The Names by Florence Knapp is a poignant and quite inventive debut novel that explores the profound impact of a single decision on the trajectory of a life. Set in 1987, the story begins with Cora, a mother trapped in an abusive marriage, who must choose a name for her newborn son. Her choice—whether to name him after his domineering father, Gordon; after his gentle sister's suggestion, Bear; or the name she personally favors, Julian—sets the stage for three distinct narratives, each unfolding over 35 years.​

The novel is of course exploring themes of identity, fate, and the enduring effects of domestic abuse. Each version of the boy's life—Bear, Julian, or Gordon Jr.—offers a perspective on the family dynamics, personal growth, and the search for autonomy. Through these parallel storylines, Knapp looks at how a name can influence a persons path, relationships, and sense of self.​

I was worried about the abusive marriage storyline - toxic relationships are something I try to avoid in novels - but it was thoughtfully and lightly done. The premise lingered in my mind perhaps more than the actual telling of it, even though I really did think it was well done. I can see this being such a popular summer read, and it has elements that everyone will enjoy - suspense, love, family story and a unique structure.

This is litfic that’s easy to digest! It examines the intersections of personal choice, identity, and the ripple effects of our decisions. I do love the idea that a single act can alter the course of a life! It makes you think!

Three names, three possible fates,

His name is Bear, or it’s Julian, or it’s Gordon and depending on which a life is already set in motion. A life centred around one family and love that endures against all odds. The idea that a name might tell others who we are, but it’s the people around us who help mould who we become.

Fast paced, compelling, heart warming one moment and devastatingly heart breaking in the next, The Names is so genius it’s the kind of book you wish you could erase from your brain to experience again for the first time. A deeply emotional story of the traumatic and life long effects of domestic abuse, the ripples it sends through lives and the strength and love of one family to survive in the face of it all.

Incredibly unique and fascinating, this story is unlike anything I have ever read before and something I could never forget.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette for the opportunity to read this advanced copy and congratulations to Florence on such an incredible debut novel which I’m sure is about to become a bestseller and bookclub favourite.

What a sensational and completely unforgettable debut!
Cora sets out with her baby, to register his name, young daughter in tow. She has her instructions. His name will be Gordan, as his father is and his father before him. But when faced with the decision, will Cora go against his wishes and break the cycle of these domineering and dangerous men or will she comply? Her choice will shape her future and that of everyone around her.

Seven years later we see the consequences of her life changing decision and how it has affected Cora and her family. The possible futures of Bear, named by his sister, Julian, named by his mother but still breaking tradition and Gordon.

This novel was so touching and really broke me in places. It demonstrated a mothers love for her children and the lengths she will go to in order to protect them, along with the importance of family and community. I must admit that I absolutely love this sliding doors type approach in novels and this format worked so well here. While this was heartbreaking, it was also powerful and brilliant and I found it hard to believe it was a debut. Highly recommend.

The night after a wild storm that brings down trees in their local neighbourhood, Cora must fulfil an important duty: registering the name of her newborn son. Should she pick Bear, as her daughter Maia wants. Should she pick Julian, her own preference. Or, should she call him Gordon, the family name of her husband. The choice is fraught because Gordon is violently abusive.

The Names is the story of each of these versions of Cora's son, told in seven-year intervals. It asks - what's in a name? How do our names shape our stories? It is an interesting idea that is told well. However, at its centre is the ongoing impact on families of domestic violence, and for that reason I did not like reading this book. I do not enjoy reading about violent men hurting women and children, nor charting the lifelong impacts of that harm. At a time where violence against women is an increasing problem all around the world, what does it mean that we package up and consume stories of domestic abuse as entertainment? Maybe it's time we stopped.