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A Single Act of Kindness
Meet Tilda Wright� Tilda has done everything she can to make her life neat, protected, tidy. No longer the girl who was scared of everything, whose family pushed her away, who hit rock bottom. Now she runs her life � as she does her successful business � with the utmost organization. As long as she keeps everyone at arm’s length, she will be fine. She will be safe.
But then a chance encounter with a man who’s fallen on hard times changes everything. Milo needs a break, and self-contained Tilda surprises herself by deciding she should help him. Just for a while. A few days at the most.
Maybe all he needs is someone to organize him, to help him clean up his act? She is sure she knows how to kick-start Milo into turning his life around.
What Tilda doesn’t know is that � with this single act of kindness � it might actually be her own life that’s about to change forever�
A totally gorgeous, heartbreaking and uplifting story, about friendship, trust, and finding love in unexpected places, perfect for fans of Beth Moran, Sarah Morgan and Faith Hogan.
Readers love Samantha ‘A joy to read. Sparkling with witty dialogue and full of wise words� a masterpiece of storytelling.� Celia Anderson, author
‘I love Samantha’s books. There is so much more to them that “just� a story. It’s about life and taking chances. Of perhaps not being so quick to judge and to step into someone’s shoes for a while to truly try and understand them� A truly stunning read.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘This book just pulled me in. The story pulled at my heart as I read on and on and on. I couldn’t stop reading as I had to know what the ending was going to be!� I’m still thinking about this story� A beautiful story about friendship that I highly recommend.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘WOW this is one book that will keep readers flicking page after page. I loved the story� The author once again captures real life dramas� Takes you on a journey� Fabulous!� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘Honest, raw, poignant and heart-breaking. It is also warm-hearted, positive, uplifting, funny and full of love and hope� Clearly written straight from the heart� A book that will stay with you, long after the last page has been read.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘Wow I couldn't get enough of this, from the incredibly intriguing opening chapter, to the fact that there seemed to be some many secrets to be revealed � including some that truly shocked me� I absolutely loved it.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘The reader is led on an emotional trip as they navigate their past and present lives, highlighting the strength of friendship and the intricacies of life..
But then a chance encounter with a man who’s fallen on hard times changes everything. Milo needs a break, and self-contained Tilda surprises herself by deciding she should help him. Just for a while. A few days at the most.
Maybe all he needs is someone to organize him, to help him clean up his act? She is sure she knows how to kick-start Milo into turning his life around.
What Tilda doesn’t know is that � with this single act of kindness � it might actually be her own life that’s about to change forever�
A totally gorgeous, heartbreaking and uplifting story, about friendship, trust, and finding love in unexpected places, perfect for fans of Beth Moran, Sarah Morgan and Faith Hogan.
Readers love Samantha ‘A joy to read. Sparkling with witty dialogue and full of wise words� a masterpiece of storytelling.� Celia Anderson, author
‘I love Samantha’s books. There is so much more to them that “just� a story. It’s about life and taking chances. Of perhaps not being so quick to judge and to step into someone’s shoes for a while to truly try and understand them� A truly stunning read.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘This book just pulled me in. The story pulled at my heart as I read on and on and on. I couldn’t stop reading as I had to know what the ending was going to be!� I’m still thinking about this story� A beautiful story about friendship that I highly recommend.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘WOW this is one book that will keep readers flicking page after page. I loved the story� The author once again captures real life dramas� Takes you on a journey� Fabulous!� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘Honest, raw, poignant and heart-breaking. It is also warm-hearted, positive, uplifting, funny and full of love and hope� Clearly written straight from the heart� A book that will stay with you, long after the last page has been read.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘Wow I couldn't get enough of this, from the incredibly intriguing opening chapter, to the fact that there seemed to be some many secrets to be revealed � including some that truly shocked me� I absolutely loved it.� ŷ reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
‘The reader is led on an emotional trip as they navigate their past and present lives, highlighting the strength of friendship and the intricacies of life..
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2024
1,122 people are currently reading
1,009 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Tonge
26books322followersSamantha Tonge lives in Manchester UK with her husband and children. She studied German and French at university and has worked abroad, including a stint at Disneyland Paris. She has travelled widely.
When not writing she passes her days cycling, baking and drinking coffee. Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s magazines.
She is represented by the Darley Anderson literary agency. In 2013, she landed a publishing deal for romantic comedy fiction with HQDigital at HarperCollins. In 2015 her summer novel, Game of Scones, hit #5 in the UK Kindle chart and won the Love Stories Awards Best Romantic Ebook category. In 2018 Forgive Me Not, heralded a new direction into darker women's fiction with publisher Canelo and in 2020 her novel Knowing You won the RNA's Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller Award.
When not writing she passes her days cycling, baking and drinking coffee. Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s magazines.
She is represented by the Darley Anderson literary agency. In 2013, she landed a publishing deal for romantic comedy fiction with HQDigital at HarperCollins. In 2015 her summer novel, Game of Scones, hit #5 in the UK Kindle chart and won the Love Stories Awards Best Romantic Ebook category. In 2018 Forgive Me Not, heralded a new direction into darker women's fiction with publisher Canelo and in 2020 her novel Knowing You won the RNA's Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
May 3, 2024
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I love books that can make me feel something and every time I read a book by Samantha Tonge I feel so many emotions. This is my fourth book by the author. Lost Luggage , The Memory of You and When We Were Friends were all four or five star reads for me. A Single Act of Kindness did not disappoint.
I didn't like the main character, Tilda at first. But as I continued to read I liked what I learned about her. Like the layers of an onion, she was getting peeled by Milo to reveal the real woman underneath. She seemed wise beyond her years and the fact that she learned not to care what anyone thinks took me until my forties to learn. The side characters were wonderful in the story, especially Riley. She has a small part in the book but becomes something so much bigger to Tilda.
I hated her mother on her behalf and I felt a kinship with Tilda in that way. I could relate to the selfishness her mother showed and it made me feel so grateful for the mother and siblings I have. They'd go to the ends of the earth for me. My mom was a really absent parent when I was younger and in a strange way it made me who I am and I am so much stronger for it. My mom has redeemed herself in her later years...so I am very lucky.
What I really liked about this book was how realistic addiction was portrayed. I have been through recovery with family members getting clean and/or sober. There should be no shame in overcoming addiction, it should be celebrated and those who are fighting the battle should be proud of their sobriety. Tonge's story is full of empathy for those trying to change for the better by fighting their demons. I love the sentiment of the story, one small thing can mean a lot to someone and if you can only be one thing, be kind because you never know what someone is going through.
If you're looking for a book that will make you feel all the feelings pick up a book by Samantha Tonge , you won't be disappointed.
I love books that can make me feel something and every time I read a book by Samantha Tonge I feel so many emotions. This is my fourth book by the author. Lost Luggage , The Memory of You and When We Were Friends were all four or five star reads for me. A Single Act of Kindness did not disappoint.
I didn't like the main character, Tilda at first. But as I continued to read I liked what I learned about her. Like the layers of an onion, she was getting peeled by Milo to reveal the real woman underneath. She seemed wise beyond her years and the fact that she learned not to care what anyone thinks took me until my forties to learn. The side characters were wonderful in the story, especially Riley. She has a small part in the book but becomes something so much bigger to Tilda.
I hated her mother on her behalf and I felt a kinship with Tilda in that way. I could relate to the selfishness her mother showed and it made me feel so grateful for the mother and siblings I have. They'd go to the ends of the earth for me. My mom was a really absent parent when I was younger and in a strange way it made me who I am and I am so much stronger for it. My mom has redeemed herself in her later years...so I am very lucky.
What I really liked about this book was how realistic addiction was portrayed. I have been through recovery with family members getting clean and/or sober. There should be no shame in overcoming addiction, it should be celebrated and those who are fighting the battle should be proud of their sobriety. Tonge's story is full of empathy for those trying to change for the better by fighting their demons. I love the sentiment of the story, one small thing can mean a lot to someone and if you can only be one thing, be kind because you never know what someone is going through.
If you're looking for a book that will make you feel all the feelings pick up a book by Samantha Tonge , you won't be disappointed.
April 2, 2024
Tilda likes to live a life of routine since a traumatic event from her past. She's built walls so high that no one could ever break them down to hurt her again. She simply won't allow it. She's started up her own cleaning company and the success of her work is all she needs to have a happy life, albeit a lonely one.
Milo, is living on the streets after his own traumatic event. He's camped out close by Tilda's home and she often passes him by wordlessly. When a flu hits him hard and he's mugged for the little bit of change he managed to gather, Tilda decides to do the right thing. The kind thing. She'll take him out of the rain, clean his wounds, and nurse him back to health. Once he's on his feet again she'll send him on his way.
What neither of them bargained for was how this single act of kindness will change their lives forever.
I absolutely loved the message of this story. Being kind to one another but also being kind to ones self too. Yes, that is something this world needs more of.
I was expecting this to be an uplifting, feel good book but this kept a fairly somber tone throughout which I wasn't expecting.
I enjoyed the first 30% quite a bit but the more time I spent with Tilda the more exhausted I got. She was so sad and had so many hang ups that I actually skipped at least 50 pages and I don't think I missed anything except her crying about all that's gone wrong in her life. She seemed very immature for her age (28). My kindle edition said this book is 293 pages but it felt much longer than that.
Milo was a decent character but I struggled to buy into his newfound friendship with Tilda. Something about it didn't ring true to me.
Don't even get me started on the ending. While I knew *this* was coming I wish with all my heart that it hadn't.
I did love Dettel the cat and watching Tilda's relationship with this frisky feline grow. That was very cute. 😻
While there were parts I really enjoyed this one might have been a little too sappy and sad for me in the end. I am sure many other readers will LOVE this story, though, so do give it a try if the premise appeals to you. 3 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my complimentary copy.
Milo, is living on the streets after his own traumatic event. He's camped out close by Tilda's home and she often passes him by wordlessly. When a flu hits him hard and he's mugged for the little bit of change he managed to gather, Tilda decides to do the right thing. The kind thing. She'll take him out of the rain, clean his wounds, and nurse him back to health. Once he's on his feet again she'll send him on his way.
What neither of them bargained for was how this single act of kindness will change their lives forever.
I absolutely loved the message of this story. Being kind to one another but also being kind to ones self too. Yes, that is something this world needs more of.
I was expecting this to be an uplifting, feel good book but this kept a fairly somber tone throughout which I wasn't expecting.
I enjoyed the first 30% quite a bit but the more time I spent with Tilda the more exhausted I got. She was so sad and had so many hang ups that I actually skipped at least 50 pages and I don't think I missed anything except her crying about all that's gone wrong in her life. She seemed very immature for her age (28). My kindle edition said this book is 293 pages but it felt much longer than that.
Milo was a decent character but I struggled to buy into his newfound friendship with Tilda. Something about it didn't ring true to me.
Don't even get me started on the ending. While I knew *this* was coming I wish with all my heart that it hadn't.
I did love Dettel the cat and watching Tilda's relationship with this frisky feline grow. That was very cute. 😻
While there were parts I really enjoyed this one might have been a little too sappy and sad for me in the end. I am sure many other readers will LOVE this story, though, so do give it a try if the premise appeals to you. 3 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my complimentary copy.
February 24, 2025
*Paying it forward*
I absolutely adored this book. It wasn’t all action or loud; instead, it felt quiet and subtle at first. We’re introduced to the main character, Tilda. Her world is small and organised, with everything in its place. She lives her life in an orderly manner, even having her food planned out for each day, which remained the same every week. Why all this discipline?
Tilda started her own cleaning business and had a few staff members. However, she struggled to keep everyone at a distance to maintain her safety.
One day, she encounters a young man named Milo, who is homeless and struggling. Her instinct is to help him, but that would disrupt her carefully planned order. Against her better judgment, she decides to help him, even if it means changing her orderly life.
Unbeknownst to Tilda, her act of kindness would have profound and unexpected consequences. They also share more than one thing in common, and her life will be forever changed. Will it be for the better or for the worse?
I found this story deeply moving. Interestingly, the way Tilda lived made me imagine that she was middle-aged, so I was surprised to learn that she was much younger than I had thought. Her reserved and buttoned-up demeanour initially made me think she was cold, but I gradually warmed to her.
Her backstory touched my heart and made me want to cry. I also enjoyed the ending.
I absolutely adored this book. It wasn’t all action or loud; instead, it felt quiet and subtle at first. We’re introduced to the main character, Tilda. Her world is small and organised, with everything in its place. She lives her life in an orderly manner, even having her food planned out for each day, which remained the same every week. Why all this discipline?
Tilda started her own cleaning business and had a few staff members. However, she struggled to keep everyone at a distance to maintain her safety.
One day, she encounters a young man named Milo, who is homeless and struggling. Her instinct is to help him, but that would disrupt her carefully planned order. Against her better judgment, she decides to help him, even if it means changing her orderly life.
Unbeknownst to Tilda, her act of kindness would have profound and unexpected consequences. They also share more than one thing in common, and her life will be forever changed. Will it be for the better or for the worse?
I found this story deeply moving. Interestingly, the way Tilda lived made me imagine that she was middle-aged, so I was surprised to learn that she was much younger than I had thought. Her reserved and buttoned-up demeanour initially made me think she was cold, but I gradually warmed to her.
Her backstory touched my heart and made me want to cry. I also enjoyed the ending.
January 20, 2025
This is a story about how small acts of kindness can change a life. It’s also a story about a really crappy mom and a daughter that succeeds in spit of a lack of love and guidance.
April 23, 2024
Tilda’s routines are how she keeps her life under control � the same breakfast every day (cereal flakes with fruit, five walnut halves, a small handful of raisins and two tablespoons of probiotic yoghurt on top), the same lunch (the sandwich cut in four triangles, a sliced apple, a pack of low-fat crisps and a glass of iced water), the same seven evening meals on specified days (fish and chips on Fridays�).
While she keeps her demons at bay, she runs a really successful cleaning business: she’s even (rather aptly) called her cat Dettol, but she likes to keep him at arm’s length, and she’s not sure they really like each other. In fact, she’d really prefer to keep the whole world at arm’s length � she’s shut herself off from her family (her mother treated her atrociously, and as for her last boyfriend�), and if she doesn’t let anyone get close there’s no chance of them hurting her.
But Milo gets under her defences � a homeless rough sleeper, he helps her out when there’s a problem with her washing machine. And when he needs her help � he’s attacked on the streets, and injured � she finds herself inviting him in, feeding him (yesterday’s leftover beef stew), and allowing him to sleep on the sofa (but only after she’s moved everything valuable). He’s hurt more badly than it looked, and he ends up staying rather longer � but she can put some work his way too, and she rather enjoys his company.
And although Tilda keeps some parts of her life (like her “special project”�) secret, it turns out that they have far more in common than it first appears � they share the same demons, although they choose to manage them differently. In fact, it turns out they rather need each other � the cat approves too � until he tries to bring about some well-meant changes in her life. But, as they grow closer, Tilda becomes more willing to consider alternative options � including a possible reconciliation with her famous footballer brother, helped along by his precocious (and entirely delightful) daughter Riley. But it really was the relationship between Tilda and Milo that entirely won my heart � both of them damaged, both slowly revealing their deeply hidden secrets and finding, in each other, their own paths to healing.
This is a book that deals with some pretty heavy issues � with a few real edge-of-the-seat moments, and not for the usual reasons � but balances them with a warmth, lightness, and humour that was totally enchanting. It’s a book that made me sob at times, sometimes in frustration � but there were so many other times when I found myself laughing out loud. It’s powerful and emotional, really broke my heart before slowly putting it together again, is filled with love, and I adored every single moment � and I really don’t think the author has ever written better. Without question, this will be one of my books of the year � quite wonderful!
While she keeps her demons at bay, she runs a really successful cleaning business: she’s even (rather aptly) called her cat Dettol, but she likes to keep him at arm’s length, and she’s not sure they really like each other. In fact, she’d really prefer to keep the whole world at arm’s length � she’s shut herself off from her family (her mother treated her atrociously, and as for her last boyfriend�), and if she doesn’t let anyone get close there’s no chance of them hurting her.
But Milo gets under her defences � a homeless rough sleeper, he helps her out when there’s a problem with her washing machine. And when he needs her help � he’s attacked on the streets, and injured � she finds herself inviting him in, feeding him (yesterday’s leftover beef stew), and allowing him to sleep on the sofa (but only after she’s moved everything valuable). He’s hurt more badly than it looked, and he ends up staying rather longer � but she can put some work his way too, and she rather enjoys his company.
And although Tilda keeps some parts of her life (like her “special project”�) secret, it turns out that they have far more in common than it first appears � they share the same demons, although they choose to manage them differently. In fact, it turns out they rather need each other � the cat approves too � until he tries to bring about some well-meant changes in her life. But, as they grow closer, Tilda becomes more willing to consider alternative options � including a possible reconciliation with her famous footballer brother, helped along by his precocious (and entirely delightful) daughter Riley. But it really was the relationship between Tilda and Milo that entirely won my heart � both of them damaged, both slowly revealing their deeply hidden secrets and finding, in each other, their own paths to healing.
This is a book that deals with some pretty heavy issues � with a few real edge-of-the-seat moments, and not for the usual reasons � but balances them with a warmth, lightness, and humour that was totally enchanting. It’s a book that made me sob at times, sometimes in frustration � but there were so many other times when I found myself laughing out loud. It’s powerful and emotional, really broke my heart before slowly putting it together again, is filled with love, and I adored every single moment � and I really don’t think the author has ever written better. Without question, this will be one of my books of the year � quite wonderful!
April 16, 2024
In the book A Single Act Of Kindness by Samantha Tonge we meet Matilda right she owns her own cleaning business she’s disciplined has lots of rules and sticks to them to keep her sanity. So when she finds herself leaning over Milo a new local homeless guy she has no idea why she has brought him to her home after she tends to his bruises and sees what a kind gregarious guy he is she’s further bewildered to hear herself say she can give him a job at her cleaning service and he can continue to stay with her as long as he follows the house rules of course. I mean buying someone toiletries and helping them get over the flu doesn’t mean you know them right? So why is it ~feels so comfortable with Milo and despite her “French Romeo� E they’re just friends anyway. Except for a couple of times when ~jump to conclusions and totally miss read situation she’s liking Milo there more and more but when her rules and taciturn nature start the fall by the wayside and old habits rear their ugly head Matilda thinks twice about having him there after all. Can Tildad use the new her to make the right decision or will she wants again cause her self to be alone and pretend she likes it? At first I found Matilda‘s personality to be awkward but once Milo moved in she became more and more likable with the exceptions of jumping to conclusions also I really found it hard to believe that someone as smart as Matilda could be swayed by the “French� E but in all honesty smarter women have fell for less. Having said that I truly enjoyed this book I loved Matilda‘s new relationship with Riley and I especially love when she started talking to the cat and not wanting Milo to know that was so funny to me I DK why I couldn’t stop laughing. Especially when the first time she said you’re such a pretty girl and it said Dittle turned and looked at her cautiously, I liked that� So much! I do love cats however in this book so good! I want to thank boldwood books for my free art copy via NetGalley please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
April 27, 2024
A Single Act of Kindness by Samantha Tonge
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Meet Tilda Wright� Tilda has done everything she can to make her life neat, protected, tidy. No longer the girl who was scared of everything, whose family pushed her away, who hit rock bottom. Now she runs her life � as she does her successful business � with the utmost organization. As long as she keeps everyone at arm’s length, she will be fine. She will be safe.
But then a chance encounter with a man who’s fallen on hard times changes everything. Milo needs a break, and self-contained Tilda surprises herself by deciding she should help him. Just for a while. A few days at the most.
Maybe all he needs is someone to organize him, to help him clean up his act? She is sure she knows how to kick-start Milo into turning his life around.
My Opinion
Of course the title of this book is a spoiler, but knowing that Tilda was going to do something selfless instantly made me connect with her. However Milo was a character that I struggled with at first - it was very easy to see why Tilda was so cautious around him when we first meet him but he very quickly grew on me.
Samantha Tonge is one of those authors that I will always read - whilst vastly different each book is always enjoyable. For me Tonge writes in such a lovely way that I am instantly hooked on the story. I struggled with the first chapter of this book - there was a lot going on around me so I put the book down. As soon as I was in a quieter environment I restarted the book and I am so glad that I did, I had missed a lot the first time around. This was one of those books that I wanted to read in one sitting but unfortunately I had plans that couldn't be changed.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Meet Tilda Wright� Tilda has done everything she can to make her life neat, protected, tidy. No longer the girl who was scared of everything, whose family pushed her away, who hit rock bottom. Now she runs her life � as she does her successful business � with the utmost organization. As long as she keeps everyone at arm’s length, she will be fine. She will be safe.
But then a chance encounter with a man who’s fallen on hard times changes everything. Milo needs a break, and self-contained Tilda surprises herself by deciding she should help him. Just for a while. A few days at the most.
Maybe all he needs is someone to organize him, to help him clean up his act? She is sure she knows how to kick-start Milo into turning his life around.
My Opinion
Of course the title of this book is a spoiler, but knowing that Tilda was going to do something selfless instantly made me connect with her. However Milo was a character that I struggled with at first - it was very easy to see why Tilda was so cautious around him when we first meet him but he very quickly grew on me.
Samantha Tonge is one of those authors that I will always read - whilst vastly different each book is always enjoyable. For me Tonge writes in such a lovely way that I am instantly hooked on the story. I struggled with the first chapter of this book - there was a lot going on around me so I put the book down. As soon as I was in a quieter environment I restarted the book and I am so glad that I did, I had missed a lot the first time around. This was one of those books that I wanted to read in one sitting but unfortunately I had plans that couldn't be changed.
Rating 4/5
October 30, 2024
This was quite a different read for me. I thought it was so powerful and thought-provoking.
To give someone a chance in life proves to work out in this story. Milo is a good influence on Tilda I think. I feel as though she was a bit stuck in a rutt with things in her life, just plodding on through life and not really getting a real sense of achievement and pride for herself, for overcoming things and remaining strong even when she felt weak.
Milo changes a lot of Tilda's opinions and reconnects her with people she never believes would still love her.
I absolutely loved this story of overcoming really hard times and being proud of what had come of it. Getting back in touch with family that we're once lost.
Tilda also did an amazing thing for Milo too because he was living on the streets and she offered him refuge temporarily (unsure it was a good idea at first). He also reconnected with people he thought wouldn't accept him after all that had happened.
Beautiful ending to quite a sad but thought provoking story. Some things didn't end happily but the journey along the way was so good to read and it would have been less realistic if it was a fully happy ending!
To give someone a chance in life proves to work out in this story. Milo is a good influence on Tilda I think. I feel as though she was a bit stuck in a rutt with things in her life, just plodding on through life and not really getting a real sense of achievement and pride for herself, for overcoming things and remaining strong even when she felt weak.
Milo changes a lot of Tilda's opinions and reconnects her with people she never believes would still love her.
I absolutely loved this story of overcoming really hard times and being proud of what had come of it. Getting back in touch with family that we're once lost.
Tilda also did an amazing thing for Milo too because he was living on the streets and she offered him refuge temporarily (unsure it was a good idea at first). He also reconnected with people he thought wouldn't accept him after all that had happened.
Beautiful ending to quite a sad but thought provoking story. Some things didn't end happily but the journey along the way was so good to read and it would have been less realistic if it was a fully happy ending!
April 27, 2024
Samantha Tonge - A Single Act Of Kindness.
Oh my goodness! This book is quite a read.
Tilda, it seems, has her life together. She runs a successful business, owns her own home and lives her life to a strict routine. She relies on no one but herself.
Tilda carries a lot of sadness in her heart, bit still manages to show kindness to others.
Milo is living on the streets. With no job and no home, his life seems to be at rock bottom.
Despite her strict rules and rigid self control, something about Milo touches Tilda and against her better judgment, she offers Milo a second chance.
The pair form a tentative friendship and find that they have more in common than either of them could have imagined.
The past is of course never far away. And it doesn't take long before old ghosts come knocking at the door.
Will Milo and Tilda be dragged into the darkness or can they both reconcile with their respective pasts and find a brighter future.
#ASingleActOfKindness is a compelling and tender story.
At times I felt so sad for Tilda and Milo. Life had dealt them both some cruel blows.
I loved how a single act of kindness kicked off a chain of events that were potentially life changing for them both.
Samantha Tonge is an exquisite writer. Her words flow effortlessly and capture the reader with their magic.
This is a book that touched my heart. A book I won’t forget and a book that you truly need to read.
If my heart had a library, A Single Act Of Kindness would have a special place on its shelves.
A beautifully written book, full of love and the power of kindness.
An emotional but glorious read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital arc of this title.
Oh my goodness! This book is quite a read.
Tilda, it seems, has her life together. She runs a successful business, owns her own home and lives her life to a strict routine. She relies on no one but herself.
Tilda carries a lot of sadness in her heart, bit still manages to show kindness to others.
Milo is living on the streets. With no job and no home, his life seems to be at rock bottom.
Despite her strict rules and rigid self control, something about Milo touches Tilda and against her better judgment, she offers Milo a second chance.
The pair form a tentative friendship and find that they have more in common than either of them could have imagined.
The past is of course never far away. And it doesn't take long before old ghosts come knocking at the door.
Will Milo and Tilda be dragged into the darkness or can they both reconcile with their respective pasts and find a brighter future.
#ASingleActOfKindness is a compelling and tender story.
At times I felt so sad for Tilda and Milo. Life had dealt them both some cruel blows.
I loved how a single act of kindness kicked off a chain of events that were potentially life changing for them both.
Samantha Tonge is an exquisite writer. Her words flow effortlessly and capture the reader with their magic.
This is a book that touched my heart. A book I won’t forget and a book that you truly need to read.
If my heart had a library, A Single Act Of Kindness would have a special place on its shelves.
A beautifully written book, full of love and the power of kindness.
An emotional but glorious read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital arc of this title.
March 7, 2024
A Single Act Of Kindness gives off major Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine vibes. The main character, Tilda, is not neuro-divergent but she has a troubled past that causes her to live a very controlled and regimented life. Milo, a homeless man, is the person to whom she directs her single act of kindness.
This novel is about trust, redemption, opening up your heart to love and changes....truly a heartwarming and sweet story. It got a little bit Hallmarky at times towards the end, but it is still a very appealing story.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This novel is about trust, redemption, opening up your heart to love and changes....truly a heartwarming and sweet story. It got a little bit Hallmarky at times towards the end, but it is still a very appealing story.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 30, 2024
I love Samantha Tonge's writing and was really excited for this book. A Single Act of Kindness is such a beautiful, heartfelt, warm, emotional story. I adored the characters, especially Dettol, and felt quite attached to them by the time I finished reading.
I don't have much experience with the subject of alcoholism or homelessness, but I feel they were written about so sensitively that I have a much better understanding now. To me, that's the sign of a great writer, making me understand something I'm not very familiar with.
Thank you, Sam, for writing such a beautiful, compassionate, inspiring story.
I don't have much experience with the subject of alcoholism or homelessness, but I feel they were written about so sensitively that I have a much better understanding now. To me, that's the sign of a great writer, making me understand something I'm not very familiar with.
Thank you, Sam, for writing such a beautiful, compassionate, inspiring story.
April 25, 2024
Thank you @netgalley, @theboldbookclub and author @samanthatongeauthor for the advanced copy of A Single Act of Kindness. A Single Act of Kindness addresses challenging subjects such as childhood trauma, addiction, and housing instability, this book skillfully balances a reader-friendly and engaging approach. It centers on the value of compassion, the power of optimism, and the journey toward triumphing over adversities. The characters are endearing, and the plot combines expected outcomes with unexpected twists and turns.
November 3, 2024
An ok read, but there was a lot of the story that had too many coincidences. If there’s one thing to be taken from the story it’s that we should all try to be kind and not make assumptions about other people and their situations.
April 26, 2024
I have read a number of Samantha Tonge's books now and the most recent ones are often interesting, issues based reads. This time, one of the issues was kind of close to home for me.
Tilda lives a very tidy, very organised life, and not just because she runs a cleaning business. Everything in her life is compartmentalized. She knows exactly what she is going to have for dinner on any given day of the week. Everything in her house has it's very specific place, at least in the public rooms. Her routine is very regimented
It is therefore out of character when she invites a homeless man named Milo to stay at her home, just for a couple of days, to recover from some injuries that he gained when he was mugged whilst living on the streets.
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May 22, 2024
It is a great story covering alcoholism and a story behind two people recovering from it. Tilda and Milo are great characters loved the story ❤️
July 31, 2024
3-5 - This book really reminded me of Eleanor Ophilant is completely fine. Enjoyed it more than I thought
August 24, 2024
Good story about life and the importance of friendship.
September 24, 2024
Beautiful book
Such a beautiful book with a gripping storyline and characters you fall in love with. A definite must read I loved it so much!
Such a beautiful book with a gripping storyline and characters you fall in love with. A definite must read I loved it so much!
November 14, 2024
Easy, feel good read!
January 6, 2025
I loved it! Great characters that I could relate to and the narrator was wonderful.
January 25, 2025
The book ended, but I wasn't done spending time with Milo and Tilda.
August 14, 2024
A very heart warming book.
Took me a while to get going but ended up really enjoying the story in the end
Took me a while to get going but ended up really enjoying the story in the end
August 28, 2024
Oh so wonderful.
A fabulous story. It made me think. It is very relatable to all of us. The stuff we do to cope, despite of or inspite of.
A fabulous story. It made me think. It is very relatable to all of us. The stuff we do to cope, despite of or inspite of.
March 20, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book about Tilda, who has overcome a troubled past yet hasn’t truly moved on, as evidenced by her very regimented life. A � you guessed it � single act of kindness changes everything.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
February 25, 2025
It took me nearly the whole month of February to finish this book, which is due to a mix of me being busy as well as it being generally a bit boring. I liked the premise of the book and how it was different to other things I’d been reading recently however nothing gripped me and made me want to finish it. The author had a really strange way of revealing things and was awful at depicting how a child would speak which I couldn’t get over and made me kinda hate the child. The ending of the book was very rushed and a bit cringe. Real rating is 2.5 stars
April 20, 2024
This marvellous book introduces us to two souls unaware that they may be about to arrive at a crossroads in their lives. Neat freak and strict follower of routine, Tilda is moved to help the rough-sleeping Milo after she sees him hit his own personal rock bottom. Nothing about her decision makes sense to either Tilda or me as a reader, but stick with it, as all will eventually be revealed.
I understood Tilda’s need for routine, as it is an easy mechanism to adopt in order to regain control. Naturally, she tries to share the methods that have helped her; he’d be daft not to want the peace and routine she enjoys. Well, experiences rather than enjoys.
Milo, on the other hand, is more relaxed. He subscribes to a different approach to controlling his demons and hopes that Tilda will open her mind to alternative options. However, he is grateful to have been rescued from living rough and to be able to rely on regular meals.
There is a limited cast of characters, from shy neighbour Anushka to Tilda’s team of cleaners, who all contribute to the success of her business. For me, though, it was her footballer brother Logan with his daughter Riley who truly captured my imagination.
I knew that this book would be a powerful read because I’ve seen Sam’s writing evolve with each book. She shares an unusually candid honesty that allows us to glimpse deeper into her personal life with each book. I didn’t anticipate this book would rip off the proverbial band-aid and offer a front-row seat into her personal struggles. Social media has provided a recent platform where this author has spoken about self-care and the restorative power of mindfulness. There’s also been some baked goodies to admire.
I urge you to read and enjoy this book. It absolutely resonated with me, and I genuinely benefited from reading it. It is created with depth, understanding, and a considerable volume of honesty. Sam, I salute you.
I understood Tilda’s need for routine, as it is an easy mechanism to adopt in order to regain control. Naturally, she tries to share the methods that have helped her; he’d be daft not to want the peace and routine she enjoys. Well, experiences rather than enjoys.
Milo, on the other hand, is more relaxed. He subscribes to a different approach to controlling his demons and hopes that Tilda will open her mind to alternative options. However, he is grateful to have been rescued from living rough and to be able to rely on regular meals.
There is a limited cast of characters, from shy neighbour Anushka to Tilda’s team of cleaners, who all contribute to the success of her business. For me, though, it was her footballer brother Logan with his daughter Riley who truly captured my imagination.
I knew that this book would be a powerful read because I’ve seen Sam’s writing evolve with each book. She shares an unusually candid honesty that allows us to glimpse deeper into her personal life with each book. I didn’t anticipate this book would rip off the proverbial band-aid and offer a front-row seat into her personal struggles. Social media has provided a recent platform where this author has spoken about self-care and the restorative power of mindfulness. There’s also been some baked goodies to admire.
I urge you to read and enjoy this book. It absolutely resonated with me, and I genuinely benefited from reading it. It is created with depth, understanding, and a considerable volume of honesty. Sam, I salute you.
February 11, 2025
Beautiful! Just beautiful. :)
March 29, 2024
Tilda and Milo meet by accident, Milo is living on the streets and Tilda takes him in. they bond over being recovering alcoholics, and a sweet friendship is formed.
I really wanted to love this story, but it fell flat for me. It was an awkward read, I didn’t connect with the characters, and the relationship between the two main characters felt forced and fake.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in return for my honest review.
I really wanted to love this story, but it fell flat for me. It was an awkward read, I didn’t connect with the characters, and the relationship between the two main characters felt forced and fake.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in return for my honest review.
September 11, 2024
So many oportunities to really explore teh depths of some serious issues and their emotional/physical and social consequences but they were glossed over to things more trivial that just didn't hold my interest. An opportunity lost to explore teh depths of addiction.
May 19, 2024
I have read Samantha Tonge’s books before and she’s an author where I’d read anything she had written. I love the warmth of her style and the authenticity of her writing. So I was very excited to read her latest novel � A Single Act of Kindness.
Tilda Wright is in her late twenties and lives in a rundown area of Manchester where she owns a cleaning business. She sticks to a tight routine and a tidy house. She lives alone with her inherited cat Dettol and likes it that way, not wanting to make friends or get to know anyone that might let her down. But then she meets Milo, a thirty-year-old homeless man.
I don’t really want to give away any more of the plot, as there’s a lot of character development, hidden secrets and self-improvement. I love how Tilda and Milo are quite different and unusual main characters for a book. Milo is at a very low point in his life and although Tilda seems as though she’s doing okay, she really isn’t. She has to shut out a lot to get through her days and the reader really wants her to enjoy life and find happiness. It turns out Tilda and Milo have more in common than they expected.
Despite both the main characters being flawed, you really come to know them and love them and want them to find their way to happiness. The novel has a perfect balance of highs and lows and the reader will find themselves going through all emotions as you read the unfolding story. I kept shouting at Tilda’s character, telling her to do something different or make the other decision, because I really cared about her. When you’re that invested, you know it’s a really good book!
It does make you think about a lot of things too � what people get from life and whether it’s enough; what you should (or shouldn’t) do to help your fellow human; whether to trust people; whether by protecting ourselves, we end up doing more damage. Ultimately though, it’s an uplifting, feel-good story and in a world which can seem quite frightening these days, it’s a joy to get lost in a story with so much good at its heart.
Tilda Wright is in her late twenties and lives in a rundown area of Manchester where she owns a cleaning business. She sticks to a tight routine and a tidy house. She lives alone with her inherited cat Dettol and likes it that way, not wanting to make friends or get to know anyone that might let her down. But then she meets Milo, a thirty-year-old homeless man.
I don’t really want to give away any more of the plot, as there’s a lot of character development, hidden secrets and self-improvement. I love how Tilda and Milo are quite different and unusual main characters for a book. Milo is at a very low point in his life and although Tilda seems as though she’s doing okay, she really isn’t. She has to shut out a lot to get through her days and the reader really wants her to enjoy life and find happiness. It turns out Tilda and Milo have more in common than they expected.
Despite both the main characters being flawed, you really come to know them and love them and want them to find their way to happiness. The novel has a perfect balance of highs and lows and the reader will find themselves going through all emotions as you read the unfolding story. I kept shouting at Tilda’s character, telling her to do something different or make the other decision, because I really cared about her. When you’re that invested, you know it’s a really good book!
It does make you think about a lot of things too � what people get from life and whether it’s enough; what you should (or shouldn’t) do to help your fellow human; whether to trust people; whether by protecting ourselves, we end up doing more damage. Ultimately though, it’s an uplifting, feel-good story and in a world which can seem quite frightening these days, it’s a joy to get lost in a story with so much good at its heart.
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