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What's in a Name? Volume 2: Stories of Life and Romance
Our legacy is not always about money or fame, but rather in the way that people remember our name after we have gone. In these sixteen short stories we discover the reasons why special men and women will stay in the hearts and minds of those who have met them. Romance, revenge and sacrifice all play their part in the lives of these characters.
Kenneth watches the love of his life dance on New Year's Eve while Lily plants very special flowers every spring for her father. Martha helps out a work colleague as Norman steps back out into the world to make a difference. Owen brings light into a house and Patrick risks his life in the skies over Britain and holds back from telling a beautiful redhead that he loves her.
Meet Queenie and Rosemary who have both lost their husbands and must face a very different future. One that will take courage and the use of new technology.
Sonia is an entitled princess whose father has reached the end of his tether and Theresa has to deal with a bully in the checkout. Usher is an arrogant narcissist with a docile wife and is used to getting his own way and Vanessa worries about the future of her relationship with her teenage son.
Walter is a loner and is happy with just his dog for company, Xenia is the long awaited first baby of a young couple. Yves is a dashing romeo who has the tables turned on him unexpectedly and Zoe... Well she can see into the future.
In one way or another all these characters will be remembered by those whose lives they have touched.
Kenneth watches the love of his life dance on New Year's Eve while Lily plants very special flowers every spring for her father. Martha helps out a work colleague as Norman steps back out into the world to make a difference. Owen brings light into a house and Patrick risks his life in the skies over Britain and holds back from telling a beautiful redhead that he loves her.
Meet Queenie and Rosemary who have both lost their husbands and must face a very different future. One that will take courage and the use of new technology.
Sonia is an entitled princess whose father has reached the end of his tether and Theresa has to deal with a bully in the checkout. Usher is an arrogant narcissist with a docile wife and is used to getting his own way and Vanessa worries about the future of her relationship with her teenage son.
Walter is a loner and is happy with just his dog for company, Xenia is the long awaited first baby of a young couple. Yves is a dashing romeo who has the tables turned on him unexpectedly and Zoe... Well she can see into the future.
In one way or another all these characters will be remembered by those whose lives they have touched.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2017
1 person is currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Sally Cronin
23 books185 followersSally Cronin is the author of eighteen books including her memoir Size Matters: Especially when you weigh 330lb first published in 2001 which followed her weight loss of 150lbs and the programme she designed to achieve a healthy weight and regain her health. A programme she shared with her clients over her 26 year career as a nutritional therapist and on her blog. This has been followed by another seventeen books both fiction and non-fiction including multi-genre collections of short stories and poetry.
Her latest book Size Always Matters is an extended and updated version of her original book Size Matters and now includes the nutritional element to weight loss and some recipes with ingredients that provide the nutrients necessary for healthy weight loss and continued good health.
As an author she understands how important it is to have support in marketing books and offers a number of FREE promotional opportunities in the Café and Bookstore on her blog and across her social media.
After leading a nomadic existence exploring the world, she now lives with her husband on the coast of Southern Ireland enjoying the seasonal fluctuations in the temperature of the rain.
Her latest book Size Always Matters is an extended and updated version of her original book Size Matters and now includes the nutritional element to weight loss and some recipes with ingredients that provide the nutrients necessary for healthy weight loss and continued good health.
As an author she understands how important it is to have support in marketing books and offers a number of FREE promotional opportunities in the Café and Bookstore on her blog and across her social media.
After leading a nomadic existence exploring the world, she now lives with her husband on the coast of Southern Ireland enjoying the seasonal fluctuations in the temperature of the rain.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 1, 2020
Sometimes the second book in a series or multi-volume collection of short stories doesn't live up to the first. I can say with certainty that's not the case with volume 2 of 'What's in a Name?' by Sally Cronin. In this collection of stories of life and romance, following names that start with the letters K through Z, Cronin delivers a plethora of immersive, delightful, and intense characters.
I truly don't know how she manages to pack such distinct and complex drama in a story that's usually under ten pages. From the first few lines to the closing words, I was drawn in by each of the tales in this collection. There is something about the power an author chooses in certain words which helps create the proper ambiance for a setting, draw out the intrigue in the plot, and ignite a reader's passions.
From the descriptions to the connections between a few of the stories (not in terms of characters but themes and approaches to decisions), Cronin provides us with a bevy of situations to consider... how would we react if such a problem found its way into our lives? Would we get revenge? What kind of sacrifices could we live with? What does love mean when it comes with strings?
I highly recommend both collections, as you'll see some growth and evolution from volume one to two. Now I'll have to look over her canon of other books to see what might be something else I want to read.
I truly don't know how she manages to pack such distinct and complex drama in a story that's usually under ten pages. From the first few lines to the closing words, I was drawn in by each of the tales in this collection. There is something about the power an author chooses in certain words which helps create the proper ambiance for a setting, draw out the intrigue in the plot, and ignite a reader's passions.
From the descriptions to the connections between a few of the stories (not in terms of characters but themes and approaches to decisions), Cronin provides us with a bevy of situations to consider... how would we react if such a problem found its way into our lives? Would we get revenge? What kind of sacrifices could we live with? What does love mean when it comes with strings?
I highly recommend both collections, as you'll see some growth and evolution from volume one to two. Now I'll have to look over her canon of other books to see what might be something else I want to read.
December 23, 2017
Beautiful heartwarming short stories sure to grab at your heartstrings. Each story takes us into the life of a character with a significant name leaving us with a heartfelt message and an unexpected ending.
I've read the first volume and very much looked forward to and enjoyed Book 2. Cronin's writing has a way of taking us into the character's emotions, evoking an emotion in us in return, be it angst, fear, passion or grief. Kleenex warnings should come with this book as each story depicts the human heart and condition,
My favorites: Xenia - A mother's love, Kenneth - Remembering, and undying love, Walter - Forgotten and found. Each story name in alphabetical order portends a memorable tale. From health and nutrition to short heartfelt stories, Sally Cronin's books never disappoint.
I've read the first volume and very much looked forward to and enjoyed Book 2. Cronin's writing has a way of taking us into the character's emotions, evoking an emotion in us in return, be it angst, fear, passion or grief. Kleenex warnings should come with this book as each story depicts the human heart and condition,
My favorites: Xenia - A mother's love, Kenneth - Remembering, and undying love, Walter - Forgotten and found. Each story name in alphabetical order portends a memorable tale. From health and nutrition to short heartfelt stories, Sally Cronin's books never disappoint.
September 2, 2017
This was a set of short stories with lots of variety in the subject matter but bound by a common theme - an individual who has or had a big influence on the lives of others. Some stories were quirky, some poignant, some more matter of fact, but all share a warm love of life and humanity and the relationships we form. There are young girls, young men, older people...I thought Sally Cronin writes particularly well about the elderly. Her dashing recently widowed grandmother, who interferes with her granddaughter's love life via an online dating site; the old soldier who takes on the vandals on his estate; another old soldier who has been lost to his family and is refound. The writing style is brisk and to the point; sometimes the imagery is a bit stereotypical but we always know what she means! Once or twice I'd have punctuated differently, but in the main this is clearly written, well structured, entertaining and moving. Finally, Sally Cronin always has an excellent, sometimes unexpected, last line, signing each story off with a sad or witty or decisive flourish - a great celebration of humanity in all its forms!
November 21, 2018
This second volume continues where the first book left off. The first story begins with “Kenneth,” and the rest of the stories flow through to “Zoe.” The author includes a bonus story at the end called, “The Village Square.”
Prepare to be transported into the lives of the many personalities, Sally Cronin creates, inspired by a first name only. Each person’s name has a different tale to tell or life to lead, all carefully constructed to draw the reader into their experiences. Linking the stories together are the themes of romance and family. Need I say more?
I’m a great fan of short stories and find them some of the most satisfying bedtime reading there is. But, this book offered more than that. Sally Cronin writes in such a way that she evokes a range of emotions from the reader.
On numerous occasions, I couldn’t help but cheer or cry for several of the characters. The writing touched my heart.
Many of the stories are filled with plenty of sudden developments that will leave you guessing. Some, I couldn’t even attempt to guess the ending, which I found to be a special gift to the reader. Each story is character driven, and the author skillfully reels you in until a satisfying end is reached.
My favorite story was called, Queenie, who after the death of her husband, finds her way forward by taking on a project that matters most to her – her granddaughter’s happiness. Queenie’s granddaughter, Penny, is a psychiatrist and unmarried.
Nana (Queenie) decides that she must help her find a husband before she is called to her husband’s side in the great beyond. Of course, there are plenty of shenanigans that take place, but the underlying truths that unfold touched me deeply. This is the author’s style – she allows you to feel her stories.
The “What’s in a Name,” two book series, has proved to be one of my most favorite short story compilations. I’ll reread these stories, and greet them like long lost friends. Believe me; there’s something here for everyone!
MY RATING:
Character Believability: 5
Flow and Pace: 5
Reader Engagement: 5
Reader Enrichment: 5
Reader Enjoyment: 5
Overall Rate: 5 out of 5 Stars
Prepare to be transported into the lives of the many personalities, Sally Cronin creates, inspired by a first name only. Each person’s name has a different tale to tell or life to lead, all carefully constructed to draw the reader into their experiences. Linking the stories together are the themes of romance and family. Need I say more?
I’m a great fan of short stories and find them some of the most satisfying bedtime reading there is. But, this book offered more than that. Sally Cronin writes in such a way that she evokes a range of emotions from the reader.
On numerous occasions, I couldn’t help but cheer or cry for several of the characters. The writing touched my heart.
Many of the stories are filled with plenty of sudden developments that will leave you guessing. Some, I couldn’t even attempt to guess the ending, which I found to be a special gift to the reader. Each story is character driven, and the author skillfully reels you in until a satisfying end is reached.
My favorite story was called, Queenie, who after the death of her husband, finds her way forward by taking on a project that matters most to her – her granddaughter’s happiness. Queenie’s granddaughter, Penny, is a psychiatrist and unmarried.
Nana (Queenie) decides that she must help her find a husband before she is called to her husband’s side in the great beyond. Of course, there are plenty of shenanigans that take place, but the underlying truths that unfold touched me deeply. This is the author’s style – she allows you to feel her stories.
The “What’s in a Name,” two book series, has proved to be one of my most favorite short story compilations. I’ll reread these stories, and greet them like long lost friends. Believe me; there’s something here for everyone!
MY RATING:
Character Believability: 5
Flow and Pace: 5
Reader Engagement: 5
Reader Enrichment: 5
Reader Enjoyment: 5
Overall Rate: 5 out of 5 Stars
March 14, 2023
I’ve read several books by Sally Cronin and she never disappoints.
This collection of short stories takes a name from the second half of the alphabet from K for Kenneth to Z for Zoe for its main characters. The progression through the alphabet is one that clearly has to follow set rules but the stories that accompany them are hugely varied and contain twists that I really enjoyed.
There’s love, grief, joy, hate, revenge and self-sacrifice – a wide range of emotions stirred by an expert wordsmith. The settings are very different from each other, too. There’s everything from a fictitious royal kingdom to a block of flats terrorised by bored teenagers; from WWII pilots to a self-service checkout with a mind of its own; from a fortune teller’s room to a Greek Island. Every one of them has that ability to make you feel deeply for the characters, and the endings are neatly done.
There’s much poignancy is stories such as Lily and Xenia, feel-good factors in Norman and Walter and plenty of humour and surprises in Queenie, Rosemary, Theresa and Yves. Some of these tales are touching accounts of love and loss but others have a delicious edge to them where payback comes into play!
This is a selection box of treats and you never know what flavour you’re getting until the end. I recommend you sample the delights for yourself!
This collection of short stories takes a name from the second half of the alphabet from K for Kenneth to Z for Zoe for its main characters. The progression through the alphabet is one that clearly has to follow set rules but the stories that accompany them are hugely varied and contain twists that I really enjoyed.
There’s love, grief, joy, hate, revenge and self-sacrifice – a wide range of emotions stirred by an expert wordsmith. The settings are very different from each other, too. There’s everything from a fictitious royal kingdom to a block of flats terrorised by bored teenagers; from WWII pilots to a self-service checkout with a mind of its own; from a fortune teller’s room to a Greek Island. Every one of them has that ability to make you feel deeply for the characters, and the endings are neatly done.
There’s much poignancy is stories such as Lily and Xenia, feel-good factors in Norman and Walter and plenty of humour and surprises in Queenie, Rosemary, Theresa and Yves. Some of these tales are touching accounts of love and loss but others have a delicious edge to them where payback comes into play!
This is a selection box of treats and you never know what flavour you’re getting until the end. I recommend you sample the delights for yourself!
November 16, 2021
This book was as enjoyable as the first. In these volumes, Ms. Cronin takes a name and writes a short around the character. All of the narratives fascinating. They range from a ghost that comes back once a year to visit his beloved to a man who vanished during the war and is finally reunited with his family. All the stories are unique and have an unexpected twist, while telling a tale that warms the heart. The author excels at world building and character development. I’ve never read anything by Ms. Cronin that I didn’t thoroughly enjoy. So, grab your copy and your beverage of choice, put your feet up and submerge yourself in a great read.
December 31, 2017
Sally Cronin is a very talented writer who can create characters that the reader builds an intense relationship with in a very short space of time. I love short stories about different peoples lives including their tribulations, joys and loves and this collection of short stories did not disappoint me. Each and every story was like dipping into a cookie jar and discovering your new favourite cookie each time.
My three favourite stories are as follows:
Kenneth – A beautiful story about a woman’s first and most memorable love. As a reader you feel as if you are standing on the sidelines, watching as the intensity of Georgina and Kenneth’s first meeting unfolds; not knowing what to expect. The outcome is most unexpected and really makes your heart fold over.
Norman – A bereaved widower sits at the window of his small flat in a block on a small estate, watching as his daily pleasure in seeing the small children who live on the estate enjoy themselves in the playground is stolen from him. The culprits are a bunch of aggressive teenagers, unemployed and bored, who have taken over the playground as their daily gathering point. Norman may be elderly, but he ended his military career as a Sergeant Major and he has friends who achieved similar status’ in the army. The war veterans have had enough, and it is time to act.
Rosemary – It is often said that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, so beware if your wife catches you out. Rosemary is a complacent and happy wife to Malcolm, her husband of twenty-five years but something has been different for the past six months. Rosemary’s life has changed, not for the better.
All the short stories contained in this book, each featuring a character whose name starts with a letter form the alphabet from K to Z, are delightful. I chose to mention these three as these were the stories that I reflected on the most after I had finished the book.
I rated this book five stars out of five.
My three favourite stories are as follows:
Kenneth – A beautiful story about a woman’s first and most memorable love. As a reader you feel as if you are standing on the sidelines, watching as the intensity of Georgina and Kenneth’s first meeting unfolds; not knowing what to expect. The outcome is most unexpected and really makes your heart fold over.
Norman – A bereaved widower sits at the window of his small flat in a block on a small estate, watching as his daily pleasure in seeing the small children who live on the estate enjoy themselves in the playground is stolen from him. The culprits are a bunch of aggressive teenagers, unemployed and bored, who have taken over the playground as their daily gathering point. Norman may be elderly, but he ended his military career as a Sergeant Major and he has friends who achieved similar status’ in the army. The war veterans have had enough, and it is time to act.
Rosemary – It is often said that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, so beware if your wife catches you out. Rosemary is a complacent and happy wife to Malcolm, her husband of twenty-five years but something has been different for the past six months. Rosemary’s life has changed, not for the better.
All the short stories contained in this book, each featuring a character whose name starts with a letter form the alphabet from K to Z, are delightful. I chose to mention these three as these were the stories that I reflected on the most after I had finished the book.
I rated this book five stars out of five.
August 17, 2017
Just loved these delightful tales. Couldn't wait to dig in. Read it in one sitting. Thanks, Sally.
May 23, 2020
In this second collection of sixteen short stories, Sally Cronin creates a host of interesting characters. Each story centers around one central character. She begins with Kenneth for K, and each succeeding tale involves someone with the next letter of the alphabet, wrapping up with Zoe for Z.
There are villains, scoundrels, heroes, victims, and more. One of the most challenging situations happens when Vanessa makes the difficult decision to turn in her son, Jack, after he murders a fifteen-year-old girl named Tracy. He doesn't confess the crime to his mother, but she recognizes him through the grainy video on television because he walks with a distinctive limp. It is choice of morality over family.
Another one of my favorites involved a French playboy named Yves, who was preying upon rich, older ladies. He would wine and dine them to gain their trust before swindling them out of a large chunk of money. He is just about set for life when he tries to pull the same trick one more time on the beautiful Christina. Yves gets more than he bargained for when he falls in love with the older woman. Shortly after becoming hitched, the newlyweds decided to update their wills and leave each other their vast fortunes. The only problem for Yves is this time he is on the receiving end of the trickery. Christina is no longer a woman of great wealth, and when Yves unexpectedly drowns, she comes out smelling like a rose.
There are many other delightful tales, but you will want to enjoy those for yourself. Anyone who enjoys a series of fun, quick reads is sure to enjoy this collection.
There are villains, scoundrels, heroes, victims, and more. One of the most challenging situations happens when Vanessa makes the difficult decision to turn in her son, Jack, after he murders a fifteen-year-old girl named Tracy. He doesn't confess the crime to his mother, but she recognizes him through the grainy video on television because he walks with a distinctive limp. It is choice of morality over family.
Another one of my favorites involved a French playboy named Yves, who was preying upon rich, older ladies. He would wine and dine them to gain their trust before swindling them out of a large chunk of money. He is just about set for life when he tries to pull the same trick one more time on the beautiful Christina. Yves gets more than he bargained for when he falls in love with the older woman. Shortly after becoming hitched, the newlyweds decided to update their wills and leave each other their vast fortunes. The only problem for Yves is this time he is on the receiving end of the trickery. Christina is no longer a woman of great wealth, and when Yves unexpectedly drowns, she comes out smelling like a rose.
There are many other delightful tales, but you will want to enjoy those for yourself. Anyone who enjoys a series of fun, quick reads is sure to enjoy this collection.
July 29, 2025
“What's in a Name?” by Sally Cronin looks at anything from nostalgic palace windows to the neon light of a supermarket checkout. The stories transport readers to brief but powerful scenes of love, duplicity and serendipity that unravel unexpectedly. Each story, centered on a name, transforms into a miniature universe in which a woman may see her future in a groom's grin, a wife can be aided by a AI, and a charming rogue meets poetic justice beneath tropical waters.
Kenneth: Hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving, it explores a love that comes but once in a lifetime—and how we are truly blessed if we both manage to stay on that shared path, together.
Lily: I loved how what begins as a joyful Easter hunt gently unfolds into a poignant tribute to love, memory, and a child’s tender way of holding on. It’s a beautiful, heart-tugging story that stays with you long after the last word.
Martha: What a brilliant and unexpected twist on the concept of a “system administrator”! I loved watching Martha evolve—from a helpful assistant to a fierce protector and quiet revolutionary— all wrapped in warm, supportive dialogue. This short story is a clever blend of workplace realism and speculative fiction, sprinkled with dry humour and overflowing with heart. I want a Martha in my life too!
I enjoyed "Norman - An Old Soldier" because it gently creates a deep emotional resonance through Norman's daily rituals and waning vigor, making his change all the more dramatic. The story's juxtaposition of past and present, service and neglect, made Norman's ultimate deed feel both heroic and heartbreakingly long overdue. When Norman finally reclaims his dignity and community it feels earned, righteous. What struck me the most was Norman's transformation from silent survivor to leader, which restored more than just his voice.
Owen - Face to Face is a beautiful reflection on memory, love, and the senses. It portrays the elderly woman's problem not as a tragedy, but as a means of deeper connection, allowing her to "see" her great-grandson through improvisation... The last scene, in which Owen presents himself as a live portrait, underlines that love and recognition exist beyond all.
Patrick: This short tale is notable for its gentle depiction of love developing despite the destruction of war, capturing fleeting moments of connection with poetic reality. It explores how hope clings to the everyday gestures that tether us to life even as death hovers nearby. The story is a sad reminder that even in the darkest moments, the human heart dares to dream of something wonderful.
What distinguishes Queenie’s story is its expertly interwoven themes of bereavement and resilience, the quiet bravery of older women. Queenie emerges not only as a widow mourning her husband but as a resolute matriarch with enough heart to heal her own wounds and gently guide her granddaughter's fate. The language is lively, amusing, and emotional, conveying generational love with warmth and wit. It’s a narrative about second chances, love, living fully, demonstrating that mending may begin with a cup of coffee, a brave question, and a touch of social media.
Rosemary: This narrative is delightful because it sensitively depicts the enduring warmth of a long, laughter-filled marriage even as it fades into memory. Rosemary's resolve to re-enter life and love, motivated by friendship and modest courage, is exquisitely human and deeply relatable. The ultimate twist is tragic but powerful, depicting a lady of grace and quiet strength.
Sonia’s tale is ageless because it gives new life to the old fairy tale of duty vs desire, with a spirited young lady searching for freedom and love in a world that wants to decide her future for her. It depicts the universal and enduring tension between tradition and personal choice, while also providing a gratifying twist that rewards optimism and faith in the unknown. Like all great romantic stories, it leaves the reader smiling and believing, just a little, that sometimes the heart's longing and fate's hand are the same thing.
Theresa’s story is unique because it skillfully combines the ordinary with the bizarre, transforming a commonplace shopping scene into a moment of surreal hilarity. Through snappy dialogue and intelligent pacing, it conveys the complexities of a long-term relationship with humor and compassion, while mocking modern technology's oftentimes overly personal touch. The shock ending left me laugh long after the final phrase.
Usher: a beautifully crafted short narrative successfully turning the script on a well-known archetype: the arrogant, selfish charmer who believes he is untouchable. The story remains because it does not scream its message; instead, it grins gently, gives a "surprise," and allows the consequences to play out with grace and venom.
What struck me most about "Vanessa – In a Dilemma" was the quiet, heart-wrenching realism present in a domestic setting. Cronin skillfully builds tension not through action, but through a mother’s inner world—layering sleepless nights, maternal instincts, and a growing sense of unease. I admired Vanessa’s complexity: she is vulnerable and soft, yet her decision to act, despite the unbearable truth, is a profound act of courage and moral strength. This story lingers like fog: cold, heavy, and impossible to ignore.
Walter is remarkable because it transforms even the simplest act of compassion into a gradual unveiling of something profound: the rebirth of a forgotten life. What starts off as a portrayal of a grouchy, reclusive elderly guy quickly transforms into a story of resilience and calm dignity.
Xenia: This narrative is touching because it delicately weaves the enduring love across generations, highlighting the fragile bond that withstands grief and time. It celebrates the beauty of remembrance and hope, providing solace through the promise of reunion and the enduring legacy of a beloved name.
Yves: The story entices the reader to sympathize or admire, but the psychological transition is gradual: Yves' initial dominance is undone not by remorse or age, but by love—his single fatal mistake. The story concludes with poetic justice, reaffirming its fundamental message: be careful what you wish for, especially when desire dulls the instinct for self-preservation.
Zoe: This story deftly combines the mystery of fortune-telling with a cutting, modern twist, illustrating how appearances can conceal behind-the-scenes orchestration. It prompts readers to consider the delicate boundary between hope, belief, and the business of dreams.
As always, Sally Cronin's style is both light and tragic, and her characters stay with you long after you finish the book. These short stories are ideal for dipping in and out of—they lighten the atmosphere, remind us of love, and leave us with a gentle sense of optimism.
Wholeheartedly recommended.
Book Quotes:
"They watched as an old man walking with a stick marched up the street with determination. He was followed by at least thirty men in rows, also marching in time." (Norman)
"They would be mostly teenagers with only a few hours flying solo, and none of them in combat. He was only twenty-four, but he felt like an old man compared to the fresh faced and eager boys that would come through that door tomorrow."(Patrick)
"‘Well I was in the hairdressers the other day, reading a magazine where a young woman about your age said that she had recently come out of the wardrobe to her parents, and they had not been very understanding.’" (Queenie)
"you have come home love, you have come home.’"(Walter)
Kenneth: Hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving, it explores a love that comes but once in a lifetime—and how we are truly blessed if we both manage to stay on that shared path, together.
Lily: I loved how what begins as a joyful Easter hunt gently unfolds into a poignant tribute to love, memory, and a child’s tender way of holding on. It’s a beautiful, heart-tugging story that stays with you long after the last word.
Martha: What a brilliant and unexpected twist on the concept of a “system administrator”! I loved watching Martha evolve—from a helpful assistant to a fierce protector and quiet revolutionary— all wrapped in warm, supportive dialogue. This short story is a clever blend of workplace realism and speculative fiction, sprinkled with dry humour and overflowing with heart. I want a Martha in my life too!
I enjoyed "Norman - An Old Soldier" because it gently creates a deep emotional resonance through Norman's daily rituals and waning vigor, making his change all the more dramatic. The story's juxtaposition of past and present, service and neglect, made Norman's ultimate deed feel both heroic and heartbreakingly long overdue. When Norman finally reclaims his dignity and community it feels earned, righteous. What struck me the most was Norman's transformation from silent survivor to leader, which restored more than just his voice.
Owen - Face to Face is a beautiful reflection on memory, love, and the senses. It portrays the elderly woman's problem not as a tragedy, but as a means of deeper connection, allowing her to "see" her great-grandson through improvisation... The last scene, in which Owen presents himself as a live portrait, underlines that love and recognition exist beyond all.
Patrick: This short tale is notable for its gentle depiction of love developing despite the destruction of war, capturing fleeting moments of connection with poetic reality. It explores how hope clings to the everyday gestures that tether us to life even as death hovers nearby. The story is a sad reminder that even in the darkest moments, the human heart dares to dream of something wonderful.
What distinguishes Queenie’s story is its expertly interwoven themes of bereavement and resilience, the quiet bravery of older women. Queenie emerges not only as a widow mourning her husband but as a resolute matriarch with enough heart to heal her own wounds and gently guide her granddaughter's fate. The language is lively, amusing, and emotional, conveying generational love with warmth and wit. It’s a narrative about second chances, love, living fully, demonstrating that mending may begin with a cup of coffee, a brave question, and a touch of social media.
Rosemary: This narrative is delightful because it sensitively depicts the enduring warmth of a long, laughter-filled marriage even as it fades into memory. Rosemary's resolve to re-enter life and love, motivated by friendship and modest courage, is exquisitely human and deeply relatable. The ultimate twist is tragic but powerful, depicting a lady of grace and quiet strength.
Sonia’s tale is ageless because it gives new life to the old fairy tale of duty vs desire, with a spirited young lady searching for freedom and love in a world that wants to decide her future for her. It depicts the universal and enduring tension between tradition and personal choice, while also providing a gratifying twist that rewards optimism and faith in the unknown. Like all great romantic stories, it leaves the reader smiling and believing, just a little, that sometimes the heart's longing and fate's hand are the same thing.
Theresa’s story is unique because it skillfully combines the ordinary with the bizarre, transforming a commonplace shopping scene into a moment of surreal hilarity. Through snappy dialogue and intelligent pacing, it conveys the complexities of a long-term relationship with humor and compassion, while mocking modern technology's oftentimes overly personal touch. The shock ending left me laugh long after the final phrase.
Usher: a beautifully crafted short narrative successfully turning the script on a well-known archetype: the arrogant, selfish charmer who believes he is untouchable. The story remains because it does not scream its message; instead, it grins gently, gives a "surprise," and allows the consequences to play out with grace and venom.
What struck me most about "Vanessa – In a Dilemma" was the quiet, heart-wrenching realism present in a domestic setting. Cronin skillfully builds tension not through action, but through a mother’s inner world—layering sleepless nights, maternal instincts, and a growing sense of unease. I admired Vanessa’s complexity: she is vulnerable and soft, yet her decision to act, despite the unbearable truth, is a profound act of courage and moral strength. This story lingers like fog: cold, heavy, and impossible to ignore.
Walter is remarkable because it transforms even the simplest act of compassion into a gradual unveiling of something profound: the rebirth of a forgotten life. What starts off as a portrayal of a grouchy, reclusive elderly guy quickly transforms into a story of resilience and calm dignity.
Xenia: This narrative is touching because it delicately weaves the enduring love across generations, highlighting the fragile bond that withstands grief and time. It celebrates the beauty of remembrance and hope, providing solace through the promise of reunion and the enduring legacy of a beloved name.
Yves: The story entices the reader to sympathize or admire, but the psychological transition is gradual: Yves' initial dominance is undone not by remorse or age, but by love—his single fatal mistake. The story concludes with poetic justice, reaffirming its fundamental message: be careful what you wish for, especially when desire dulls the instinct for self-preservation.
Zoe: This story deftly combines the mystery of fortune-telling with a cutting, modern twist, illustrating how appearances can conceal behind-the-scenes orchestration. It prompts readers to consider the delicate boundary between hope, belief, and the business of dreams.
As always, Sally Cronin's style is both light and tragic, and her characters stay with you long after you finish the book. These short stories are ideal for dipping in and out of—they lighten the atmosphere, remind us of love, and leave us with a gentle sense of optimism.
Wholeheartedly recommended.
Book Quotes:
"They watched as an old man walking with a stick marched up the street with determination. He was followed by at least thirty men in rows, also marching in time." (Norman)
"They would be mostly teenagers with only a few hours flying solo, and none of them in combat. He was only twenty-four, but he felt like an old man compared to the fresh faced and eager boys that would come through that door tomorrow."(Patrick)
"‘Well I was in the hairdressers the other day, reading a magazine where a young woman about your age said that she had recently come out of the wardrobe to her parents, and they had not been very understanding.’" (Queenie)
"you have come home love, you have come home.’"(Walter)
January 8, 2018
What’s in a Name? Book 2 is a wonderful collection of short stories that will touch your heart. You will find romance, tragedy and heartache. Each story is titled with a male or female name which continues alphabetically from Book 1.
Sally Cronin is a consummate storyteller who has the innate ability to weave a fascinating tale that grips the reader from the first sentence. This reader felt lifted when the characters were exuberant and crushed when they had heartache. If an author can enable a reader to feel the joy and angst along with the characters she has created, she is an exceptional writer!
My favorite was the first story about Kenneth. This story touched me deeply as Kenneth watches the love of his life dancing on New Year’s Eve. I don’t want to give anything away by saying too much. Each story tells an unforgettable tale with a twist at the end. Surprises and twists abound in these fabulous stories. I couldn’t put the book down.
Sally Cronin has many other entertaining books to offer. Several of them I have read and highly recommend them all.
Sally Cronin is a consummate storyteller who has the innate ability to weave a fascinating tale that grips the reader from the first sentence. This reader felt lifted when the characters were exuberant and crushed when they had heartache. If an author can enable a reader to feel the joy and angst along with the characters she has created, she is an exceptional writer!
My favorite was the first story about Kenneth. This story touched me deeply as Kenneth watches the love of his life dancing on New Year’s Eve. I don’t want to give anything away by saying too much. Each story tells an unforgettable tale with a twist at the end. Surprises and twists abound in these fabulous stories. I couldn’t put the book down.
Sally Cronin has many other entertaining books to offer. Several of them I have read and highly recommend them all.
March 20, 2018
I read the first volume of What’s in a Name and was eager to give the second a try. Volume 2 is a collection of short stories that picks up when the first ended, covering names starting with K through Z (Kenneth through Zoe). Cronin includes a bonus short story for a collection coming out later in 2018.
This is a quick read that I breezed through in a few hours, sitting outside in the spring sunshine. Many of the stories have older characters, covering a range of topics from heartwarming reunions, grief and loss, recovered dignity, and romantic love beyond the grave. There’s also a bit of happily ever after and match-making, as well as some swindling, and a taste of well-deserved murder! The variety is highly entertaining and kept me engaged throughout.
Cronin is a master storyteller and I recommend this collection (both volumes) to readers of all ages.
This is a quick read that I breezed through in a few hours, sitting outside in the spring sunshine. Many of the stories have older characters, covering a range of topics from heartwarming reunions, grief and loss, recovered dignity, and romantic love beyond the grave. There’s also a bit of happily ever after and match-making, as well as some swindling, and a taste of well-deserved murder! The variety is highly entertaining and kept me engaged throughout.
Cronin is a master storyteller and I recommend this collection (both volumes) to readers of all ages.
March 21, 2018
The names we remember create the stories of our lives
I put a little note to myself for every name. Vanessa made me cry. Walter, or should I say Donald, made me rejoice. Xenia, a name of Greek strength, steeped in sadness. Happy endings, surprising endings, all heartfelt, poignant, and mesmerizing. A joy to read and experience. The sneak peek of an upcoming book for 2018 is icing on the cake. A list of Cronin's multiple genre, fiction and nonfiction, books show her many areas of creativity, support, and knowledge. Health, wellness, storytelling, Sally has it all! This book of names and her garden story are my favorites! Read and learn from them all...
I put a little note to myself for every name. Vanessa made me cry. Walter, or should I say Donald, made me rejoice. Xenia, a name of Greek strength, steeped in sadness. Happy endings, surprising endings, all heartfelt, poignant, and mesmerizing. A joy to read and experience. The sneak peek of an upcoming book for 2018 is icing on the cake. A list of Cronin's multiple genre, fiction and nonfiction, books show her many areas of creativity, support, and knowledge. Health, wellness, storytelling, Sally has it all! This book of names and her garden story are my favorites! Read and learn from them all...
September 21, 2018
As with almost every book of this sort, I enjoyed some of these tales more than others. However, they were a great collection of well-written stories, containing a variety of well-rounded and interesting characters, and I found something to like in every one of them. Lily's story in particular was a favourite of mine, since I thought it was really sweet. As I said though, there was something to like about every story in this collection.
March 11, 2018
Pick up this book any time. Easy to read short stories, but they are not just romantic tales. You may find yourself in the past or in the future. You will chuckle when a character gets the upper hand, but some stories are unbearably poignant. I look forward to reading more of Sally Cronin's stories.
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