“Gripped 4” by Stacy Padula Wins the Gold Award!

We are thrilled to announce that Gripped Part 4: Smoke & Mirrors has been honored with the Gold Award for Best Teen Book in the Readers’ Choice Book Awards! This prestigious recognition highlights the powerful storytelling and resonant themes that have captivated readers across generations. As the fourth installment in the Gripped series, this novel continues to shine a light on the harsh realities faced by today’s youth, and we’re incredibly grateful to our dedicated fans and the awards committee for this accolade.

In Gripped Part 4: Smoke & Mirrors, readers dive deeper into the turbulent world of Montgomery, Massachusetts, where illusions of loyalty and addiction begin to crumble. Former star quarterback Taylor Dunkin grapples with his opioid dependency, entangled in a dangerous deal that threatens his life and those closest to him. Meanwhile, feuding brothers Jordan and Marc must set aside their differences to decipher cryptic clues surrounding Taylor’s disappearance, uncovering family secrets that could forever alter their relationships. Raw and unflinching, the story unmasks the perilous deceptions that often accompany substance abuse and misguided alliances in America’s youth.

What makes Smoke & Mirrors such an impactful read for both teens and adults is its authentic portrayal of the struggles with drugs, alcohol, and vaping—issues that affect countless families today. Through relatable characters and gripping plot twists, the book serves as a vital resource, sparking important conversations about addiction, recovery, and the strength found in unity. Whether you’re a young reader navigating peer pressures or an adult reflecting on these societal challenges, this novel offers hope, awareness, and a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, redemption is possible. We invite you to pick up a copy and join the Gripped community in celebrating this meaningful achievement!