It is 1987, and in the wake of a great storm, Cora sets out with her young daughter to register the birth of her son. Her husband expects her to follow tradition and call the baby after him – but is it right for her child to inherit his name from generations of domineering men? Her choice will shape the course of their lives.

Seven years later, her son is Bear, a name chosen by his sister, hoping he will grow up to be brave and big-hearted. Or he is Julian, the name his mother set her heart on, keen for 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.

My Thoughts:

If you are after something completely different to read, this is the book for you. You would never guess how a name can change us and it shows particularly well in this book. There is domestic violence brought up in the story, it is about how a baby boy is registered and whose name choice is affected by his family. The story follows him over a seven year period, and we go through what he is like between all the three names that his family had picked for him and to see if his life was for better or for worse with each name. I found the story very moving and emotional. It is crazy how a name can shape your whole entire world. Everyone was raving about this book and now I see why. A great read.

I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.

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