What do you think?
Rate this book
Isola
A young woman and her lover are marooned on an island in this epic saga of love, faith, and defiance from the bestselling author of Sam.
Heir to a fortune, Marguerite is destined for a life of prosperity and gentility. Then she is orphaned, and her guardian—an enigmatic and volatile man—spends her inheritance and insists she accompany him on an expedition to New France. Isolated and afraid, Marguerite befriends her guardian’s servant and the two develop an intense attraction. But when their relationship is discovered, they are brutally punished and abandoned on a small island with no hope for rescue.
Once a child of privilege who dressed in gowns and laced pearls in her hair, Marguerite finds herself at the mercy of nature. As the weather turns, blanketing the island in ice, she discovers a faith she’d never before needed.
Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth-century heroine, Isola is the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival.
Heir to a fortune, Marguerite is destined for a life of prosperity and gentility. Then she is orphaned, and her guardian—an enigmatic and volatile man—spends her inheritance and insists she accompany him on an expedition to New France. Isolated and afraid, Marguerite befriends her guardian’s servant and the two develop an intense attraction. But when their relationship is discovered, they are brutally punished and abandoned on a small island with no hope for rescue.
Once a child of privilege who dressed in gowns and laced pearls in her hair, Marguerite finds herself at the mercy of nature. As the weather turns, blanketing the island in ice, she discovers a faith she’d never before needed.
Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth-century heroine, Isola is the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published February 4, 2025
About the author
Allegra Goodman
19 books875 followersHello, Good Readers!
I have a new novel "Isola" out now. I'm excited for you to read it! You can order it here:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/bo...
"Isola" is based on the true story of a young woman who sails from France to the New World in 1542 and is marooned on an island in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
My novel "Sam" is in paperback.
"Sam" is about a young girl's exuberance, wonder, and ambition as she comes of age.
Jenna Bush Hager picked "Sam" for her Today Show book club and said, "Sam is about as perfect of a coming-of-age story as I have ever read."
About me: I was born in Brooklyn, but I grew up in Honolulu where I did not have to wear shoes in school until fifth grade.
I now live in Cambridge, MA and I own boots. In addition to writing fiction, I read a lot and teach on occasion. In my free time, I swim and walk around the city.
I have four children, now getting pretty grown up. My oldest son (an economist) reads everything. My second son (a law student and grad student in political theory) reads mostly non-fiction, although I try to get him to read novels. My third son (an aspiring chemist) loves science fiction, fantasy, and history. My daughter (a user experience designer) enjoys biography and YA novels--but only if they have exceptionally beautiful covers.
I read fiction, biography, history, poetry, and books about art. I also enjoy discovering authors in translation.
When I was a seven-year-old living in Hawaii, I decided to become a novelist--but I began by writing poetry and short stories.
In high school and college I focused on short stories, and in June, 1986, I published my first in "Commentary."
My first book was a collection of short stories, "Total Immersion."
My second book, "The Family Markowitz" is a short story cycle that people tend to read as a novel.
Much of my work is about family in its many forms. I am also interested in religion, science, the threats and opportunities of technology, and the exploration of islands, real, and imaginary.
My novel, "Kaaterskill Falls" travels with a group of observant Jews to the Catskill Mountains.
"Intuition" enters a research a lab, where a young post-doc makes a discovery that excites everybody except for one skeptic--his ex-girlfriend.
A rare collection of cookbooks stars in my novel, "The Cookbook Collector."
A girl named Honor tries to save her mother in my dystopian YA novel, "The Other Side of the Island."
With Michael Prince, I have co-authored a supercool writing textbook. If you teach composition, take a look at "Speaking of Writing: a Brief Rhetoric."
If you'd like to learn more about me and about each of my books, check out my website:
http://allegragoodman.com/
Find me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AllegraGoodman
Or on Instagram:
@allegragoodmanwriter
And of course, you can check out the reviews I post here on Goodreads. Generally, I use my Goodreads reviews to spotlight books I love and recommend.
I have a new novel "Isola" out now. I'm excited for you to read it! You can order it here:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/bo...
"Isola" is based on the true story of a young woman who sails from France to the New World in 1542 and is marooned on an island in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
My novel "Sam" is in paperback.
"Sam" is about a young girl's exuberance, wonder, and ambition as she comes of age.
Jenna Bush Hager picked "Sam" for her Today Show book club and said, "Sam is about as perfect of a coming-of-age story as I have ever read."
About me: I was born in Brooklyn, but I grew up in Honolulu where I did not have to wear shoes in school until fifth grade.
I now live in Cambridge, MA and I own boots. In addition to writing fiction, I read a lot and teach on occasion. In my free time, I swim and walk around the city.
I have four children, now getting pretty grown up. My oldest son (an economist) reads everything. My second son (a law student and grad student in political theory) reads mostly non-fiction, although I try to get him to read novels. My third son (an aspiring chemist) loves science fiction, fantasy, and history. My daughter (a user experience designer) enjoys biography and YA novels--but only if they have exceptionally beautiful covers.
I read fiction, biography, history, poetry, and books about art. I also enjoy discovering authors in translation.
When I was a seven-year-old living in Hawaii, I decided to become a novelist--but I began by writing poetry and short stories.
In high school and college I focused on short stories, and in June, 1986, I published my first in "Commentary."
My first book was a collection of short stories, "Total Immersion."
My second book, "The Family Markowitz" is a short story cycle that people tend to read as a novel.
Much of my work is about family in its many forms. I am also interested in religion, science, the threats and opportunities of technology, and the exploration of islands, real, and imaginary.
My novel, "Kaaterskill Falls" travels with a group of observant Jews to the Catskill Mountains.
"Intuition" enters a research a lab, where a young post-doc makes a discovery that excites everybody except for one skeptic--his ex-girlfriend.
A rare collection of cookbooks stars in my novel, "The Cookbook Collector."
A girl named Honor tries to save her mother in my dystopian YA novel, "The Other Side of the Island."
With Michael Prince, I have co-authored a supercool writing textbook. If you teach composition, take a look at "Speaking of Writing: a Brief Rhetoric."
If you'd like to learn more about me and about each of my books, check out my website:
http://allegragoodman.com/
Find me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AllegraGoodman
Or on Instagram:
@allegragoodmanwriter
And of course, you can check out the reviews I post here on Goodreads. Generally, I use my Goodreads reviews to spotlight books I love and recommend.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
October 6, 2024
Based on the true life of Marguerite de la Rocque, a young woman born into nobility in the 1500’s..she became an orphan and was placed under the care of a guardian, Roberval.. a volatile man..who she doesn’t even know. He is in charge of her future.
Well, he is also a gambling man and he sells her lands and home to pay off his debts. He also makes her come on a voyage to New France with him where he believes he will find wealth.
They board the ship, she with her servant Damienne..they have a rough time on the trip but she ends up falling for Robertval’s secretary and is caught with him.
They are ordered off the ship and taken to a deserted island… mostly made of rock.
Now it is a fight for survival as they were only given limited supplies and hardly any food when they left the ship.
This part of the story was very intense… riveting…with much grief and loss.
Very beautiful writing!
Here is a review from another author:
Praise
"A shocking story, made all the more stunning by the fact that it has its roots in true history, Isola is an immersive journey through the eyes of Marguerite de la Rocque, who redefines what makes one a woman of worth and what the difference is between having a life and truly living."
—#1 New York Times bestselling author Jodi
Picoult
Copyright © 2024 Allegra Goodman. Site
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the Arc!
Well, he is also a gambling man and he sells her lands and home to pay off his debts. He also makes her come on a voyage to New France with him where he believes he will find wealth.
They board the ship, she with her servant Damienne..they have a rough time on the trip but she ends up falling for Robertval’s secretary and is caught with him.
They are ordered off the ship and taken to a deserted island… mostly made of rock.
Now it is a fight for survival as they were only given limited supplies and hardly any food when they left the ship.
This part of the story was very intense… riveting…with much grief and loss.
Very beautiful writing!
Here is a review from another author:
Praise
"A shocking story, made all the more stunning by the fact that it has its roots in true history, Isola is an immersive journey through the eyes of Marguerite de la Rocque, who redefines what makes one a woman of worth and what the difference is between having a life and truly living."
—#1 New York Times bestselling author Jodi
Picoult
Copyright © 2024 Allegra Goodman. Site
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the Arc!
January 30, 2025
Finished Reading!
Pre-Read Notes:
Fell in love with the cover and went in blind. What a wonderful story, this moody coming-of-age drama turned out to be!
Final Review:
"...Don’t be a fool.” I thought, I am not a fool. I am not a small fool for my age. I gazed upon the cabinet and thought, If I am small, give me this small thing. Let me play with it and keep my own treasures inside, my ruby and my pearls, my necklace, and my little scissors. Give it to me for my chamber! This was my unspoken wish[....] p16
Review summary and recommendations:
I'm pretty sure this book is going to end up on my top ten for 2025. This is a strong historical fiction novel in the style of Brönte's Jane Eyre crossed with Voltaire's Candide. The story takes place in the sixteenth century. The protagonist, Marguerite, is a fierce survivor from beginning to end. She's the kind of protagonist I enjoy rooting for because she is so vulnerable, and yet brave.
There's nothing tricky or experimental about this novel. It's not clever in that way, but I consider this one of the book's strengths.
I recommend this book to fans of the classics and modern literary fiction. Fans of Jane Eyre will truly enjoy this one.
I feared he would rebuke me because I was a woman and my prayers were weak. p233
Reading Notes
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I like the characterization of the main character's nurse. She unexpected and complicated, the perfect metaphor for the conflicting mores of their time and place.
2. I love sibling rivalry as a source of story conflict. I admired her for reading silently. I coveted her quick hands and marveled at her self-effacement. “It is nothing ,” she would say of her own needlework and music-making, and then I was jealous of her modesty. I envied her in everything, but what I envied most was Claire’s good mother. p19
3. I like that the main character is *just* unlikable enough, as an over-priveleged little kid who is still easy to root for. *edit This character develops
4.“You are Reason,” I told Claire. “And your mother will be Rectitude. And Damienne can be Justice.” “Then who will you be?” Claire asked. She smiled at my answer. “None of those, so I must be the authoress.” p29 Nice little touches of meta.
5. They talked of silver mines and diamonds and birds flying in an iridescent cloud, their faces blue, their plumage ruby, gold , and green— spirits so swift that they belonged to paradise, not earth. The navigator told of blossoms floating in the air and clear oceans filled with pearls, the wonders of the Spice Islands, blessed with every flower, fruit, and vine. Like Eden, these islands knew no frost. It was always summer, and trees never stopped bearing. p60 Beautiful descriptive writing of fantasy worlds inside a fantasy story. Nice meta that doesn't feel forced.
6. This is giving Charlotte Brönte's Jane Eyre. But still original. Good coming-of-age stuff.
7. Few romance tropes capture my attention, and one of those is forbidden love! This book has lots of it! He belonged to his master, as did I. When the secretary looked at me, when he spoke gently, when he took my arm, when he confided in me— those were moments so sweet and dangerous I had kept them secret almost from myself. Love— or admiration— must be silent. “You cannot say you love me.” p107
8. Once the setting changes, the story becomes riveting with new story tensions! You really get to see what these characters are made of in the second half of the book.
Rating: 🏝🏝🏝🏝🏝 /5 desert islands
Recommend? definitely!
Finished: Jan 18 '25
Format: accessible digital, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
🕰 historical fiction
💜 Jane Eyre
🙍🏻♀️ girl's coming of age
📜 literary fiction
🌊 sea stories
Thank you to the author Allegra Goodman, publishers The Dial Press, and NetGalley for an accessible advance digital copy of ISOLA. All views are mine.
---------------
Pre-Read Notes:
Fell in love with the cover and went in blind. What a wonderful story, this moody coming-of-age drama turned out to be!
Final Review:
"...Don’t be a fool.” I thought, I am not a fool. I am not a small fool for my age. I gazed upon the cabinet and thought, If I am small, give me this small thing. Let me play with it and keep my own treasures inside, my ruby and my pearls, my necklace, and my little scissors. Give it to me for my chamber! This was my unspoken wish[....] p16
Review summary and recommendations:
I'm pretty sure this book is going to end up on my top ten for 2025. This is a strong historical fiction novel in the style of Brönte's Jane Eyre crossed with Voltaire's Candide. The story takes place in the sixteenth century. The protagonist, Marguerite, is a fierce survivor from beginning to end. She's the kind of protagonist I enjoy rooting for because she is so vulnerable, and yet brave.
There's nothing tricky or experimental about this novel. It's not clever in that way, but I consider this one of the book's strengths.
I recommend this book to fans of the classics and modern literary fiction. Fans of Jane Eyre will truly enjoy this one.
I feared he would rebuke me because I was a woman and my prayers were weak. p233
Reading Notes
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I like the characterization of the main character's nurse. She unexpected and complicated, the perfect metaphor for the conflicting mores of their time and place.
2. I love sibling rivalry as a source of story conflict. I admired her for reading silently. I coveted her quick hands and marveled at her self-effacement. “It is nothing ,” she would say of her own needlework and music-making, and then I was jealous of her modesty. I envied her in everything, but what I envied most was Claire’s good mother. p19
3. I like that the main character is *just* unlikable enough, as an over-priveleged little kid who is still easy to root for. *edit This character develops
4.“You are Reason,” I told Claire. “And your mother will be Rectitude. And Damienne can be Justice.” “Then who will you be?” Claire asked. She smiled at my answer. “None of those, so I must be the authoress.” p29 Nice little touches of meta.
5. They talked of silver mines and diamonds and birds flying in an iridescent cloud, their faces blue, their plumage ruby, gold , and green— spirits so swift that they belonged to paradise, not earth. The navigator told of blossoms floating in the air and clear oceans filled with pearls, the wonders of the Spice Islands, blessed with every flower, fruit, and vine. Like Eden, these islands knew no frost. It was always summer, and trees never stopped bearing. p60 Beautiful descriptive writing of fantasy worlds inside a fantasy story. Nice meta that doesn't feel forced.
6. This is giving Charlotte Brönte's Jane Eyre. But still original. Good coming-of-age stuff.
7. Few romance tropes capture my attention, and one of those is forbidden love! This book has lots of it! He belonged to his master, as did I. When the secretary looked at me, when he spoke gently, when he took my arm, when he confided in me— those were moments so sweet and dangerous I had kept them secret almost from myself. Love— or admiration— must be silent. “You cannot say you love me.” p107
8. Once the setting changes, the story becomes riveting with new story tensions! You really get to see what these characters are made of in the second half of the book.
Rating: 🏝🏝🏝🏝🏝 /5 desert islands
Recommend? definitely!
Finished: Jan 18 '25
Format: accessible digital, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
🕰 historical fiction
💜 Jane Eyre
🙍🏻♀️ girl's coming of age
📜 literary fiction
🌊 sea stories
Thank you to the author Allegra Goodman, publishers The Dial Press, and NetGalley for an accessible advance digital copy of ISOLA. All views are mine.
---------------
August 3, 2024
This was a beautifully written, if heartbreaking story of a young girl, Marguerite, born into nobility in the 1500’s, who is orphaned early on. She is placed under the care of her cousin, Roberval, who becomes her guardian, and who has already managed to go through all what fortune he had, and then helps himself to the fortunes her parents had left to her, as well as selling her property, in order to relieve himself of his debts. Once he has accessed all that she was left by her parents, he is determined to force her to go with him on his planned voyage to New France. She has little choice.
During the voyage, Marguerite is befriended by his servant, although it isn’t very long before they become more than friends. It also isn’t very long before their relationship is apparent to Roberval, and so Roberval leaves the two of them marooned, along with Marguerite’s nurse, Damienne.
They are then forced to do whatever they can find to make it through the days and nights ahead. They have little when they arrive there, and less as the days, weeks and months go by. But Marguerite is determined that they will survive, and she spends her days looking for ways to continue living, in hopes someone will eventually rescue them.
Pub Date: 21 Jan 2025
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Random House Publishing - Random House / The Dial Press
February 7, 2025
Isola is a beautifully written 16th-century historical drama that follows Marguerite de la Rocque, an orphaned young girl growing up under the care of her nurse and the unpredictable guardianship of Roberval. Raised in near-isolation, Marguerite’s life changes when Roberval orders her to sail with him to New France— only for her to be banished to a remote island alongside the man she fell in love with, Roberval’s secretary.
The first half of the book is slower, focused on Marguerite’s lonely upbringing and the dangerous 8-week journey overseas. We learn of Roberval’s changing moods and power over Marguerite. He makes for an unlikely villain—not outwardly sinister at first, but deeply self-serving. His betrayal of Marguerite, from selling off her inheritance for his own gain to cruelly exiling her as punishment for falling in love, adds to the intrigue and tension to the story. I was on edge, waiting to see just how far his ruthlessness would go.
Once the survival aspect kicks in, the story pulled me in completely. Watching Marguerite transform from a sheltered noble child into a fiercely determined fighter was one of the most compelling parts of the novel. Allegra Goodman’s writing is detailed, atmospheric, and engaging, making the historical setting feel vivid and immersive.
The author’s note was also a great addition, providing insight into the real-life Marguerite de la Rocque and Goodman’s inspiration for telling her story. While this was my first book by her, Sam has been on my radar for a while, and after reading Isola, I’m even more excited to pick it up.
Thank you to The Dial Press and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for my review.
The first half of the book is slower, focused on Marguerite’s lonely upbringing and the dangerous 8-week journey overseas. We learn of Roberval’s changing moods and power over Marguerite. He makes for an unlikely villain—not outwardly sinister at first, but deeply self-serving. His betrayal of Marguerite, from selling off her inheritance for his own gain to cruelly exiling her as punishment for falling in love, adds to the intrigue and tension to the story. I was on edge, waiting to see just how far his ruthlessness would go.
Once the survival aspect kicks in, the story pulled me in completely. Watching Marguerite transform from a sheltered noble child into a fiercely determined fighter was one of the most compelling parts of the novel. Allegra Goodman’s writing is detailed, atmospheric, and engaging, making the historical setting feel vivid and immersive.
The author’s note was also a great addition, providing insight into the real-life Marguerite de la Rocque and Goodman’s inspiration for telling her story. While this was my first book by her, Sam has been on my radar for a while, and after reading Isola, I’m even more excited to pick it up.
Thank you to The Dial Press and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for my review.
December 15, 2024
Isola is a historical fiction saga based on the life of 16th-century French noblewoman, Marguerite de la Roque. This epic tale begins on her French estate when she is orphaned as a nine-year-old girl, and her miserly cousin becomes her guardian and executor of her massive trust. A bit of an explorer and in favor with the king and queen, Roberval uses Marguerite's trust to further his ambition. Marguerite is then forced to leave her estate, living at one of Roberval's properties. Finally, Roberval orders her to leave the house and join a ship exploration to explore New France (modern Canada). While on the ship, she and one of the staff secretly start spending time together. In a rage, Roberval orders them off the ship and exiles them to an uninhabited island that has arctic winters.
Marguerite is a castaway for two years. Her story of survival is a narrative of finding herself and a beautiful tribute to nature. Goodman's prose is descriptive and atmospheric, allowing the reader to be fully immersed in the story. I was riveted by this amazing true story of friendship and love, faith, strength, and resilience. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing - The Dial Press, and Allegra Goodman for the advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
Marguerite is a castaway for two years. Her story of survival is a narrative of finding herself and a beautiful tribute to nature. Goodman's prose is descriptive and atmospheric, allowing the reader to be fully immersed in the story. I was riveted by this amazing true story of friendship and love, faith, strength, and resilience. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing - The Dial Press, and Allegra Goodman for the advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2025
Available TODAY, 2/4/25!
Yet another story of men behaving badly and getting away with being horrible to women and girls. It boils my blood how women have been treated for millennia.
Marguerite is orphaned at a very young age and meets her guardian (a distant cousin) at nine years old. He has been put in charge of her inheritance, a chateau, lands, tenants, servants—solely because she’s female, and he is male. Does he have her best interests in mind?
I think we all know the answer to that.
Through no fault of her own, she ends up in New France, and her guardian exiles her to a random uninhabited island for daring to fall in love with a man who is his opposite in every way (ie, good).
This is based on actual, real events. It will boil your blood, too.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Dial Press for an eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Yet another story of men behaving badly and getting away with being horrible to women and girls. It boils my blood how women have been treated for millennia.
Marguerite is orphaned at a very young age and meets her guardian (a distant cousin) at nine years old. He has been put in charge of her inheritance, a chateau, lands, tenants, servants—solely because she’s female, and he is male. Does he have her best interests in mind?
I think we all know the answer to that.
Through no fault of her own, she ends up in New France, and her guardian exiles her to a random uninhabited island for daring to fall in love with a man who is his opposite in every way (ie, good).
This is based on actual, real events. It will boil your blood, too.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Dial Press for an eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
February 4, 2025
First a big thank you to The Dial Press and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. Isola's publication date is 2/4/25.
Isola is a gripping saga of survival, betrayal, and resilience, following Marguerite, a French noblewoman stripped of everything she knows and abandoned on an unforgiving island by her cruel guardian and uncle, Roberval.
This powerful tale, inspired by the life of a real 16th century woman, unveils Marguerite's journey from privilege to isolation, where she must rely on her own courage and wit to endure impossible odds.
What captivated me most was Marguerite's strength and transformation. Her losses - her family, her inheritance, and ultimately her loved ones - make her resilient, a survivor who learns to thrive in nature's harshest conditions.
Her battle is heartbreaking yet empowering, as she endures alone until finally seizing the chance to return to France.
Favorite quotes:
"I am the instrument of my own exile."
"I wept for joy because I could escape, and for sorrow I must leave alone."
If you love epic tales of resilience, historical depth, and rich, atmospheric writing with a badass female main character, Isola is a must-read.
Isola is a gripping saga of survival, betrayal, and resilience, following Marguerite, a French noblewoman stripped of everything she knows and abandoned on an unforgiving island by her cruel guardian and uncle, Roberval.
This powerful tale, inspired by the life of a real 16th century woman, unveils Marguerite's journey from privilege to isolation, where she must rely on her own courage and wit to endure impossible odds.
What captivated me most was Marguerite's strength and transformation. Her losses - her family, her inheritance, and ultimately her loved ones - make her resilient, a survivor who learns to thrive in nature's harshest conditions.
Her battle is heartbreaking yet empowering, as she endures alone until finally seizing the chance to return to France.
Favorite quotes:
"I am the instrument of my own exile."
"I wept for joy because I could escape, and for sorrow I must leave alone."
If you love epic tales of resilience, historical depth, and rich, atmospheric writing with a badass female main character, Isola is a must-read.
February 10, 2025
This book is not for everyone. Please read my thoughts below to determine if it’s right for you.
Isola requires you to adapt to what Fran Lebowitz said, "A book is not supposed to be a mirror. It's supposed to be a door." This isn’t necessary for all books, but it’s a perspective needed for this one.
Planting ourselves in 16th century France is, frankly, an alien society. Medicine, geography, politics, society, technology, religion and science were miles away from what we are accustomed to today. But this womans story deserves to be heard and I applaud the author for presenting a truly historical woman who had to endure remarkable trials.
The book begins when Margueritte is a child, and we take some time to grow with her. Life takes a turn, and she finds herself deserted on an Island for falling in love with the wrong man. The rest of the book is how she suffers, survives and transforms. You’ll have to read the book to see how it ends.
The writing immediately captured me, and I found myself constantly writing down quotes. This was impressive, considering I did the Audiobook. This played in my mind like a movie. I felt transported to France and the atmosphere was beautifully done.
THOUGHTS:
Most of the criticisms on this book is that its slow in certain parts. I agree. A lot of people will struggle with the pace, and it makes sense. I didn’t mind the slower sections because of the lovely writing and this foreign world was fascinating to me.
God and religion are heavily woven through this story and for some people, that will be a deterrent. However, its essential to the plot, considering colonization is in full swing and Christianity/Catholicism is largely weaponized. Her spiritual journey felt genuine for a woman at this time.
The only critique I have is that the romance felt too abrupt and needed more build up. But since this is historical fiction and not historical romance, I didn’t let this influence my rating.
This book is incredibly devastating. Lucky for me, that’s what I like. There is hope in the end, But I have many friends who wouldn’t enjoy the sad parts and may even DNF it.
OVERALL:
A remarkable story about a woman who I will never forget.
I would recommend going into this blind unless you have specific triggers. You will spoil the entire book if you look up too much. Even the synopsis is pushing it. Also, don’t look up her life online until you finish the book.
CONTENT: violence and death.
ROMANCE: Some kissing, very vague open door, barely descriptive intimate scene.
Isola requires you to adapt to what Fran Lebowitz said, "A book is not supposed to be a mirror. It's supposed to be a door." This isn’t necessary for all books, but it’s a perspective needed for this one.
Planting ourselves in 16th century France is, frankly, an alien society. Medicine, geography, politics, society, technology, religion and science were miles away from what we are accustomed to today. But this womans story deserves to be heard and I applaud the author for presenting a truly historical woman who had to endure remarkable trials.
The book begins when Margueritte is a child, and we take some time to grow with her. Life takes a turn, and she finds herself deserted on an Island for falling in love with the wrong man. The rest of the book is how she suffers, survives and transforms. You’ll have to read the book to see how it ends.
The writing immediately captured me, and I found myself constantly writing down quotes. This was impressive, considering I did the Audiobook. This played in my mind like a movie. I felt transported to France and the atmosphere was beautifully done.
THOUGHTS:
Most of the criticisms on this book is that its slow in certain parts. I agree. A lot of people will struggle with the pace, and it makes sense. I didn’t mind the slower sections because of the lovely writing and this foreign world was fascinating to me.
God and religion are heavily woven through this story and for some people, that will be a deterrent. However, its essential to the plot, considering colonization is in full swing and Christianity/Catholicism is largely weaponized. Her spiritual journey felt genuine for a woman at this time.
The only critique I have is that the romance felt too abrupt and needed more build up. But since this is historical fiction and not historical romance, I didn’t let this influence my rating.
This book is incredibly devastating. Lucky for me, that’s what I like. There is hope in the end, But I have many friends who wouldn’t enjoy the sad parts and may even DNF it.
OVERALL:
A remarkable story about a woman who I will never forget.
I would recommend going into this blind unless you have specific triggers. You will spoil the entire book if you look up too much. Even the synopsis is pushing it. Also, don’t look up her life online until you finish the book.
CONTENT: violence and death.
ROMANCE: Some kissing, very vague open door, barely descriptive intimate scene.
February 5, 2025
Now available!
I thoroughly enjoyed this interesting historical fiction book based on Marguerite de la Rocque. Her journey was fascinating and the writing was very compelling. Highly recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
I thoroughly enjoyed this interesting historical fiction book based on Marguerite de la Rocque. Her journey was fascinating and the writing was very compelling. Highly recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
January 10, 2025
I had never heard of true story of Marguerite nor her story of being marooned on an isle in New France during the 16th century.
I was quickly swept away but how exquisite the writing and characters were of this story. It begins with Marguerite slowly becoming unmoored from her family, her home, her friends, and chance at a future on European soil. Her independence and her constant battle for it was a main theme for the book. This is NOT a happily ever after story, and it's main events are historically accurate- according to historical records that have passed down Marguerite's story through time.
This was excellent and gave me a really good glimpse at life for women during the 16th century, the religious fervor and superstition, lack of female rights even for nobility, and a look at a fresh new world uncharted.
Would absolutely recommend for my historical fiction lovers who are interested in early colonization. Similar themes to The Marriage Portrait (male dominated worlds) and Barkskins (early colonization of the Americas).
Thank you to NetGalley and The Dial Press for a free arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Publishes 2/4/2025
I was quickly swept away but how exquisite the writing and characters were of this story. It begins with Marguerite slowly becoming unmoored from her family, her home, her friends, and chance at a future on European soil. Her independence and her constant battle for it was a main theme for the book. This is NOT a happily ever after story, and it's main events are historically accurate- according to historical records that have passed down Marguerite's story through time.
This was excellent and gave me a really good glimpse at life for women during the 16th century, the religious fervor and superstition, lack of female rights even for nobility, and a look at a fresh new world uncharted.
Would absolutely recommend for my historical fiction lovers who are interested in early colonization. Similar themes to The Marriage Portrait (male dominated worlds) and Barkskins (early colonization of the Americas).
Thank you to NetGalley and The Dial Press for a free arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Publishes 2/4/2025
January 25, 2025
WOW. WHOA. WOWZA.
I truly don't even know what to say after finishing this novel, but it honestly EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS. This is my first novel by Allegra and it definitely won't be my last! What a fantastic storyteller!
I went into this not really knowing the plot or the history behind it. I just saw the cover and a bit of the synopsis and it was an immediate "YES PLEASE." From the very beginning, as I started reading, I realized this would be special. It felt like I was reading a favorite classic. The writing excellent, the character development wonderful, the shock at the end finding out it's based on truth?! WHAT!
This was a mix between Jane Eyre, Swiss Family Robinson, and Cinderella. Something like that lol.
Marguerite is an orphan whose cousin became her guardian to watch over her. He turns out to be a not so good man, and she ends up marooned on an island with her lover and nurse. I don't want to say any more of the plot because it's truly wonderful to have it unfold as you are reading, but I promise you it's worth it!!
The character development of Marguerite was absolutely heartbreaking, breath-taking, inspirational, and gut-wrenching. Who she was at the beginning of the novel to the end was absolutely brilliant. The writing was beautiful and I found myself tearing up in multiple parts.
I don't want to say too much without giving it away, but just trust me. READ THIS.
I truly don't even know what to say after finishing this novel, but it honestly EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS. This is my first novel by Allegra and it definitely won't be my last! What a fantastic storyteller!
I went into this not really knowing the plot or the history behind it. I just saw the cover and a bit of the synopsis and it was an immediate "YES PLEASE." From the very beginning, as I started reading, I realized this would be special. It felt like I was reading a favorite classic. The writing excellent, the character development wonderful, the shock at the end finding out it's based on truth?! WHAT!
This was a mix between Jane Eyre, Swiss Family Robinson, and Cinderella. Something like that lol.
Marguerite is an orphan whose cousin became her guardian to watch over her. He turns out to be a not so good man, and she ends up marooned on an island with her lover and nurse. I don't want to say any more of the plot because it's truly wonderful to have it unfold as you are reading, but I promise you it's worth it!!
The character development of Marguerite was absolutely heartbreaking, breath-taking, inspirational, and gut-wrenching. Who she was at the beginning of the novel to the end was absolutely brilliant. The writing was beautiful and I found myself tearing up in multiple parts.
I don't want to say too much without giving it away, but just trust me. READ THIS.
July 21, 2024
This was just great. Allegra Goodman is now one of my fav writers. “Isola” is so different from her previous novel “Sam.”
Isola is very ambitious but no worries because Goodman knows how to write!!!
When reading a historical fiction novel, you can feel when an author loved the research process and knows their research subject(s) and character(s). I felt that here! 5/5 🌟
Isola is very ambitious but no worries because Goodman knows how to write!!!
When reading a historical fiction novel, you can feel when an author loved the research process and knows their research subject(s) and character(s). I felt that here! 5/5 🌟
November 15, 2024
“I realize now…How easy my life has been.”
Regretfully, August said, “You have been rich. comfortable, and safe.”
“No, I was never safe.”
from Isola by Allegra Goodman
What a page turner! Incredibly, this story of a 16thc woman born to wealth but whose guardian takes everything from her, finally stranding her on an island in New France, is based on history. Allegra Goodman discovered two contemporary accounts of Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval’s story.
Goodman imagines Marguerite’s life, recreating a society where women held no power over their wealth and lands, or their freedom and body. Men risked everything in their search to profit from the New World. It was the time of the Protestant reformation with its puritanical sects.
Orphaned, her uncle Roberval now her guardian, Marguerite finds solace in a few friends. Her nurse who has served her family for a lifetime. A teacher and her daughter, women of class and education fallen on hard times, employed by the family who has purchased her family estate, the sale benefiting Roberval who plans an expedition to New France.
Robbed of her home, her dowry, her servants, Marguerite is relegated to a cold tower without enough wood to burn or food to eat. She endeavors to obey Roberval’s commands to study and practice the virginal and learn scripture. When she reaches fifteen, her dowey spent, her uncle removes her to town and tells her she will accompany him to the New World.
During the eight weeks aboard ship, Marguerite’s relationship with her uncle’s servant and scribe blossoms into love. Roberval has the couple abandoned on an island with all they could take: tools and food and wine and jewels and linens. Marguerite learns to survive, to battle the elements and the polar bears, to endure devastating losses.
I was transported by this story of adventure and endurance, self discovery, and how life refines faith.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
Regretfully, August said, “You have been rich. comfortable, and safe.”
“No, I was never safe.”
from Isola by Allegra Goodman
What a page turner! Incredibly, this story of a 16thc woman born to wealth but whose guardian takes everything from her, finally stranding her on an island in New France, is based on history. Allegra Goodman discovered two contemporary accounts of Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval’s story.
Goodman imagines Marguerite’s life, recreating a society where women held no power over their wealth and lands, or their freedom and body. Men risked everything in their search to profit from the New World. It was the time of the Protestant reformation with its puritanical sects.
Orphaned, her uncle Roberval now her guardian, Marguerite finds solace in a few friends. Her nurse who has served her family for a lifetime. A teacher and her daughter, women of class and education fallen on hard times, employed by the family who has purchased her family estate, the sale benefiting Roberval who plans an expedition to New France.
Robbed of her home, her dowry, her servants, Marguerite is relegated to a cold tower without enough wood to burn or food to eat. She endeavors to obey Roberval’s commands to study and practice the virginal and learn scripture. When she reaches fifteen, her dowey spent, her uncle removes her to town and tells her she will accompany him to the New World.
During the eight weeks aboard ship, Marguerite’s relationship with her uncle’s servant and scribe blossoms into love. Roberval has the couple abandoned on an island with all they could take: tools and food and wine and jewels and linens. Marguerite learns to survive, to battle the elements and the polar bears, to endure devastating losses.
I was transported by this story of adventure and endurance, self discovery, and how life refines faith.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
January 5, 2025
A beautifully written tale based on the true story of Marguerite from the 16th century. Orphaned as a young girl and then pawned off to a guardian- who did not treat her well. she befriends his servant nothing can end well. absolutely beautiful but heartbreaking- i really enjoyed this one.
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for the ARC!
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for the ARC!
February 9, 2025
Although I don't usually choose historical fiction, lately some of my favorite authors have been bringing past centuries to life so vividly that they read as contemporary. Such is the case here. Allegra Goodman said she'd heard about the case of a sixteenth century Frenchwoman of gentle upbringing who was castaway on an uninhabited island off of Canada (known as New France at the time), along with her maid and her lover. The villain in the piece was a cousin who had been entrusted to her care. How she survived and was ultimately revenged makes for immersive reading.
September 17, 2024
Isola is based on the true story of 16th-century French noblewoman Marguerite de la Rocque. Orphaned in childhood, her guardian sells her lands, brings her along to establish a colony in Canada, and ends up marooning her on a deserted island for getting involved with his secretary. She ultimately survives (not a spoiler; the prologue and first person narrative assure us that she lives to tell her tale), but the suspense is in how she does - both survives and continues life after leaving the island.
Goodman follows the contemporary accounts of Marguerite fairly exactly, according to the historical note at the end, but the characters and world that she creates in doing so are vivid and alive, particularly for historical fiction. Marguerite's transformation from a lady restricted by her class and education to a narrow path to a hunter, traveler, and survivor is propulsive. The descriptive writing is just gorgeous. I'm not sure you need to be a fan of historicals to appreciate this - it doesn't hit a wrong note.
Thanks to Negalley and the publisher for the arc!
Goodman follows the contemporary accounts of Marguerite fairly exactly, according to the historical note at the end, but the characters and world that she creates in doing so are vivid and alive, particularly for historical fiction. Marguerite's transformation from a lady restricted by her class and education to a narrow path to a hunter, traveler, and survivor is propulsive. The descriptive writing is just gorgeous. I'm not sure you need to be a fan of historicals to appreciate this - it doesn't hit a wrong note.
Thanks to Negalley and the publisher for the arc!
October 28, 2024
This historical novel is based on a true story about a noble women named Marguerite de la Rocque. The time period is the 1500’s. As a child in France she was orphaned and her cousin became her guardian. She was cheated out of her inheritance and this cousin was a cruel and devious man. Women had no rights in these times and she was at his mercy. She was once a pampered and rich woman. Her cousin abandoned her on an uninhabited island. This is the story of how she survived and was rescued years later. The story is a testament to her strength and determination to live. A very interesting story.
February 5, 2025
4.5 stars. Wow, what a story! First off, the writing for this was absolutely beautiful, almost poetic, I was immediately pulled in. And then secondly, the actual story…and it being based on a true woman in history, just wild! What a tale of survival, hope, loss, and the strength of this woman.
This is a historical fiction saga that follows Marguerite de la Rocque in the 1530-1540s. A French noblewoman from birth, Marguerite lost so much in her life starting with her mother during her childbirth and then her father was killed while fighting for the King when she was just a child. Born wealthy and the heir to a chateau, Marguerite has everything taken away from her when her guardian shows up and claims her inheritance for his own and uses it to fund his own adventures. When she’s a teenager he ends up insisting she voyage with him on an expedition to conquer New France (French Canada). Having no one, she befriends her guardian’s servant on board. Their secretive relationship is found out and they’re severely punished by being abandoned on an uninhabited island with an arctic winter fast approaching. And what a story from there!
The author’s note at the end describing how she stumbled across this tale in history and the accounts of Marguerite’s life are just wild. This brave woman fighting for not only survival in the 16th century, but survival while marooned on an arctic island, what a story.
This is a historical fiction saga that follows Marguerite de la Rocque in the 1530-1540s. A French noblewoman from birth, Marguerite lost so much in her life starting with her mother during her childbirth and then her father was killed while fighting for the King when she was just a child. Born wealthy and the heir to a chateau, Marguerite has everything taken away from her when her guardian shows up and claims her inheritance for his own and uses it to fund his own adventures. When she’s a teenager he ends up insisting she voyage with him on an expedition to conquer New France (French Canada). Having no one, she befriends her guardian’s servant on board. Their secretive relationship is found out and they’re severely punished by being abandoned on an uninhabited island with an arctic winter fast approaching. And what a story from there!
The author’s note at the end describing how she stumbled across this tale in history and the accounts of Marguerite’s life are just wild. This brave woman fighting for not only survival in the 16th century, but survival while marooned on an arctic island, what a story.
February 5, 2025
Fascinating story based on the real life of Marguerite de la Rocque-
A noblewoman from sixteenth century France.
It’s a story of faith and survival as Marguerite is banished to an uninhabited island by her guardian.
Love historical fiction that brings to light an unknown woman from history.
A noblewoman from sixteenth century France.
It’s a story of faith and survival as Marguerite is banished to an uninhabited island by her guardian.
Love historical fiction that brings to light an unknown woman from history.
July 24, 2024
Incredibly well written, Isola transports you back in time to the life of a young noble born, but orphaned, girl. Marguerite's lands, fortune, and destiny are under the management of her cousin until she comes of age and marriage.
I felt like I was there with Marguerite and her nurse, Damienne, as their lives changed drastically because of the cousin's decisions.
Isola would be a great read for a high school history class. It should spark lively discussions comparing and contrasting our times and customs with those in the mid 1500s.
I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I felt like I was there with Marguerite and her nurse, Damienne, as their lives changed drastically because of the cousin's decisions.
Isola would be a great read for a high school history class. It should spark lively discussions comparing and contrasting our times and customs with those in the mid 1500s.
I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 11, 2024
A novelization of the true, heartbreaking tale of the life and survival of Marguerite de la Rocque. If you don't know her story, read this book before looking her up. Beautifully written with characters and dialogue fitting with the time period. Suspenseful, maddening, romantic, and tragic. Easy, quick read. A great book for non-fiction readers too. *I received an advance copy to review but will receive no compensation*
January 1, 2025
Isola by Allegra Goodman
4.5 stars
Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth-century heroine, Isola is the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival. French noblewoman, Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval, who lives to tell the tale of her exile on an island off the coast of New France. She was orphaned by age three, and Marguerite and her nurse, Damienne, are placed in the care of Marguerite’s deceitful cousin. He also squanders Marguerite’s inheritance to pay his debts and fund his naval expeditions. She is to accompany her guardian on an expedition to New France. While on the ship, Marguerite befriends her guardian’s servant and the two form a loving relationship. When discovered they along with Marguerite’s servant, Damienne, are punished by being banished to an isolated island of no inhabitants. Once a child of privilege now finds herself at the mercy of nature. Marguerite is a survivor too. She must learn to climb and hunt and wrestle with despair.
I was so excited that I was able to read an ARC of this. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this beautifully written story of this courageous woman whose story is now being told. It is a page turner and you will find yourself rooting for Marguerite and also grieving with her on this incredible journey of her life. This is my first time reading anything by Allegra Goodman and I will be following what this talented author does next. I will check out her previous book, Sam.
4.5 stars
Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth-century heroine, Isola is the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival. French noblewoman, Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval, who lives to tell the tale of her exile on an island off the coast of New France. She was orphaned by age three, and Marguerite and her nurse, Damienne, are placed in the care of Marguerite’s deceitful cousin. He also squanders Marguerite’s inheritance to pay his debts and fund his naval expeditions. She is to accompany her guardian on an expedition to New France. While on the ship, Marguerite befriends her guardian’s servant and the two form a loving relationship. When discovered they along with Marguerite’s servant, Damienne, are punished by being banished to an isolated island of no inhabitants. Once a child of privilege now finds herself at the mercy of nature. Marguerite is a survivor too. She must learn to climb and hunt and wrestle with despair.
I was so excited that I was able to read an ARC of this. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this beautifully written story of this courageous woman whose story is now being told. It is a page turner and you will find yourself rooting for Marguerite and also grieving with her on this incredible journey of her life. This is my first time reading anything by Allegra Goodman and I will be following what this talented author does next. I will check out her previous book, Sam.
February 8, 2025
This book is one of those completely immersive reading experiences. I didn’t really pay attention to the synopsis before I started reading and I think I was better for it - all the media I see now is giving away some major plot points so if you’re a reader like me who hates spoilers don’t read any reviews just read the book. It’s worth it!
January 13, 2025
Isola was based on the true story of Marguerite de La Rocque, a French noblewoman who ended up stranded on an island for two years before returning to France.
In the beginning, up until the middle of the story, I was unsure of how to feel about this book. I already knew the gist of the story about Marguerite that I read from Wikipedia and other websites, but I was not sure if I would like the version being told in this book. Allegra Goodman wrote her prose beautifully, however, Marguerite was written as a spoiled and selfish girl. I was expecting her character to improve after she lost almost everything and had to board the ship with Roberval, her cousin and her guardian, but she continued to be selfish. I tend to dislike the plot where a girl risked everything she had only to be with someone she barely knew but already claimed to love deeply.
After struggling with this version of Marguerite, I started to like her better as the story reached the end, and she was no more a selfish little girl, but an independent young woman with a dream of teaching little girls - both the poor and the rich. Her character development was remarkable and I cannot help but wonder about what the real Marguerite was like.
There were not many retellings of Marguerite de La Rocque's life and journey in books, so I don't have much to compare this story with. However, I would say Allegra Goodman wrote this exquisitely, leaving me wanting to learn more about Marguerite de La Rocque. Hopefully there will be many more interesting retellings of this story in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In the beginning, up until the middle of the story, I was unsure of how to feel about this book. I already knew the gist of the story about Marguerite that I read from Wikipedia and other websites, but I was not sure if I would like the version being told in this book. Allegra Goodman wrote her prose beautifully, however, Marguerite was written as a spoiled and selfish girl. I was expecting her character to improve after she lost almost everything and had to board the ship with Roberval, her cousin and her guardian, but she continued to be selfish. I tend to dislike the plot where a girl risked everything she had only to be with someone she barely knew but already claimed to love deeply.
After struggling with this version of Marguerite, I started to like her better as the story reached the end, and she was no more a selfish little girl, but an independent young woman with a dream of teaching little girls - both the poor and the rich. Her character development was remarkable and I cannot help but wonder about what the real Marguerite was like.
There were not many retellings of Marguerite de La Rocque's life and journey in books, so I don't have much to compare this story with. However, I would say Allegra Goodman wrote this exquisitely, leaving me wanting to learn more about Marguerite de La Rocque. Hopefully there will be many more interesting retellings of this story in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2025
Isola is the first book in quite a while that kept me reading late into the night. I absolutely loved this book!
Marguerite is orphaned at a young age and her paternal Uncle Jean Francois becomes her guardian. He is a complicated man who just happens to have close ties to the king, so it seems he has quite a bit of influence. He also has a habit of using religion as a weapon that keeps Marguerite unsure of his true intentions.
Unfortunately, Jean Francois has put Marguerite’s inheritance in jeopardy, so he cuts corners on her estate and moves her and her staff to less expensive living arrangements. Isolated, with no one but her teacher and her nurse to talk to, Marguerite is at her Uncle’s mercy.
When he decides she is to voyage with him to New France (Canada) Marguerite begins to develop a relationship with his secretary who has been close by for the last few years.
When Jean Francois discovers their relationship, he makes a drastic decision that changes the course of Marguerite’s future. It is during this time that her love and faith is tested and she learns how strong a woman she can become.
I loved the story and highly recommend this to readers who love a historical fiction romance.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Random House/ Dial Press for allowing me to read an advance copy. I am happy to offer my honest review and recommend to other readers.
Marguerite is orphaned at a young age and her paternal Uncle Jean Francois becomes her guardian. He is a complicated man who just happens to have close ties to the king, so it seems he has quite a bit of influence. He also has a habit of using religion as a weapon that keeps Marguerite unsure of his true intentions.
Unfortunately, Jean Francois has put Marguerite’s inheritance in jeopardy, so he cuts corners on her estate and moves her and her staff to less expensive living arrangements. Isolated, with no one but her teacher and her nurse to talk to, Marguerite is at her Uncle’s mercy.
When he decides she is to voyage with him to New France (Canada) Marguerite begins to develop a relationship with his secretary who has been close by for the last few years.
When Jean Francois discovers their relationship, he makes a drastic decision that changes the course of Marguerite’s future. It is during this time that her love and faith is tested and she learns how strong a woman she can become.
I loved the story and highly recommend this to readers who love a historical fiction romance.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Random House/ Dial Press for allowing me to read an advance copy. I am happy to offer my honest review and recommend to other readers.
February 11, 2025
5 stars.
January 13, 2025
Isola tells the story of Marguerite de la Rocque, a French noblewoman, who falls in love with the wrong man and ends up in a fight for her life against nature.
Like all women in the 16th century, Marguerite has no control over her own life. Orphaned at a young age, her older male cousin Jean Francois de la Roque de Roberval, takes charge of her estate and her future. Unfortunately for Marguerite, the volatile seafarer, gambles away all her funds. Marguerite is forced to leave her home and travel to New France (modern day Canada) with her cousin where she is marooned on a deserted island with little provisions and only her forbidden love and nursemaid for company.
What follows is a harrowing tale of three people’s fight to survive in on an unforgiving island. The noblewoman finds herself in situations she never dreamed of and doing things no woman of her caste would even consider.
The premise of this tale is in intriguing, but execution was lacking for me. The background and build up drags as the author stresses how powerless women’s lives were in the 1500s. It takes quite some time before Marguerite gets to the island, and even longer for her to evolve as a character. Isola reads like literary fiction and is more pragmatic than empowering.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and of course the author Allegra Goodman for the advanced copy of the book. Isola is out on February 4th. All opinions are my own.
http://www.instagram.com/passionforprose
Like all women in the 16th century, Marguerite has no control over her own life. Orphaned at a young age, her older male cousin Jean Francois de la Roque de Roberval, takes charge of her estate and her future. Unfortunately for Marguerite, the volatile seafarer, gambles away all her funds. Marguerite is forced to leave her home and travel to New France (modern day Canada) with her cousin where she is marooned on a deserted island with little provisions and only her forbidden love and nursemaid for company.
What follows is a harrowing tale of three people’s fight to survive in on an unforgiving island. The noblewoman finds herself in situations she never dreamed of and doing things no woman of her caste would even consider.
The premise of this tale is in intriguing, but execution was lacking for me. The background and build up drags as the author stresses how powerless women’s lives were in the 1500s. It takes quite some time before Marguerite gets to the island, and even longer for her to evolve as a character. Isola reads like literary fiction and is more pragmatic than empowering.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and of course the author Allegra Goodman for the advanced copy of the book. Isola is out on February 4th. All opinions are my own.
http://www.instagram.com/passionforprose
August 9, 2024
I received a free ARC of this book from a Goodreads Giveaway. Thank you to the author, publisher, and Goodreads for my free copy.
This story takes place in the 1530's and 1540's in France and what is now Canada. The main character is a young, Catholic, French noblewoman, and faith plays a big role in the story. However, don't be scared away by this if you're not Catholic or even a Christian. The religious current running through this book is a necessary piece of the history of these people at this time, and isn't done in a way that forces religion onto the reader, but rather to explain these characters within the time and the culture of the very Catholic religious society in which they lived. The story is a bit about faith, but largely about wit, grit, and the will to survive. As a young woman who is constricted mostly by her gender but also by her status and the laws and expectations of country and society, Maguerite uses religion as a shield and touchstone, but relies on her own determination to survive both at court and in the wilderness.
I was invested in the story right away, but was especially gripped once our heroine and her lover and nurse were condemned and left to the island. Seeing this young woman develop from a meek noblewoman into a survivor was wonderful and engaging, and I could hardly put it down. I'm all for wilderness stories, survival, and tales of both the beauty and harshness of nature. I'm also all for stories of women finding their power, however they can in their circumstances. This story delivered on both of those things, and I very much enjoyed the read.
If anything was lacking, it may have been that the resolution was a little rushed, and maybe we could have seen a little bit more of the denouement, but I was eager enough to see the story through to the end that I didn't mind.
Thanks again for the free copy; I'm so glad I was able to read this book! I'll be looking into the author's other works, as well.
This story takes place in the 1530's and 1540's in France and what is now Canada. The main character is a young, Catholic, French noblewoman, and faith plays a big role in the story. However, don't be scared away by this if you're not Catholic or even a Christian. The religious current running through this book is a necessary piece of the history of these people at this time, and isn't done in a way that forces religion onto the reader, but rather to explain these characters within the time and the culture of the very Catholic religious society in which they lived. The story is a bit about faith, but largely about wit, grit, and the will to survive. As a young woman who is constricted mostly by her gender but also by her status and the laws and expectations of country and society, Maguerite uses religion as a shield and touchstone, but relies on her own determination to survive both at court and in the wilderness.
I was invested in the story right away, but was especially gripped once our heroine and her lover and nurse were condemned and left to the island. Seeing this young woman develop from a meek noblewoman into a survivor was wonderful and engaging, and I could hardly put it down. I'm all for wilderness stories, survival, and tales of both the beauty and harshness of nature. I'm also all for stories of women finding their power, however they can in their circumstances. This story delivered on both of those things, and I very much enjoyed the read.
If anything was lacking, it may have been that the resolution was a little rushed, and maybe we could have seen a little bit more of the denouement, but I was eager enough to see the story through to the end that I didn't mind.
Thanks again for the free copy; I'm so glad I was able to read this book! I'll be looking into the author's other works, as well.
September 3, 2024
3.75 stars
This book really captures what I most love about historical fiction: a solid sense of place, nice characterization, and information about historical elements about which I previously knew little to nothing (and, in this case, that's the featured character's nonfictional counterpart).
Marguerite is set up for success thanks to her parents' prosperity, but like all women, her personal safety hangs by a thread. That tiny connector is snipped when her parents die, and she gets a new, unpredictable guardian. The evolution of their relationship, but especially of the events that unfold when that relationship is further challenged, is a highlight. Since this work is labeled "survivalist," I'll add without any intention of spoilers that this is another high point and the most pivotal set of opportunities through which Marguerite can - and must - grow.
There were times when the pacing felt too slow for me, even if the intention was for the style to match the motif. That noted, there's quite a lot to like here, and I'll be recommending this one as a steady character study versus an action-packed survivalist extravaganza. I definitely enjoyed this listen and suggest the audiobook when and where accessible.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Dial Press, Madison Dettlinger, and Random House Audio for this widget and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This book really captures what I most love about historical fiction: a solid sense of place, nice characterization, and information about historical elements about which I previously knew little to nothing (and, in this case, that's the featured character's nonfictional counterpart).
Marguerite is set up for success thanks to her parents' prosperity, but like all women, her personal safety hangs by a thread. That tiny connector is snipped when her parents die, and she gets a new, unpredictable guardian. The evolution of their relationship, but especially of the events that unfold when that relationship is further challenged, is a highlight. Since this work is labeled "survivalist," I'll add without any intention of spoilers that this is another high point and the most pivotal set of opportunities through which Marguerite can - and must - grow.
There were times when the pacing felt too slow for me, even if the intention was for the style to match the motif. That noted, there's quite a lot to like here, and I'll be recommending this one as a steady character study versus an action-packed survivalist extravaganza. I definitely enjoyed this listen and suggest the audiobook when and where accessible.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Dial Press, Madison Dettlinger, and Random House Audio for this widget and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
November 22, 2024
A fictionalized memoir of orphaned noblewoman Marguerite de la Roque, the ward of her cousin, adventurer, and speculator Jean Francois de la Roque de Roberval, described as enigmatic and volatile. After beggaring Marguerite by stripping her estates of funds, Roberval takes on a mission to map (and conquer) New France. Marguerite is dragged along despite her desire to stay in France, and when she upsets Roberval, he abandons her and her lover on a rocky island in the middle of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1542.
Told as a flashback by Marguerite, it's a long and painful story of loss, a loveless life, and encounters with her emotionally and psychologically abusive guardian/cousin.
I found the story boring and the audio performance lackluster. The tale sounded interesting.
Imagine my surprise at having another work of fiction entitled
"Margeurite de la Roque: A Story of Survival" on my bookshelf, this one written by Elizabeth Boyer in 1975.
For a review of the audio performance, see AudioFile Magazine http://www.audiofilemagazine.com
Told as a flashback by Marguerite, it's a long and painful story of loss, a loveless life, and encounters with her emotionally and psychologically abusive guardian/cousin.
I found the story boring and the audio performance lackluster. The tale sounded interesting.
Imagine my surprise at having another work of fiction entitled
"Margeurite de la Roque: A Story of Survival" on my bookshelf, this one written by Elizabeth Boyer in 1975. For a review of the audio performance, see AudioFile Magazine http://www.audiofilemagazine.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews