As I reviewed which of my unpublished novels I’m putting up for a whole-book critique next month, I discovered something peculiar: my Lukes.
In my MG historical novel I’ve been working on the past few months, the MC’s uncle is Uncle Luuk.
In my MG SF I wrote 4 years ago, the MC’s brother is called Jean Luk.
And in my MG fantasy novel, the friend of the MC is called Lucas, although he’s had lots of other names prior to settling on this one.
So what’s up with Luke? I don’t think I even know anyone by that name. I neither like the name nor dislike it. And the root meaning isn’t very exciting, like meaning warrior or tree-man (although my Italian friends may contest exciting as it comes from a location in Italy). And still, here “he” shows up in three of my novels. Someone please clear the cobwebs from my subconsciousness, and tell me your favorite Luke. Maybe something will click for me. In the meantime, I’m off to play around with some alternative names.
Author Sandy Carlson 
Luke Skywalker. Luke Perry. To me, the name Luke rolls off the tongue and creates a tone. A strong vibration and then a cut-off ‘k’. In my mind, it’s masculine, muscular, strong, with tones of deep sensitivity. I know – a bit crazy. But I could easily be stuck on that name…instead, I’m stuck on Lance. Kind of the same only different.
Thanks for your input, Sue. After posting, I was musing about this to my husband when he put on a low, scratchy voice and said, “Luke, I am your father.” Right. Hadn’t thought about him, nor Perry. Now, Lance… I happen to know a few Lances, so images pop into my mind. Nice name, though.