I’ve read 38 books already this year – but this is my favorite

maybe it’s high caliber New book releasing in 2025Or maybe it’s because I keep deleting TikTok, but I’ve already read 38 books this year — and one of them is one I’m constantly recommending to people.

I’m stuck in the “romance” genre Rebecca Yaros’ fourth wing seriesEnjoyed comedy including Alison Espach wedding people And Sara Harman’s all the other moms hate meAnd have been equally surprised and inspired by the real-life stories of World War II secret agent Pippa Lantour and ex-Mormon Tara Westover in their beautiful memoirs, last secret agent And Educated.

But this is Florence Knapp’s new novel, Name, This is a future classic. Interestingly, her only other book is a non-fiction guide to English paper piecing, but her first foray into fiction is a masterclass. It’s as devastating as it is life-affirming, which is the recipe for a perfect book.

This novel is an absolutely original take on the “sliding doors” concept. Starting from the day a mother starts naming her baby, it follows three versions of a boy’s life that are dictated by his given name. Exploring how small decisions can reverberate across decades, this novel is a gripping and poignant family drama.

I tore the book twice during the holidays. This story may not be the typical easy beach book, but with beautiful prose and compelling characters the novel is extremely readable. debuting at number two in The Sunday Times With an average rating of 4.18 on bestseller lists and Goodreads, this is one of those rare mainstream novels that lives up to the hype.

Whether you’re packing for a summer vacation or looking for your next weekend read, here’s why I recommend it Name For everyone.