I am always delighted to read a new novel by Samantha Tonge and her latest, If You Could See Me Now is a corker. It is published today by Boldwood Books.
A brilliant, beautiful story from the bestselling author of
A Single Act of Kindness
How far would you go for a perfect life?
Back in her troubled school days, kind-hearted Violet always
dreamed of a life where she was happy. Now it feels like she’s just about
getting there. She has her dream job working with books, and she’s living with
her handsome boyfriend, Lenny.
But when her relationship with Lenny falls to pieces and he
moves out, Violet, hurt and alone, decides it’s time to really take her
happiness in hand. With help from her new flatmate, Bella, she changes her
image and takes control at work, ready to show the world that she doesn’t need
Lenny in her life. And when she meets magnetic author Casey, she begins to
wonder if all she needed all along was a makeover.
But – with Bella – all is not as it seems. And Violet too
has a secret, one that dates right back to her childhood, which could change
everything…
IF YOU COULD SEE ME NOW is a powerful story about
friendship, trust, and taking control of your life while not being afraid to
stand out. Perfect for fans of Shari Low, Milly Johnson and Colleen Hoover.
My Thoughts
This is an arresting book which is will take you by surprise and shock you with the direction it takes. Violet is a complicated character with huge issues around self esteem which only really emerge as the story unfolds. The Violet we meet at the beginning is a sensible sort whose kindness and empathy towards others sets her apart. She works in publishing as a children’s book editor and is passionate about her authors in her care.
Violet is terribly hurt after her long term relationship breaks up and this leads her to act in a determined and blinkered way. Some of her scruples are pushed to one side. You see the range of friendships in the story, from intergenerational relationships to some newer and toxic ones. There are some serious messages in the story but also a heart-warming message with uplifting moments and a sense of hope. This is a book which will challenge you as well as entertain.
In short: two sides of friendship laid bare
About the Author
Samantha 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.
Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s
magazines. She is represented by Darley Anderson Agency & Associates. 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 2020 one of her novels
won the RNA’s Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller Award. Currently Samantha writes
uplifting, emotional women’s fiction for Boldwood Books.
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