look for. It allows parents to understand their kids’ environment and stay connected. 

4. At this point in the story, what are you most curious to uncover in Gripped 5?

I am most curious to uncover where Taylor had been the night where they found his Jeep in Boston. I hope that in Gripped 5, Taylor can get his life back on track and make a full recovery from his past. Seeing what Taylor has gone through over the course of the past four books made me invested in his story and I want the best for him. 

5. What did you like best about this book/what kept you wanting to turn the page?

All of the storylines in Gripped 4 have become more complex as the characters get older. Things have become more serious now that the characters are in high school as they are exposed to more dangerous things. I think these complex storylines are what makes Gripped 4 so realistic and what I enjoyed most about it. 

6. What did you like about the writing style/setup of the story?

I enjoy how you can see multiple people’s perspectives on the same situation. It helps develop the storylines even more because the readers get everyone’s take. This also helps to identify each character’s personality based on how they react to each situation. 

7. How has your opinion of the characters evolved overtime? Specify what you now think of the following people after reading Gripped 4:
   1. Luke

I have always liked Luke as a character but was not sure about his intentions. After this book, hearing Michelle’s take on him, I think he is genuinely a good person who just got into some bad things. Michelle said herself that he is the nicest in his family. 

2. Jordan

My opinions on Jordan have drastically changed. At first I thought he was a careless partier but Gripped 4 showed there was a lot more to him. He looks after the people he loves and is kind-hearted. 

3. Taylor

Taylor has definitely turned his life around in Gripped 4. He has been sober for a good amount of time which is remarkable. He is also doing his best to get out of the business.

4. Jason

I liked Jason a lot but I am slowly starting to lose respect for him. I think he is being selfish by introducing Cathy to drugs even if he thinks he is helping her. I hope that he gets his life back on track in Gripped 5. 

5. Cathy

Cathy has been more honest with herself and the people she loves in this book and I hope the old Cathy is slowly coming back. She revealed to Marc that she had been using benzos which I think was a step in the right direction. However, I am not a big fan of her and Marc’s relationship and I think they don’t make sense together. 

July 2024: Gripped Part 5

1. Who would you recommend this book to and why?

I would recommend this book to teenagers and parents because it takes a deep dive into the dangers of substance abuse. Taylor’s story heavily focuses on substances and the permanent effects they can have on your life. It helps both teenagers and parents realize that getting involved with substances can heavily affect your future. 

2. Why do you feel the topics covered in the book are relevant for teenagers?

The topics covered in the book are relevant for teenagers because they are heavily exposed to it. If they are not aware of how serious substance use is they are careless about it and think it won’t affect them. However, Gripped Part 5 shows a good kid with a bright future, like Taylor, can also be a victim of substance abuse. 

3. What 3 important messages does Gripped 5 send to readers?

The first important message Gripped 5 sends to readers is to be mindful of who you surround yourself with. A prime example of this is Luke, who has lost sight of his morals and personality because of his relationship with Missy. Gripped 5 also teaches readers the seriousness of substance abuse and it is not something that should be taken lightly. Finally, it teaches readers to talk things out when you are going through a disagreement with somebody. Chantal and Cathy would have solved their problems a long time ago if they had just had a conversation. Marc and Jordan also would be able to solve their problems if they told each other the truth. 

4. What are you most curious to uncover in Gripped Part 6?

I am most curious to discover how Taylor gets out of this mess and if they are able to take down the Bilotti crime ring. I think the only way they would succeed in taking down the crime ring is if they get Donny on their side. I hope Donny comes to his senses in Gripped Part 6 because he seems like a good person deep down.

5. What did you like best about this book and who is your favorite character in the series at this point?

I enjoyed seeing Cathy and Chantal talk things out because it was a big misunderstanding so it was a relief to see it resolved. However, my favorite character in Gripped Part 5 was Jordan. I used to dislike Jordan but I now realize I misjudged him, similar to a lot of the characters in the story. I think he and Michelle have a very wholesome relationship and he is overall a very genuine person. 

6. What do you hope happens to:
   1. Taylor

I hope Taylor and Jimmy are able to take down the Bilotti crime ring. I also hope that Taylor is able to play football again because he has worked so hard to get sober. 

2. Cathy & Chantal

I hope that Cathy and Chantal maintain their close relationship that they restored in Gripped Part 5. I also want them to bring the original friend group back together now that everyone knows the truth. 

3. Cathy & Jason

I hope that Cathy and Jason get back together now that they are both in a better place. They still clearly care about each other a lot and they had a healthy relationship before it was tainted by substances.

4. Luke & Missy

I do not think Luke and Missy are a good match so I hope they break up in Gripped Part 6. I really like Luke but he is clearly not himself when he is with Missy. I think if she was the right person for him he wouldn’t feel the need to change his personality around her. 

7. How has your opinion of the characters evolved overtime? Specify what you now think of the following people after reading Gripped 5 vs. what your initial impression was:
   1. Taylor

I used to think that Taylor was spoiled and a careless person but Gripped 5 definitely changed that. Throughout the story he was so worried about his family and what they were thinking even though he was the one in danger. He is definitely family oriented and a very caring person. 

2. Jordan

I used to think that Jordan was just a partier and didn’t have any morals. My opinion of him has definitely changed the most out of any character. He has been very successful at college and I admire his newfound faith.

3. Marc

I used to really like Marc but Gripped 5 slightly changed my opinion of him. I think that Marc can be too critical of other people, specifically Jordan. Although, I still enjoy Marc and think he is very mature. 

4. Missy

Gripped 5 made me not enjoy Missy as much because of how she acted at the club. I thought it was very immature to ignore Luke the whole night, even if she thought he was ignoring her. I think she is a good person but oblivious to other people’s feelings. 

5. Luke

I really enjoy Luke but he is not himself around Missy. I don’t think this is his fault and I understand why he feels like he has to change for her but I like the old Luke more. 

6. Laurelle

I have always liked Laurelle and Gripped 5 didn’t change that. I think her and Pat have a very sweet relationship and I hope they make it official in Gripped 6. 

September 2024: The Right Person

1. Who do you recommend this book to?

I would recommend Montgomery Lake High #1: The Right Person by Stacy Padula to high school students, more specifically underclassmen. The transition to high school results in immense pressure to fit in, tempting teens to go against their morals. Courtney is a prime example of this, making this book very relatable to teens who have most likely been in her situation, pretending to be someone they are not to make friends. 

2. What can be learned from Chris and Courtney’s story?

Chris and Courtney’s story teaches readers a lesson on not losing themselves in order to meet the standards of other people. Courtney struggled with this throughout the book, changing herself to impress Chris’s friends and losing her faith along the way. Chris experienced a drastic change in this book as he reflected on his past antics and realized that was not the kind of person he wanted to be. He had to make difficult decisions and risk upsetting his friends and girlfriend but ultimately put himself first and turned to God. I think this is something everyone can learn from as your mental and physical health should always be your main priority rather than popularity. 

3. What did you enjoy most about The Right Person?

I enjoyed the differing perspectives most about The Right Person. Each character’s viewpoint adds depth, allowing readers to understand the motivations and emotions driving their actions. This showcases how misunderstandings and conflicts arise from different perceptions, a common theme in high school due to the lack of open communication. For instance, Courtney changed herself to fit into Chris’s lifestyle but in reality, her faith is what made Chris so drawn to her. 

4. What is one major theme you noticed running through the story?

A common theme I noticed throughout the story was maturity. Although, certain characters had different definitions of maturity. Some saw it as partying and substance use whereas others saw it as staying true to your morals despite peer pressure. Regardless, both situations symbolized coming of age and are relevant themes to high school. I believe the most mature person in this book was Chris, particularly in the conversation he had with Courtney regarding religion and morals during their breakup. 

5. How do you, as a teenager, personally relate to this story?

As a teenager, I can personally relate to this story because it contains very relevant themes to high school. Teenagers are very impressionable and it can be hard to stand by my own morals if the people around me have different ones. Every teen has dealt with peer pressure and this story shows the realistic results and dangers of it.

October 2024: When Darkness Tries to Hide

1. Who could benefit from reading this book?

I think that people in a toxic relationship can benefit from reading this book. Cathy and Jason provide a realistic example of what toxic relationships can look like where both people are hurting each other emotionally. This book will show people signs of toxic relationships so they can evaluate if they are in a similar situation. This realization will provide them the strength needed to get out of the relationship and know what to avoid in the future.

2. What positive messages does this book convey to readers?

This book shows readers the importance of having faith even in the darkest of times. Chris frequently prays for Jason, having his back even when Jason didn’t have his. Chris was able to maintain hope in Jason and recognize that Jason was only acting this way due to his own personal struggles. This also shows the importance of supporting your friends even through their darkest times because that is when they need you the most. 

3. Why should teens read this book?

Teens would greatly benefit from reading this book due to the realistic themes that are very common in high school. As I mentioned previously, teens will be able to see signs of a toxic relationship and know to avoid them. This book also normalizes mental health struggles and will make a lot of teens feel heard. It also covers the impact of drugs and alcohol, educating readers on the negative effects it has.

4. How has your opinion of Jason changed since reading the first MLH book?

I do think Jason has shown some progress since the first book such as his talk with Pastor Mark and helping out at Andy’s service. Although Jason has made many questionable choices in the MLH and Gripped series, I can’t fully hate him for it because he is just a product of substance abuse. Jason is a good person deep down and he just needs some assistance in gaining that part of himself back. 

5. A main theme of this story is the battle between the dark and the light. When one is in darkness, he or she cannot see anything clearly. How does the last chapter relate to the events of the story and the theme of light vs. darkness?

In the final chapter, Jason is reflecting on his actions and is deeply upset by what his life has become. He realizes the detrimental effects drugs have had on both his and Cathy’s life and recognizes the need for change. This chapter symbolizes Jason’s reentry into the light after spending a great deal of time in the darkness, blinded by the effects of substances.

November 2024: Montgomery Lake High #3 – The Aftermath

1. Who do you think could benefit from reading this book and why?

I think people who are struggling to follow the right path in life could benefit from this book. This book covers moral questions many young adults face. It shows the characters fall victim to peer pressure and mental struggles, causing them to get into substances and lose sight of their future and faith. People who have experienced similar temptations will be able to relate to the characters and see how they got their life back on track. 

2. What did you most enjoy about this story?

As someone who was previously very fond of Jason, my favorite part of this story was seeing his character development. He finally begins to recognize his fault in things such as his relationship with Cathy and aims to get his life back on track. Similar to Chris’s journey in the Gripped series, Jason had to make sacrifices for the benefit of himself and the people around him. He broke up with Cathy despite the strong bond the two shared because he knew they were only hurting each other by staying together. 

3. What message does this book send to readers?

This book gives readers motivation to fix their mistakes despite how hopeless they may feel. Many characters in this book seemed to hit rock bottom but have finally begun to fix their lives. Jason is a prime example of this, acknowledging the effects substances have had on him and realizing some of his relationships are toxic. This book can give readers hope that no matter how alone or desperate they may feel, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. 

4. What do you hope happens between Jason and Cathy in the future?

I hope that Jason and Cathy do not get back together until they have done some significant growth individually. They need time apart to work on themselves and their sobriety, before they can have a healthy relationship together. However, I do hope that eventually that can happen for them because I did enjoy their relationship in the beginning before substances and friendships got in the way of it.