Whenever I read non-fiction I take notes and this was one I took a ton of notes on, especially as a single person and an accountant who will always have room to learn more about finances. The Singles Tax had a lot of informational data, key takeaways, and quotes that inspired me to take more control of my own finances. Also, the author is Canadian and I really appreciated all the detail on Canadian tax rules, investing accounts, etc.

The sections I found the most value from were the housing, budgeting and retirement planning sections. Specific takeaways at the end of each chapter helped me find solutions and questions to ask myself as I look towards the future. I have always wondered whether I should just buy a huge house with my best friends, and I love that this was covered and included real world examples of people who have done it!!

I will note that I found some of the stats to be a bit scattered, as the author jumped from talking about Canada to x country or y country. I feel like the data may have hit harder if it was just directly marketed to one demographic (aka Canadians).

I loved how the book ended, talking about what we want our legacy to be and that our legacy doesn’t necessarily have to be having the most money left, it might be something else, related to your own personal values and goals in life.

Thank you to ECW Press and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!!

This is a book that will be published at a good time when many people, like myself, are thinking about financial security. I found this read to be incredibly useful with highlighted practical steps. As a single individual I appreciated how this book broken down costs and highlighted areas for me to take a more focused look at. The author uses real-life examples to make her points and used end-of-chapter takeaways which were both helpful for identifying practical steps. Thank you to ECW Press and NetGalley for the ARC!

I read The Singles Tax by Renée Sylvestre-Williams because, after finding myself unexpectedly single at 40, I started noticing subtle financial friction in my life that had not been present before.

It was genuinely eye-opening and informative. The book clearly lays out how our financial systems—from taxes and housing policies to retirement savings—are historically and fundamentally structured to favor married couples.

What makes this book particularly valuable are the actionable, no-nonsense strategies she provides to navigate these hurdles. It isn't just a complaint; it's a practical guide for taking control of your financial security as a single person.

If you are single, or if you know someone who is, I highly recommend this book. It sheds light on a significant financial reality that often goes unacknowledged and provides the tools necessary to thrive independently.