Now, what I've discovered from several long years as a member of a huge Fanfiction site, names can turn people off. Long, glittery, shiny names will put the more cautious reader on the 'Mary Sue' alert. 'Anna Sophia Krystal,'(Awful I know. But believe me, there are some who would stoop to this.) for example, is just too long and flowery. People will have a hard time believing that anyone has a name that froufrou. Of course, you can make up a name like that if you're writing a comedy, and wish to make fun of the preppy stereotype. But otherwise, try and stay away from the froufrou.
Don't mention a middle name if your character has one, because, honestly, who says their middle name when they are being introduced? Me, I just say "Kelcia Cardon." And don't include my middle name, Marie. Kelcia Cardon is nice and simple, and people can relate to nice and simple names. Kelcia Marie Cardon is just showing off. It adds a bit of lace, d'you see? When being addressed formally, yes the middle name is a good thing, but in casual conversations or introductions, just the first and last will do.
As for names... I find that looking up various baby names and their meanings is helpful.
Here's the website I use: Babynames.com
Hope I've helped some with the name thing. Good luck!
-Kelcia
