the setup…
Cora Atkin is on her way to register the name of her newborn son. Her husband Gordon wants him named after him; nine-year old daughter Maia suggests Bear, and Cora likes Julian. Whichever her choice will have a consequence, both for the child and her family. Over the next 35 years, the story provides alternating experiences of each choice.
the heart of the story…
Cora means “core of the story” and she is central to everything and each alternate experience. She’s also the victim of extreme physical and emotional abuse by her sadistic husband. It’s the reason she doesn’t want her child named after him. Each story explores the consequences of the name choices, not only for Cora but but her children and the family dynamics. Gordon is an esteemed physician so outwardly the world sees him as a wonderful doctor, husband and father. The abuse is horrid and hard to take in and may be triggering. It brought equal moments of rage and tears for me.
the narration…
Dervla Kirwan delivered an outstanding performance, hands down. Her storytelling was skillful and I hung onto to her every utterance.
the bottom line…
This is a stunning debut and was nothing like I’d imagined it to be as it was miles high better. Each experience was poignant and explored how a name can drive the trajectory of a person’s journey in life. I thought I might prefer one story over another but I found elements in each that touched me. It still haunts me and will for weeks to come.
Book Info
- Release Date: May 6, 2025
- Narrator: Dervla Kirwan
- Audio Length: 9 hours, 40 minutes
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
Listen to an Sample!
Blue Mood Café 
Wonderful review, Jo, this sounds like a very emotional listening!
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Thank you, Nicki💜 You’re right about it being emotional.
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This sounds gut wrenching. I can see the Gordon and Julian but is there really a storyline for Bear? Kinda shocked Gordon would let her register the name and not just do it behind her back at the hospital or something.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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It was gut wrenching. Trust me, each name has a compelling story and Bear makes sense once you read it.
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I quite fancied this but it sat on my pending shelf on Netgalley literally for six months so I gave up! I’ll get around to it sometime. Wonder if it’s my library’s audio collection. Great review Jonetta!
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Thank you, Joanne💜 I hope you can find it as I’d love to discuss!
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It sounds extremely emotional Jonetta. What a debut novel!
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It really is! I’m having really good experiences this year with debut writers.
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Just finished this one and am still pondering the story. Very unique premise indeed. Great review, Jo!
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Thank you, Marialyce💜 I had to sit a moment and collect my thoughts.
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Wonderful review, thanks for sharing! I’ve been seeing promos for this book, but yours is the first actual review I’ve read. I was on the fence, but you’ve convinced me I should put in a library request!
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Thank you, Lisa💜 It’s a really tough story so be prepared.
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Excellent review, Jo. I wonder if it would be less emotional to read than listen to. I have the ebook, but haven’t got my hands on the audiobook yet. The sadistic abuse has me a bit hesitant now.
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Thanks, Carla💜 I don’t think it matters which format you use as it will be tough to read no matter what.
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