The Names : 'The best debut novel in years' Sunday Times

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.

'I've just been blown away by the best debut novel in years . . . A genius idea for a book' Sunday Times

'Wildly original and emotionally profound' Observer

'An unadulterated success: moving, evocative and utterly convincing' The Times

THE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

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, Gordon, a local doctor, respected in the community but a terrifying and controlling presence at home, 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

About the Author

Florence Knapp has previously written a non-fiction book about a centuries-old method of quilt making, as well as contributing to a book for the V&A Museum. She lives just outside London with her husband and their dog. Their two children have now flown the nest. The Names is Florence's debut novel and will be translated into more than twenty languages.

CHOSEN AS A SUNDAY TIMES, DAILY MAIL, RED, PRIMA, STYLIST and EVENING STANDARD BOOK OF 2025 | A READ WITH JENNA BOOKCLUB PICK

'A beautiful, heartwrenching, utterly original novel'
Miranda Cowley Heller

'The 2025 book that will be everywhere . . . One of those rare books that makes you glad to be alive'
Stylist

'Magnificent . . . Read it. It's very special'
Chris Whitaker

'Clever, beautiful and deeply moving'
Standard

'Beautifully written, and wise and tender . . . An utter original'
Jojo Moyes