2026 Readers' Favorite Book Award Bronze Medalist in Non-Fiction – Women
"An inspiring story... "—Kirkus Reviews
Description
For fans of No Matter Our Wreckage, this memoir explores the emotional impact of sexual abuse and how this debut author not only faces it but recovers from the trauma.
Stephanie Maley’s life is beautiful. She has her husband of thirty years and two sons—all healthy and making their way in the world. Other than the unwelcome memories of the past that flash in her mind like blinding television ads, things couldn’t get much better. But when COVID-19 comes to the United States in 2020, Stephanie is seized by a deep panic, certain that she is going to die.
Suddenly, her newfound fear of death triggers memories of the past she’s fought so long to repress: she was molested at a young age, groomed by two different men, and still feels the void left by her birth father and stepfather’s absence. In the face of a chaotic world wrought with both physical and mental illness, Stephanie must embark on a journey of healing.
With the help of her therapist, her husband, and the solace she finds in writing, Stephanie discovers that she doesn’t have to be defined by the pain and abuse she’s suffered. No Longer That Girl is a touching memoir about a woman who bravely faces health issues, betrayal, and abandonment—and proves that no matter the obstacle, we too can overcome our trials and become more resilient souls.
Reviews
"... a truly memorable and touching read."—Readers' Favorite, 5-star review
“No Longer That Girl takes hard topics and turns them into palpable illumination. This story is proof that we can transform our wounds into love and healing. Sometimes we need to look into our past in order to move forward in our lives. Not everyone has the courage to be so self-honest, but Steph delivers her truth with hope to live by.” —Laura Munson, New York Times bestselling author and founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats
“In this powerful memoir, Stephanie opens her heart to share a life filled with resilience, hope, and love. Her story is a reminder that life, though complicated, can still be beautiful. Through her experiences, readers will find strength in their own lives and take away lessons of courage and authenticity.”—McKenzie Coan, Paralympic gold medalist and author of Breaking Free
