Isabelle Semas on The “Gripped” Characters

Who do you feel bad for and why? I pity Chantal.  Lisa and Cathy know the truth about her and Jon’s breakup, but decide to take matters into their own hands by not coming out with the truth.  This causes Chantal so much pain.  They should have been honest with her. Who frustrates you andContinue reading “Isabelle Semas on The “Gripped” Characters”

An Interview with Isabelle Semas on “The Truth We Never Told”

Who would you recommend Gripped Part 1 to and why? I would recommend Gripped Part 1 to Highschool students looking for a read with a realistic take on the temptations which face kids as early as middle school.  This book addresses subjects such as underage drinking, drug addiction, and gossip.  These things can’t be ignored,Continue reading “An Interview with Isabelle Semas on “The Truth We Never Told””

A Y.A. Book Series That Is Brutally Honest

Written by Isabelle Semas Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told by Stacy Padula fills in some of the storylines left open in the Montgomery Lake High book series.  In the beginning of this book, we learn more about  Taylor Dunkin, former football legend turned drug-dealer, who wants out of the game.  Marc Dunkin,Continue reading “A Y.A. Book Series That Is Brutally Honest”

Interview with Teen Reader & Writer Isabelle Semas on “The Forces Within”

Who should read this book? For anyone who wants a thrilling read, I would recommend “The Forces Within” to you.  Stacy Padula weaves themes of spiritual conflict throughout the plot, forming a mysterious and intriguing story.  Whether you are a teen or a parent, it is sure to keep you on the edge of yourContinue reading “Interview with Teen Reader & Writer Isabelle Semas on “The Forces Within””

An Interview with Y.A. Reader Isabelle Semas on “The Battle for Innocence”

Who would you recommend this book to and why? I would recommend “The Battle for Innocence” to all teens.  For teens in highschool, it will help open their eyes to the fact that younger siblings, cousins, and friends look up to them, and will follow in their footsteps.  For younger teenagers, it presents the dangersContinue reading “An Interview with Y.A. Reader Isabelle Semas on “The Battle for Innocence””

Y.A. Book Provides Encouragement for High School Students

Written by Sophia Karnolt—Kingston, MA High school expectations and experiences are different for everyone. It’s a learning experience that challenges each person; you stay true to yourself or fall and get lost. The Right Person, by Stacy Padula, shares the tests some high school students at Montgomery Lake High face as they begin their year.Continue reading “Y.A. Book Provides Encouragement for High School Students”

The Aftermath: Prologue & Chapter 1 (Reading of the Week)

Jason Davids glanced at his bedroom clock. Seven nineteen. Twenty-four hours had passed since one of the darkest moments of his life. He sighed and fell back on his unmade bed. He curled into the fetal position and tried with all of his might to will the horrifying image out of his mind.

He had not slept a wink in thirty-seven hours. He glanced at his clock again. Seven twenty. You can do this Jason, he urged himself silently. Just get up and go. Go tell them the truth. Tell everyone at Alyssa’s party that you found Andy’s body. Tell them that he looked dead. Tell them about the horror in Chantal’s eyes when she came rushing up the stairs. Make sure you tell them that it is entirely your fault.