Faults, perhaps, but they can be gripping! (5)
I believe the answer is:
vices
'faults' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for vices that I've seen before include "Moral weaknesses and holding devices" , "Moral faults or bad habits" , "Sins or depravities" , "Shortcomings" .)