The Names by Florence KnappSynopsis:”A once-in-a-generation debut from a major new talent, The Names is the story of three names, three versions of a life, and the infinite possibilities that a single decision can spark. It is 1987, and in the aftermath of a great storm, Cora sets out with her nine-year-old daughter to register the birth of her son. Her husband intends for her to follow a long-standing family tradition and call the baby after him. But when faced with the decision, Cora hesitates. Going against his wishes is a risk that will have consequences, but is it right for her child to inherit his name from generations of domineering men? The choice she makes in this moment will shape the course of their lives. Seven years later, her son is Bear, a name chosen by his sister, and one that will prove as cataclysmic as the storm from which it emerged. Or he is Julian, the name his mother set her heart on, believing it will enable him to become his own person. Or he is Gordon, named after his father and raised in his cruel image – but is there still a chance to break the mould? Powerfully moving and full of hope, this is the story of three names, three versions of a life, and the infinite possibilities that a single decision can spark. It is the story of one family, and love’s endless capacity to endure, no matter what fate has in store.”

My Review

Wow what a book!

This is another book that I had as a sample, and bought it for 99p when I became hooked by the first few chapters. There’s been a lot of hype surrounding this book, and I have to agree that it definitely deserves it. It’s one of my favourite books so far this year.

It’s told from the point of view of the three different versions of the same boy, Bear, Julian and Gordon, every seven years from 1987, when each boy is named, and follows them on their journey until 2022. 

It was fascinating, the writing was incredible, and the characters were so believable. Bear’s storyline was my favourite, followed by Julian’s and then Gordon’s.

It is quite a dark book at times, because it does feature domestic violence, coercive control, and gaslighting, and what that does to the victim and also the families. It was shocking and sad at times, but also full of hope, and love and redemption.

A must read! 

Book 15 of 20 Books of Summer 2025