The Name I Call Myself
- 2016 INDIES Finalist
- Finalist, Romance (Adult Fiction)
On the surface a love story, this relatable novel is also a journey of introspection and self-discovery.
With The Name I Call Myself, Beth Moran tackles the classic themes of searching for true love—and one’s true self. This clever take includes lighthearted, funny characters and a relatable plot, though beneath this surface are explorations of real-life issues, from socioeconomic status to the meaning of happiness itself.
Faith is engaged to Perry, a member of the economic elite. Perry is also a member at the Houghton Country Club, where Faith worked as a waitress before capturing his heart. Faith works to conceal her past from Perry’s family, while also wrangling her troublesome brother. Her relationship with Perry becomes even more complicated when she discovers a passion for singing and joins a church choir, where she meets Dylan.
With Dylan, an instant friendship blossoms. This friendship, combined with the pressure from Perry’s overbearing mother regarding the upcoming nuptials, pushes Faith on a journey of introspection and self discovery.
Moran cleverly utilizes elements familiar within love stories, resulting in a compelling and whimsical tale. Despite this, she avoids clichés, elevating familiar notes with serious themes. The story is replete with warm, heartfelt moments and characters, set against a backdrop of real-life difficulties. Faith’s viewpoint is affecting, particularly as she works to better understand herself, and whether she and Perry are a true match.
The plot is excellently paced and builds to a near-perfect emotional climax. Faith navigates through a foreign world and comes out a better person on the other side. Compelling characters are brought to life with crisp, engaging dialogue. Faith herself has depth, but she also remains a character who can be identified with throughout the story. Her journey to discover and accept herself is enjoyable to follow, particularly as it helps her to find real romance.
The Name I Call Myself is a fun novel of self-discovery, romance, and the search for happiness.
Reviewed by
Ron Watson
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
