Chapters (29)

I hope it feels like meeting a friend for lunch, one you haven’t seen in a while but with whom you can pick right up where you left off. I hope this friend makes you laugh and feel less alone, and that you leave with a little more faith in love.

What’s next for you?

More novels—some in genres new to me, some in familiar modes, all where love and wonder are alive.

Discussion Guide

Discuss how Lanie’s and Noa’s childhood experiences shaped their trajectories in life. If they had different experiences, do you feel they would have chosen the paths they did? How has your upbringing helped shape your life—your passions, future goals, or even your values?
What are the top 5 characteristics on your Ninety-Nine Things list that you want in a partner?
While By Any Other Name is a romance, it also feels like an ode to New York City. Where is your favorite place to go in New York City, and if you’ve never been, where would you most like to visit?
Lanie goes above and beyond in order to help Noa(h) with his writer’s block in order to secure a promotion. Have you ever similarly done something out of the ordinary for your job? If so, what and why did you do it?
Create a title of your love life based on this Noa Callaway–inspired prompt: Ninety-Nine Things I _______ About_______.
In your opinion, what about Noa speaks the most to Lanie? Inversely, what do you think draws Noa to Lanie’s personality?
What would be your perfect meet-cute with a potential romantic interest? Were you able to carry out this dream in real life, and if so, was it everything you expected?
What was your favorite scene in the novel, and why?
Lanie has a type A personality, which at times can be both good and bad. Do you relate to this character trait? Why or why not?
What’s your favorite book, and why? How has that book changed your life?
Before she passed, Lanie’s mom said to her, “Promise to find someone you’ll really, really love.” What does this mean to you? What is your definition of love?
Were you surprised by the ending?

About the Author

Lauren Kate is the #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of nine novels for young adults, including Fallen, which was made into a major motion picture. Her books have been translated into more than thirty languages and have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide. She is also the author of The Orphan’s Song, her debut adult novel. By Any Other Name is her second adult novel. Kate lives in Los Angeles with her family.