Tara Rogan wrote the following for Love Romances Magazine:


Historical fiction can often be a tricky genre. Stories can be either fascinating and well written, or dry and overdramatic; much of which is dependent on the historical matter the tale is based upon. In THE ISLANDER, by John Allen, the author brings the account of the virtually unknown Maximilienne Carpentier to life straight from the pages of her diary; he weaves it into a gripping, remarkable story of a woman’s extraordinary life and adventures through her chronicled experiences.

THE ISLANDER starts and ends in the eyes of Maximilienne; a girl raised on an island with her parents in the heart of the ocean, learning early on the ways of nature, how to fend for herself, and how to overcome the most difficult of challenges life can present. Their only contact is with Claude Besson, an apparent “friend of the family” who brings them supplies every few months on his shipping route. As the story unfolds, Maximilienne gradually discovers the true history of her family, and that there are others against her who fully intend to take everything away from her by any means necessary.

The author does a beautiful job with his narrator; Allen not only shows Maximilienne as a fascinating historical figure, but really brings her to life by giving her a distinct personality, vivid emotions, and a strong will for survival. The story engrosses the reader in its pages, painting a magnificent picture of this woman through her struggles, as well as the both tragic and touching events that help shape her life.

THE ISLANDER introduces readers to an amazing historical figure who had once been lost in the pages of history. Now, thanks to Allen, Maximilienne’s story is brought to life for all to experience and appreciate.