LOCAL author Carmen Allen has celebrated an outstanding milestone in the wake of the release of her latest book, reaching the ‘#1’ spot on Amazon Australia’s Best Sellers rankings in multiple categories, among them Christian Death & Grief Counselling, and Christian Inspiration, on 18 and 19 June.
The latest book, Grief’s Gift, is part memoir, part practical guide, telling the story of one daughter’s journey through dementia, cancer, caregiving, family conflict, grief, and “the struggle to trust God during life’s darkest seasons”.
Through moments of heartbreak, humour, and unexpected hope, Allen shares what she learned while caring for both parents as their health declined and, ultimately, saying goodbye to them within nine months of each other.
“I didn’t write this book because I had all the answers,” said Ms Allen.
“I wrote it because I know what it feels like to be exhausted, heartbroken, and desperately searching for hope.”
“My prayer is that readers will feel less alone and discover that even in grief, God can bring beauty from brokenness.”
Grief’s Gift also provides practical support for family caregivers, covering topics such as navigating aged-care services, making difficult decisions, advocating for loved ones, and finding hope in the midst of overwhelming circumstances.
Carmen Allen’s previous works have been celebrated with awards, including the internationally read Molly Greenwood Adventures children’s series.
While her children’s books point young readers toward courage, character, and hope, Grief’s Gift shares the deeply personal story behind the author herself.
Through both fiction and nonfiction, her writing explores themes of hope, faith, resilience, and finding purpose through life’s challenges.
To celebrate the launch of the memoir, Ms Allen hosted an in-person book launch event at Tomaree Library, Salamander Bay, on Saturday 18 July 2026.
The event included readings from the book, guest interviews, and practical encouragement for caregivers and those navigating grief, and proved to be a huge success with over eighty attendees on the day.
Grief’s Gift is available online in paperback, eBook and companion journal formats, for more information, contact Carmen at: contact@carmenLallen.com.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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