An Accidental Philanthropist: How A Small Family Foundation Made A Big Difference

by Winsome Dunn McIntosh, Howard E Covington

210 pages, Hardcover

Published July 31, 2025

Reviews

[Rudol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Close whatever you're doing and order this book immediately. An Accidental Philanthropist is one of the most quietly radical, genuinely inspiring, and beautifully written memoirs I have ever encountered. Winsome Dunn McIntosh has lived a life of extraordinary purpose, and this book is proof that one person one couple, one small foundation can truly change the world. Don't miss it.

[Jane Steen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a heartfelt journey into the unexpected world of philanthropy. What makes it compelling is its authenticity the story doesn’t glamorize wealth but instead focuses on responsibility, learning, and growth. It beautifully illustrates how ordinary people can step into extraordinary roles and create meaningful change in their communities. Uplifting and deeply motivating.

[Cynthia Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accidental Philanthropist offers more than a personal story it provides insight into how strategic philanthropy works at a grassroots level. The book thoughtfully explores decision-making, community engagement, and the challenges of managing a family foundation. It’s especially valuable for readers interested in nonprofit leadership or impact-driven giving.

[Eden Phillip · Rating 4 out of 5]

The romance at the center of this story never fades even as the book spans fifty years, you always feel the warmth and partnership between Winsome and Michael. Their relationship is both the engine of the story and its greatest gift.

[Cecile Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a law student with a deep interest in environmental justice, and this book felt like finding a map I didn't know I was looking for. The McIntoshes understood the power of environmental law decades before most people did. Their foresight is breathtaking.

[Gareth Felicity · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a quiet courage that runs through every chapter of this memoir. The McIntoshes gave money to causes that weren't fashionable yet, trusted leaders before they were proven, and stayed committed when others walked away. That courage changed the world.

[Bitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will make you look at the organizations you support and ask harder, better questions. What is the long-term strategy? Who is being empowered? What leverage does this create? The McIntoshes modeled this kind of rigorous generosity and this memoir passes it forward.

[Caleb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carved in Blood grips you from the first page and doesn't let go. Bennett writes New Zealand like no one else the landscape, the culture, the history. Hana Westerman is one of the most compelling detectives in crime fiction right now.

[Shore · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven't discovered this series yet, start with Better the Blood and work your way here. By book three Bennett has complete command of his characters and the stakes feel genuinely high. Outstanding.

[Diane J · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Accidental Philanthropist is an inspiring and eye-opening read. It shows how even a small family foundation can create lasting impact with purpose, passion, and smart giving. A powerful reminder that meaningful change doesn’t require massive wealth just commitment and heart.

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The integration of Māori history and culture into a modern thriller is done with such care and intelligence. It never feels like backdrop it IS the story. Rare and important.

[kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up until 2am finishing this. The pacing is relentless, the twists are earned, and the ending hit me harder than I expected. Bennett just keeps getting better with each book

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast, sharp, emotionally intelligent crime fiction. Hana Westerman carries the weight of the whole series on her shoulders and never buckles. One of the best female detectives in the genre.

[Anne Shore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in two sittings and spent the rest of the day thinking about it. The cultural depth, the family dynamics, the moral complexity this is crime fiction operating at the highest level.

[simth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three books in and this series only gets stronger. Hana is extraordinary flawed, fierce, and completely real. Can't wait for whatever Bennett writes next.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping, original, and beautifully written. The New Zealand setting feels completely alive and the mystery is genuinely surprising. Highly recommend to anyone who loves intelligent crime fiction.

[Contact.Beatriceagarcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book it completely captivated me from start to finish.