🧠 Book Review: That’s Not My Name by Megan Lally
A gripping YA psychological thriller that explores identity, trauma, and the terrifying uncertainty of memory loss—with dual perspectives and relentless suspense.
Megan Lally’s debut novel, That’s Not My Name, has quickly become a standout in the young adult thriller genre. With a strong Goodreads rating of 4.06/5 from over 190,000 readers, it’s a fast-paced, emotionally intense story that keeps readers guessing from page one.
🧩 Plot Overview
A teenage girl wakes up bruised and confused on the side of a dirt road. She has no memory of who she is or how she got there. At the police station, a man arrives claiming to be her father. He has her school ID, birth certificate, and family photos. He says her name is Mary Boone. But something feels off.
Meanwhile, in a parallel storyline, Drew is spiraling. His girlfriend Lola disappeared after a fight, and now the entire town suspects him of murder. Drew knows he didn’t kill Lola—but he’s hiding something, and time is running out to find her.
As the two narratives unfold, readers are pulled into a chilling mystery where nothing is as it seems, and every answer leads to more questions.
🔍 Why It Works
- Dual POV Structure: The alternating perspectives of Mary and Drew create tension and emotional depth, revealing two sides of a mystery that slowly converge.
- Unreliable Narration: Mary’s amnesia adds a layer of psychological suspense, making readers question what’s real and who can be trusted.
- Fast-Paced Plot: Lally’s writing is tight and compelling, with short chapters and cliffhangers that make it a “just one more chapter” kind of read.
- Emotional Resonance: Beneath the thriller elements is a story about trauma, guilt, and the desperate need for truth.
💬 Reader Reactions
- “I was drawn in from the very start. The pacing and emotional tension were perfect.” — megsbookrack
- “The audiobook narration was phenomenal. Both characters felt authentic and raw.”
- “A compelling mystery with a satisfying payoff. I couldn’t stop reading.”
Some readers noted that the story leans heavily on familiar YA thriller tropes, but most praised its execution and emotional impact.
🏁 Final Verdict
That’s Not My Name is a chilling, emotionally charged thriller that explores the fragility of memory and the power of truth. If you enjoy twisty mysteries with strong character voices and psychological depth, this one’s a must-read.
